Using Dispersants in Singapore Port Waters

Dispersants used in Singapore waters have to be tested in the approved testing facilities and meet the specifications as listed below. Those tested dispersants which comply with the specifications will need to seek approval from MPA before the use in Singapore waters.

Under the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea (Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation) Regulations, no person shall use any dispersant which does not comply with the specifications set out below for the purpose of eliminating or reducing any oil pollution in the port waters.

Specifications of Dispersants

• The flash point of the dispersant shall not be less than 65°C (150°F) in accordance with the test prescribed by the Institute of Petroleum.
• The dispersion capacity of the dispersant shall not be more than 1 part of dispersant to 1 part of marine fuel oil of viscosity not less than 300 seconds (Redwood 1) at 50°C (122°F) in accordance with test No. PSA/CD/II as specified by the Authority.
  
• The biodegradability of the surface active agent shall not be less than 90°on the average of the results of the seventh and eighth day from the commencement of the test at 37°C (99°F) in accordance with test No. MPA/MV/III as specified by the Authority.
• The toxicity of the dispersant using glass fish (Chanda gymnocephalus) as a standard test organism shall be as follows:
• The mixture of the dispersant and the standard marine fuel oil (MFO V1100/1200) in the ratio of 1:1 shall have a 96-hour LC 50 value of not less than 100 mg per litre as measured by the method of the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority.
• The dispersant shall not contain aromatic hydrocarbons and chlorinated hydrocarbons in concentrations greater than:
  • Total aromatic hydrocarbons - 3%
  • Total chlorinated hydrocarbons - 0.05 mg per litre.

Approval for Dispersants to be used in Singapore Port Waters

1. To obtain approval for dispersants to be used in the port, a sample of the product must be sent to a MPA appointed laboratory in Singapore for testing.

2. Only those dispersants that have been found to comply with these specifications are allowed for use in the port waters. This is to ensure the safety of all port users and protection of the marine environment.

3. For enquiries or any clarification, please contact us at:
Hazardous Cargo Section 
Marine Environment & Safety Department 
Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore 
7B Keppel Road #21-07    
Tanjong Pagar Complex 
Singapore 089055 
Tel: (+65) 6325 2421 
Fax: (+65) 6325 2400 
Email: hazmat@mpa.gov.sg

FAQ

Q1. Is there a list of approved dispersants for reference?

A1. You may refer to the “Dispersants Approved for Use in Singapore Port Waters” under Useful Links