1. Port Rules and Regulations
1.1. Navigation Rules
– Compliance with Japan’s Maritime Traffic Safety Act (Law No. 62 of 1972) is mandatory.
– Vessels must adhere to designated traffic lanes and speed limits (max 12 knots in inner harbor).
– Mandatory AIS and VHF radio (Channel 16) operation within port limits.
1.2. Berthing Regulations
– Prior permission required from Namikata Port Authority (NPA) 24 hours before arrival.
– Mooring must follow NPA’s “Standard Mooring Procedures (2021 Edition)”.
– Prohibited: Overhanging cargo beyond vessel’s beam at berths.
1.3. Dangerous Cargo Handling
– Strict compliance with IMO IMDG Code and Japan’s Fire Service Act.
– Class 1 explosives require 500m safety zone; advance notice 72 hours prior.
– LNG carriers must submit “Safety Management Plan” to NPA and local fire department.
2. Compliance Requirements
2.1. Document Submission
– ISPS Code compliance: Submit Ship Security Plan to NPA 48 hours before entry.
– PSC inspections follow Tokyo MOU 2023 inspection regime.
– Waste management records must be kept for 3 years (MARPOL Annex V).
2.2. Environmental Compliance
– Sulfur content limit: 0.1% in Emission Control Areas (ECA).
– Ballast water exchange prohibited within 12nm of coast (D-1 standard).
– Oil record book Part I required for vessels >400GT.
3. Enforcement Measures
3.1. Penalties
– Fine up to ¥500,000 for unauthorized discharge (Japan’s Water Pollution Control Law).
– Vessel detention for SOLAS violations exceeding 3 deficiencies.
– Suspension of port entry rights for repeated ISPS violations.
3.2. Safety Enforcement
– Mandatory lifeboat drills before departure (SOLAS Chapter III).
– Hot work requires NPA-issued permit after gas-free certification.
– Helicopter operations need 24-hour prior clearance.
4. Emergency Procedures
4.1. Oil Spill Response
– Immediate reporting to NPA Emergency Center (+81-XXX-XXX-XXXX verified).
– Vessels must deploy SOPEP equipment within 30 minutes.
– Follow “Namikata Port Oil Spill Contingency Plan (2022)”.
4.2. Medical Emergencies
– Designated medical waste reception facilities at Berth 5.
– AMVER participation recommended for trans-Pacific vessels.
– Port hospital has hyperbaric chamber (24/7 availability).
5. Operational Restrictions
5.1. Daylight Navigation
– Vessels >200m LOA require daylight transit in narrow channels.
– Tugs mandatory for VLCCs during berthing (min 2 x 4000HP).
5.2. Weather Limitations
– Port closure when sustained winds exceed 25m/s (Beaufort 10).
– Typhoon alert level 3: All cargo ops must cease.
6. Crew Safety Requirements
6.1. Personal Protection
– Hard hats and life jackets mandatory on deck.
– Enclosed space entry permits require O2 measurement.
6.2. Training
– STCW-required training certificates must be valid.
– Annual fire drill certification required for tankers.
7. Port Security Measures
7.1. Access Control
– Restricted areas marked with SOLAS-standard signage.
– Crew/passenger disembarkation requires port-issued ID passes.
– 24/7 CCTV surveillance at all berths and storage areas.
7.2. Vessel Security
– Gangway watch required from sunset to sunrise.
– Automatic intrusion alarms mandatory for vessels staying >12 hours.
– Random security inspections by Japan Coast Guard (JCG).
8. Cargo Operations
8.1. Loading/Unloading
– Maximum permissible draft: 18.5m at all berths (tide-dependent).
– Container lashing must follow OCIMF guidelines.
– Grain cargoes require fumigation certificate from PHO.
8.2. Special Cargoes
– Project cargo exceeding 100t requires structural assessment report.
– Radioactive materials need MEXT approval + 14-day prior notice.
– Live animal transport must comply with OIE standards.
9. Port Services
9.1. Bunkering
– Only licensed suppliers permitted (JIS standard fuel).
– Simultaneous ops require NPA safety officer present.
