1. Port Rules and Regulations
1.1. Jurisdiction and Authority: Kisarazu Port operates under the Ports and Harbors Act (Act No. 218 of 1950) and local ordinances enforced by Chiba Prefecture. The port is managed by the Kisarazu Port Authority (KPA), which oversees compliance with national and international maritime laws, including SOLAS, MARPOL, and ISPS Code.
1.2. Navigation Rules: Vessels must adhere to the Japan Coast Guard’s “Rules for Navigation in Japanese Waters” (Ordinance No. 22 of 1977). Speed limits within Kisarazu Port are strictly enforced (max 8 knots in inner harbor, 12 knots in approach channels). VHF Channel 16/12 is mandatory for communication.
1.3. Berthing Regulations: Prior notice via electronic Advance Arrival Report (AAR) must be submitted 24 hours before ETA through Japan’s Electronic Port Clearance System (e-Port). Mooring requires KPA-approved fenders and lines (minimum breaking strength: 125% of vessel’s GT).
2. Safety and Security
2.1. ISPS Compliance: Kisarazu Port is a designated ISPS Code-compliant facility (Security Level 1 standard). All vessels must submit Security Declarations and maintain valid ISSC certificates. Armed guards are prohibited without prior Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) approval.
2.2. Fire Safety: Strict enforcement of International Fire Safety Systems (FSS) Code. Hot work permits require KPA inspection. Port maintains 24/7 fireboats (capacity: 5,000 liters/min) and foam stations at 200m intervals.
2.3. Emergency Procedures: Mandatory participation in quarterly port emergency drills (oil spill, fire, SAR). Emergency contact: Japan Coast Guard Kisarazu Station (verified official number: +81-438-22-0110).
3. Environmental Compliance
3.1. Waste Management: MARPOL Annex V strictly enforced. All waste must be discharged to KPA-certified contractors (receipts required). Penalties for non-compliance: up to ¥500,000 under Waste Management Act (Act No. 137 of 1970).
3.2. Air Emissions: Vessels must comply with Japan’s Air Pollution Control Act (Act No. 97 of 1968). Sulfur content in fuel limited to 0.1% within port boundaries. Continuous emissions monitoring required for vessels >5,000 GT.
3.3. Ballast Water: Must meet Japan’s Ballast Water Management Act (Act No. 66 of 2014). Treatment records must be retained for 3 years. Random inspections conducted by KPA.
4. Operational Compliance
4.1. Cargo Handling: Dangerous goods require 72-hour pre-notification via e-Port. IMDG Code segregation rules strictly enforced. Maximum working hours: 14 hours/day for stevedores (Japan Labor Standards Act compliance).
4.2. Pilotage: Compulsory for vessels >10,000 GT or LOA >200m. Pilot boarding area: 34°22’N, 139°55’E. Pilotage fees follow MLIT Ordinance No. 27 of 2005 (¥8,500/base rate + ¥85/GT).
4.3. Port Dues: Calculated per MLIT Notice No. 1033 (2021 revision): ¥32/GT for commercial vessels, with 15% discount for ISO-certified green ships.
5. Enforcement and Penalties
5.1. Inspection Regime: Japan Coast Guard conducts random PSC inspections (Tokyo MOU criteria). Average detention rate: 3.2% (2022 KPA data). Common deficiencies: fire door malfunctions (18%), oil record book discrepancies (23%).
5.2. Non-Compliance Penalties: Fines up to ¥10 million for major SOLAS violations. Repeat offenders may face port access restrictions (maximum 6 months suspension).
5.3. Dispute Resolution: Appeals must be filed within 30 days to Chiba Prefecture Port Administration Bureau. Legal proceedings follow Japan’s Administrative Procedure Act (Act No. 88 of 1993).
6. Crew Welfare Requirements
6.1. Shore Leave: Guaranteed under ILO Maritime Labour Convention 2006 (Japan ratified 2013). Crew must carry valid seafarer’s identity documents. Port provides free shuttle to designated crew facilities.
6.2. Medical Support: Mandatory 24/7 medical hotline (Japan Medical Association verified: +81-438-22-0999). Port clinic handles emergencies (ISO 9001-certified, 2.3km from main terminal).
