In what year were double hull tankers mandated worldwide?

The mandate for double hull tankers was introduced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in response to concerns about oil spills and marine pollution, following several major tanker accidents that highlighted the risks associated with single hull designs. The International Convention on the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) amendments included regulations that required new tankers to be built with double hulls to provide an additional layer of protection against spills in the event of a hull breach.

The significant regulatory change took effect in 1993, stipulating that all new oil tankers larger than a certain size must have a double hull. This was a crucial development aimed at improving maritime safety and environmental protection. Thus, understanding the timeline of this regulation is essential for anyone involved in maritime operations and the handling of petrochemical products, as it underscores the industry's shift towards safer shipping practices.