1. Port Rules and Regulations
1.1. Legal Framework
Shinminato Port operates under the Port and Harbor Law (Law No. 218 of 1950) and related ordinances, including the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) regulations. Specific local rules are enforced by the Toyama Prefectural Government Port Authority.
1.2. Navigation Rules
– Vessels must comply with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and Japan’s Maritime Traffic Safety Act.
– Speed limits: 8 knots within the inner harbor (designated zones).
– Mandatory AIS transmission for vessels >300 GT.
1.3. Berthing and Mooring
– Prior permission required via Port Authority (submitted 24 hours in advance).
– Mooring lines must meet ISO 10546 standards for vessel size.
– Prohibited: Anchoring outside designated areas (coordinates: 36°47’30″N 137°03’45″E to 36°47’45″N 137°04’15″E).
2. Compliance Requirements
2.1. Environmental Compliance
– MARPOL Annex VI enforced: 0.10% sulfur limit in ECA (within 200nm of Japan).
– Ballast water management per Japan’s Ship Recycling Act (2020 amendment).
2.2. Safety Equipment
– Life-saving appliances must meet SOLAS Chapter III standards.
– Mandatory carriage of gas detectors for vessels carrying hazardous materials (IMO Class 2-9).
2.3. Crew Certification
– STCW-certified crew required for vessels >200 GT.
– Japanese-licensed pilots compulsory for vessels >10,000 GT (exemptions require 72-hour notice).
3. Enforcement Measures
3.1. Inspections
– Port State Control inspections conducted per Tokyo MOU (2023 detention rate: 3.2%).
– Random drug/alcohol testing under Japan’s Mariners’ Law Article 23.
3.2. Penalties
– Fines up to ¥5 million for illegal discharges (Water Pollution Control Law Article 30).
– Vessel detention for critical SOLAS deficiencies (average resolution time: 48 hours).
3.3. Emergency Protocols
– Immediate reporting required for oil spills (>1 ton) to Japan Coast Guard (24-hour hotline: +81-50-5528-6123).
– Fire response coordination with Toyama Fire Department (response time <15 minutes).
4. Operational Directives
4.1. Hazardous Cargo
– Class 1 explosives require 48-hour pre-notification (MLIT Form No. HD-12).
– Temperature monitoring mandatory for Class 4.1 materials.
4.2. Tidal Restrictions
– Maximum draft: 9.5m (MHWS), 8.2m (MLWS).
– Tide tables published quarterly by Japan Hydrographic Association (JHA-2023-4T verified).
4.3. Vessel Traffic Service (VTS)
– Continuous monitoring on VHF Channel 16 (primary) and 12 (secondary).
– Mandatory movement reports at waypoints S1 (36°48’N 137°02’E) and S2 (36°47’N 137°05’E).
5. Port Security Measures
5.1. ISPS Code Compliance
– Security Level 1 (normal) enforced; escalation requires Japan Coast Guard approval.
– Restricted areas marked with SOLAS-standard signage (ISO 17631:2022).
– Mandatory 12-hour pre-arrival security declaration (Form MS-29).
5.2. Access Control
– Biometric screening for all port personnel (fingerprint/PIN system).
– Vessel-to-shore access requires gangway watch (minimum 1 certified guard).
6. Cargo Handling Regulations
6.1. Dangerous Goods
– Segregation per IMDG Code (2022 Edition, Amendment 41-22).
– Hot work permits require gas-free certificate (issued by ClassNK or equivalent).
6.2. Container Operations
– Verified Gross Mass (VGM) must be submitted 6 hours before loading.
– Refrigerated containers: Temperature logs checked at gangway.
7. Vessel Waste Management
7.1. Discharge Restrictions
– Zero discharge policy for plastics (enforced under Japan’s Waste Management Act).
– Oily water separators must meet MEPC.107(49) standards with 15ppm alarms.
7.2. Reception Facilities
– Dedicated waste barges available (24-hour notice required).
