R2 million fines and prison time: New regulations for offshore fuel transfers in South Africa
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dion George, has signed new regulations to control offshore ship-to-ship fuel transfers in South African waters.
The rules, published under the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act, prohibit STS operations within marine protected areas, aquaculture zones, and within three nautical miles of the coastline.
They also introduce strict conditions for weather, pollution control, wildlife monitoring, and crew training. Specific restrictions have also been placed on operations in Algoa Bay, including seasonal limits and designated anchorage zones to protect sensitive marine habitats.
“These regulations, which will come into force once published in the Government Gazette, provide South Africa with a clear and enforceable environmental framework to manage offshore ship-to-ship(STS) transfer operations, including bunkering,” George said.
Operators must now deploy hydrophone systems to monitor marine mammals and keep a close watch on African Penguins, with mandatory reporting of any wildlife sightings or incidents. Immediate response plans for oiled or injured animals are also required.
“In Algoa Bay, operations may only take place in safe conditions, with wind speeds below 22 knots and wave heights below two metres. The Minister may set conditions elsewhere”.
While all crew members must receive environmental awareness training. furthermore the new rules state that operators are required to submit independent Environmental Management Plans addressing site-specific risks, which must be approved by the Minister.
The Minister also revealed that “non-compliance will be met with firm penalties: fines of up to R2 million, imprisonment for up to five years,or both”.
“These regulations are a decisive step to safeguard our oceans and secure the future of our African Penguin. They set strict standards for offshore ship-to-ship transfers, ensuring that maritime activity can only proceed in a safe and responsible way.”
IOL
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za