1. Port Rules and Regulations
1.1. Legal Framework: Shimizu Port operates under Japan’s Port Regulations Law (港湾法) and local ordinances set by Shizuoka Prefecture. Compliance with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) conventions (SOLAS, MARPOL, ISPS Code) is mandatory.
1.2. Navigation Rules: Vessels must adhere to the Maritime Traffic Safety Act (海上交通安全法), including speed limits (max 12 knots in inner harbor) and designated traffic lanes. Anchorage zones are strictly enforced (Area A: 34°58’N, 138°30’E; Area B: 34°57’N, 138°31’E).
1.3. Environmental Regulations: Strict enforcement of MARPOL Annex I (oil discharge <15 ppm) and Annex V (zero garbage discharge). Ballast water management (BWM Convention) is monitored by the Japan Coast Guard (JCG).
1.4. Port Entry Requirements: Prior notification via JP-MARINE (Japan’s electronic reporting system) 24 hours before arrival. Ships >300 GT must submit IMO-compliant documents (Ship Security Plan, etc.).
2. Compliance and Enforcement
2.1. Inspections: JCG conducts routine inspections focusing on:
– Safety equipment (lifeboats, firefighting systems per SOLAS Ch. II-2)
– Oil Record Book entries (MARPOL Annex I Reg. 17)
– ISPS Code compliance (access control logs, SSAS functionality)
2.2. Penalties: Non-compliance may result in:
– Fines up to ¥3 million for MARPOL violations (Act on Prevention of Marine Pollution)
– Operational suspension for repeated ISPS deficiencies
– Criminal charges for severe safety breaches (e.g., unseaworthy vessels)
2.3. Port State Control (PSC): Tokyo MOU inspections apply, with 3.2% detention rate in 2022 (Japan Transport Safety Board data). Common deficiencies include:
– Fire damper malfunctions (SOLAS II-2/9.7.1)
– Inaccurate nautical publications (SOLAS Ch. V Reg. 27)
3. Crew Safety Requirements
3.1. Emergency Preparedness: Mandatory monthly drills covering:
– Abandon ship procedures (SOLAS III/19.3)
– Oil spill response (OPA 90 standards)
3.2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Hard hats, life jackets, and anti-slip footwear required in operational areas (Japan Industrial Safety and Health Act).
3.3. Working Hours: Compliance with MLC 2006 – maximum 14 hours/day with 10 hours rest (Japan Seafarers’ Law Art. 16).
4. Vessel Operational Requirements
4.1. Mooring: Double mooring lines required for vessels >200m LOA during typhoon season (June-October). Tug escort mandatory for VLCCs (>160,000 DWT).
4.2. Cargo Operations: Hazardous materials handling requires prior approval from Shimizu Port Authority (SPA) and JCG supervision (Fire Service Act Art. 10).
4.3. Bunkering: Only licensed suppliers permitted (SPA Ordinance No. 12-5). Continuous oxygen monitoring required during operations.
5. Port Services and Facilities
5.1. Pilotage: Compulsory for vessels >10,000 GT (24-hour service, advance notice 6 hours). Pilot boarding area at 34°58.5’N, 138°29.8’E.
5.2. Towing: Minimum 2 tugs required for vessels >250m LOA (SPA Safety Guideline 2021).
5.3. Waste Reception: MARPOL-compliant facilities available at Main Pier (operating 0800-2000 JST). Fees: ¥5,000/ton for oily waste (SPA Tariff No. 2023-4).
6. Hazardous Materials Handling
6.1. Classification: IMDG Code classifications apply. Class 1 (explosives) and Class 6.1 (toxic substances) require 72-hour pre-arrival notice to SPA and JCG.
6.2. Storage: Designated hazardous cargo zones at Berth 5 (34°57.8’N, 138°30.2’E). Temperature-controlled storage available for Class 4.1 materials.
6.3. Emergency Protocols: Mandatory deployment of spill containment booms during transfer operations. Crew must conduct joint safety briefing with shore personnel (SPA Regulation Art. 24).