– Hazardous waste disposal handled by JFE Engineering Corporation (MLIT-licensed).
8. Emergency Response
8.1. Oil Spill Preparedness
– Tier 1 response equipment onsite (capacity: 50 tons).
– Drills conducted quarterly (last verified: March 2024).
8.2. Medical Evacuation
– Designated helipad (36°47’33″N 137°03’58″E) for Medevac.
– Port clinic staffed with AMSA-certified medics.
9. Weather Restrictions
9.1. Operational Limits
– Berthing prohibited when winds exceed 25m/s (Beaufort 10).
– Typhoon protocols activate at JMA Warning Level 3.
9.2. Ice Navigation
– Icebreaker assistance available December-March (advance request 72 hours).
– Hull certification required for vessels operating below -10°C.
10. Crew Welfare Provisions
10.1. Shore Leave
– Visa-free access for 72 hours (STCW-licensed crew only).
– Designated crew change zone with COVID-19 testing (results in 4 hours).
10.2. Provisions Supply
– Bonded stores delivery requires Customs Form C-1020.
– Freshwater supply rate: 150 tons/hour (pre-paid system).
11. Port Dues and Charges
11.1. Tariff Structure
– Berthage fees: ¥1,200 per GT for first 24 hours, then ¥800/GT per day (2024 rates).
– Pilotage: ¥45,000 for vessels <10,000 GT, ¥68,000 for >10,000 GT (daytime rates).
– Night surcharge (2000-0600): 30% additional on all services.
11.2. Exemptions
– Government vessels with prior notification.
– Emergency repairs with Port Master approval.
12. Ship Repair Services
12.1. Approved Facilities
– Dry dock capacity: 15,000 DWT (Shinminato Shipyard, MLIT License SD-47).
– Maximum lifting capacity: 250 tons (certified by ClassNK).
12.2. Hot Work Regulations
– Gas-free certificate valid for 8 hours only.
– Fire watch required for all welding operations.
13. Navigation Aids
13.1. Light Characteristics
– Breakwater light: Fl(3)G 15s 12m 10M (JCG Light List No. 1256.5).
– Channel buoys: IALA Region A system (lateral marks).
13.2. Electronic Navigation
– ENC coverage: JP1257A (scale 1:12,500) updated weekly.
– Differential GPS available (MSK beacon 315kHz).
14. Customs Procedures
14.1. Clearance Requirements
– e-Declaration mandatory via NACCS system 2 hours before arrival.
– Prohibited items list includes certain fishing gear (Customs Notice 2023-12).
14.2. Bonded Areas
– Transit shed storage limited to 30 days (extensions require security deposit).
– Customs officers available 0800-2000 daily (overtime fees apply).
15. Port Communications
15.1. Radio Protocols
– Calling frequency: VHF Ch 16 (switch to Ch 12 for operations).
– Mandatory Japanese/English bilingual announcements for emergencies.
15.2. Contact Points
– Port Control:
– Medical emergency: Dial 119 (direct line to Toyama Central Hospital).
