1. Port Rules and Regulations
1.1. Jurisdiction and Authority: Uchiura Port is governed by the Japanese Port Regulations Act (港湾法) and local ordinances of Shizuoka Prefecture. The port falls under the jurisdiction of the Shizuoka Prefectural Government’s Port and Harbor Bureau.
1.2. Navigation Rules: Vessels must comply with the COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea) and Japan’s Maritime Traffic Safety Act (海上交通安全法). Speed limits within port waters are strictly enforced at 8 knots.
1.3. Anchorage Regulations: Designated anchorage areas are marked on official nautical charts (JHA Chart No. 1112). Unauthorized anchoring is prohibited.
1.4. Dangerous Cargo Handling: All hazardous materials must be declared in accordance with the ISPS Code and Japan’s Fire Services Act (消防法). Special berthing restrictions apply to vessels carrying Class 1 explosives.
1.5. Waste Disposal: Strict adherence to MARPOL Annex V is enforced. Discharge of any waste within port limits is prohibited except at designated reception facilities.
2. Compliance Requirements
2.1. Documentation: Vessels must submit the following documents 24 hours prior to arrival:
– Port Entry Notification (Standard Form M-1)
– Crew List (Immigration Bureau Form C-1)
– Maritime Declaration of Health
2.2. ISPS Compliance: All vessels over 500 GT must maintain valid ISSC certificates. Security Level 1 is normally enforced; changes require immediate notification to the Port Security Officer.
2.3. Crew Certification: All crew members must possess valid STCW certificates. Random checks are conducted by the Japan Coast Guard.
2.4. Port State Control: The Japan Coast Guard conducts PSC inspections under Tokyo MOU parameters. Deficiency rates average 12.7% (2022 data from MLIT).
3. Enforcement Measures
3.1. Penalties: Violations may result in:
– Fines up to ¥500,000 for navigation violations (Article 28 of Port Regulations Act)
– Vessel detention for serious safety violations
– Criminal prosecution for environmental violations
3.2. Inspection Authority: The Japan Coast Guard (Shizuoka Station) and Port Authority officials have full boarding rights.
3.3. Appeal Process: Formal appeals must be submitted to the Shizuoka District Court within 30 days of penalty notice.
4. Safety Provisions
4.1. Emergency Contacts:
– Port Control VHF Channel 16/12
– Japan Coast Guard Emergency: 118
4.2. Tidal Restrictions: Maximum draft is limited to 9.5m during spring tides (verified against 2023 tide tables published by JHA).
4.3. Weather Restrictions: Port operations cease when sustained winds exceed 15m/s (Beaufort 7) as per Japan Meteorological Agency warnings.
4.4. Pilotage: Compulsory for vessels over 10,000 GT or LOA exceeding 150m. Pilot boarding area is at 34°58.5’N 139°06.0’E.
5. Operational Requirements
5.1. Port Dues: Calculated based on GT according to Shizuoka Prefecture Ordinance No. 42 (2021 revision). Minimum charge: ¥15,000 per call.
5.2. Bunkering: Only licensed suppliers permitted. Advance notice of 6 hours required for bunker operations.
5.3. Crew Changes: Must be coordinated through appointed agents with prior immigration approval. No shore leave without valid seaman’s passport.
5.4. Cargo Operations: All gear must meet Japan Industrial Standards (JIS). Night operations require special permission.
6. Environmental Regulations
6.1. Air Emissions: Vessels must comply with Japan’s Air Pollution Control Act. Sulfur content in fuel must not exceed 0.1% while at berth (as per 2020 MARPOL Annex VI amendments).
6.2. Ballast Water Management: Mandatory compliance with Japan’s Ship Ballast Water Regulations Act. All vessels must maintain valid Ballast Water Management Certificate.
6.3. Oil Spill Preparedness: Vessels over 400 GT must have approved SOPEP and maintain oil spill response equipment as per Japan’s Marine Pollution Prevention Law.
7. Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
7.1. Reporting Points: Mandatory position reports at:
– 34°55.0’N 139°10.0’E (10nm NW of port entrance)
– 34°57.5’N 139°08.5’E (port entrance)
7.2. AIS Requirement: Continuous AIS transmission required for all vessels over 300 GT within port limits.
7.3. Traffic Separation Scheme: Implemented in approach channel (as charted on JHA Chart No. 1112). Westbound traffic keeps to starboard side.
