Which MARPOL certificate is specifically used to prevent oil pollution?

• A. ISPP
• B. IAPP
• C. SOPEP
• D. IOPP

Answer: (D)

Oil pollution prevention on ships is ensured by the International Oil Pollution Prevention certificate. This MARPOL Annex I certificate proves the vessel has the required oil pollution prevention equipment and arrangements, and that the operating procedures are in place to minimize any discharge of oil during normal operations. It covers systems like the oily-water separator, appropriate tank and discharge arrangements, and proper maintenance documentation. The certificate is issued after surveys confirm compliance and is valid for a defined period (typically five years), with renewal involving follow-up surveys. Other MARPOL documents serve different purposes—such as a plan for responding to spills, or certifications related to air pollution or sewage—so they don’t specifically certify prevention of oil pollution.