Inventory of Hazardous Materials

Are You Struggling to Navigate IHM Compliance?

Modern Maritime Industry brought up some common Challenges to Achieve International Compliance

Close-up of asbestos serpentine fibers under magnification.

BML Waste Management

We deliver tailored solutions to address your IHM and disposal of hazardous materials requirements and to keep your ships compliant with international regulations

Efficiently manage the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) with our compliance-focused solutions, offering safe identification, removal, and sustainable disposal worldwide.

Dismantling of hazardous materials on Ships and Discharge from Maritime Vessels

How Does BML Manage the process?

At BlueMarineLabs, we specialize in managing the removal Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) on ships end to end, offering a comprehensive, compliant, and sustainable service for identifying, dismantling, and discharging hazardous materials. Our goal is to ensure a seamless process that meets international standards while reducing the burden on ship managers and operators.

  1. Identification of hazardous materials on Ships
    Working with certified maritime engineers and partners worldwide, we meticulously inspect vessels to identify hazardous materials such as asbestos, PCBs, and heavy metals, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

  2. Removal of hazardous materials
    For hazardous materials which require removal, like asbestos, we collaborate with globally certified partners to safely remove and prepare them for disposal from your ship. Every step is executed with precision to minimize risks to personnel, the vessel, and the environment.

  3. Sustainable Discharge of hazardous materials
    BML has built long-term relationships with a global network of audited waste service providers. These trusted partners ensure the environmentally responsible discharge and recycling of hazardous materials, adhering to international regulations.

Our service is available in most major hub ports worldwide, providing flexibility and convenience to meet your needs wherever your vessel operates.

Want to Know If Your Port is in Our Network?

Contact us to confirm if your port is included in our global network of audited waste providers.

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Our service combines MARPOL compliance, advanced technology, and global expertise to deliver unmatched efficiency and sustainability.

Increased efficiency

Streamlined processes leveraging advanced tools reduce delays, ensuring quick and effective waste disposal at any port.

Sustainability

Reduce environmental impact through compliant, eco-friendly disposal practices.

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IHM: Origins and Environmental Impact of Hazardous Materials

The Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) emerged as a crucial tool for environmental protection and safety in the maritime sector. Its origins can be traced back to the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2009. This convention aimed to address the growing concerns about hazardous materials on ships and their potential impact on human health and the environment.

Key Aspects of IHM

  • Purpose: The IHM is a comprehensive document that identifies, locates, and quantifies potentially hazardous materials onboard vessels.
  • Scope: It applies to ships over 500 GT operating in the marine environment, with exceptions for navy and domestic ships.
  • Structure: The IHM consists of three parts:
    1. Hazardous materials in the ship’s structure and equipment
    2. Operationally generated waste
    3. Stores

Environmental Impact

The implementation of IHM has significant positive effects on the maritime industry’s environmental footprint:

  1. Safer Ship Recycling: By providing detailed information about hazardous materials, IHM ensures environmentally sound practices during ship dismantling.
  2. Reduced Pollution: Proper management of hazardous materials throughout a ship’s lifecycle minimizes the risk of environmental contamination.
  3. Enhanced Safety: IHM helps protect workers involved in ship operations and recycling by identifying potential hazards

Regulatory Framework

The EU Ship Recycling Regulation (EU SRR) mandates IHM certification for all EU-flagged ships and non-EU flagged ships calling at EU ports. This regulation, along with the Hong Kong Convention, forms the backbone of international efforts to make shipping more sustainable. As of January 26, 2025, the Hong Kong Convention has entered into force, marking a significant milestone in global maritime environmental protection. This development underscores the growing importance of IHM in the industry’s push towards sustainability and responsible ship recycling practices.

Have more questions about IHM and Hazardous Materials

Have a look into our IHM FAQ for more detailed and information