What does the International Oil Pollution Prevention (IOPP) Certificate certify?

The International Oil Pollution Prevention (IOPP) Certificate specifically certifies that a vessel, such as an oil tanker or certain other types of ships, complies with international regulations aimed at preventing oil pollution at sea. This compliance includes the proper functioning and maintenance of pollution prevention equipment, such as oil discharge monitoring and control systems, which are critical for reducing the risk of oil spills during operational activities.

This certificate is essential for ensuring that vessels are equipped with the necessary infrastructure to minimize the environmental impact of oil discharges and that they follow the International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations, particularly the Annex I of the MARPOL (Marine Pollution) Convention. Without this certification, vessels may not be allowed to operate in certain waters, especially in ecologically sensitive areas.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of maritime operation. Measures for cargo ship safety, fitness for carrying dangerous chemicals, and passenger safety standards are regulated under separate conventions and certifications that do not overlap with the specific objectives of the IOPP Certificate. Thus, the focus of the IOPP Certificate is distinctly on pollution prevention associated with oil, affirming the correct choice.