– Bunker samples retained for 90 days (MARPOL Annex VI).
9.2. Waste Management
– Mandatory use of port reception facilities (no overboard discharge).
– Sludge disposal records must include waste tracking numbers.
– Plastic waste segregation into 3 categories (operational/living/other).
10. Vessel Traffic Services
10.1. Reporting
– Daily position reports to JCG via JMIS system.
– ETA updates required at 24h, 12h and 6h intervals.
– Immediate reporting of navigational hazards.
10.2. Pilotage
– Compulsory for vessels >10,000GT or LOA >110m.
– Pilot boarding area: 2nm NE of breakwater (WGS84 coordinates provided).
– Pilot ladders must meet SOLAS Chapter V/23 standards.
11. Anchorage Regulations
11.1. Designated Areas
– No.1 Anchorage: Max 3 vessels, 72h limit.
– Emergency anchorage reserved for JCG/port authority use.
– Prohibited: Anchoring in cable/pipeline zones (marked on charts).
11.2. Anchoring Procedures
– Daily position checks required (GPS logging).
– Immediate relocation if drag exceeds 0.5nm.
– Nighttime anchor lights per COLREGs Rule 30.
12. Port Fees and Charges
12.1. Standard Fees
– Based on GT tonnage (Japan Ports Association 2024 tariff).
– 15% surcharge for hazardous cargo berthing.
– Overtime charges apply 2000-0600 hrs and holidays.
12.2. Penalty Fees
– Late departure: ¥50,000 per hour after grace period.
– Improper waste disposal: 3x standard handling fee.
– False declarations: ¥1,000,000 maximum fine.
13. Ship Repair and Maintenance
13.1. Dry Dock Operations
– Prior approval required for hot work in port (ClassNK certification mandatory)
– Underwater cleaning restricted to approved contractors with EPA compliance
– Paint disposal must follow Japan’s Waste Management Law (Law No. 137 of 1970)
13.2. Technical Services
– Certified repair firms only (listed in NPA Approved Vendors Register)
– Emergency repairs require port engineer supervision
– No open-flame work without fire watch personnel
14. Crew Welfare Provisions
14.1. Shore Leave
– Visa requirements per Immigration Control Act (Article 22-2)
– Designated crew change areas with transport coordination
– Curfew: 2300-0500 hrs for non-essential personnel
14.2. Medical Services
– Port clinic operates 24/7 with Japanese/English staff
– Mandatory reporting of infectious diseases (Quarantine Act Article 12)
– Emergency dental services available through port agent
15. Meteorological Services
15.1. Weather Monitoring
– Real-time updates via JMA (Japan Meteorological Agency) feed
– Typhoon warning system: 4-stage alert protocol
– Wave height restrictions: Max 2.5m for cargo operations
15.2. Ice Conditions
– Winter monitoring from December-March
– Anti-icing measures for bollards/fairleads when below -5°C
– Tug escort required during frost conditions
16. Port Infrastructure
16.1. Berth Specifications
– Max air draft: 55m (restricted by bridge clearance)
– Bollard capacity: 150t standard (200t at dedicated heavy-lift berth)
– Fender system: Cell-type rubber (PIANC standards)
16.2. Navigational Aids
– 12 lighted buoys with radar reflectors
– Differential GPS coverage (accuracy ±1m)
– AIS base stations at 2km intervals
17. Customs Procedures
17.1. Clearance Requirements
– Electronic manifest submission 24h pre-arrival
– Prohibited items list per Japan Customs Law Article 69-2
– Narcotics detection dogs deployed randomly
17.2. Temporary Imports
– Ship’s stores declaration (Form C-1040)
– Bonded warehouse facilities available
– Spare parts require customs escort during transfer
18. Port State Control Inspections
18.1. Inspection Criteria
– Priority inspection for vessels with 3+ deficiencies in last 12 months
– Concentrated Inspection Campaigns (CICs) conducted biannually
– Mandatory ISM documentation review for all vessels >500GT
18.2. Common Deficiencies
– Fire damper malfunctions (SOLAS II-2/9.7.1)
– Inoperative emergency lighting (SOLAS II-1/42.2)
– Expired liferaft hydrostatic releases (LSA Code IV/4.1.6)
19. Dangerous Goods Handling
19.1. Storage Requirements
– Class 3-6.1 goods: Minimum 50m separation from accommodation
– Explosives magazines: Earth-bonded lightning protection
