1. General Port Rules and Regulations
1.1 Jurisdiction: Mizushima Port is governed by the Japanese Port and Harbor Law (Port Regulations Act No. 218 of 1950) and local ordinances under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT).
1.2 Port Limits: Defined by the Okayama Prefectural Government Ordinance No. 42 (2021 revision), covering the area within 34°30’N, 133°43’E to 34°33’N, 133°47’E.
1.3 Designated Zones: Includes industrial, commercial, and hazardous material handling zones as per MLIT Notice No. 497 (2019).
2. Vessel Entry and Navigation
2.1 Pre-arrival Notification: Mandatory 24-hour advance notice to Mizushima Port Authority (MPA) via Japan Maritime Center’s electronic system (JASREP).
2.2 Pilotage: Compulsory for vessels >3,000 GT or carrying hazardous cargo (IMO Class 1-9) under MPA Regulation 12-3.
2.3 Speed Limits: Maximum 8 knots within inner port areas (MPA Navigation Rule 5.2).
3. Cargo Operations
3.1 Hazardous Materials: Requires special permit from MPA and Okayama Prefecture Fire Department (OPFD Permit Form HZ-7).
3.2 Oil Transfer: Must comply with ISGOTT standards and MPA Oil Handling Regulation 15-A.
3.3 Cargo Securing: Follows Japan’s Cargo Securing Manual (MLIT Approval No. C-2020-028).
4. Environmental Compliance
4.1 Waste Disposal: Mandatory use of port reception facilities (MPA Waste Regulation 8.1). Discharge prohibited within 12nm radius.
4.2 Air Emissions: Sulfur content limit 0.1% in fuel while berthing (Japan Air Pollution Control Law Article 18-2).
5. Safety and Emergency
5.1 Crew Safety: Life-saving appliances must meet SOLAS Chapter III standards verified by Japan Coast Guard inspections.
5.2 Fire Prevention: Monthly drills required for vessels staying >30 days (OPFD Regulation 22).
5.3 Emergency Contacts: Japan Coast Guard Mizushima Branch (VHF Ch16) is the primary emergency responder.
6. Enforcement and Penalties
6.1 Violation Fines: Up to ¥500,000 for non-compliance with port regulations (Port Regulations Act Article 56).
6.2 Detention Authority: Japan Coast Guard may detain vessels under Maritime Safety Law Article 21 for safety violations.
7. Special Provisions
7.1 Night Navigation: Requires additional pilot and approval from MPA Operations Center (MPA Notice 2020-11).
7.2 Typhoon Procedures: Mandatory evacuation when Signal No. 8 is issued by Japan Meteorological Agency.
8. Regulatory References
8.1 Primary Laws: Port and Harbor Law (Act No. 218 of 1950), Maritime Traffic Safety Law (Act No. 151 of 1971).
8.2 Local Regulations: Mizushima Port Management Ordinance (Okayama Prefecture No. 31 of 2005).
9. Port Security Measures
9.1 ISPS Compliance: All vessels must comply with the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code) as implemented by Japan’s Maritime Security Law (Act No. 31 of 2004).
9.2 Restricted Areas: Designated security zones marked by MPA Notice 2018-05 require authorized access only.
9.3 Security Drills: Mandatory quarterly security exercises for port facility operators (MLIT Ordinance No. 59 of 2004).
10. Anchorage Regulations
10.1 Designated Anchorage: Vessels must use assigned anchorage areas (MPA Navigation Chart No. 1123A).
10.2 Anchoring Time Limit: Maximum 72 hours without special permission (MPA Regulation 14-2).
10.3 Watchkeeping Requirements: Continuous bridge watch required for anchored vessels (Japan Coast Guard Notice 2007-12).
