The primary goal of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) is to document ship-specific details about the hazardous substances present on board. This serves two key purposes: first, to safeguard the health and safety of seafarers and yard workers, and second, to prevent environmental pollution during ship recycling. Ship recycling facilities rely on this information to make informed decisions about managing the identified hazardous materials.
Starting July 1, 2021, EU-flagged vessels must have IHM Part-I and an Inventory Certificate and non-EU-flagged vessels must have IHM Part-I and a Statement of Compliance when calling EU ports. Additionally, the Hong Kong Convention becomes effective on June 26, 2025.
Let us guide you through the ever-changing regulatory landscape and ensure your vessel’s smooth journey towards a sustainable future.
Our certified HazMat experts analyze ship plans (e.g., general arrangement, machinery, equipment) to create a customized plan for inspections, sample collection, and report development.
Collected samples undergo testing in independent accredited labs to identify and quantify specific hazardous materials present on the ship.
Using lab results and expertise, we create a comprehensive report, including a detailed inventory of identified materials, risk assessment, and management recommendations.
The report is submitted for review and verification by the classification society or flag state, potentially leading to the issuance of a specific certificate (SOC, IC, or ICIHM (International Certificate on IHM)) depending on regulations.
IHM stands for Inventory of Hazardous Materials. It is a mandatory document required as per EU SRR and HKC. The document provides a detailed inventory of hazardous materials onboard, including their location, quantity, and associated risks. The purpose of IHM is to ensure safety for personnel, and the environment.
Regulations such as the Hong Kong Convention (HKC) and EU Ship Recycling Regulation (EU SRR) require ships to comply with the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM).
As of December 2023, the HKC applies to ships over 500 gross tonnage that embark on international voyages. The EU SRR is currently undergoing revisions, which may affect IHM requirements in the future. In 2023, revised guidelines were issued by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to provide further clarity on additional hazmat being listed and best practices.
The duration for preparing the Inventory of Hazardous Material (IHM) varies based on factors such as your vessel’s complexity and the specific trade route. Typically, it can range from 3 to 4 weeks under normal conditions.
IHM Part II and III are specifically required when the decision has been made to send the ship for recycling. So, IHM Part II (for operationally generated waste) and IHM Part III (for stores) are developed and verified during the end-of-life phase of the vessel.
