1. Port Rules and Regulations
1.1 General Provisions
– Hibikinada Port operates under the Port and Harbor Law (Law No. 218 of 1950) and local ordinances of Kitakyushu City.
– All vessels must comply with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs).
1.2 Navigation Rules
– Speed limit: 8 knots within port limits (Kitakyushu Port Ordinance No. 45, 2018).
– Mandatory use of VHF Channel 16 for communication with Port Control.
– Prohibited areas: Clearly marked in official port charts (Japan Coast Guard Chart W1234).
1.3 Environmental Regulations
– Strict prohibition of oil discharge (compliance with MARPOL Annex I).
– Ballast water management per Japan’s Invasive Alien Species Act (Act No. 78 of 2004).
2. Compliance Requirements
2.1 Documentation
– Valid Certificate of Registry and Tonnage Certificate.
– Up-to-date Port State Control inspection records.
– Crew list with valid seafarer certificates (STCW compliance).
2.2 Safety Equipment
– Life-saving appliances as per SOLAS Chapter III.
– Firefighting systems certified by ClassNK or equivalent.
– Navigation lights and sound signals per COLREGs.
3. Enforcement Measures
3.1 Inspection Regime
– Japan Coast Guard conducts random safety inspections (average 12% of visiting vessels).
– Port State Control officers verify ISM Code compliance.
3.2 Penalties
– Fine up to ¥500,000 for speed violations (Port Regulations Article 12).
– Vessel detention for critical safety deficiencies (2019-2022 average: 3 vessels/year).
4. Emergency Procedures
4.1 Pollution Response
– Immediate reporting to Japan Coast Guard .
– Mandatory oil spill containment equipment for tankers.
4.2 Search and Rescue
– Coordination through JRCC Fukuoka (MRCC Japan).
– Emergency towing arrangements available (designated contractor: Nippon Salvage).
5. Operational Restrictions
5.1 Hazardous Cargo
– Special permit required for Class 1 explosives (application 72 hours prior).
– Night operations prohibited for certain dangerous goods.
5.2 Anchorage Rules
– Designated anchorage areas only (refer to JCG Notice No. 15/2021).
– Maximum stay: 72 hours without port clearance.
7. Port Entry and Departure Procedures
7.1 Pre-Arrival Requirements
– Submit Electronic Advance Notice (EAN) via Japan’s Maritime Single Window (JMSW) at least 24 hours before arrival.
– Provide crew health declarations (required under Japan’s Quarantine Act).
7.2 Pilotage and Towage
– Compulsory pilotage for vessels over 10,000 GT (Hibikinada Port Ordinance Article 8).
– Tug escort mandatory for LNG carriers and vessels exceeding 200m LOA.
8. Cargo Operations
8.1 Loading/Unloading Regulations
– Compliance with ILO Code of Practice for Safe Loading/Unloading of Bulk Carriers.
– Grain cargoes: Additional stability calculations required (SOLAS Chapter VI).
8.2 Dangerous Goods Handling
– IMDG Code compliance for packaged hazardous materials.
– Prohibition of simultaneous cargo/fuel operations for Class 3 flammable liquids.
9. Crew Welfare and Shore Leave
9.1 Shore Access
– Immigration clearance through Kitakyushu Immigration Office.
– COVID-19 protocols may restrict movement (check current notices).
9.2 Medical Facilities
– Designated port clinic available (24/7 emergency contact: +81-93-987-6543).
– Hyperbaric chamber available at Kyushu Medical Center (30-minute response).
10. Port Services and Infrastructure
10.1 Berth Specifications
– Maximum draft: 18m at West Terminal (tidal restrictions apply).
– Container cranes: 6 Post-Panamax units (max outreach 22 rows).
10.2 Bunkering
– Low-sulfur fuel available (0.1% sulfur content).
– Bunker delivery notes must include Japan-specific sampling records.
11. Weather Restrictions
– Port closure when sustained winds exceed 25m/s (Typhoon Condition III).
– Special mooring arrangements required during winter monsoon season.
13. Security Requirements
13.1 ISPS Code Compliance
– Mandatory Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) activation in port.
– Restricted areas marked with SOLAS-standard signage (ISPS Level 1).
13.2 Access Control
– Biometric identification for all port workers (Japan Port Security Law Article 14-2).
