Which MARPOL Annex addresses Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk?

• A. Annex I
• B. Annex II
• C. Annex IV
• D. Annex VI

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that a specific MARPOL annex is dedicated to noxious liquid substances carried in bulk. This annex sets out how those liquids are classified, documented, and handled to prevent pollution. It requires ships to prepare an NLS declaration and maintain appropriate records, and it governs what discharges are allowed or prohibited based on the substance’s category (X, Y, or Z) on the NLS list. By defining these rules, it ensures that harmful liquids carried as bulk cargo are managed with strict controls on their loading, carriage, and any potential discharge, including requirements for port reception facilities to handle residues and slops. This annex is distinct from others: oil pollution is covered by the oil-focused annex, sewage by another, and air pollution by a separate one.