The Evaluation of the Hazards of Harmful Substances Carried by Ships: Reports and Studies No. 17

This report consolidates the work of a group of experts convened to develop and apply a structured procedure for evaluating the environmental hazards of harmful substances carried by ships. Prepared to support the development and implementation of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, it sets out the historical background, rationale and detailed steps of the hazard evaluation process. Substances are assessed against criteria including bioaccumulation, toxicity to aquatic life, hazards to human health, and reduction of amenities, leading to hazard profiles and pollution categories. The document also explains data requirements, review procedures, and the treatment of specific classes of chemicals and mixtures.