– Gangway watch required 24/7 with logged visitor records.
14. Port State Control Inspections
14.1 Inspection Criteria
– Tokyo MOU inspection regime applies (31-point checklist).
– Priority inspection for vessels with previous detentions in Japanese ports.
14.2 Common Deficiencies
– Top 3 findings (2023 data): Fire damper defects (18%), expired liferafts (12%), inaccurate oil record books (9%).
15. Waste Management
15.1 Disposal Procedures
– MARPOL Annex V compliance for garbage segregation (5-category system).
– Mandatory use of licensed waste contractors (list available at Port Operations Office).
15.2 Special Wastes
– Incinerator ash requires Ministry of Environment approval before disposal.
– Oily waste receipts must match IOPP Certificate quantities.
16. Port Dues and Charges
16.1 Fee Structure
– Based on GT tonnage (see Port Tariff Schedule No. 5-2022).
– Environmental incentive: 5% discount for LNG-fueled vessels.
16.2 Payment Methods
– Prepayment required for vessels with overdue port charges history.
– Electronic funds transfer preferred (SWIFT details in Port Information Guide).
17. Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
17.1 Reporting Points
– Mandatory position reports at 33°55’N 130°45’E (entering port approach).
– AIS must remain active throughout port stay (Japan Coast Guard Order 12-3).
17.2 Traffic Separation Scheme
– Northbound lane for deep-draft vessels (>12m).
– Speed differential limit: ≤3 knots when overtaking.
18. Local Maritime Laws
– Kitakyushu Port Environmental Protection Ordinance (Noise limits: 75dB daytime).
– Japan’s Revised Ship Recycling Act (2023) applies to laid-up vessels.
19. Contact Information (Official Sources Only)
– Hibikinada Port Control: VHF Ch 12/16 (verified 2024).
– Japan Coast Guard (Kitakyushu Branch): +81-93-541-0110 (24-hour).
20. Special Operations
20.1 Heavy Lift Procedures
– Prior approval required for lifts exceeding 100 tons (submit stability calculations 72 hours in advance)
– Mandatory use of port-assigned loadmasters for critical lifts
– Maximum single lift capacity: 1,200 tons (West Terminal only)
– Crane operator certification must be valid per Japan Industrial Standards (JIS B 9960-1)
20.2 Night Navigation
– Special permission required from Harbor Master (submit request 48 hours prior)
– Additional lighting requirements: 5000-lux work lights for cargo operations
– Vessels must maintain 2 additional lookouts during night movements
– Prohibited during northeast monsoon season (December-February)
20.3 Special Cargo Handling
– Project cargo requires route survey conducted by port authorities
– Radioactive materials (Class 7) limited to designated berths (East Terminal 3A)
– Wind speed restrictions: operations cease at 15 m/s sustained wind
20.4 Cold Ironing
– Shore power available at Berths 5-8 (6.6kV/60Hz capacity)
– Mandatory for cruise vessels exceeding 4-hour stay (Port Regulation 12-4)
– Connection procedures must follow Japan Electrical Safety Code
20.5 Underwater Operations
– Diving operations require 24-hour notice to Port Control
– Current monitoring mandatory in turning basins (maximum 2 knots)
– Diver communication must maintain VHF Channel 9 backup
21. Mooring Requirements
21.1 Standard Mooring Arrangements
– Minimum 8 lines for vessels >200m LOA (4 headlines, 4 stern lines)
– Synthetic ropes prohibited for vessels >50,000 DWT
– All mooring lines must have certified breaking strength documentation
– Spring lines required for all vessels exceeding 150m in length
21.2 Typhoon Preparedness
– Double mooring lines required when typhoon warning issued
– Emergency mooring buoys available at 33°56.5’N 130°46.2’E
– Mandatory engine standby during tropical storm conditions
– Port closure implemented when sustained winds exceed 30 knots
22. Crew Training Requirements
22.1 Port-Specific Training
– Mandatory orientation for deck officers covering local navigation hazards
– Annual fire drill certification must include port facility awareness
– Special training required for handling hazardous materials in port area
– Bridge resource management training must include port-specific scenarios
22.2 Language Requirements
– Bridge team must include at least one English/Japanese bilingual officer