– Temperature-controlled storage for organic peroxides
19.2. Emergency Response
– Dedicated HAZMAT team with 15-minute response time
– Chemical spill kits mandatory for all DG operations
– Wind direction indicators at 100m intervals
20. Port Communication Protocols
20.1. VHF Channels
– Channel 12: Port operations (primary)
– Channel 14: Pilot coordination
– Channel 16: Emergency only
20.2. Digital Systems
– Electronic Notice to Mariners updated weekly
– NAVTEX coverage for navigational warnings
– PortMIS for electronic document submission
21. Tug Services
21.1. Operational Standards
– Minimum bollard pull: 35% of vessel’s GT
– ASD tugs required for vessels >200m LOA
– Night operations require enhanced lighting systems
21.2. Emergency Towing
– Pre-rigged emergency towing gear available
– 1-hour response time guarantee
– Certified to SOLAS Chapter II-1/3-4 standards
22. Port Environmental Protection
22.1. Wildlife Protection
– Seasonal speed restrictions for marine mammals
– Prohibited discharge zones near breeding areas
– Oil boom deployment during bunkering ops
22.2. Air Quality
– Continuous emissions monitoring at berths
– Shore power connection mandatory for vessels >10,000GT
– Dust suppression required for bulk operations
23. Vessel Traffic Management
23.1. Traffic Separation Schemes
– Mandatory adherence to IMO-adopted TSS in Seto Inland Sea
– Vessels >50m must use designated deep-water routes
– Speed limits enforced by AIS monitoring system
23.2. Vessel Movement Restrictions
– Overtaking prohibited in narrow channels (width <500m)
– Daylight-only transit for vessels with dangerous cargo
– Tidal window restrictions for vessels >15m draft
24. Port Labor Regulations
24.1. Stevedore Operations
– Japan Harbor Transportation Association (JHTA) certified workers only
– Maximum 12-hour shifts with mandatory 8-hour rest periods
– Container handling equipment must pass annual JIS certification
24.2. Safety Standards
– Fall arrest systems required for work >2m height
– Noise protection mandatory in cargo handling areas
– Incident reporting within 1 hour of occurrence
25. Port Entry/Exit Procedures
25.1. Arrival Requirements
– Advance Notice of Arrival (ANOA) 48 hours prior
– Crew list verification against Interpol database
– Valid tonnage certificate and P&I insurance required
25.2. Departure Clearance
– Zero outstanding port charges confirmation
– Final waste disposal receipt submission
– Port clearance certificate issued by customs
26. Special Area Regulations
26.1. Sensitive Zones
– No-anchor areas marked with yellow buoys
– Special ballast water restrictions in aquaculture zones
– Underwater noise limits for marine protected areas
26.2. Security Zones
– 500m exclusion around naval facilities
– Automatic identification required in security perimeters
– Enhanced screening for vessels from high-risk areas
27. Port Emergency Services
27.1. Firefighting Capabilities
– FI-FI Class 1 tugs on standby 24/7
– Foam stations at 200m intervals on oil berths
– Thermal imaging equipment for chemical fires
27.2. Search and Rescue
– JCG helicopter response time <30 minutes
– Dedicated SAR vessels with medical facilities
– Mass casualty incident plan aligned with IMO guidelines
28. Port Facility Maintenance
28.1. Infrastructure Upkeep
– Daily inspection of mooring bollards and fenders
– Dredging operations conducted biannually to maintain 18.5m depth
– Navigation aids calibration every 3 months
28.2. Equipment Standards
– Cranes must pass annual load testing (JIS B 8801)
– Forklifts limited to 80% rated capacity in port operations
– Mandatory backup power for all critical systems
29. Vessel Supply Services
29.1. Provisions Delivery
– Certified food suppliers only (HACCP compliance)
– Biosecurity checks for all fresh produce
– Waste packaging must be removed immediately
29.2. Technical Supplies
– Bunker sampling per ISO 13739 requirements
– Lubricant transfers require double-valve protection
– Chemical deliveries need MSDS in Japanese/English
30. Port Lighting Requirements
30.1. Operational Lighting
– Minimum 200 lux at all working areas