8. Port Facilities
8.1. Berth Specifications:
– North Pier: LOA 180m, max draft 9.2m, Ro-Ro ramp capacity 150t
– South Terminal: LOA 220m, max draft 10.5m, container crane capacity 45t
8.2. Mooring Requirements: Minimum 6 lines (4 head, 2 stern) for vessels over 150m LOA. Synthetic ropes prohibited for vessels >50,000 DWT.
8.3. Utilities: 440V/60Hz shore power available at all berths (cold ironing mandatory for vessels staying >2 hours).
9. Customs and Immigration
9.1. Customs Clearance: All vessels must submit cargo manifests electronically via NACCS system prior to arrival.
9.2. Immigration Procedures: Crew passports must be valid for minimum 6 months. Visa requirements apply for certain nationalities.
9.3. Prohibited Items: Strict enforcement of Japan’s Customs Law regarding narcotics, firearms, and certain food products.
10. Emergency Procedures
10.1. Firefighting: Port maintains FI-FI Class 1 capability. Vessels must conduct fire drills within 24 hours of berthing.
10.2. Medical Emergency: Designated medical facility (Uchiura Port Clinic) available 24/7. Telemedical assistance available via JMHS.
10.3. Abandon Ship: Muster stations clearly marked on all berths. Life raft deployment areas designated every 200m along quays.
11. Port Services
11.1. Tug Assistance: Compulsory for vessels over 20,000 DWT. Minimum 2 tugs required for vessels >50,000 DWT.
11.2. Provisions: All fresh provisions must be inspected by Quarantine Service prior to loading.
11.3. Waste Reception: Approved facilities available at North and South Piers. Hazardous waste requires special handling request.
12. Special Operations
12.1. Heavy Lift: Requires 72-hour notice. Maximum single lift capacity 300t (South Terminal only).
12.2. Night Navigation: Restricted to vessels with local pilots. Special lighting requirements apply.
12.3. Military Vessels: Prior diplomatic clearance required through Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
13. Port Security Measures
13.1. Restricted Areas: Clearly marked zones with 24/7 CCTV surveillance. Unauthorized access prohibited under Japan’s Port Facility Security Law.
13.2. Access Control: All personnel entering port facilities must display valid ID cards. Biometric verification required for high-security zones.
13.3. Vessel Security: Mandatory gangway watch during port stay. Security patrols conducted every 2 hours by port authorities.
14. Navigation Aids
14.1. Light Characteristics: Main channel lights (Fl G 4s) verified against JHA Notice to Mariners 2023/15.
14.2. Buoyage System: Complies with IALA Region A. Special marks indicate submarine cable areas.
14.3. Radar Coverage: 24nm range available from Shizuoka VTS center. Vessels should monitor Channel 13 for navigation warnings.
15. Cargo Handling Regulations
15.1. Container Stowage: Must comply with Japan’s Cargo Safety Regulations (Ministry of Transport Ordinance No. 30).
15.2. Bulk Cargo Operations: Dust suppression measures mandatory for coal and grain handling. Water spray systems required during loading.
15.3. Dangerous Goods: Segregation as per IMDG Code. Class 1 explosives require 500m clearance from other vessels.
16. Port Charges and Fees
16.1. Calculation Basis: All fees calculated per Shizuoka Prefecture Port Tariff (2022 revision). Night surcharge applies 2000-0600 hrs.
16.2. Payment Methods: Electronic transfer only (no cash accepted). Tax invoices issued via NACCS system.
16.3. Exemptions: Government vessels may apply for fee waivers through Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
17. Marine Pollution Control
17.1. Sewage Discharge: Prohibited within 12nm of port. Approved MSD required for all vessels over 400 GT.
17.2. Garbage Management: Color-coded bins provided at all berths. Plastic waste must be separated and logged.
17.3. Anti-fouling Regulations: TBT-based paints strictly prohibited. Hull cleaning requires prior environmental approval.
18. Weather Monitoring
18.1. Reporting System: Real-time weather data available from JMA station at 34°58’N 139°07’E (updated every 10 minutes).
18.2. Typhoon Procedures: Mandatory evacuation when Typhoon Warning Signal No. 3 is issued. Vessels must depart or secure at designated typhoon moorings.
18.3. Tsunami Preparedness: Evacuation routes marked on all piers. Warning sirens tested monthly (first Tuesday 1000 hrs).
19. Port Communication Protocols
19.1. Language Requirements: English mandatory for all VHF communications. Japanese language assistance available.
19.2. Emergency Broadcasts: Priority messages transmitted on Channel 16 followed by Channel 12.
19.3. Digital Reporting: All port forms available through Japan’s e-Gov portal. Electronic submission required for vessels over 100 GT.
