Shanghai MSA “Measures for the Administration of Ship Crude Oil Washing (COW) Operations”

The Shanghai Maritime Safety Administration (Shanghai MSA) has revised and issued the Measures for the Administration of Ship Crude Oil Washing (COW) Operations, (the “Measures”) effective 1 January 2026. This revised framework aims to establish a more rigorous regime for the oversight and implementation of COW operations throughout all waters under the jurisdiction of the Shanghai MSA.

Shipowners, operators, and Masters involved in COW operations within Shanghai waters should thoroughly review these new Measures to ensure compliance and avoid potential delays, operational disruptions, or regulatory penalties. The Circular issued by Huatai Huatai-circular-[2026]-01-1769611995 offers a detailed overview of the Measures and provides practical recommendations for industry stakeholders. Members are encouraged to consult the full document for comprehensive operational guidance.

Notable provisions include:

• Compliance with standards for equipment, certification and documentation related to COW systems, inert gas systems, and gas detection instruments.
• Completion of specialised training and competency requirements for personnel engaged in COW operations.
• A requirement for 12-hour advance reporting of scheduled COW operations through the Maritime Information Management and Service Platform.
• Comprehensive operational safety controls addressing planning, risk assessment, atmospheric monitoring, communication protocols, and restrictions on concurrent onboard activities.
• Explicit protocols for suspending operations under unsafe conditions, and details obligations for emergency response and record-keeping.
• Broadened supervisory authority for Shanghai MSA, enabling it to mandate corrections, suspend operations, or impose administrative penalties.