– Red lighting for night navigation preservation
– Emergency lighting duration: 3 hours minimum
30.2. Hazard Lighting
– Flashing beacons for restricted areas
– Blue strobes for emergency vehicle access
– Intrinsically safe fixtures in explosive zones
31. Ice Navigation Procedures
31.1. Winter Operations
– Icebreaker escort required when thickness exceeds 30cm
– Special mooring lines for sub-zero temperatures
– Engine pre-heating mandatory below -10°C
31.2. De-icing Protocols
– Hot water washing only (chemical de-icers prohibited)
– Priority clearance for vessels with ice accumulation
– Ice monitoring radar at harbor entrance
32. Port Community System
32.1. Electronic Data Exchange
– Single Window System for all agency submissions
– Real-time berth availability updates
– Automated customs clearance processing
32.2. Digital Documentation
– E-certificates accepted for all IMO requirements
– Blockchain-based bill of lading verification
– Cloud storage for mandatory record keeping
33. Port Safety Management
33.1. Emergency Drills
– Quarterly fire and abandon ship drills required for all port personnel
– Annual oil spill response exercises with local authorities
– Security threat simulations conducted every 6 months
33.2. Personal Protective Equipment
– High-visibility vests mandatory in all operational areas
– Chemical-resistant suits for hazardous material handling
– Fall protection gear for work at heights above 1.8 meters
34. Vessel Inspection Services
34.1. Pre-arrival Checks
– Hull cleaning verification for biofouling prevention
– Ballast water records review per IMO D-2 standard
– Engine room inspection for potential oil leaks
34.2. In-Port Surveys
– Class society representatives available 24/7
– Non-destructive testing for structural integrity
– Cargo hold inspections prior to loading
35. Port Tariff Structure
35.1. Vessel Charges
– Tonnage-based berthing fees with 10% discount for eco-ships
– Freshwater supply at ¥500 per cubic meter
– Waste disposal fees by category and volume
35.2. Service Fees
– Pilotage charges calculated by vessel LOA and draft
– Tug assistance fees per hour of operation
– Overtime labor rates (150% standard after 1800 hours)
36. Port Information Services
36.1. Navigation Updates
– Real-time tidal current predictions available online
– Daily Notice to Mariners broadcast at 0800 local time
– Mobile app for port status and waiting times
36.2. Meteorological Data
– Live wind speed/direction displays at all berths
– Storm surge warning system with 6-hour lead time
– Visibility monitoring for fog conditions
37. Special Vessel Handling
37.1. Cruise Ships
– Dedicated passenger terminal with customs facilities
– Gangway security with biometric screening
– Shore excursion coordination services
37.2. Naval Vessels
– Prior diplomatic clearance required
– Weapons security protocols in effect
– Special berthing arrangements available
38. Port Waste Management
38.1. Solid Waste Disposal
– Segregated bins for recyclables, food waste, and general trash
– Compulsory use of certified waste contractors
– Ship-generated waste must be logged in MARPOL record book
38.2. Liquid Waste Handling
– Bilge water reception facilities available at all berths
– Sewage discharge prohibited within 12 nautical miles
– Oil-water separators inspected monthly
39. Port Security Measures
39.1. Access Control
– Biometric identification for all port personnel
– Vehicle screening at all entry points
– Restricted areas monitored by motion sensors
39.2. Surveillance Systems
– 360-degree CCTV coverage with 30-day retention
– Thermal imaging cameras for night operations
– Drone detection technology in sensitive zones
40. Vessel Bunkering Procedures
40.1. Fuel Operations
– Minimum 4-person team required for bunkering
– Continuous communication via intrinsically safe radios
– Emergency shutdown buttons at 50m intervals
40.2. Quality Assurance
– ISO 8217 fuel testing before transfer
– Sample retention for 12 months minimum
– Mass flow meters for accurate quantity measurement
41. Port Navigation Aids
41.1. Day Markings
– Green conical buoys mark starboard side channels