7. Port Security Measures
7.1. ISPS Compliance: Restricted areas marked with SOLAS-approved signage. Access requires SPA-issued RFID cards (validity: 6 months).
7.2. Surveillance: 24/7 CCTV coverage with AI-based anomaly detection at all berths (resolution: 4K, 30fps).
7.3. Drills: Quarterly anti-terrorism drills coordinated with JCG Section 3 (Shizuoka Branch). Vessels must participate during port stays >48 hours.
8. Weather Restrictions
8.1. Typhoon Procedures: Port closure when sustained winds exceed 25 m/s (Beaufort 10). Vessels must vacate anchorage if typhoon eye approaches within 50 nm.
8.2. Fog Navigation: Automatic Identification System (AIS) mandatory when visibility <1,000m. Movement restrictions apply to vessels without radar overlay systems.
8.3. Tsunami Response: Immediate evacuation order issued for waves >1m forecast height. Designated tsunami refuge zone at 34°59.1’N, 138°28.7’E (elevation: 15m ASL).
9. Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
9.1. Communication: VHF Channel 16 (distress), Channel 12 (operational). English/Japanese bilingual operators available.
9.2. Reporting Points: Mandatory position reports at:
– Point Alpha (34°56.5’N, 138°32.0’E)
– Point Bravo (34°58.0’N, 138°29.5’E)
9.3. AIS Requirements: Continuous transmission required for vessels >300 GT (IALA Recommendation V-128).
10. Pollution Control
10.1. Air Emissions: Sulfur cap 0.1% in Emission Control Area (ECA). Real-time monitoring by JCG air quality stations.
10.2. Underwater Noise: Mandatory mitigation measures for pile driving (max 160 dB re 1μPa @ 100m).
10.3. Wildlife Protection: Speed reduction to <10 knots within 500m of marine mammal sightings (SPA Conservation Order 2022-3).
11. Medical and Quarantine
11.1. Health Declarations: Electronic submission via Japan’s FAST system required 12 hours before arrival.
11.2. Medical Facilities: Port clinic (JIS Z 9110 compliant) available 24/7 for emergencies. Helicopter medevac coordination through JCG District 5.
11.3. Pest Control: Mandatory deratting certificate inspection for vessels from high-risk countries (WHO International Health Regulations).
12. Port Dues and Charges
12.1. Tariff Structure: Based on GT for vessels and tonnage for cargo (SPA Tariff No. 2023-1). Example rates:
– Vessels 10,000-30,000 GT: ¥85,000/day
– Container handling: ¥2,300/TEU (20ft), ¥4,100/TEU (40ft)
12.2. Discounts: 15% reduction for eco-friendly ships (ESI score >50) and 10% for regular callers (>12 visits/year).
12.3. Payment Methods: Electronic transfer only (SWIFT/JPY domestic). Cash payments prohibited per SPA Finance Regulation 2019-7.
13. Special Operations
13.1. Heavy Lift: Requires 48-hour notice for loads >100 tons. Mandatory stability calculations submission (IMO MSC.1/Circ.1228).
13.2. Night Navigation: Restricted to vessels with dual radar systems. Additional pilot fee (¥25,000/hour) applies after 2200 JST.
13.3. Military Vessels: Separate clearance through Japan Ministry of Defense (MOD Form SP-12 required).
14. Crew Welfare Facilities
14.1. Shore Leave: Allowed with valid seafarer’s ID and vaccination certificate. Designated crew change zone at West Terminal.
14.2. Provisions: SPA-approved suppliers list available (updated quarterly). Freshwater supply rate: ¥350/ton.
14.3. Communications: Free WiFi at crew lounge (2-hour limit/day). SIM cards available at port convenience store.
15. Dispute Resolution
15.1. Complaints: Must be filed in writing to SPA within 7 days of incident (Form SP-DR01).
15.2. Arbitration: Maritime arbitration panel convenes monthly (Japan Commercial Arbitration Association rules apply).
15.3. Insurance Claims: Required documents include:
– Original protest note
– JCG incident report
– Class surveyor’s report (if applicable)