11. Crew Management
11.1 Shore Leave: Permitted with valid seafarer’s identity document (IMO Convention No. 185 compliance).
11.2 Crew Changes: Must be coordinated through MPA Immigration Office with 48-hour notice.
11.3 Medical Emergencies: Designated port medical facilities listed in MPA Health Bulletin 2021.
12. Port Dues and Charges
12.1 Calculation Basis: Tonnage-based fees per MPA Tariff Schedule 2023 (Okayama Prefecture Ordinance No. 15).
12.2 Exemptions: Vessels in distress or on government service may apply for fee waivers (MPA Form D-12).
12.3 Payment Methods: Electronic transfer only (no cash accepted) per Japan Ports Association guidelines.
13. Dangerous Goods Handling
13.1 Classification: Must follow UN Recommendations (18th revised edition) as adopted by Japan’s Fire Services Act.
13.2 Documentation: Dangerous cargo manifest required 24 hours prior to loading (MPA Form DG-4).
13.3 Segregation: IMDG Code separation requirements strictly enforced during storage and transport.
14. Port State Control
14.1 Inspection Criteria: Tokyo MOU guidelines applied with Japan-specific checklists (MLIT PSC Manual 2022).
14.2 Deficiency Categories: Immediate detention for critical safety violations (SOLAS Chapter I/19).
14.3 Appeal Process: Objections must be filed within 7 days to Japan Coast Guard HQ (Form PSC-A1).
15. Special Cargo Provisions
15.1 Oversized Cargo: Requires route survey approval from MPA Engineering Department.
15.2 Heavy Lifts: Crane operations must submit stability calculations 72 hours in advance.
15.3 Livestock Transport: Additional veterinary inspections required (MAFF Ordinance No. 73).
16. Vessel Traffic Services
16.1 Reporting Points: Mandatory position reports at designated VTS waypoints (MPA Chart No. 1123B).
16.2 Communication Protocol: English language required for VHF communications (VHF Ch12 primary).
16.3 Traffic Separation: Follows COLREGs Rule 10 as implemented by Japan Coast Guard.
17. Bunkering Operations
17.1 Fuel Quality: Must comply with Japan’s Fuel Oil Quality Control Law (Act No. 89 of 2001).
17.2 Bunker Delivery Note: Required to include sulfur content verification (0.1% max in ECA zones).
17.3 Spill Prevention: Double-hose connections mandatory for vessels >10,000 DWT (MPA Regulation 19-3).
18. Port Working Hours
18.1 Standard Operations: 0800-1700 JST (excluding national holidays) for administrative services.
18.2 Overtime Services: Available with prior arrangement (MPA Form OT-7 submitted 24h in advance).
18.3 Emergency Services: 24/7 availability for vessel emergencies (Japan Coast Guard coordination).
19. Ballast Water Management
19.1 Reporting: Mandatory ballast water reporting to MPA (Form BW-1) before discharge.
19.2 Treatment Standards: Must meet IMO D-2 standard or equivalent (Japan’s Ship Safety Law).
19.3 Exemptions: Coastal voyages within Japan may apply for waiver (MPA Form BW-E3).
20. Ship Repair Regulations
20.1 Hot Work Permits: Required for all welding operations (MPA Form HW-9 + fire watch).
20.2 Environmental Protection: Containment measures mandatory for hull cleaning (MPA Env. Code 5.2).
20.3 Waste Handling: All repair waste must be disposed through approved contractors.
21. Tugboat Requirements
21.1 Minimum Tugs: Vessels >50,000 GT require 2 escort tugs in inner harbor (MPA Nav. Rule 8.1).
21.2 Tug Connection: Must be established before entering breakwater (VHF Ch13 confirmation).
21.3 Weather Limitations: Tug operations suspended when winds exceed 15m/s (Beaufort 7).
22. Ice Navigation Procedures
22.1 Winter Preparedness: Ice reinforcement recommended December-March (Class NK guidelines).
22.2 Icebreaker Assistance: Available upon request (48h notice to Japan Coast Guard).
22.3 Cold Weather Gear: Mandatory for deck crews when temperature below 0°C (MPA Safety Notice 2019-4).
23. Port Infrastructure Specifications
23.1 Berth Dimensions: Maximum LOA 300m at Main Wharf (MPA Port Facility Register 2023).
23.2 Depth Restrictions: Maintained depth 14m at all commercial berths (Dredging Survey 2022).
23.3 Load Limits: Maximum 5t/m² for container stacking areas (MPA Engineering Standard ES-45).
24. Customs and Immigration Procedures
24.1 Customs Clearance: Electronic declaration via NACCS system required before cargo operations (Customs Law Article 67-2).
