1. Port Rules and Regulations
1.1. Navigation Rules
– Vessels must comply with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and Japan’s Maritime Traffic Safety Act.
– Speed limits: 10 knots within the inner harbor, 12 knots in approach channels (as per Sakai Port Authority Notice No. 2021-3).
– Mandatory AIS transponder use for vessels over 300 GT (Japan Coast Guard Ordinance No. 30).
1.2. Berthing Regulations
– Prior permission required for all berthing operations (Sakai Port Management Ordinance Article 12).
– Minimum safe mooring lines: 4 for vessels under 10,000 DWT, 6 for larger vessels (Japan Port and Harbor Association Standard JPHA-S-102).
– Gangway safety nets mandatory when boarding height exceeds 1.5m (ILO Maritime Labour Convention, 2006).
1.3. Dangerous Cargo Handling
– IMDG Code compliance required for all hazardous materials.
– Special berths designated for oil tankers (Berths 5-7) and chemical carriers (Berths 8-9).
– Mandatory pre-arrival notification 72 hours prior for Class 1 explosives (Port Security Act Article 16).
2. Compliance and Enforcement
2.1. Inspection Regime
– Annual Port State Control inspections by Japan Coast Guard (Tokyo MOU criteria).
– Random cargo securing checks for container vessels (ISO 3874 standards).
– Fuel oil sampling for sulfur content verification (0.10% max in ECA zones).
2.2. Penalties
– Fine up to ¥500,000 for unauthorized discharge (Marine Pollution Prevention Law Article 55).
– 30-day operation suspension for repeated safety violations (Port Regulations Law Article 28).
– Criminal prosecution for deliberate falsification of oil record books.
2.3. Emergency Procedures
– Immediate reporting required for oil spills >200 liters (Sakai Port Crisis Management Manual).
– Designated emergency anchorage at position 34°34’12″N 135°26’45″E.
– Mandatory fire drills every 2 months for port workers (Fire Service Act Article 36).
3. Crew Safety Requirements
3.1. Personal Protective Equipment
– Hard hats, high-visibility vests, and steel-toe boots mandatory in operational areas.
– Fall arrest systems required for work above 2m (Japan Industrial Safety and Health Law).
3.2. Health Protocols
– Medical waste must be disposed through licensed contractors (Waste Management Law).
– Potable water testing every 3 months (WHO Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality).
– Heat stress monitoring when WBGT exceeds 28°C (Japan Society for Occupational Health).
4. Vessel Operational Requirements
4.1. Documentation
– Valid Certificate of Financial Responsibility (COFR) for oil tankers.
– Updated garbage management plan (MARPOL Annex V).
– Crew list submission 24 hours before arrival (Immigration Control Act).
4.2. Equipment Standards
– Double-hull construction required for oil tankers >5,000 DWT.
– Certified mooring winches with minimum breaking load 1.5 times line strength.
– Emergency towing arrangements at bow and stern (SOLAS II-1/3-4).
5. Environmental Regulations
5.1. Discharge Restrictions
– Zero discharge policy for bilge water within port limits.
– Sewage reception facilities available at all main berths.
– Prohibition on open incineration (Air Pollution Control Law).
5.2. Wildlife Protection
– Speed reduction to 8 knots during migratory bird season (Oct-Mar).
– Underwater noise mitigation measures for marine mammals.
6. Port Security Measures
6.1. Access Control
– ISPS Code compliance mandatory for all vessels over 500 GT.
– Biometric identification required for port entry (Port Facility Security Plan Section 4.2).
– Restricted areas marked with red zone markings (IMO MSC/Circ.1154).
6.2. Surveillance Systems
– 24/7 CCTV coverage of operational areas (1080p resolution minimum).
– Radar tracking of all vessel movements within 5nm radius.
– Automated intrusion detection for perimeter fencing.
7. Cargo Handling Standards
7.1. Container Operations
– Maximum wind speed for gantry crane operations: 15 m/s.
– Twist lock inspection before each loading cycle (CSC plate required).
– Refrigerated container monitoring every 6 hours (IICL Guidelines).
7.2. Bulk Cargo Precautions
– Dust suppression systems mandatory for coal handling.
– Grain cargo stability calculations verified by ClassNK surveyor.
– Prohibition of simultaneous loading/unloading on opposite sides.
8. Vessel Traffic Services
8.1. Communication Protocols
– VHF Channel 16 for emergencies, Channel 12 for port operations.