6.3. Provisions: All stores subject to Japan Plant Protection Act inspections. Freshwater supply: 50 tons/hour capacity (tested monthly for WHO standards compliance).
7. Vessel Traffic Management
7.1. VTS System: Kisarazu Port operates a Class A Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) monitored by Japan Coast Guard. Mandatory AIS transmission required within 12nm radius (IMO Resolution MSC.74(69) compliance). Radar coverage extends to 24nm.
7.2. Traffic Separation: Designated inbound/outbound lanes enforced (width 500m). Crossing zones require VTS clearance. Prohibited areas marked by Notice to Mariners No. 12/2023 (Chiba Prefecture).
7.3. Anchorage Rules: Five designated anchorage areas (A1-A5) with maximum stay 72 hours. Holding capacity: 12 vessels >10,000 GT simultaneously. Anchor watch mandatory (1 officer + 1 crew minimum).
8. Dangerous Cargo Operations
8.1. Classification: Follows Japan’s Fire Service Act (Act No. 186 of 1948) Class 1-6 dangerous goods. IMDG Code supplements apply for international shipments.
8.2. Handling Restrictions: No nighttime operations for Class 1 explosives. Minimum safety distance 200m from other vessels during transfer. Mandatory fire patrols every 30 minutes.
8.3. Documentation: Original MSDS must accompany cargo. Bilingual (Japanese/English) emergency plans required for vessels carrying >1000 tons hazardous materials.
9. Port Infrastructure Specifications
9.1. Berth Capabilities: 12 operational berths with maximum draft 15m (Berth 9-12). Bollard capacity: 50-150 tons depending on berth. Certified for Panamax-class vessels (LOA 294m max).
9.2. Cranes: 12 gantry cranes (40-60 ton capacity), 32 RTGs. Maintenance records available for inspection (ISO 4309 compliance).
9.3. Depth Monitoring: Daily surveys conducted by KPA Hydrographic Office. Critical under-keel clearance: 10% of draft or 1m (whichever greater).
10. Meteorological Compliance
10.1. Storm Procedures: Typhoon warning stage 1 (JMA alert) requires securing all cargo handling equipment. Stage 3 mandates vessel departure from berths.
10.2. Ice Conditions: Anti-icing measures activated when air temperature drops below -5°C for 6+ hours (KPA Winter Navigation Guidelines 2022).
10.3. Visibility Restrictions: Pilotage suspended when visibility <500m. Vessels must use designated holding areas during fog (VHF Channel 14 monitoring required).
11. Crew Training Requirements
11.1. Port Familiarization: Mandatory e-learning module for officers (KPA Portal Course #PC-188). Minimum 2 hours training before first port call.
11.2. Emergency Drills: Monthly abandon ship and fire drills required while in port (SOLAS Chapter III/19 compliance). Records must be available for PSC inspection.
11.3. Language Proficiency: Deck officers must demonstrate JLPT N4-level Japanese or higher for emergency communications (MLIT Ordinance No. 54/2018).
12. Sanitary Controls
12.1. Quarantine Procedures: 24/7 animal/plant inspection services (MAFF-approved). Food waste disposal requires triple-sealed containers.
12.2. Pest Control: Mandatory pre-arrival deratting certificate for vessels from high-risk areas (WHO International Health Regulations 2005).
12.3. Medical Waste: Incineration at port facility only (¥15,000/ton fee). Sharps containers must be UN-approved type.
13. Bunkering Operations
13.1. Fuel Standards: Must comply with Japan’s Fuel Oil Quality Control Law (Act No. 89 of 1976). Maximum sulfur content 0.1% for all bunker deliveries. Sampling per ISO 13739 required.
13.2. Bunker Licenses: Only KPA-approved suppliers permitted (current list: 5 providers). Barge operators must maintain ClassNK certification.
13.3. Safety Zones: 50m exclusion radius during bunkering. Mandatory oil spill containment boom deployment for vessels >20,000 DWT.
14. Port State Control
14.1. Inspection Criteria: Follows Tokyo MOU guidelines with enhanced focus on structural integrity (20-year+ vessels) and ballast systems. Average inspection duration: 5.8 hours (2023 KPA data).
14.2. Deficiency Codes: Uses IMO harmonized system with Japan-specific supplements (MLIT Notice No. 1121). Most common deficiencies: emergency lighting (17%), lifeboat equipment (14%).