24.2 Immigration Formalities: Crew must present valid passports and seaman’s books for stamping (Immigration Control Act Article 22).
24.3 Prohibited Items: Strict enforcement of Japan’s Customs Tariff Law Schedule 1 (2023 revision).
25. Port Health Regulations
25.1 Quarantine Requirements: Maritime Health Declaration Form required 24h before arrival (Quarantine Act Article 12).
25.2 Medical Waste: Special handling procedures for clinical waste (MPH Ordinance No. 42-2021).
25.3 Pest Control: Mandatory certification of vessel deratting (WHO International Health Regulations).
26. Salvage and Wreck Removal
26.1 Reporting Obligations: Immediate notification to Japan Coast Guard for any casualty (Maritime Safety Law Article 38).
26.2 Liability Limits: Governed by Japan’s Commercial Code (Articles 684-832) and LLMC Convention.
26.3 Approved Contractors: Only MPA-listed salvage companies may operate (MPA Notice 2017-11).
27. Port Lighting and Signals
27.1 Navigation Lights: Must comply with COLREGs as implemented by Japan’s Navigation Light Regulations.
27.2 Port Signals: Storm warning signals displayed at port entrance (JMA Standard No. 5).
27.3 Berth Lighting: Minimum 200 lux maintained at all operational berths (MPA Standard PS-112).
28. Vessel Manning Requirements
28.1 Minimum Crew: STCW Convention standards enforced by Japan Coast Guard inspectors.
28.2 Watchkeeping: Must follow STCW Code Section A-VIII/2 requirements.
28.3 Certification: All officers require valid Japanese endorsement or recognition certificate.
29. Port Noise Regulations
29.1 Operational Limits: 75 dB(A) maximum at berth boundary (Noise Regulation Law Article 17).
29.2 Night Restrictions: No loud operations 2200-0600 without special permit (MPA Form N-1).
29.3 Engine Testing: Permitted only at designated areas (MPA Noise Control Zone Map 2022).
30. Fishing Vessel Regulations
30.1 Designated Areas: Separate fishing vessel zone at western breakwater (MPA Chart No. 1123C).
30.2 Gear Stowage: All fishing equipment must be secured when transiting commercial areas.
30.3 Priority Rules: Commercial vessels have right of way in main channels (MPA Nav. Rule 3.4).
31. Port Emergency Response
31.1 Oil Spill Contingency: Immediate activation required per MPA Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (2022 edition).
