International Anti-Fouling System (AFS) Certificate – A Complete Guide
The International Anti-Fouling System (AFS) Certificate is a statutory certificate issued under the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-Fouling Systems on Ships (AFS Convention), 2001. Its purpose is to ensure that ships do not use harmful anti-fouling paints or coatings that damage the marine environment.
What is an Anti-Fouling System?
Anti-fouling systems are paints, coatings, or devices applied to the hulls of ships to prevent marine organisms such as barnacles, algae, and mollusks from attaching.
Why important? Fouling increases hull roughness, leading to:
Higher fuel consumption
Reduced speed
Increased greenhouse gas emissions
Historically, paints containing tributyltin (TBT) and other toxic substances were used. These chemicals harmed marine ecosystems, causing deformities in shellfish and disrupting the food chain. Hence, the IMO banned TBT-based systems through the AFS Convention.
What is the AFS Certificate?
The AFS Certificate certifies that a ship’s hull and external parts comply with the AFS Convention by:
- Not applying or re-applying any prohibited anti-fouling system.
- Ensuring proper sealing or removal if such systems were previously used.
Applicability of the AFS Certificate
Ships ≥ 400 GT engaged in international voyages must carry a valid AFS Certificate.
Ships < 400 GT but not engaged on domestic voyages must carry a Declaration of Compliance instead.
Issued by the Flag State Administration or its Recognized Organization (RO) (usually classification society).
Key Requirements of the AFS Convention
- Prohibition of Harmful Substances
Complete ban on the application of anti-fouling systems containing TBT after 2008.
New harmful substances can be added to the banned list as per IMO regulations.
- Control Measures
Ships must remove or seal with an approved coating if they had harmful paints applied before the ban.
- Inspections & Surveys
Conducted to ensure no banned substances are used.
The ship’s hull is examined during dry dockings.
Supplement to the AFS Certificate
Like other IMO certificates, the AFS Certificate is accompanied by a Supplement, which provides technical details.
Contents of the Supplement include:
- Ship particulars – Name, IMO number, GT, type, port of registry.
- Anti-fouling system details – Type of system currently applied (biocide-free, copper-based, silicone-based, etc.).
- Statement of compliance – Whether prohibited substances (like TBT) are present.
- Method of control – If TBT was previously applied, confirmation of sealing or removal method.
- Survey records and endorsements – Evidence of inspections and validity dates.
Validity and Surveys
The AFS Certificate is valid for 5 years, subject to surveys.
Must be endorsed after inspections when the ship undergoes dry-docking or hull treatment.
Importance of the AFS Certificate
- Environmental Protection – Prevents toxic leaching of harmful substances into oceans.
- Operational Efficiency – Ensures ships use safe coatings that still improve fuel efficiency.
- Regulatory Compliance – Mandatory for ships in international trade.
- Port State Control (PSC) – The certificate and supplement are frequently checked during inspections.
- Trade Access – Non-compliance may lead to detention or fines in foreign ports.
Conclusion
The International Anti-Fouling System (AFS) Certificate is a vital part of a ship’s statutory certification regime, ensuring that vessels operate without harmful coatings that damage marine ecosystems. With its Supplement, it provides proof that a ship uses safe, compliant anti-fouling systems while maintaining efficiency and protecting the environment.