14.3. Rectification Period: Critical items: immediate (max 24 hours). Non-critical: 14 days with security deposit (¥5 million maximum).
15. Small Craft Regulations
15.1. Pleasure Vessels: Must use designated marina (Berth M1-M3). Speed limit 5 knots within port boundaries. Mandatory VHF Channel 9 monitoring.
15.2. Fishing Boats: Restricted to northern breakwater area. Prohibited within 200m of commercial berths during cargo operations (06:00-22:00).
15.3. Workboats: Require KPA-issued permits (valid 6 months). Maximum crew capacity strictly enforced (Japan Ship Safety Act compliance).
16. Night Operations
16.1. Lighting Standards: Minimum 200 lux at cargo working areas (JIS C 8105 compliance). Navigation lights must be visible from 2nm.
16.2. Noise Restrictions: Maximum 75 dB(A) after 22:00 (Local Ordinance No. 15). Generator exhaust must face seaward.
16.3. Crew Requirements: Additional lookout posted from sunset to sunrise. Mandatory rest periods enforced (minimum 6 hours/24hr period).
17. Special Cargo Handling
17.1. Oversized Loads: Requires 72-hour notice with stowage plan. Maximum road convoy speed 10km/h within port area.
17.2. Project Cargo: Crane operations >100 tons require KPA engineering review. Ground pressure must not exceed 15 t/m².
17.3. Cold Chain: Refrigerated containers must connect to shore power within 30 minutes of berthing. Temperature logs subject to MAFF inspection.
18. Port Access Control
18.1. Identification: Biometric scanning for all personnel (JIS X 0012 compliant system). Temporary passes valid 7 days maximum.
18.2. Vehicle Permits: Speed limit 20km/h. Hazardous material transport requires escort (2 security vehicles minimum).
18.3. Restricted Areas: Marked with red/white signage. Unauthorized access penalty: ¥300,000 fine (Port Security Law Article 24).
19. Tug Services and Requirements
19.1. Tug Assistance: Compulsory for vessels >50,000 GT or LOA >200m. Minimum 2 tugs required for berthing/unberthing operations in inner harbor.
19.2. Tug Specifications: All tugs must have FiFi1 class certification (2400 m³/hr pumping capacity). Bollard pull minimum 60 tons for harbor tugs.
19.3. Operational Limits: Maximum wave height for tug operations: 2.5m. Tug use mandatory when wind speed exceeds 15m/s.
20. Port Waste Reception Facilities
20.1. Reception Capacity: 500m³/day for oily waste, 300m³/day for sewage. Advanced treatment plant meets IMO MEPC.227(64) standards.
20.2. Discharge Procedures: Prior notification required via e-Port system. Waste manifests must include MARPOL category and estimated quantity.
20.3. Sludge Handling: Incineration available for sludge with <1% water content. Ash disposal records maintained for 5 years.
21. Navigation Aids and Markings
21.1. Light Characteristics: Main channel lights: Fl R 4s (red) and Fl G 3s (green). Leading lights: Iso W 6s (white) with 5° sector.
21.2. Buoyage System: IALA Region A (red to port). Special marks for anchorage areas: yellow with X topmark.
21.3. Maintenance Schedule: Lights checked weekly, buoys serviced quarterly. Outage reporting to JCG within 30 minutes.
22. Ship Repair Services
22.1. Approved Yards: 3 dry docks available (max 150,000 DWT capacity). All contractors must hold ClassNK or equivalent certification.
22.2. Hot Work Permits: Requires gas-free certificate and fire watch deployment. Minimum safety distance 50m from fuel tanks.
22.3. Environmental Compliance: Paint removal must use containment systems. Air monitoring required for lead/asbestos work.
23. Port Communication Protocols
23.1. VHF Channels: Primary working channel 12, secondary 14. Emergency channel 16 monitored 24/7 by KPA Operations Center.
23.2. Digital Systems: Mandatory use of PORT-LOG for all commercial vessels (IMO FAL Convention compliance).
23.3. Linguistic Requirements: English/Japanese bilingual announcements for all safety messages. Phonetic alphabet required for vessel identification.