31.2 Emergency Signals: Continuous blast (10+ seconds) indicates port evacuation order (MPA Safety Directive 15).
31.3 Mutual Aid: Participation in Mizushima Port Mutual Aid Association mandatory for all operators.
32. Vessel Inspection Regime
32.1 Annual Surveys: Mandatory for all vessels over 500 GT calling more than 3 times/year (MLIT Notice 2020-8).
32.2 Random Inspections: 5% of visiting vessels selected for expanded safety checks (Japan Coast Guard policy).
32.3 Documentation: Original certificates must be available for inspection at all times.
33. Port Meteorological Services
33.1 Weather Updates: JMA broadcasts every 3 hours on VHF Ch16 (supplemented by NAVTEX).
33.2 Gale Warnings: Automatic berthing restrictions when warnings issued (Beaufort 8+).
33.3 Tsunami Procedures: Immediate departure protocol for all vessels when alert level 3 issued.
34. Special Vessel Requirements
34.1 LNG Carriers: Additional escort tugs and exclusion zone required (MPA Gas Code 2021).
34.2 Nuclear Ships: Prior approval from Japan Nuclear Regulation Authority required (60-day notice).
34.3 Research Vessels: Special sampling permits needed from MPA Environmental Office.
35. Port Labor Regulations
35.1 Stevedore Licensing: All port workers must hold valid MPA-issued competency certificates.
35.2 Working Hours: Strict compliance with Japan’s Labor Standards Act (maximum 8h shifts).
35.3 Safety Gear: EN-standard PPE mandatory for all terminal operations (MPA Safety Circular 19).
36. Navigational Aids
36.1 Buoyage System: Complies with IALA Region A (red to port) marking.
36.2 AIS Requirements: Continuous transmission mandatory within port limits (Japan Coast Guard Order 12).
36.3 Chart Corrections: Weekly NTM updates available at MPA Hydrographic Office.
37. Port Sanitation Standards
37.1 Water Quality: Monthly testing conducted per WHO Guidelines for Safe Recreational Water.
37.2 Food Handling: All port catering facilities require PHC certification (Food Sanitation Act).
37.3 Toilet Facilities: Mandatory provision of shore toilets for vessels in port >24h.
38. Dangerous Weather Protocols
38.1 Typhoon Preparedness: Mandatory double mooring when typhoon signal No. 3 issued (MPA Typhoon Manual 2023).
38.2 Heavy Rain Measures: Cargo operations suspended when precipitation exceeds 50mm/hour (JMA Standard).
38.3 Fog Procedures: Speed reduction to 5 knots when visibility <500m (MPA Navigation Rule 7.3).
39. Port Communication Systems
39.1 Primary Channels: VHF Ch16 (distress), Ch12 (port operations), Ch14 (vessel traffic).
39.2 Digital Systems: Mandatory use of MPA-Web for commercial vessel communications.
39.3 Language Requirements: English/Japanese bilingual communication for all official matters.
40. Vessel Waste Management
40.1 Garbage Categories: Strict separation per MARPOL Annex V (Japan Implementation Order).
40.2 Record Keeping: Garbage record book inspections conducted on 20% of visiting vessels.
40.3 Plastic Ban: Zero discharge policy enforced with ¥1 million maximum fine.
41. Port Access Control
41.1 ID Requirements: MPA-issued port passes mandatory for all shore personnel.
41.2 Vehicle Permits: Special authorization needed for terminal vehicle access (Form VP-8).
41.3 Camera Surveillance: 24/7 monitoring of all restricted areas (MPA Security Order 5).
42. Special Cargo Documentation
42.1 Cultural Artifacts: Requires Ministry of Culture export certificate (Form CA-3).
42.2 Military Items: Additional MLIT approval needed (Defense Equipment Transfer Law).
42.3 CITES Species: Original permits required for wildlife shipments (Customs Notice 2021-9).
43. Port Timekeeping Standards
43.1 Official Time: Japan Standard Time (UTC+9) used for all port operations.
43.2 Laytime Calculation: Governed by Japanese Commercial Code Articles 575-592.
43.3 Demurrage Rates: Published quarterly in MPA Tariff Bulletin.
44. Vessel Maintenance Restrictions
