Which vessels are required to have the IOPP Certificate?

The correct answer identifies that U.S. oil tankers of 150 gross tons (GT) and above, as well as other vessels over 400 GT, are required to have the International Oil Pollution Prevention (IOPP) Certificate. This certificate is crucial for vessels to demonstrate compliance with the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), specifically Annex I, which addresses oil pollution.

The IOPP Certificate ensures that vessels have the necessary equipment and operational practices in place to prevent oil spills during normal operations and to manage oily residues safely. The specified tonnage thresholds are based on the potential impact that these vessels can have on marine environments, given their size and the nature of their cargoes.

In contrast, other options refer to vessel categories that do not align with the legal requirements set by MARPOL for IOPP certification. While all U.S. vessels over 100 GT may include some that need different certifications, the specific criteria for the IOPP Certificate focus on the specified tonnage thresholds associated with oil tankers and larger ships. Additionally, the requirement does not solely target commercial vessels or those carrying passengers, but rather focuses on the type of cargo and the potential environmental impact.