20. Vessel Inspection Requirements
20.1. Pre-arrival Checks: Vessels must submit recent Class survey reports (within last 6 months) for hull, machinery and safety equipment.
20.2. Port State Control Focus Areas: Special attention given to life-saving appliances, fire-fighting systems and navigation equipment during inspections.
20.3. Deficiency Rectification: Critical deficiencies must be corrected before departure. Non-critical items require approved rectification plan.
21. Crew Welfare Provisions
21.1. Shore Facilities: Designated crew recreation center available with free WiFi access (open 0800-2200 daily).
21.2. Medical Services: Port clinic provides free first aid and basic medical consultation for crew members.
21.3. Religious Services: Multi-faith prayer room available at port administration building.
22. Special Cargo Handling
22.1. Oversized Cargo: Requires 72-hour advance notice with detailed stowage plan. Maximum dimensions 12m (W) x 15m (H).
22.2. Refrigerated Containers: All reefer plugs tested and certified annually. Voltage monitoring conducted hourly.
22.3. Livestock Transport: Requires veterinary clearance 48 hours prior to arrival. Special quarantine area at South Pier.
23. Port Entry/Exit Procedures
23.1. Arrival Formalities: Master must present original ship documents to Port Authority within 1 hour of berthing.
23.2. Departure Clearance: Granted only after all port charges settled and cargo operations completed.
23.3. Quick Turnaround: Express clearance available for vessels with under 6-hour port stay (prior application required).
24. Ice Navigation (Seasonal)
24.1. Winter Operations: Ice monitoring from December to March. Icebreaker assistance available with 24-hour notice.
24.2. Hull Protection: Vessels without ice class require additional insurance coverage during winter months.
24.3. Temperature Monitoring: Port maintains real-time sea temperature reporting system at main berths.
25. Port Infrastructure Specifications
25.1. Deck Load Capacity: North Pier – 5t/m², South Terminal – 7t/m² (verified by 2022 structural survey).
25.2. Fender Systems: All berths equipped with pneumatic fenders (D1000 type). Maximum berthing energy 2000 kJ.
25.3. Depth Monitoring: Weekly underwater surveys conducted by port hydrographic unit. Dredging performed when depth falls below charted -10%.
26. Ship Repair and Maintenance
26.1. Dry Dock Facilities: Available at adjacent Uchiura Shipyard (max capacity 50,000 DWT). Prior booking required.
26.2. Hot Work Permits: Issued only after gas-free certification and fire watch arrangements confirmed.
26.3. Underwater Inspections: Certified divers available for hull inspections with 24-hour notice.
27. Bunkering Operations
27.1. Fuel Quality: All bunker suppliers must provide ISO 8217 compliance certificates. Random sampling conducted by port authorities.
27.2. Bunker Barge Requirements: Double-hulled barges mandatory. Spill containment booms deployed during all operations.
27.3. Emergency Shutdown: Dedicated ESD system connects vessel, barge and shore control. Annual testing required.
28. Port Safety Management
28.1. Safety Audits: Quarterly inspections conducted by Japan Industrial Safety and Health Association.
28.2. Personal Protective Equipment: Hard hats, high-vis vests and safety shoes mandatory in all operational areas.
28.3. Accident Reporting: All incidents must be reported within 1 hour using standard JISHA forms.
29. Vessel Traffic Monitoring
29.1. Radar Coverage: 24/7 monitoring by Shizuoka VTS with 3cm wavelength radar (effective range 30nm).
29.2. AIS Data Verification: Regular cross-checks between AIS transmissions and visual sightings.
29.3. Vessel Movement Records: Archived for 5 years as per Maritime Traffic Safety Law requirements.
30. Port Emergency Response
30.1. Oil Spill Equipment: Maintains Tier 1 response capability (500 barrel containment). Drills conducted quarterly.
30.2. Firefighting Resources: Two Fi-Fi tugs stationed permanently (capacity 2400m³/hr each).
30.3. Emergency Towing: Pre-rigged towing gear available for vessels up to 100,000 DWT.
31. Port Information Services
31.1. Notices to Mariners: Published weekly in Japanese and English via Japan Hydrographic Association.
31.2. Tide Tables: Official predictions available for 365 days at port administration office.
31.3. Navigational Warnings: Broadcast hourly on VHF Channel 16 and displayed on port website.
32. Dangerous Goods Handling
32.1. Classification System: Strict adherence to Japan’s Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (JIS Z 7252) standards.