– Mandatory Japanese/English bilingual announcements for safety alerts.
– AIS position reporting every 6 minutes in port approaches.
8.2. Pilotage Requirements
– Compulsory pilotage for vessels over 10,000 GT or 200m LOA.
– Two pilots required for VLCCs during berthing (Sakai Port Pilotage By-law).
– Minimum visibility for pilot transfer: 1 nautical mile.
9. Port State Control
9.1. Inspection Criteria
– Priority inspection for vessels with 3+ deficiencies in last 12 months.
– Expanded inspection for bulk carriers over 15 years old.
– Special focus on lifeboat launch systems and fire dampers.
9.2. Detention Grounds
– Immediate detention for inoperative main propulsion systems.
– 48-hour rectification period for non-critical deficiencies.
– Blacklisted vessels subject to 100% inspection rate.
10. Meteorological Restrictions
10.1. Storm Procedures
– Typhoon warning signal No. 3: All cargo ops must cease.
– Vessels must depart if sustained winds exceed 25 knots.
– Designated storm moorings at North Breakwater.
10.2. Fog Protocols
– Movement prohibition when visibility <500m.
– Mandatory fog horn signals every 2 minutes (COLREGs Rule 35).
– Radar-assisted berthing only with pilot approval.
11. Pollution Response
11.1. Equipment Standards
– Tier 1 oil spill response capability (500m boom deployment within 2 hours).
– Sorbents stockpile: Minimum 10,000 liters equivalent.
– Dedicated pollution control vessel on standby 24/7.
11.2. Reporting Obligations
– Immediate notification for bunker spills >1 ton.
– Hazardous substance leaks: Full MSDS submission required.
– Environmental damage assessment within 72 hours of incident.
12. Anchorage Regulations
12.1. Designated Areas
– Primary anchorage: 34°35’00″N 135°27’30″E (max draft 15m)
– Emergency anchorage: 34°34’00″N 135°28’00″E (priority for vessels >200m LOA)
– Prohibited zones within 500m of submarine cables (marked on nautical charts)
12.2. Anchoring Procedures
– Minimum 5:1 scope ratio in depths under 30m
– Daily position reporting required during extended stays
– Prohibition on anchoring in coral reef protection zones
13. Tugboat Requirements
13.1. Assistance Standards
– Minimum 2 tugs for vessels 50,000-100,000 DWT
– 3 tugs + escort for VLCCs (bollard pull ≥80 tons each)
– Standby tug with firefighting capability during bunkering
13.2. Operational Limits
– Maximum wave height for tug operations: 2.5m
– Tug master discretion applies when winds exceed 20 knots
– Night operations require enhanced lighting systems
14. Bunkering Regulations
14.1. Fuel Quality Control
– MARPOL Annex VI compliant fuels only (max 0.10% sulfur)
– Bunker delivery notes must include batch test results
– Mandatory sampling during transfer (3 sealed samples)
14.2. Safety Measures
– Pre-transfer safety meeting with port officer present
– Double valve isolation for fuel lines
– Continuous VOC monitoring during gasoline transfers
15. Crew Welfare Provisions
15.1. Shore Leave Policy
– 24/7 access with valid seafarer’s identity document
– Designated crew change facilities at Terminal 3
– Mandatory port security briefing before first shore leave
15.2. Medical Support
– 24-hour port clinic with decompression chamber
– Priority ambulance access to vessel berths
– Quarantine holding area for infectious disease cases
16. Special Cargo Handling
16.1. Oversized Loads
– Advance notice 96 hours prior for project cargo
– Special route clearance required for widths >8m
– Mandatory escort vehicles for road transport
16.2. Radioactive Materials
– IAEA Safety Standards compliance verification
– Exclusive use of Shielded Berth 10
– Radiation monitoring during entire port stay
17. Ice Navigation Procedures
17.1. Winter Precautions
– Ice class 1A vessels prioritized during freezing conditions
– Mandatory hull inspections after ice transit
– De-icing operations for cranes every 4 hours
17.2. Temperature Alerts
– Special mooring line heaters below -10°C
– Anti-freeze additives required for deck machinery
– Reduced cargo ops when black ice forms
18. Port Infrastructure Specifications
18.1. Berth Capabilities
– Maximum alongside depth: 18m at Berth 11 (container terminal)
– Deck load capacity: 5 tons/m² for general cargo berths
– Shore power connections: 6.6kV/60Hz available at all main berths
18.2. Navigation Aids
– Leading lights aligned at 142° True for main channel approach
– Differential GPS accuracy: ±1m within port limits
– Real-time tide gauges at 500m intervals along quays
