Matau-Marine Academy

MARPOL Explained: A Basic Introduction

By Bianca Frömming Categories: MARPOL
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About Course

This introductory course is designed for anyone working with MARPOL – the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships. Whether you work in a shipping office, a port authority, a maritime agency, or onboard a vessel, this course provides a clear and accessible overview of MARPOL’s structure and key content.

What you’ll learn:

  • An overview of the six MARPOL Annexes
  • The structure of the Convention and its legal significance
  • Responsibilities and practical implementation
  • Relevance across different roles and sectors
  • Simple examples and short knowledge checks

Who should take this course:

This course is ideal for beginners with no prior knowledge, as well as for those looking to refresh their basic understanding – including staff in shipping companies, port administrations, classification societies, or maritime service providers.

Duration: approx. 30–45 minutes
Certificate: Certificate of Completion upon successful completion

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What Will You Learn?

  • In this course, you will gain a clear and accessible introduction to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) — the cornerstone of maritime environmental regulation.
  • Through real-world examples and structured explanations, you will understand the purpose, structure, and practical implications of MARPOL for daily shipboard and shore-based operations.
  • By the end of this course, you will be able to:
  • ✅ Understand the goals and historical background of MARPOL
  • ✅ Identify the six key MARPOL Annexes and their respective pollution categories
  • ✅ Recognize the main operational requirements to prevent pollution by oil, noxious liquids, harmful substances, sewage, garbage, and air emissions
  • ✅ Understand the role of record books, certificates, and onboard procedures
  • ✅ Explain the importance of compliance and the consequences of violations
  • ✅ Apply basic MARPOL principles in your work, whether on board or in a supporting role ashore
  • This course builds foundational knowledge for officers, ratings, students, and maritime professionals who want to ensure safer and cleaner shipping through regulatory awareness.

Course Content

Main Components of MARPOL – Explained
The MARPOL Convention is made up of two main parts: the Convention text and six technical annexes. Together, they form the legal and practical framework for preventing marine pollution from ships.

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