MARPOL Annex VI came into force on 19 May 2005.  The new regulations introduce a variety of measures which are designed to control air pollution caused by bunkers. Updated 2 June 2005 Content The Regulations set a limit of 4.5% limit on sulphur content of fuel oil which applies worldwide from 19 May 2005. Most fuel oil currently supplied is well within this limit.  However, a significantly lower limit will apply in SOx Emission Control Areas, the first of which is the Baltic Sea where a sulphur limit of 1.5% will apply from 19 May 2006. Fuel oil supplied to the ship must also be free of inorganic acids or any added substances which can jeopardise the safety of the ship, harm ship personnel, or contribute to additional air pollution. Many owners and an increasing number of charterers now participate in fuel testing programmes and will not use bunkers until satisfactory test results are received. This is a sound practice which can greatly contribute to loss prevention. We therefore recommend that owners either participate in such fuel testing programmes themselves, or ensure that their time charterers do so. This should be reflected by appropriate warranties in the charterparty. Participation in a fuel analysis scheme, and not using newly supplied bunkers until test results are received, will if relevant be one of the factors that the Association considers should bunker related claims arise. Bunker delivery notes and sampling The Regulations also require bunker suppliers to provide a  bunker delivery note  with prescribed information. A sample must be given to the vessel which has been taken in accordance with Guidelines issued by the IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee  (MEPC96(47)).  The bunker delivery note must be retained on board for at least three years and the sample for twelve months. It is compliance with these requirements which is likely to create problems, rather than the initial sulphur content limit of 4.5%. Owners