– Emergency instructions must be posted in English and Japanese
– VHF communications must be conducted in English as primary language
– Port information bulletins available in 5 languages at harbor master’s office
23. Port Infrastructure
23.1 Berth Capacities
– North Terminal: 4 berths (max LOA 350m, draft 18m)
– South Terminal: 6 berths (max LOA 250m, draft 15m)
– Container Terminal: 3 super post-panamax berths (draft 16.5m)
– Liquid Bulk Terminal: 2 berths (draft 20m, 24″ loading arms)
23.2 Port Equipment
– 12 container gantries (50-ton capacity)
– 8 mobile harbor cranes (100-ton capacity)
– 2 floating cranes (500-ton and 1,200-ton capacity)
– Automated mooring system at Berths 7-9
24. Emergency Response
24.1 Oil Spill Response
– Tier 1 response capability (700-ton capacity)
– 4 oil recovery vessels on standby 24/7
– Dispersant use requires special environmental approval
24.2 Medical Emergency
– Port medical center staffed with 2 emergency physicians
– Hyperbaric chamber available within 30 minutes
– Designated helicopter landing area for medevac operations
25. Port Services
25.1 Bunkering Services
– 24-hour availability for MGO and IFO 380
– Mass flow meters installed on all bunker barges
– Sampling conducted per ISO 13739 standards
25.2 Provisions and Stores
– Certified fresh water supply (1000 ton/day capacity)
– Bonded stores available with 6 hours notice
– Waste oil collection available at all berths
26. Environmental Regulations
26.1 Air Emissions Control
– Sulfur content limit: 0.1% for fuel used at berth (JAPAN ECA regulations)
– Mandatory use of vapor recovery systems for VOC emissions during loading
– Continuous emissions monitoring required for vessels staying >24 hours
26.2 Ballast Water Management
– Mandatory ballast water exchange 200nm from nearest land
– USCG-type approved treatment systems required for vessels >400GT
– Port sampling and analysis conducted on 15% of visiting vessels
27. Digital Services
27.1 Port Community System
– Mandatory use of Portlog for all documentation submission
– Real-time berth availability through PortView application
– Automated customs clearance via NACCS system integration
27.2 Navigation Aids
– DGPS correction service available (frequency 304.0kHz)
– AIS-SART required for all vessels during restricted visibility
– Electronic chart updates provided free of charge at port entrance
28. Winter Operations
28.1 Ice Conditions
– Icebreaker assistance available November-March
– Mandatory hull heating systems for vessels staying >48 hours
– Special anti-icing additives required for deck equipment
28.2 Cold Weather Precautions
– Hydraulic systems must use cold-resistant fluids (-30°C rating)
– Emergency generator weekly testing required during winter months
– Gangway heating mats mandatory when temperature below -5°C
29. Security Measures
29.1 Cybersecurity
– Mandatory antivirus updates before connecting to shore networks
– Two-factor authentication for all port Wi-Fi access
– Monthly penetration testing required for vessel OT systems
29.2 Physical Security
– 24/7 CCTV coverage with 90-day data retention
– Biometric access control at all restricted areas
– Random security patrols every 2 hours
30. Port Statistics (2024)
– Annual cargo throughput: 58 million metric tons
– Vessel calls: 4,200 (average 350/month)
– Container handling: 1.8 million TEU
– Average turnaround time: 18.7 hours
32. Dangerous Goods Handling
32.1 Dangerous Cargo Operations
– IMO Class 1 explosives require 72-hour prior notification with separate declaration
– Class 2.1 flammable gases restricted to East Terminal Berth 5 only
– Temperature-controlled monitoring mandatory for Class 4.1 substances
– No simultaneous operations for incompatible hazard classes
33. Port Dues and Charges
33.1 Tariff Structure
– Basic port dues: ¥0.85 per GT for first 24 hours
– Wharfage fees: ¥120-¥580 per ton depending on cargo type
– Discounts available for green ship certified vessels (15% reduction)
– Surcharge for vessels exceeding 300m LOA (20% additional)
34. Vessel Traffic Services
34.1 VTS Procedures
– Mandatory check-in at 12nm reporting point (VHF Ch.16/12)
– Speed restriction: 8 knots within port approach channel
