Which annex of MARPOL deals specifically with oil pollution?

Annex I of MARPOL (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) is dedicated specifically to the prevention of pollution by oil. This annex establishes regulations to control and minimize the discharge of oil from ships, encompassing provisions regarding machinery spaces, oil tanks, and the handling of oily bilge water.

The regulations within Annex I require ships to implement the use of oil filtering devices, maintain oil record books, and follow strict protocols regarding the discharge of bilge water to ensure that oil pollution is mitigated. Additionally, it outlines requirements for both operational and accidental discharges of oil, which is critical for protecting marine environments from oil spills.

In contrast, the other annexes of MARPOL address different types of pollution: Annex II deals with noxious liquid substances, Annex III covers harmful substances carried in packaged form, and Annex IV focuses on sewage from ships. Understanding the specific focus of each annex is crucial for effective pollution prevention and response strategies in maritime operations.