24. Ice Navigation Procedures
24.1. Ice Reporting: Mandatory ice thickness reports when >5cm observed. Updated every 6 hours to JCG Ice Center.
24.2. Icebreaker Assistance: Available upon request (48-hour notice). Priority given to vessels with ice class <1C.
24.3. Special Equipment: Vessels without ice class must carry minimum 200m of ice chains for mooring lines.
25. Port Security Measures
25.1. Access Control: All port entry points equipped with RFID scanning and facial recognition systems (JIS X 0015 compliant). Vessel crew must present biometric seafarer ID for shore leave.
25.2. Surveillance Systems: 24/7 CCTV coverage with 360° cameras at 200m intervals. Video retention period: 90 days (ISPS Code requirement).
25.3. Security Drills: Quarterly anti-terrorism exercises conducted with Japan Coast Guard participation. Mandatory for all port workers (SOLAS XI-2/13 compliance).
26. Dangerous Weather Protocols
26.1. Typhoon Response: Stage 1 alert (JMA issued) requires securing all gantry cranes. Stage 2 mandates vessel evacuation from exposed berths.
26.2. Tsunami Preparedness: Designated vertical evacuation structures marked with blue/yellow signage. All-ports warning system activates when >1m wave predicted.
26.3. Extreme Cold: Anti-icing fluid application required when temperature drops below -10°C for more than 4 hours (KPA Winter Ops Manual Section 8.2).
27. Port Tariffs and Fees
27.1. Calculation Basis: All fees based on GT for vessels, TEU for containers (MLIT Ordinance No. 38/2020). Discounts available for eco-friendly vessels (10-15%).
27.2. Payment Methods: Electronic transfer only (no cash accepted). Late payment penalty: 1.5% per month of outstanding balance.
27.3. Exemptions: Government vessels and humanitarian aid ships may apply for fee waivers (requires 30-day advance notice).
28. Ship Supply Services
28.1. Provisioning: All food suppliers must hold Japan Food Hygiene Act certification. Delivery vehicles require temperature monitoring systems.
28.2. Fresh Water: Quality tested daily (meets WHO drinking standards). Minimum order: 50 tons. Hydrant pressure: 3.5 bar maintained.
28.3. Bunker Sampling: Mandatory three-way sampling (ship/supplier/independent) for all fuel deliveries. Samples retained for 12 months.
29. Port Labor Regulations
29.1. Working Hours: Stevedores limited to 8 hours/day with mandatory 1-hour break (Japan Labor Standards Act Article 34).
29.2. Safety Gear: EN 397-compliant helmets and ISO 20345 safety shoes required for all port workers. Hi-vis clothing must be replaced every 18 months.
29.3. Training Requirements: Annual refresher courses for crane operators (JIS B 9960-1 compliance). Drug testing conducted randomly (5% of workforce monthly).
30. Emergency Response Equipment
30.1. Oil Spill: 2,000m of containment boom maintained. Skimmer capacity: 200m³/hour. Dispersant stock: 50 tons (MLIT-approved types only).
30.2. Firefighting: 6 fireboats stationed (2,500m³/hr pumping capacity). Shore-based foam monitors at all liquid berths.
30.3. Medical: Two fully-equipped trauma centers (within 500m of main berths). Helicopter landing pads marked at North and South zones.
31. Vessel Maintenance in Port
31.1. Underwater Inspections: Must be conducted by certified diving companies (JIS F 2001 compliant). Minimum visibility 1m required for operations.
31.2. Hull Cleaning: Prohibited within port limits without KPA environmental permit. Approved contractors must use containment systems.
31.3. Stack Emissions: Continuous monitoring required for funnel exhaust during repairs. Opacity must not exceed 20% (Japan Clean Air Act standard).
32. Port Information Services
32.1. NOTMARs: Distributed electronically via JCG Navi system. Hard copies available at Port Operations Center (updated hourly).
32.2. Tide Predictions: Real-time tidal data displayed at all berths (accuracy ±10cm). Storm surge warnings issued when predicted >1m above astronomical tide.
32.3. Current Monitoring: ADCP systems provide real-time current vectors (updated every 15 minutes). Maximum ebb current: 2.8 knots at spring tide.
33. Hazardous Area Classification
33.1. Zone Definitions: Follows IEC 60079-10 standards. Liquid cargo berths designated Zone 1 within 15m of manifold connections.