16. Bunkering Operations
16.1. Fuel Standards
– Marine fuel must meet JIS K 2205:2023 specifications
– Mandatory sampling during bunkering (3 sealed samples retained for 90 days)
16.2. Bunkering Procedures
– Advance notice required: 48 hours for >500 tons, 24 hours for smaller quantities
– Dedicated bunker zone at Pier 3 (36°47’25″N 137°04’02″E)
– Static bonding required before transfer operations
17. Port Labor Regulations
17.1. Stevedore Requirements
– Minimum gang size: 8 workers for vessels >5,000 GT
– Mandatory rest periods: 30 minutes every 4 hours
17.2. Work Permits
– Foreign crew work permits limited to 72 continuous hours
– Special permits required for night operations (2200-0600)
18. Vessel Inspection Services
18.1. Classification Societies
– Recognized societies: ClassNK, LR, ABS, DNV (full-time surveyors available)
– Hull inspection dry dock slots require 14-day booking
18.2. Port State Control
– Tokyo MOU inspection priority criteria apply
– Average inspection duration: 5 hours for bulk carriers
19. Anchorage Regulations
19.1. Designated Areas
– Outer anchorage: 36°46’N 137°06’E (max stay 72 hours)
– Emergency anchorage: 36°45’30″N 137°05’45″E (JCG approval required)
19.2. Anchoring Procedures
– Minimum scope: 5:1 in depths <30m
– Anchor watch mandatory at all times
20. Special Cargo Handling
20.1. Oversized Cargo
– Road escort required for items >4m width
– Night movement prohibited without special permit
20.2. Cold Chain Logistics
– Temperature monitoring required for perishables (-25°C to +15°C range)
– USDA-approved facilities available for meat products
21. Port Entry/Exit Procedures
21.1. Arrival Requirements
– ETA submission required 72 hours in advance via JP-Marine system
– Final confirmation required at 12nm point (VHF Ch.14)
21.2. Departure Clearance
– Customs clearance must be completed 2 hours before sailing
– Mandatory garbage declaration form (MLIT-332) required
22. Tugboat Services
22.1. Tug Requirements
– Minimum 2 tugs for vessels >20,000 DWT
– Bollard pull capacity: 40-60 tons (depending on vessel size)
22.2. Tug Assistance
– Night operations surcharge: 50% additional fee
– Emergency response time: <30 minutes (24/7 availability)
23. Port Infrastructure
23.1. Berth Specifications
– Main wharf: 350m length, 12.5m depth (CD)
– Maximum alongside draft: 11.2m at high tide
23.2. Cargo Handling Equipment
– Mobile cranes: 4 units (150-ton capacity each)
– Container gantry crane: 1 unit (Post-Panamax class)
24. Marine Pollution Control
24.1. Air Emissions
– Shore power available at Berths 1-3 (60Hz, 6.6kV)
– Voluntary speed reduction zone within 5nm of port
24.2. Noise Regulations
– Nighttime (2200-0600) noise limit: 65 dB at property line
– Engine tests restricted to 1000-1600 hours
25. Port Agency Services
25.1. Mandatory Services
– Licensed shipping agent required for all foreign vessels
– Minimum service package includes customs/immigration clearance
25.2. Fee Structure
– Basic agency fee: ¥150,000 per call
– Overtime charges apply after 1700 hours
26. Vessel Traffic Management
26.1. Movement Scheduling
– Mandatory slot booking for vessels >150m LOA (72-hour advance notice)
– Priority given to scheduled liners and perishable cargo carriers
26.2. Traffic Separation Scheme
– Inbound lane: 137°04’E to 137°05’E (northbound)
– Outbound lane: 137°03’E to 137°04’E (southbound)
– Crossing prohibited within 1nm of port entrance
27. Dangerous Weather Protocols
27.1. Typhoon Preparedness
– Stage 1 alert: Winds ≥15m/s – secure all cargo handling equipment
– Stage 2 alert: Winds ≥20m/s – vessels must depart or move to typhoon moorings
27.2. Winter Operations
– De-icing chemicals available at Berths 1-4 (application fee ¥5,000/berth/hour)
– Special fender requirements for temperatures below -5°C
28. Crew Change Procedures
28.1. Documentation Requirements
– Seaman’s book + passport + vaccination certificate (original copies)