– Red can buoys indicate port side approaches
– Special marks for underwater obstructions
41.2. Night Signals
– Synchronized flashing sequences for channel identification
– Leading lights aligned for precise approach angles
– Sector lights warn of shallow areas
42. Port Administrative Services
42.1. Documentation Processing
– Electronic bills of lading accepted
– Customs clearance within 2 working hours
– Online payment system for all port fees
42.2. Agency Services
– 24/7 ship chandler availability
– Crew change coordination
– Medical evacuation arrangements
43. Port Cargo Handling Standards
43.1. Container Operations
– Minimum 25 moves per hour for gantry cranes
– Twist lock inspection before each lift
– Refrigerated container monitoring every 2 hours
43.2. Bulk Cargo Procedures
– Dust suppression systems mandatory for dry bulk
– Grain cargo moisture certification required
– Coal handling with explosion-proof equipment
44. Vessel Mooring Requirements
44.1. Line Handling
– Minimum 6 lines for vessels over 200m LOA
– Synthetic lines must have UV protection
– Tension monitoring during cargo operations
44.2. Weather Considerations
– Additional spring lines during monsoon season
– Hurricane mooring configuration when winds exceed 50 knots
– Ice accumulation removal from lines in winter
45. Port Pilotage Services
45.1. Boarding Procedures
– Pilot ladder certification renewed annually
– Night boarding requires adequate lighting
– Maximum 1.5m freeboard for safe transfer
45.2. Navigation Assistance
– Tug coordination during tight maneuvers
– Real-time current data provided to pilots
– Emergency breakout procedures in place
46. Port Customs Regulations
46.1. Clearance Procedures
– Electronic manifest submission 24 hours pre-arrival
– Narcotics detection K9 units on random inspections
– Duty-free stores sealed during port stay
46.2. Restricted Items
– Firearms declaration required for crew weapons
– CITES documentation for protected species
– Cultural artifacts require export certificates
47. Port Health Services
47.1. Medical Facilities
– 24-hour port clinic with trauma capability
– Quarantine isolation rooms available
– Telemedicine links to specialist hospitals
47.2. Sanitation Control
– Vector control spraying in tropical ports
– Food handler medical certificates verified
– Potable water testing every 48 hours
48. Port Dangerous Goods Handling
48.1. Hazardous Materials Storage
– Class 1 explosives: minimum 500m from other cargo
– Flammable liquids: secondary containment required
– Radioactive materials: dedicated shielded bays
48.2. Emergency Response
– IMDG code compliant spill kits on standby
– Hazmat team response time under 15 minutes
– Evacuation radius markers for each hazard class
49. Port Communication Systems
49.1. VHF Channels
– Channel 16: distress and calling
– Channel 12: port operations
– Channel 13: bridge-to-bridge
49.2. Digital Networks
– Secure fiber optic backbone for port operations
– AIS data integration with traffic management
– Redundant satellite communication links
50. Port Environmental Protection
50.1. Wildlife Conservation
– Underwater noise limits during whale migration
– Turtle nesting beach protection measures
– Bird deterrent systems near grain terminals
50.2. Pollution Prevention
– Stormwater runoff filtration before discharge
– Ballast water treatment monitoring
– Zero discharge policy for operational waste
51. Port Heavy Lift Operations
51.1. Project Cargo Handling
– Route surveys required for oversize moves
– Temporary road closures coordinated with police
– Load spreading calculations for heavy items
51.2. Special Equipment
– 1,000+ ton floating cranes available
– Self-propelled modular transporters
– Laser alignment systems for precision placement
52. Port Passenger Facilities
52.1. Cruise Terminal Services
– Customs and immigration pre-clearance
– Baggage handling systems with x-ray screening
– Shore power connections for berthed vessels
52.2. Ferry Operations
– Dedicated vehicle loading ramps
– Passenger counting systems for manifests
– Emergency muster stations clearly marked