16. Local Maritime Laws
16.1. Jurisdiction: Shizuoka Prefecture Maritime Bureau handles all port-related legal matters.
16.2. Liabilities: Strict liability for oil spills (max ¥6 billion under Japan’s Oil Pollution Compensation Law).
16.3. Salvage: Japan-standard Lloyd’s Open Form (LOF) contracts enforced for emergencies.
17. Dangerous Goods Transportation
17.1. Documentation: Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods must accompany all hazardous cargo (IMDG Code 4.1.4 requirement)
17.2. Segregation: Class 1 (Explosives) must be stored minimum 50m from other hazardous materials (SPA Safety Directive 2022-8)
17.3. Emergency Equipment: Vessels carrying Class 3 (Flammable Liquids) must have foam fire suppression systems operational during port stay
18. Port Infrastructure Specifications
18.1. Berth Capacities:
– Main Wharf: 350m LOA, 16m draft, 50t/m² deck load
– Container Terminal: 400m LOA, 18m draft, 6 STS cranes (50t capacity)
18.2. Depth Maintenance: Dredging conducted biannually to maintain charted depths (±0.3m tolerance)
18.3. Fendering Systems: Cone-type fenders (D1.5m) at all berths, rated for 1,000 DWT vessels
19. Vessel Inspection Protocols
19.1. Pre-arrival Checks: Electronic submission of Class survey reports via JP-MARINE system
19.2. Port State Control Focus Areas:
– Structural integrity (especially for vessels >15 years old)
– Emergency generator auto-start functionality
– Updated ECDIS charts (including latest Notices to Mariners)
19.3. Deficiency Rectification: Critical items must be fixed within 24 hours or vessel may be detained
20. Marine Communication Procedures
20.1. Standard Phrases: Mandatory use of IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCP) in English
20.2. Emergency Channels: VHF Channel 70 (DSC) monitored 24/7 by JCG Shizuoka
20.3. Digital Reporting: Electronic Notice of Readiness (e-NOR) system for commercial vessels
21. Anchorage Regulations
21.1. Designated Zones:
– Anchorage A: 34°57.2’N, 138°31.5’E (max 10 vessels)
– Anchorage B: 34°56.8’N, 138°32.1’E (VLCC priority)
21.2. Holding Time: Maximum 72 hours without SPA permission
21.3. Monitoring Requirements: Anchor watch must be maintained with GPS position logging every 15 minutes
22. Bunkering Operations
22.1. Licensed Operators: Only JIS M 8230 certified suppliers permitted (current list published quarterly by SPA)
22.2. Safety Zones: 50m radius exclusion zone during bunkering, marked by orange buoys
22.3. Quality Control: Mandatory sampling with triple-seal containers retained for 90 days (ISO 8217 standards)
23. Ice Navigation Procedures
23.1. Winter Preparedness: December-March operations require:
– Ice class certification (minimum JIS IA Super for vessels >5,000 GT)
– Bow thruster redundancy for vessels >150m LOA
23.2. Icebreaker Support: Available upon request (48-hour notice) from JCG Shizuoka
24. Passenger Ship Requirements
24.1. Emergency Drills: Full muster within 6 hours of arrival (SOLAS III/19.2.4)
24.2. Medical Facilities: Ships carrying >100 passengers must have Japanese-speaking medical staff
24.3. Disembarkation: Infrared temperature screening mandatory at all passenger terminals
25. Naval Architecture Restrictions
25.1. Air Draft: Maximum 55m clearance under Shimizu Ohashi Bridge (tide-dependent)
25.2. Mooring Loads: Bollard capacity 150t at main berths (SPA Structural Standard 2021)
25.3. Special Craft: Wing-in-ground effect vessels require special clearance (MOD Form SP-15)
26. Port Meteorological Services
26.1. Real-time Data: Automated weather station updates every 10 minutes (JMA Station #54232)
26.2. Storm Warnings: Three-tier alert system:
– Level 1 (winds >15m/s): Operational restrictions