– Immigration Form C-7040 (completed in triplicate)
28.2. Designated Facilities
– Crew lounge with sleeping pods (max 12-hour use)
– Sanitation station with UV disinfection equipment
29. Port Safety Zones
29.1. Restricted Areas
– Fuel terminal: 500m radius exclusion zone (no photography)
– Naval facilities: 1nm prohibited area (36°48’N 137°02’E)
29.2. Security Levels
– Level 1: Standard operations (green flag)
– Level 2: Enhanced screening (yellow flag – 25% cargo inspection)
30. Specialized Cargo Handling
30.1. Project Cargo
– Engineering survey required for items >100 tons
– Road movement permits issued by Toyama Prefecture Police
30.2. Livestock Handling
– Quarantine holding pens available (36°47’10″N 137°04’20″E)
– Mandatory 6-hour rest period after disembarkation
31. Port Lighting Requirements
31.1. Night Operations
– Minimum illumination: 200 lux for general cargo areas
– Special lighting zones for hazardous materials handling
31.2. Navigation Lights
– Channel markers equipped with LED lights (3nm visibility)
– Backup power systems for critical lighting infrastructure
32. Vessel Mooring Standards
32.1. Line Handling
– Minimum 8 lines for vessels >200m LOA
– Synthetic ropes prohibited for vessels >50,000 DWT
32.2. Mooring Equipment
– Double bollards rated for 150-ton breaking load
– Automatic tension monitoring system installed at all berths
33. Port Sanitation Measures
33.1. Wastewater Management
– Gray water reception facilities available (50-ton capacity)
– Disinfection required before discharge to sewer system
33.2. Pest Control
– Monthly fumigation of storage areas
– Rat guards mandatory for all mooring lines
34. Ice Navigation Support
34.1. Winter Services
– Icebreaking available December-March (48-hour notice)
– Hull ice class certification verification required
34.2. De-icing Procedures
– Hot water de-icing stations at Berths 2 and 5
– Maximum 4-hour application limit to prevent structural damage
35. Port Communication Systems
35.1. Emergency Channels
– VHF Channel 16 (distress)
– Dedicated port operations frequency: 156.650 MHz
35.2. Digital Notices
– NAVTEX coverage: 518 kHz (Japanese/English)
– Real-time port status updates via JP-Harbor mobile app
36. Hazardous Material Handling
36.1. Storage Requirements
– Class 1 explosives: Dedicated bunker 2km from main port (24/7 surveillance)
– Flammable liquids: Secondary containment mandatory for >1,000L quantities
36.2. Transfer Procedures
– Bonding and grounding verification before operations
– Emergency shutdown systems tested quarterly (last test 2024-Q2)
37. Port Meteorological Services
37.1. Weather Monitoring
– Real-time wind speed displays at all berths (updated every 30 seconds)
– Storm warning alarms activate at 15m/s sustained winds
37.2. Tide Information
– Digital tide gauges with 1cm accuracy
– Predicted vs. actual tide displays at control tower
38. Vessel Speed Limits
38.1. Approach Channels
– Main channel: 8 knots maximum (5 knots in fog)
– Turning basin: 4 knots during cargo operations
38.2. Dock Areas
– 3 knots within 200m of moored vessels
– Zero speed zones at fuel transfer locations
39. Port Security Equipment
39.1. Surveillance Systems
– Thermal cameras cover 100% of restricted areas
– Automatic number plate recognition at all gates
39.2. Access Control
– Biometric verification for high-security zones
– Temporary passes valid for 12 hours maximum
40. Emergency Response
40.1. Firefighting Capacity
– 3 fireboats (10,000L/min pumping capacity)
– Foam stations every 50m at liquid cargo berths
40.2. Oil Spill Response
– 500m containment boom ready for deployment
– Skimmer vessels on 30-minute standby
41. Port Customs Procedures
41.1. Clearance Requirements
– Electronic manifest submission 24 hours pre-arrival (JPCS system)
– Physical inspection rate: 5% random selection + targeted high-risk cargo
41.2. Temporary Storage
– Bonded warehouse capacity: 12,000m³ (72-hour free period)