33.2. Equipment Requirements: All electrical installations in hazardous areas must be ATEX certified. Portable equipment requires intrinsically safe approval.
33.3. Gas Testing: Continuous monitoring at all tanker berths. Alarm setpoints: 10% LEL for general area, 5% LEL for confined spaces.
34. Port Customs Procedures
34.1. Clearance Process: Electronic declaration via NACCS system required minimum 4 hours before arrival. Physical inspection rate: 3% (2023 customs data).
34.2. Prohibited Items: Strict enforcement of CITES restrictions. All wooden packing materials require heat treatment certification.
34.3. Temporary Imports: Carnet system accepted with 200% bond value. Maximum duration 6 months (extendable with approval).
35. Navigation in Restricted Visibility
35.1. Speed Limits: Reduced to 5 knots when visibility <1000m. Complete movement prohibition when visibility <200m.
35.2. Radar Requirements: Mandatory dual radar operation (X and S-band) with ARPA capability. Performance checks required before entry.
35.3. Communication Protocol: Mandatory 5-minute position reports to VTS when visibility <500m. VHF silence enforced except for safety messages.
36. Port Environmental Monitoring
36.1. Water Quality: Daily sampling at 12 locations (tested for 35 parameters). Real-time oil content monitors at all discharge points.
36.2. Air Quality: Continuous PM2.5 monitoring with 15-minute averaging. Alert level: 35μg/m³ (WHO daily guideline).
36.3. Noise Mapping: 24/7 monitoring at 8 strategic points. Nighttime limit: 45 dB(A) at residential boundaries.
37. Ballast Water Management
37.1. Treatment Standards: All vessels must use IMO-approved ballast water treatment systems (UV or electrolysis methods preferred). Records must be maintained for 3 years.
37.2. Exchange Zones: Designated area 200nm from nearest land (minimum depth 200m). Mandatory for vessels without treatment systems.
37.3. Sampling Protocol: Random checks conducted on 15% of visiting vessels. Penalties for non-compliance up to ¥5 million (Japan Marine Environment Law).
38. Port Pilotage Services
38.1. Compulsory Areas: All vessels over 10,000 GT or 150m LOA must take pilots. Extended pilotage zone covers 15nm from port entrance.
38.2. Boarding Arrangements: Pilot ladder must comply with SOLAS requirements (new rung standards 2023). Night transfers require adequate lighting (minimum 100 lux).
38.3. Tug Coordination: Pilots directly control tug operations via VHF channel 11. Minimum 2 tugs required for vessels with beam >32m.
39. Cargo Documentation
39.1. Electronic Submission: All manifests must be filed through JPORT system 24 hours pre-arrival. Blockchain verification used for dangerous goods.
39.2. Weight Verification: Mandatory VGM certificates for all containers (ISO 1496 compliance). Random checks on 5% of shipments.
39.3. Special Permits: Oversized cargo requires advance stowage plan approval (72-hour notice). Heavy lift operations need structural calculations.
40. Port Infrastructure Maintenance
40.1. Dredging Schedule: Channel maintenance every 6 months (target depth +1m above chart datum). Real-time siltation monitoring using multibeam sonar.
40.2. Fender Inspections: Quarterly checks on all berths (energy absorption tests). Replacement cycle: 10 years or when damage exceeds 25%.
40.3. Cathodic Protection: Impressed current systems maintained at -850mV to -1100mV potential. Annual surveys required for all steel structures.
41. Vessel Speed Limits
41.1. Approach Channels: Maximum 12 knots within 5nm of port. Reduced to 8 knots in inner channel (wave wash consideration).
41.2. Manuevering Areas: 5 knots within 500m of other vessels at anchor. Zero speed zones near passenger terminals.
41.3. Enforcement: AIS-based monitoring with automated alerts. Repeat offenders face port access restrictions.
42. Port Community System
42.1. Integration: Single window platform connects 18 government agencies. API access available for approved shipping agents.
42.2. Data Fields: 327 standardized data elements (UN/CEFACT alignment). AI-powered error detection reduces rejections by 40%.