– Level 2 (winds >25m/s): Cargo ops suspension
– Level 3 (winds >35m/s): Port closure
26.3. Current Predictions: Tidal stream atlas available electronically (JHD Tidal App)
27. Ship Repair Services
27.1. Approved Facilities: Only SPA-certified shipyards permitted for hull repairs (List SP-YD2024)
27.2. Hot Work Permits: Required for all welding operations (JIS Z 2305 standards)
27.3. Environmental Compliance: All repair activities must use EPA-approved containment systems
28. Navigation Aids
28.1. Light Characteristics: Main channel lights (Fl.G 4s 15M) verified monthly by JCG
28.2. Buoyage System: IALA Region A (red to port) with radar reflectors on all marks
28.3. DGPS Service: Available 24/7 (MSAS signal, accuracy ±1m 95% confidence)
29. Customs Procedures
29.1. Electronic Declaration: NACCS system mandatory for all cargo manifests
29.2. Prohibited Items: Strict ban on certain marine coatings (Japan Customs Notice 2023-12)
29.3. Temporary Imports: Carnet system available for ship’s equipment
30. Port Emergency Response
30.1. Oil Spill Capacity: 3,000-ton response capability (SPA Contingency Plan Section 5)
30.2. Firefighting: Foam monitors at all berths (capacity 10,000 l/min)
30.3. Medical Evacuation: Helicopter landing zones marked at 200m intervals
31. Special Cargo Handling
31.1. Oversized Loads: Requires route survey 72 hours prior (SPA Form OS-1)
31.2. Project Cargo: Mandatory use of SPA-approved stevedores
31.3. Temperature-Sensitive Goods: Real-time monitoring with SPA-linked sensors
32. Port Labor Regulations
32.1. Working Hours: 0800-1700 standard (overtime rates apply after 8 hours)
32.2. Safety Training: Mandatory JISHA certification for all port workers
32.3. Dispute Resolution: Maritime Labor Committee mediates conflicts
33. Vessel Speed Limits
33.1. Approach Channels: Maximum 8 knots within 2nm of port entrance (JCG Notice 2024-5)
33.2. Harbor Area: 5 knots within port limits (SPA Navigation Rule 12.3)
33.3. Special Conditions: 3 knots when passing fishing zones (marked by yellow buoys)
34. Ballast Water Management
34.1. Exchange Requirements: Minimum 200nm from shore (IMO D-1 standard)
34.2. Treatment Systems: Only USCG/IMO approved systems accepted (SPA BWMS List 2024)
34.3. Sampling Ports: Dedicated sampling points required on all vessels >400 GT
35. Port Lighting Standards
35.1. Night Operations: Minimum 200 lux at all working areas (JIS Z 9110)
35.2. Emergency Lighting: Battery backup with 3-hour duration required
35.3. Navigational Lights: LED systems mandatory for new installations
36. Dangerous Liquid Transfers
36.1. Bonding Cables: 25mm² minimum cross-section, resistance <5 ohms
36.2. Emergency Shutdown: Double ESD system required (API RP 2009)
36.3. Vapor Recovery: Mandatory for Class A liquids (flash point <23°C)
37. Port GIS Services
37.1. Digital Charts: ENC cells updated weekly (S-57/S-101 standards)
37.2. 3D Modeling: Available for berth planning (LOD 3 accuracy)
37.3. Real-time Data: AIS/radar overlay with 15-second refresh rate
38. Marine Salvage Operations
38.1. Response Time: Certified salvors must mobilize within 4 hours
38.2. Equipment Standards: 200-ton lifting capacity minimum
38.3. Pollution Control: Containment boom deployment within 1 hour required
39. Port Security Levels
39.1. MARSEC Level 1: Standard screening (20% container inspection rate)
39.2. MARSEC Level 2: Enhanced measures (100% container inspection + armed guards)
39.3. MARSEC Level 3: Full lockdown (no vessel movements without JCG approval)
40. Waste Reception Facilities
40.1. Oily Waste: 5,000m³ storage capacity (MARPOL Annex I compliance)
40.2. Garbage: Segregated bins (7 categories per IMO 2017 guidelines)
