What Is the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM)?
In today’s maritime world, environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance are no longer optional—they are expected, enforced, and essential for sustainable operations. One of the most significant developments in this area is the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM).
But what exactly is IHM? Why does it matter to shipowners, operators, and marine inspectors? And how can digital tools streamline its management?
In this article, we’ll answer all those questions and more.
Understanding IHM: A Quick Overview
The Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) is a document required for vessels that identifies any hazardous materials present on board. It’s part of a global effort to ensure ships are built, operated, and dismantled in an environmentally sound and safe manner.
The concept originates from the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (2009), and it is further reinforced by the EU Ship Recycling Regulation (EU SRR No. 1257/2013), which mandates compliance for all EU-flagged ships and third-country vessels calling at EU ports.
What Is Included in an IHM?
The IHM is not a single list—it’s a structured document with multiple parts:
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Part I: Covers hazardous materials present in the ship’s structure, systems, equipment, and fittings (e.g., asbestos, PCBs, heavy metals, ozone-depleting substances).
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Part II: Lists operationally generated hazardous materials (e.g., waste oils, chemicals, residues).
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Part III: Includes hazardous materials stored in stores (e.g., paints, cleaners, spare parts containing mercury).
For most operational vessels, Part I is mandatory. Part II and III become relevant when a ship is going for recycling.
Why Is IHM Important?
Here’s why IHM matters to all maritime stakeholders:
1. Legal Compliance
If your vessel enters EU waters, IHM compliance is legally required. Ships without a valid IHM Certificate and Statement of Compliance (SoC) may be denied port entry, fined, or detained.
2. Crew and Environmental Safety
Hazardous materials like asbestos or mercury can pose serious risks to onboard personnel. IHM helps identify and manage these risks before they become health hazards.
3. Safer Ship Recycling
At the end of a vessel’s life, recycling facilities use the IHM to safely dismantle and dispose of hazardous components, reducing environmental impact.
4. Reputation and ESG Impact
Demonstrating IHM compliance supports a company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives, improving trust with clients, investors, and regulators.
Conclusion: Stay Ahead with Smart IHM Management
As the maritime industry moves toward stricter environmental and safety standards, proactive IHM management is no longer just best practice—it’s essential.
Whether you're updating IHM data after ship modifications or preparing for recycling in the next decade, digital tools can help you stay compliant, organized, and audit-ready.
Micromarin is here to support your journey toward safer, cleaner, and smarter shipping.
Interested in how PMS works alongside other modules like Crewing, Safety, or Data Exchange? Explore the full Micromarin suite to see how your operations can benefit from a unified platform.