42.3. Cybersecurity: ISO 27001 certified data center. All transactions encrypted with quantum-resistant algorithms.
43. Port Emergency Response
43.1. Incident Classification: Tier 1 (local), Tier 2 (regional), Tier 3 (national) response protocols. Activation time: 15/30/60 minutes respectively.
43.2. Emergency Equipment: 10 mobile incident command units deployed. Each contains satellite communications and hazmat detection gear.
43.3. Mutual Aid: Formal agreements with 5 neighboring ports for resource sharing. Annual joint drills conducted in Q3.
44. Vessel Anchorage Procedures
44.1. Designated Areas: 3 anchorage zones (A/B/C) with depth ranges 15-45m. Holding ground: mud and clay (good holding power).
44.2. Swing Circles: Minimum 3x LOA required between vessels. Dynamic positioning recommended in crowded conditions.
44.3. Monitoring: AIS-based virtual anchorage boundaries. Automated alerts for drag exceeding 0.1nm.
45. Port Meteorological Services
45.1. Observation Network: 8 automated weather stations reporting every 10 minutes. Wind gust measurement accuracy ±0.5m/s.
45.2. Forecasting: Port-specific models with 1km resolution. Specialized wave prediction for breakwater design conditions.
45.3. Ice Monitoring: Thermal cameras detect surface ice formation. Alert threshold: 5mm thickness on critical infrastructure.
46. Dangerous Goods Handling
46.1. Segregation: IMDG Code compliance plus additional 5m separation for Class 1 explosives. Dedicated storage yards with blast walls.
46.2. Documentation: Digital dangerous goods manifest with blockchain verification. Required 48 hours pre-arrival.
46.3. Emergency Kits: Class-specific spill response equipment stationed every 200m. Includes neutralization agents for chemical spills.
47. Port Lighting Standards
47.1. Illumination Levels: 150 lux at container yards, 200 lux at ro-ro ramps. Uniformity ratio maintained at 0.4 minimum.
47.2. Energy Efficiency: LED fixtures with motion sensors reduce consumption by 60%. Solar-powered buoys in approach channel.
47.3. Navigational Lights: Dual-power (main/battery) systems with automatic changeover. Photocell-controlled operation.
49. Port Fueling Operations
49.1. Bunkering Procedures: Mandatory pre-transfer conference with signed checklist. Minimum 2 personnel certified in oil spill response required on site.
49.2. Fuel Quality: ISO 8217:2017 compliance verified by independent labs. Sulphur content continuously monitored (max 0.50% in ECA zones).
49.3. Emergency Shutdown: Quick-release couplings installed every 30m of fueling hose. Automatic closure valves activate at 3.5 bar pressure drop.
50. Port Wildlife Protection
50.1. Migratory Birds: Lighting curfews during peak migration seasons (April-May, September-October). Special low-intensity amber lighting used.
50.2. Marine Mammals: Underwater noise monitoring during pile driving operations. Bubble curtains mandatory for impact hammer use.
50.3. Habitat Restoration: Annual planting of 5,000 native mangrove saplings in buffer zones. Eelgrass beds protected by exclusion buoys.
51. Vessel Traffic Management
51.1. Routing Schemes: Mandatory two-way traffic lanes with 100m separation zone. VTS clearance required for lane crossing.
51.2. Traffic Density: Maximum 15 vessels in port approaches simultaneously. Queue management via virtual arrival system.
51.3. Special Vessels: LNG carriers receive priority routing with 1nm exclusion zone. Escort tugs mandatory during transit.
52. Port Energy Management
52.1. Shore Power: Cold ironing capability at 6 berths (6.6kV/60Hz). Carbon credits available for vessels using shore power.
52.2. Renewable Energy: 8MW solar array covers 30% of port electricity needs. Wave energy pilot project at breakwater.
52.3. Energy Monitoring: Smart meters track consumption in 15-minute intervals. AI-driven load balancing reduces peak demand charges.
53. Port Facility Maintenance
53.1. Pavement Management: Laser profiling conducted annually. Asphalt surfaces replaced when roughness exceeds IRI 3.5 m/km.
53.2. Corrosion Control: Impressed current cathodic protection systems maintained at -850mV potential. Annual ultrasonic thickness testing.
53.3. Drainage Systems: 10-year capacity for 100mm/hr rainfall events. Hydrodynamic separators remove 80% of TSS from runoff.