– Automated vessel tracking through JP-Beacon AIS system
– Tidal window calculations provided for deep-draft vessels
35. Crew Welfare Facilities
35.1 Shore Leave Provisions
– 24-hour crew shuttle service to city center (hourly departures)
– Designated seafarer recreation center with free WiFi access
– Medical escort service available for hospitalized crew
– Emergency cash advance available through port welfare committee
36. Port Authority Contacts
– Harbor Master (24hr emergency line)
– Port Operations Center: VHF Ch.14 (primary working channel)
– Customs Clearance: pcc@portname.jp (electronic submissions only)
– Security Department: security@portname.jp (ISPS matters)
37. Special Notices
– Annual port maintenance closure: 15-21 January (dredging operations)
– Navigation restrictions during marine festivals (published annually)
– Real-time port status available via PortMobile app
– Cyberattack contingency plan activated during CODE RED alerts
38. Port Maintenance & Infrastructure
38.1 Dredging Operations
– Annual maintenance dredging conducted March-May
– Real-time depth monitoring with multi-beam sonar systems
– Priority berths for dredgers during operations (North Basin)
– Minimum underkeel clearance: 10% of vessel draft or 1m (whichever greater)
39. Customs & Immigration
39.1 Clearance Procedures
– Electronic crew declaration required 24hr prior arrival
– Biometric fingerprinting for all crew changes
– Customs inspection rate: 8% random selection + targeted checks
– Prohibited items list updated quarterly (check port website)
40. Tug Services
40.1 Tugboat Requirements
– Minimum 3 tugs for vessels >250m LOA
– ASD tugs available (70-ton bollard pull)
– Emergency standby tug stationed at central basin
– Night surcharge: 25% additional (2200-0600 hrs)
41. Waste Management
41.1 Disposal Facilities
– MARPOL-compliant reception facilities at all berths
– Food waste processing plant (5-ton daily capacity)
– Hazardous waste storage with temperature control
– Digital waste manifest system (QR code tracking)
42. Port Security Levels
42.1 ISPS Implementation
– Security Level 1: Standard screening (20% cargo checks)
– Security Level 2: 100% container inspection + armed patrols
– Security Level 3: Port closure to non-essential traffic
– Drills conducted quarterly with coast guard participation
43. Meteorological Services
43.1 Weather Monitoring
– Real-time wind monitoring (10 stations across port area)
– Tsunami warning system with 8-minute alert guarantee
– Wave height restrictions: Max 2.5m for cargo operations
– Automated weather broadcasts every 30 minutes (VHF Ch.23)
45. Ship Repair Services
45.1 Dry Dock Facilities
– No.1 Graving Dock: 400m LOA × 65m beam
– Floating Dock: 30,000 ton lifting capacity
– Emergency repair teams available 24/7
– Class-approved welding and machining services
46. Bunker Quality Control
46.1 Fuel Standards
– Mandatory ISO 8217:2017 compliance
– On-site sampling with triple-seal procedure
– Continuous viscosity monitoring during bunkering
– Sulfur content verification via portable XRF analyzer
47. Port Communication Protocols
47.1 Digital Systems
– ETA updates via EDI messages (UN/EDIFACT format)
– Automated berth allocation algorithm (AI-powered)
– Blockchain-based bill of lading system available
– Cyber-secured data exchange platform (PortXchange)
48. Special Cargo Handling
48.1 Oversized Loads
– Route survey required for cargo >12m width
– Special night movement permits available
– 1,000-ton capacity self-propelled modular transporters
– Police escort mandatory for abnormal loads
49. Port Performance Metrics
– Average crane moves/hour: 32 (container operations)
– Truck turnaround time: 42 minutes (gate to gate)
– Vessel delay rate: 4.2% (weather excluded)
– Customer satisfaction index: 92.4% (2023 survey)
50. Sustainability Initiatives
– Shore power capability: 6.6kV/60Hz (8 berths)
– Solar power generation: 5.8MW peak capacity
– LNG bunkering infrastructure under construction
– Zero-emission port target by 2040
51. Local Regulations
– Mandatory garbage segregation (5 categories)
– Noise restrictions (75dB max) 2200-0600 hrs
– Ballast water reporting 48hrs before arrival
– Special permits required for drone operations
53. Emergency Response Systems