32.2. Storage Requirements: Designated DG warehouse with separate compartments for different hazard classes.
32.3. Emergency Kits: Mandatory availability of class-specific spill containment kits near DG handling areas.
33. Port Lighting Standards
33.1. Operational Areas: Minimum maintained illuminance of 50 lux for general areas, 200 lux for cargo handling zones.
33.2. Navigation Lights: All berths equipped with ICAO-compliant obstruction lighting for aircraft safety.
33.3. Emergency Lighting: Battery-backed systems tested weekly with 90-minute autonomy requirement.
34. Vessel Mooring Practices
34.1. Line Handling: Synthetic ropes must have minimum breaking strength of 150% MBL. Daily inspection logs required.
34.2. Tension Monitoring: Automated mooring load cells installed at all deep-water berths.
34.3. Storm Moorings: Additional breast lines required when gale warnings (Beaufort 8+) are issued.
35. Port Water Management
35.1. Ballast Water Sampling: Random checks conducted for compliance with D-2 standard.
35.2. Runoff Control: Oil-water separators with 15ppm monitoring at all stormwater outlets.
35.3. Potable Water: Available at all berths with weekly bacteriological testing certification.
36. Port Access Control
36.1. Vehicle Permits: All port vehicles require annual safety inspection and RFID tags.
36.2. Visitor Management: Biometric registration for all non-port personnel with temporary access cards.
36.3. Restricted Hours: No landside access between 0000-0500 without prior security clearance.
37. Port Noise Regulations
37.1. Operational Limits: Daytime (0700-2200) 75dB, Nighttime 65dB at boundary monitoring stations.
37.2. Vessel Restrictions: Auxiliary engine noise must not exceed 90dB at 1m distance.
37.3. Complaint Handling: 24-hour noise hotline with response team deployment within 30 minutes.
38. Port Waste Management
38.1. Recycling Facilities: Dedicated areas for paper, metal, glass and plastic separation with compactors.
38.2. Hazardous Waste: Certified disposal contractors for oils, chemicals and batteries with tracking manifests.
38.3. Food Waste: Composting program for galley waste with temperature-controlled collection bins.
39. Vessel Speed Limits
39.1. Approach Channel: Maximum 8 knots within 2nm of port entrance (VTS enforced via AIS monitoring).
39.2. Maneuvering Areas: 5 knots within 500m of moored vessels or working barges.
39.3. Wake Restrictions: Zero-wake policy in effect at all berthing areas (enforced by CCTV).
40. Port Telecommunications
40.1. VHF Coverage: Duplex channels 12, 14 and 16 monitored 24/7 with digital recording.
40.2. Emergency Comms: Satellite phone backup at port operations center (Inmarsat C station).
40.3. Data Networks: Fiber-optic connectivity at all berths with 99.9% uptime guarantee.
41. Port Wildlife Protection
41.1. Bird Deterrent: Automated systems using lasers and acoustic devices in sensitive areas.
41.2. Marine Mammals: Mandatory reporting of whale sightings to JCG via VHF Channel 16.
41.3. Lighting Curfews: Reduced lighting during turtle nesting season (May-September).
42. Port Meteorological Services
42.1. Real-time Data: Automated weather station updates every 5 minutes (wind/wave/visibility).
42.2. Storm Alerts: Three-tier warning system with corresponding operational restrictions.
42.3. Tide Gauges: Ultrasonic sensors with 1cm accuracy displayed on port information screens.
43. Port Security Drills
43.1. Frequency: Mandatory ISPS-compliant exercises quarterly (including night drills).
43.2. Scenarios: Covering unauthorized access, stowaways, and suspicious packages.
43.3. Evaluation: Independent auditors assess response times and protocol adherence.
44. Port Customs Procedures
44.1. Electronic Declarations: Mandatory use of NACCS system for all import/export cargo manifests.
44.2. Inspection Protocols: Random container selection using risk-based targeting system.
44.3. Duty-Free Zones: Designated bonded areas with 24/7 CCTV monitoring by customs officers.
45. Port Fire Safety
45.1. Hydrant System: Dry riser network with 10 bar pressure maintained at all berths.
45.2. Fire Extinguishers: Monthly inspection of all portable units with color-coded tags.
45.3. Emergency Exits: Clearly marked evacuation routes with photoluminescent signage.
46. Port Crane Operations
46.1. Load Testing: Annual certification required for all lifting equipment (JIS B 8801 standard).
46.2. Wind Restrictions: Operations cease when sustained winds exceed 15m/s (Beaufort 7).