44.1 Hull Cleaning: Prohibited within port limits without containment (MPA Env. Code 8.2).
44.2 Stack Emissions: Visible smoke >Ringelmann 1 prohibited (Air Pollution Law Article 18).
44.3 Underwater Work: Requires dive permit from Japan Coast Guard (Form UW-4).
45. Port Fire Safety Regulations
45.1 Fire Equipment: Mandatory monthly inspection of all onboard systems (Fire Service Act Article 12).
45.2 Hot Work: Permits required for all welding/grinding operations (MPA Form F-7).
45.3 Emergency Drills: Quarterly fire exercises mandatory for all port workers.
46. Vessel Speed Limits
46.1 Harbor Area: Maximum 8 knots within inner breakwaters (MPA Notice 2022-15).
46.2 Maneuvering Zones: 5 knots within 500m of berthed vessels (COLREGs Rule 6).
46.3 Special Conditions: 3 knots during bunkering operations (MPA Safety Code 4.3).
47. Port Environmental Monitoring
47.1 Water Sampling: Weekly tests conducted at designated points (EPA Standards).
47.2 Air Quality: Continuous PM2.5 monitoring with public displays (MPA Env. Reg 9.1).
47.3 Noise Mapping: Quarterly surveys conducted per ISO 1996-2:2017.
48. Ship Chandler Services
48.1 Approved Vendors: Only MPA-licensed providers permitted (List No. CH-2023).
48.2 Delivery Hours: 0800-2000 daily (extended with prior notice).
48.3 Waste Handling: Mandatory take-back of packaging materials.
49. Port Infrastructure Access
49.1 Crane Capacity: Maximum 50-ton lifts at standard berths (MPA Tech Spec 22).
49.2 Power Supply: 440V/60Hz shore power available at all main berths.
49.3 Fresh Water: Potable water stations every 200m (JIS K 0101 standard).
50. Maritime Security Levels
50.1 MARSEC 1: Standard security measures (24/7 patrols).
50.2 MARSEC 2: Additional screening when threat level elevated.
50.3 MARSEC 3: Full port closure procedures (Japan Coast Guard directive).
51. Port Tariff Structure
51.1 Vessel Size Categories: Fees based on LOA and GT brackets (MPA Tariff Table 3A).
51.2 Cargo Charges: Per-ton rates vary by commodity type (Schedule C-2023).
51.3 Discount Schemes: 15% reduction for green ship certified vessels.
52. Hazardous Material Handling
52.1 Storage Zones: Designated Class 1-9 areas per IMDG Code (MPA Dangerous Goods Map).
52.2 Documentation: Shipper’s Declaration required 72h prior to arrival (Form DG-4).
52.3 Emergency Kits: Mandatory spill containment equipment at all hazardous cargo areas.
53. Vessel Anchorage Rules
53.1 Designated Areas: Primary and secondary zones marked on Admiralty Chart 1234.
53.2 Holding Time: Maximum 72h at outer anchorage without extension approval.
53.3 Anchor Watch: Continuous bridge monitoring required when anchored in port limits.
54. Port Pilotage Services
54.1 Compulsory Areas: All vessels >10,000 GT must take pilot in inner harbor.
54.2 Booking Window: Minimum 24h notice required for pilot requests (MPA Form P-9).
54.3 Transfer Procedures: Pilot ladder compliance with SOLAS Regulation V/23.
55. Cargo Securing Standards
55.1 Container Lashing: CSC certification required for all securing equipment.
55.2 Breakbulk Cargo: MPA-approved securing plans mandatory for non-containerized loads.
55.3 Inspections: Random lashing checks on 10% of departing vessels.
56. Port Wildlife Protection
56.1 Bird Hazards: Strict prohibition of feeding wildlife (MPA Env. Code 12.3).
56.2 Marine Mammals: 500m speed restriction zones around observed cetaceans.
56.3 Lighting Controls: Turtle-friendly lighting required May-September.
57. Vessel Reporting Systems
57.1 Pre-Arrival: ETA submission via MPA-Web 48h/24h/12h before arrival.
57.2 Departure Clearance: Electronic outbound report required before sailing.
57.3 Incident Reporting: Immediate notification for any marine casualty (Form IR-5).
58. Port Utility Services
58.1 Waste Reception: 24/7 availability at all main berths (MARPOL compliant).
58.2 Bunker Analysis: On-demand fuel testing available (ISO 8217 standards).
58.3 Crew Facilities: Shore passes issued for approved recreation areas.