– Customs-controlled areas marked with yellow perimeter lighting
42. Vessel Waste Management
42.1. Reception Facilities
– MARPOL Annex V compliant (plastics separation system)
– Sludge processing capacity: 50m³/day (operational 0600-2200)
42.2. Discharge Records
– Digital waste tracking (QR code system)
– Mandatory retention of receipts for 3 years
43. Port Navigation Aids
43.1. Channel Markings
– IALA Region A buoyage system (red right returning)
– Sector lights at 137°04’30″E for main channel alignment
43.2. Depth Monitoring
– Multibeam surveys conducted monthly
– Real-time depth display at port control (5cm accuracy)
44. Port Tariff Structure
44.1. Vessel Charges
– GT-based dues: ¥85/GT for first 10,000GT + ¥65/GT thereafter
– 15% discount for ISO 14001 certified vessels
44.2. Cargo Fees
– Bulk cargo: ¥320/ton (minimum charge ¥8,000)
– Container handling: ¥4,500/TEU (including wharfage)
45. Ship Repair Services
45.1. Dry Dock Availability
– No.1 Dock: 180m LOA × 30m beam (12m depth)
– Advance booking required (minimum 14 days notice)
45.2. Emergency Repairs
– 24/7 welding and mechanical teams
– Certified for IACS class repair work
46. Port Pilotage Services
46.1. Compulsory Areas
– Required for vessels >10,000 GT or carrying hazardous cargo
– Boarding station: 36°48’15″N 137°05’40″E (marked by yellow buoy)
46.2. Pilot Transfer
– Accommodation ladder required (angle ≤45°)
– Night transfers require deck lighting ≥100 lux
47. Bunkering Operations
47.1. Fuel Quality
– ISO 8217:2017 compliant fuels only
– Random sampling conducted on 5% of deliveries
47.2. Safety Measures
– Double-hulled bunker barges mandatory
– Emergency disconnect systems tested monthly
48. Port Ice Management
48.1. Winter Navigation
– Icebreaker escort available December-March (72-hour notice)
– Hull ice class verification required (minimum IC)
48.2. De-icing Procedures
– Hot water spray systems at Berths 3-5
– Maximum 3-hour continuous application limit
49. Port Community System
49.1. Digital Services
– Single window platform for all documentation
– Real-time vessel tracking (AIS integration)
49.2. E-Payment Options
– Online settlement for all port fees
– Blockchain-based billing system available
50. Port Labor Services
50.1. Stevedoring
– Certified teams for all cargo types
– Minimum gang size: 8 workers per shift
50.2. Equipment Operators
– Crane operators require JIS certification
– Continuous training every 6 months
51. Port Environmental Monitoring
51.1. Air Quality Control
– Continuous PM2.5 monitoring at 6 locations (alarm threshold: 35μg/m³)
– Mandatory shore power for vessels berthing >4 hours (50Hz, 6.6kV)
51.2. Water Protection
– Oil content monitors at all discharge outlets (15ppm alarm)
– Bi-monthly sediment sampling for heavy metal analysis
52. Heavy Lift Operations
52.1. Special Equipment
– Floating crane capacity: 800 tons (available on 72-hour notice)
– Reinforced quay areas: Berths 7-9 (load limit 20t/m²)
52.2. Engineering Requirements
– Structural calculations required for loads >50 tons
– Wind speed limit: 12m/s for tandem lifts
53. Port Transit Sheds
53.1. Storage Facilities
– Temperature-controlled areas: 4,000m² (+2°C to +8°C)
– Hazardous goods shed: 800m² (Class 1-9 separation)
53.2. Cargo Handling
– 24/7 forklift service (3-25 ton capacity units)
– Automated inventory system (barcode scanning)
54. Vessel Provisions Services
54.1. Supply Logistics
– Fresh water delivery: 200m³/hour capacity
– Food provisioning available with 12-hour notice
54.2. Waste Collection
– Organic waste processing facility (5 ton/day capacity)
– Medical waste incinerator (operates Tue/Thu/Sat)
55. Port Electrical Services
55.1. Shore Power
– 50Hz/60Hz dual frequency converters available
– Cold ironing capacity: 6MVA (all berths)
55.2. Emergency Power
– Backup generators for essential services (30-second activation)
– Priority circuits marked with red junction boxes