19. Customs Procedures
19.1. Clearance Requirements
– Electronic manifest submission 24 hours pre-arrival
– Physical inspection rate: 5% random selection + targeted checks
– Prohibited items list includes certain agricultural products
19.2. Temporary Imports
– Carnet ATA accepted for exhibition goods
– Maximum 90-day stay for vessel spare parts
– Customs bonds required for high-value transshipments
20. Port Fee Structure
20.1. Vessel Charges
– Basic port dues: ¥0.25/GT for first 24 hours
– Wharfage fees: ¥120/TEU for containers
– Discounts available for eco-friendly vessels (ESI >50)
20.2. Service Fees
– Pilotage: ¥8,000 for vessels under 10,000 GT
– Waste disposal: ¥5,000 per cubic meter for hazardous waste
– Fresh water supply: ¥300/ton (minimum 50 ton order)
21. Ship Repair Services
21.1. Dry Dock Facilities
– Largest graving dock: 300m LOA × 50m beam
– Underwater cleaning with 99% water recycling system
– Hull thickness testing to IACS UR Z17 standards
21.2. Emergency Repairs
– 24/7 availability of certified welders
– Airstrip capable of receiving urgent spare parts shipments
– Floating crane capacity: 250 tons at 20m radius
22. Port Communication Systems
22.1. Digital Services
– Web-based port community system (PCS) for document exchange
– Automated berth booking platform with real-time updates
– ETA notifications via NAVTEX and email alerts
22.2. Emergency Channels
– Dedicated VHF Channel 70 for SAR coordination
– Satellite phone backup: Inmarsat C station always active
– Red emergency phones at 200m intervals along piers
23. Fishing Vessel Regulations
23.1. Operational Restrictions
– Designated fish handling area at South Wharf only
– Mandatory net cleaning before port entry
– Ice supply available at 50 ton/hour capacity
23.2. Sanitation Controls
– Daily fish waste collection by licensed contractors
– Seawater temperature monitoring for live catches
– Prohibition on vessel-to-vessel sales in port
24. Port Safety Management
24.1. Emergency Response
– Tier 2 oil spill response capability (1,000m boom deployment within 4 hours)
– Dedicated firefighting tugs with 10,000 liters/min pumping capacity
– Monthly emergency drills involving all port stakeholders
24.2. Hazardous Areas
– Zone 1 explosion-proof equipment required in tanker berths
– Hot work permits valid for maximum 8 hours
– Continuous gas monitoring in confined spaces
25. Vessel Traffic Monitoring
25.1. AIS Requirements
– Class A transponders mandatory for commercial vessels
– Static voyage data verification during port entry
– Automated alerts for AIS signal loss
25.2. Radar Surveillance
– Primary radar coverage to 24nm with 0.5° resolution
– Secondary harbor radar with moving target tracking
– VTS operator certification to IALA Model Course 1.107 standards
26. Port Labor Regulations
26.1. Working Conditions
– Maximum 12-hour shifts for stevedores with 8-hour rest periods
– Mandatory heat stress monitoring above 32°C WBGT
– Bilingual safety signage (Japanese/English) in all work areas
26.2. Training Requirements
– Annual refresher courses for cargo handling equipment operators
– Special certification for dangerous goods handlers
– First aid training renewal every 2 years
27. Navigational Restrictions
27.1. Channel Limitations
– One-way traffic for vessels over 50m beam
– Daylight transit only for vessels with air draft >55m
– Tidal window calculations required for deep draft vessels
27.2. Special Transits
– Naval vessels: 48-hour prior notification
– Research vessels: Scientific equipment declaration
– Floating cranes: Advance stability documentation
28. Port Environmental Management
28.1. Waste Handling
– Mandatory garbage segregation (5 categories)
– Electronic waste tracking from vessel to disposal facility
– Food waste composting for organic recycling
28.2. Water Quality
– Weekly sampling at 15 monitoring stations
– Zero discharge tolerance for ballast water in port
– Real-time oil content monitoring at berth drains
29. Vessel Certification Requirements
29.1. Mandatory Documents
– Valid class certificate with all endorsements
– Latest PSC inspection report available
– Japanese translation of crew certificates for key personnel
29.2. Special Certifications
– BWM Certificate for vessels built after 2009
– VOC Management Plan for tankers
– Noise Compliance Certificate for cruise vessels
30. Port Entry and Clearance Procedures
30.1. Pre-Arrival Requirements
– 96-hour advance notice for vessels carrying dangerous goods