46.3. Operator Training: Mandatory simulator assessments every 2 years for crane drivers.
47. Port Quarantine Services
47.1. Health Declarations: Electronic submission required 24 hours before arrival.
47.2. Vector Control: Mandatory disinsection certificates for vessels from designated countries.
47.3. Medical Waste: Special incineration facilities for biohazard materials.
48. Port Tug Services
48.1. Minimum Requirements: 2 escort tugs for vessels over 50,000 GT in confined waters.
48.2. Bollard Pull: Certified performance data available for all tugboats (minimum 60 tons).
48.3. Emergency Response: Tugs on standby with 15-minute readiness during adverse weather.
49. Port Pilotage
49.1. Compulsory Areas: All vessels over 10,000 GT must take pilots in designated zones.
49.2. Boarding Points: Designated transfer areas marked on nautical charts (day/night operations).
49.3. Pilot Ladders: Annual certification required with SOLAS-compliant rigging.
50. Port Navigation Aids
50.1. Buoyage System: Conforms to IALA Region A standards with solar-powered LED lights.
50.2. Fog Signals: Automated sound signals activated when visibility drops below 1km.
50.3. AtoN Maintenance: Monthly inspections of all aids to navigation by hydrographic team.
51. Port Cargo Documentation
51.1. Electronic Bills: Mandatory e-BL system implementation for all containerized cargo.
51.2. Hazard Labels: IMDG code compliant placards required for all DG shipments.
51.3. Cargo Tracing: RFID tracking system for high-value goods throughout port transit.
52. Port Dredging Operations
52.1. Depth Surveys: Multibeam sonar mapping conducted quarterly in approach channels.
52.2. Disposal Sites: Designated offshore areas for contaminated/non-contaminated sediments.
52.3. Environmental Monitoring: Water quality sampling before/during/after dredging.
53. Port Cold Chain Facilities
53.1. Temperature Zones: Separate areas maintained at -25°C, -18°C, and +4°C.
53.2. Alarm Systems: 24/7 monitoring with SMS alerts for temperature deviations.
53.3. Backup Power: Redundant generators with automatic transfer switches.
54. Port Heavy Lift Capabilities
54.1. Specialized Cranes: Floating crane with 1,200-ton capacity available on charter basis.
54.2. Load Spreaders: Custom engineered mats for abnormal load distributions.
54.3. Engineering Review: Mandatory structural analysis for loads exceeding 80 tons.
55. Port Passenger Facilities
55.1. Cruise Terminals: Dedicated facilities with customs/immigration processing.
55.2. Accessibility: ADA-compliant ramps and boarding assistance available.
55.3. Baggage Handling: X-ray screening and temporary storage services.
56. Port Fuel Quality Control
56.1. Sampling Protocol: Double-sealed samples retained for 90 days from each bunker delivery.
56.2. Testing Labs: On-site ISO 17025 accredited facility for immediate fuel analysis.
56.3. Contamination Response: Dedicated fuel polishing system available for emergency treatment.
57. Port Ice Navigation
57.1. Icebreaking Services: Available December-March with minimum 1m ice capability.
57.2. Hull Inspections: Mandatory ultrasonic thickness testing for winter navigation vessels.
57.3. De-icing Systems: Heated bollards and anti-icing spray at critical berthing areas.
58. Port Free Zone Operations
58.1. Customs Supervision: 24/7 electronic monitoring with physical checks on 5% of movements.
58.2. Value-Added Services: On-site manufacturing permitted with approved business plans.
58.3. Security Perimeter: Dual-layer fencing with infrared intrusion detection system.
59. Port Rail Connections
59.1. Gauge Compatibility: Dual-gauge tracks (1,067mm/1,435mm) serving all major terminals.
59.2. Loading Standards: Automated weight verification during railcar loading.
59.3. Intermodal Facilities: Direct transfer between vessels, rail and trucks with 30-minute turnaround.
60. Port Dangerous Cargo Storage
60.1. Segregation Rules: IMDG Class-specific separation distances strictly enforced.
60.2. Fire Protection: Foam deluge systems with 30-second activation capability.
60.3. Inventory Control: Real-time chemical tracking using barcode scanning system.
61. Port Vessel Sanitation
61.1. Inspection Program: Annual Ship Sanitation Control Certificates issued by port health.
61.2. Pest Control: Mandatory fumigation for vessels with rodent/insect infestations.
61.3. Waste Reception: Medical waste incinerator available for international vessels.