40.3. Sewage: Biological treatment plant (50,000L/day capacity)
41. Tugboat Services
41.1. Minimum Requirements: 2x 50t bollard pull for vessels >30,000 GT
41.2. Emergency Response: 24/7 availability with 30-minute response time
41.3. Specialized Units: Firefighting tugs equipped with 12,000L/min monitors
42. Port Access Control
42.1. Biometric Systems: Facial recognition at all entry points (ISO/IEC 19794-5)
42.2. Vehicle Tracking: RFID tags mandatory for all port vehicles
42.3. Visitor Management: Pre-registration required 24 hours in advance
43. Ship Supply Services
43.1. Provisions Delivery: SPA-licensed vendors only (HACCP certified)
43.2. Bunker Sampling: Continuous flow method per ISO 13739
43.3. Technical Stores: Available through 3 approved marine chandlers
44. Port Meteorological Limits
44.1. Wind Restrictions: Cargo ops cease at sustained 25m/s winds
44.2. Visibility Minimums: 0.5nm for vessel movements
44.3. Wave Height: Max 2.5m for alongside operations
45. Port Noise Regulations
45.1. Daytime Limits: 75 dB(A) at port perimeter (0700-2200)
45.2. Nighttime Limits: 65 dB(A) at port perimeter (2200-0700)
45.3. Vessel Restrictions: No horn signals within 1nm of residential areas
46. Diving Operations
46.1. Permit Requirements: SPA Form D-3 submitted 48 hours prior
46.2. Safety Zones: 100m radius marked by surface buoys during operations
46.3. Emergency Protocols: Dedicated decompression chamber on standby
47. Port Crane Specifications
47.1. Load Testing: Annual certification (JIS B 8801 standards)
47.2. Wind Limits: Operations cease at 20m/s sustained wind
47.3. Anti-Collision Systems: Laser-based automation mandatory
48. Marine Wildlife Protection
48.1. Speed Reduction Zones: 5 knots within 500m of known habitats
48.2. Seasonal Restrictions: No dredging during spawning seasons (Mar-Jun)
48.3. Monitoring: Hydrophone arrays for marine mammal detection
49. Port Cybersecurity
49.1. Network Segmentation: Operational technology separated from IT systems
49.2. Access Controls: Multi-factor authentication for all critical systems
49.3. Incident Reporting: Mandatory within 1 hour of detection
50. LNG Bunkering
50.1. Safety Zone: 50m exclusion radius during transfer
50.2. Emergency Shutdown: Triple-redundant systems required
50.3. Personnel Training: IGENT certified operators only
51. Hazardous Material Storage
51.1. Classified Zones: IMDG Class 1-9 segregated per UN standards
51.2. Fire Protection: Dedicated foam deluge systems for each storage block
51.3. Inspection Regime: Weekly integrity checks by certified safety officers
52. Port Communications Protocol
52.1. VHF Channels: Primary working channel 16, alternate channel 12
52.2. Emergency Broadcast: Automated DSC alerts for critical situations
52.3. Language Requirements: English/Japanese bilingual communications
53. Floating Dock Operations
53.1. Capacity Limits: Max 50,000 DWT vessels (SPA Dock No.1-3)
53.2. Stability Monitoring: Real-time ballast control system required
53.3. Emergency Procedures: Quick-release mechanisms tested monthly
54. Port Tariff Structure
54.1. Vessel Charges: Calculated per GT with 10% discount for eco-ships
54.2. Cargo Fees: Container TEU rates vary by commodity type
54.3. Overtime Premium: 150% standard rate after 2000 hours
55. Underwater Inspections
55.1. ROV Standards: Minimum 4K cameras with laser scaling
55.2. Hull Cleaning: Biocide-free methods only (SPA Approval List)
55.3. Reporting: Digital 3D models delivered within 72 hours
56. Port Community System
56.1. Data Exchange: XML format per IATA Cargo-XML standards
56.2. Integration: Mandatory API links to customs and terminal systems
56.3. Cybersecurity: TLS 1.3 encryption for all transmissions