– Complete electronic Pre-Arrival Declaration (ePAD) submission
– Valid fumigation certificates for agricultural commodities
30.2. Health Clearance
– Maritime Declaration of Health required from all foreign vessels
– Temperature screening for all disembarking crew
– Designated quarantine anchorage at 34°33’45″N 135°29’30″E
31. Ballast Water Management
31.1. Discharge Standards
– D-2 standard compliance mandatory for all vessels
– Ballast water exchange prohibited within 200nm of coast
– Mandatory sampling for high-risk vessels
31.2. Record Keeping
– Electronic ballast water reporting to Japan eBallast system
– 3-year retention of ballast water management records
– Immediate reporting of treatment system malfunctions
32. Port Lighting Standards
32.1. Navigational Lighting
– LED lighting with minimum 200 lux at all working berths
– Emergency lighting with 3-hour battery backup
– Glare control measures for helicopter operations
32.2. Security Lighting
– Motion-activated lighting in storage areas
– Infrared cameras in low-light zones
– Lighting uniformity ratio not exceeding 4:1
33. Vessel Stability Requirements
33.1. Loading Conditions
– Maximum permissible GM range: 0.15m to 0.45m for container ships
– Grain loading computer approval required for bulk carriers
– Special stability criteria for heavy lift operations
33.2. Documentation
– Approved loading manual in Japanese or English
– Intact stability booklet available on bridge
– Damage stability calculations for passenger vessels
34. Port Noise Control
34.1. Operational Limits
– 85 dB(A) maximum at property boundaries during daytime
– Nighttime curfew for high-noise operations (2200-0600)
– Vessel auxiliary engine exhaust silencers required
34.2. Monitoring Program
– Quarterly noise mapping of port areas
– Complaint response within 2 business days
– Vessel noise certification for cruise ships
35. Special Operations Approval
35.1. Heavy Lift Procedures
– 72-hour advance notice for lifts over 100 tons
– Wind speed monitoring during critical lifts
– Load test certificates for all lifting gear
35.2. Underwater Operations
– Dive supervisor approval required
– Current speed limits for diver safety
– Underwater noise restrictions during marine mammal seasons
36. Dangerous Goods Handling
36.1. Classification and Storage
– IMDG Code classification required for all hazardous materials
– Segregated storage zones for incompatible substances
– Temperature-controlled bunkers for Class 4.1 materials
36.2. Transfer Operations
– Bonded transfer lines with emergency shutoff valves
– Static electricity grounding verification before transfer
– Continuous gas detection during flammable cargo operations
37. Port Access Control
37.1. Identification Systems
– Biometric facial recognition at all entry points
– RFID-enabled personnel badges with access levels
– Visitor escorts required for non-cleared personnel
37.2. Vehicle Management
– Automated license plate recognition for all port vehicles
– Speed limit enforcement via GPS tracking (30km/h max)
– Hazardous material transport routes clearly marked
38. Vessel Mooring Standards
38.1. Line Handling
– Synthetic mooring lines required for vessels >50,000 DWT
– Automatic tension monitoring systems on all berths
– Storm mooring patterns for typhoon season
38.2. Fender Systems
– Energy-absorbing fenders with 500kJ capacity
– Regular compression testing (annual certification)
– Special conical fenders for LNG carriers
39. Port Meteorological Services
39.1. Weather Monitoring
– Real-time wind speed displays at all crane operator stations
– Automated tsunami warning system with 10-minute alert
– Microweather stations every 500m along quays
39.2. Current Predictions
– Tidal current modeling for vessel maneuvering
– Real-time ADCP data for main navigation channel
– Current roses published quarterly for planning purposes
40. Port Security Drills
40.1. Exercise Requirements
– Quarterly ISPS-compliant security drills
– Annual full-scale port emergency exercise
– Unannounced intrusion tests of perimeter security
40.2. Incident Response
– Dedicated security command center with 360° visibility
– K-9 units available for explosive detection
– Waterborne patrols with night vision capability
41. Port Infrastructure Maintenance
41.1. Inspection Regime
– Underwater surveys every 3 years for all berths
– Concrete corrosion monitoring with half-cell potential tests
– Pavement condition index updated quarterly