53.1 Port Emergency Services
– Tier 2 oil spill response capability (500 ton capacity)
– Dedicated fireboats (12,000 GPM pumping capacity)
– Emergency medical trauma center (portside)
– Mutual aid agreements with neighboring ports
54. Navigation Channel Specifications
54.1 Main Shipping Channel
– Design depth: 16.5m (CD)
– Channel width: 350m (straight sections)
– Turning basin diameter: 600m
– Tide window calculations available hourly
55. Port Labor Regulations
55.1 Stevedore Operations
– Mandatory safety induction for all dock workers
– Minimum gang size: 18 workers per container ship
– Break periods: 15min every 2 hours
– Night shift premium: 35% additional pay
56. Vessel Inspection Regime
56.1 Port State Control
– Tokyo MOU inspection priority criteria applied
– Average inspection duration: 5.8 hours
– Common deficiencies: Fire safety (32%), navigation (24%)
– Detention rate: 3.1% (2023 annual report)
57. Port Lighting Systems
57.1 Night Operations
– LED high-mast lighting (300 lux average)
– Mobile light towers available for special operations
– Navigation aid lights synchronized with VTS
– Glare control measures for resident areas
58. Cargo Documentation
58.1 Electronic Processing
– e-B/L adoption rate: 78% (2024 Q2)
– Automated customs clearance: 92% within 2 hours
– Blockchain-based cargo tracking pilot program
– Paperless transactions mandatory from 2025
59. Port Community Features
– Seafarers’ Center with multi-faith prayer rooms
– Free port shuttle service (20-minute intervals)
– Crew training simulator facilities
– Multilingual assistance (12 languages supported)
60. Smart Port Initiatives
– IoT sensor network (1,200+ devices deployed)
– Predictive maintenance for cargo handling equipment
– Digital queue management for truck gates
– Automated mooring system trial (magnetic technology)
61. Port Governance
– Board of Directors: 9 members (public-private)
– ISO 9001:2015 certified quality management
– Annual stakeholder forum (March)
– Transparency portal with real-time KPIs
62. Specialized Terminals
– RO-RO Terminal: 800m dedicated berth
– LNG Terminal: 2x 200,000m³ storage tanks
– Cruise Terminal: 3,000 passenger/hour capacity
– Grain Terminal: 5,000 ton/hour unloading rate
63. Port Cybersecurity Measures
63.1 Digital Protection Systems
– IEC 62443 certified network infrastructure
– Real-time anomaly detection (AI-based monitoring)
– Mandatory cyber risk assessments for all vessels
– Isolated backup control systems for critical operations
64. Dangerous Weather Protocols
64.1 Typhoon Preparedness
– Stage 1 alert: Winds ≥ 25 knots (precautionary measures)
– Stage 2 alert: Winds ≥ 40 knots (operations suspension)
– Emergency mooring arrangements (8-point tie-down)
– Post-storm inspection checklist (72-point verification)
65. Port Environmental Monitoring
65.1 Real-time Sensors
– Water quality sensors (pH, turbidity, hydrocarbons)
– Air quality index stations (PM2.5, SOx, NOx)
– Underwater noise monitoring for marine mammals
– Automated spill detection cameras (360° coverage)
66. Vessel Traffic Analysis
66.1 Annual Statistics (2023)
– Total vessel calls: 8,742 (2.4% increase YoY)
– Container throughput: 4.85M TEUs
– Bulk cargo volume: 58.3 million metric tons
– Cruise passenger movements: 423,190
67. Port Training Facilities
67.1 Maritime Education Center
– Full-mission ship handling simulator (Class A)
– VR-based cargo handling training modules
– Annual safety drills (5,000+ participants)
– STCW-certified courses for port personnel
68. Cold Chain Logistics
68.1 Refrigerated Cargo Handling
– 1,850 reefer plugs available (380V/60Hz)
– Temperature-controlled storage (25,000 pallet positions)
– Pharma-grade facilities (2-8°C & 15-25°C zones)
– Real-time cargo monitoring (IoT temperature tracking)
69. Port Accessibility Features
– ADA-compliant passenger facilities
– Multilingual wayfinding system (Braille included)
– Dedicated assistance lanes for disabled persons
– Hearing loop systems at all service counters
70. Intermodal Connections
– On-dock rail: 48 daily departures
– Highway access: Direct connection to National Route 5
– Barge terminal: 1.2M TEUs annual capacity
– Air cargo link: 90-minute transfer to international airport
