The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has issued SHIPPING CIRCULAR TO OWNERS NO.28 OF 2017 dated on 21 December 2017, as per attached.

According to the circular, Singapore registered new ships below 1,600 gross tonnage, that is keel laid on or after 1 July 2018, are required to ensure that the followings are complied with.

1. As far as practicable, comply with the maximum noise level limits for spaces specified in section 4.2 of the Noise Code on Board on Ship (Hereinafter referred to "Noise Code").

2. As far as practicable, comply with the maximum noise limit in accommodation spaces1 specified in section 4.2 of the Noise Code. And in general, the noise level shall not exceed 75dB(A).

3. As far as practicable, comply with the maximum noise limit in the navigation spaces2 specified in section 4.2 of the Noise Code to facilitate the communication within the space and external radio-communications. And in general, shall not exceed 70dB(A).

4. Seafarers without hearing protectors shall not be exposed to noise levels greater than 85 dB(A) exceeding 8hrs within a 24-hour period. Suitable hearing protectors shall be given and used by the seafarers if the noise level is greater than 85 dB(A).

5. Seafarers even when wearing hearing protectors, shall not be exposed to noise levels exceeding 120 dB(A).

6. New ship should on completion of the construction, or as soon as practicable thereafter, measure the noise levels in spaces specified in section 4.2 under the operating conditions specified in sections 3.3 and 3.4 of the Noise Code.

(To be continued)