41.2. Repair Standards
– Cathodic protection systems for all steel structures
– Non-slip coatings renewed every 5 years
– Seismic retrofitting to JIS standards
42. Port Tariff Structure
42.1. Vessel Charges
– Basic port dues: $0.35 per GT for first 24 hours
– Wharfage fees: $150 per TEU for containers
– Discounts available for green vessels (ESI score >75)
42.2. Utility Services
– Fresh water supply: $350 per ton (minimum 100 tons)
– Waste disposal: $6,500 per cubic meter for hazardous waste
– Shore power connection: $1,200 per day for megawatt supply
43. Vessel Inspection Protocols
43.1. Routine Checks
– Port State Control inspections based on Tokyo MOU criteria
– Concentrated inspection campaigns for selected deficiencies
– Electronic checklist system for consistent evaluations
43.2. Special Inspections
– Enhanced vetting for vessels over 15 years old
– Bunker fuel sampling during PSC inspections
– Structural surveys for bulk carriers every 2.5 years
44. Port Community System
44.1. Digital Services
– Single window platform for all regulatory submissions
– Real-time cargo tracking with blockchain verification
– Automated berth allocation algorithm
44.2. Data Standards
– UN/EDIFACT format for electronic messages
– API integration for shipping line systems
– Cybersecurity certification ISO/IEC 27001 compliant
45. Emergency Medical Services
45.1. Medical Facilities
– 24/7 port clinic with hyperbaric chamber
– Designated infectious disease isolation ward
– Telemedicine links to major hospitals
45.2. Evacuation Procedures
– Helicopter landing pads at strategic locations
– Medical emergency response time <15 minutes
– Mass casualty incident response plan
46. Port Hinterland Connections
46.1. Road Network
– Dedicated truck lanes with weigh-in-motion systems
– Automated gate processing for cargo vehicles
– Truck appointment system to reduce congestion
46.2. Rail Infrastructure
– On-dock rail terminal with 750m tracks
– Double-stack container train capability
– Night rail operations to minimize disruptions
47. Vessel Waste Management
47.1. Reception Facilities
– MARPOL-compliant waste reception barges
– Separate collection for oily waste and sewage
– Electronic waste tracking from vessel to disposal
47.2. Recycling Programs
– 90% recycling target for operational waste
– Food waste conversion to biofuel
– Plastic waste compactors at all berths
48. Port Cold Chain Facilities
48.1. Refrigerated Storage
– Temperature-controlled warehouses (-25°C to +15°C range)
– Real-time temperature monitoring with alarms
– Backup power generators for uninterrupted cooling
48.2. Specialized Handling
– Reefer container plugs (400 available)
– Quick turnaround for perishable cargo (2-hour target)
– Ethylene-controlled chambers for fruit storage
49. Vessel Bunkering Services
49.1. Fuel Types Available
– Low sulfur fuel oil (0.5% sulfur content)
– LNG bunkering at dedicated terminal
– Marine gasoil available 24/7
49.2. Quality Assurance
– ISO 8217 compliance for all fuel supplies
– Mass flow meters for accurate measurement
– Fuel sampling protocol per MARPOL Annex VI
50. Port Dredging Operations
50.1. Maintenance Dredging
– Annual channel maintenance to -16m chart datum
– Environmental monitoring during dredging
– Split-hopper dredgers with 10,000m³ capacity
50.2. Disposal Procedures
– Licensed offshore disposal sites
– Beneficial use of clean dredged material
– Real-time turbidity monitoring
51. Cruise Terminal Operations
51.1. Passenger Facilities
– 1,200m² immigration hall with 20 inspection lanes
– Baggage handling system for 5,000 pieces/hour
– Dedicated taxi and tour bus staging areas
51.2. Vessel Services
– Simultaneous handling for two mega cruise ships
– Gray/black water reception facilities
– Shore power capability for 11kV/60Hz systems
52. Port Cybersecurity Measures
52.1. Network Protection
– Air-gapped systems for critical operations
– Multi-factor authentication for all port users
– Weekly vulnerability scans
52.2. Incident Response
– 24/7 security operations center
– Isolated backup systems for essential functions
– Annual penetration testing
53. Port Wildlife Protection
53.1. Environmental Safeguards
– Bird deterrent systems near fuel storage
– Marine mammal observers during pile driving
– Turtle exclusion devices on dredging equipment
53.2. Habitat Restoration
– Artificial reef deployment program
– Mangrove replanting along port boundaries
– Underwater noise reduction initiatives
