IRClass: Underwater Radiated Noise and Measurements

Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass) has published the Guidelines on Underwater Radiated Noise and Measurements.

Ship-generated underwater noise is a complex and important topic due to its potential environmental impact and the need for regulatory measures.

It encompasses a wide range of vessel types, operating conditions, and oceanic environments. Vessels can vary in size and speed, operating in different types of waters.

The noise is undesirable for marine organisms and can also affect the operations of certain vessels, such as naval ships and those using hydro-acoustic transducers.

These guidelines specifically apply to vessels with additional class notations for managing and mitigating underwater radiated noise (URN) in environmentally sensitive areas and for operational reasons.

They provide guidance on assessing URN alongside other applicable IRS rules and regulations.

Compliance with additional requirements from flag Administrations and national authorities is also necessary.

URN class notations are assigned to vessels upon successful completion of underwater radiated noise measurement tests and trials, conducted by approved service providers recognized by IRS.

This document was published on 15 June 2023 and will enter into force on 1 July 2023.