Workshop on 2010 HNS Protocol: 12-13 November

A workshop on the reporting of Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS), under the chairmanship of François Marier (Canada) and organised by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in cooperation with the IOPC Funds, took place in London on 12 and 13 November. Delegates from 29 States worldwide agreed on a set of guidelines for reporting contributing cargo under the 2010 HNS Convention. Several industry representatives also participated and shared their perspective. Intended to assist States with the Convention’s accession or ratification, these guidelines reflect the work carried out by States, the IMO and the IOPC Funds since the adoption of the original 1996 HNS Convention as revisited after the adoption of the 2010 HNS Protocol. The adoption of those guidelines is the result of the international community’s collective efforts to push towards the Convention’s entry into force.
A document with a summary report and a copy of the HNS reporting guidelines will be submitted to the next session of the IMO Legal Committee in April 2013 for its consideration.