Training

IMO e-Learning portal

IMO has developed a number of e-Learning courses with the purpose of increasing the capacity of Member States to effectively implement IMO instruments. For background information on IMO’s training courses as part of IMO’s Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP) please click here.

To undertake IMO’s e-Learning courses, two options are available: a) by authorization, or b) self-enrolment.

**For more information on the enrolment options and in order to register in the system, please follow carefully the user guide. (Click here for the user guide in French)

Project training courses

The TEST Biofouling and GloFouling Partnerships project has developed a series of training courses and workshop packages to support the implementation of effective biofouling management practices.

These materials are intended for use by maritime administrations, port authorities, industry stakeholders, and training institutions, and are delivered through IMO’s technical cooperation mechanisms.

For non-partner countries, access to training materials may be provided through the request to the IMO Technical Cooperation (TC) Portal, in accordance with IMO procedures.

Introduction to Marine Biofouling: Impacts and Management of Risks

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Course Format

in-person

Course Duration

2 days

Course Language

English, French and Spanish

Course Objective:

To strengthen understanding of the process of biofouling accumulation, its environmental and operational impacts, and the regulatory dimensions of marine biofouling management, in support of implementation of the IMO Biofouling Guidelines.

Course Summary:

This course introduces the environmental and operational impacts of biofouling, including invasive aquatic species (IAS) transfer and fuel efficiency implications. It provides an overview of risk pathways, management measures, stakeholder roles, and regulatory considerations at flag, port and ship level.

Target Audience:

All persons interested in understanding the process, impacts and potential management of marine biofouling

Biofouling Management Plans and Record Books

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Course Format

in-person

Course Duration

2 days

Course Language

English, French and Spanish

Course Objective:

To enhance national and industry capacity to develop, review and implement Ship Biofouling Management Plans (BFMPs) and maintain Biofouling Record Books in line with IMO Biofouling Guidelines.

Course Summary:

The training provides practical guidance on preparing, reviewing and auditing BFMPs and Record Books. It covers risk-based management planning, documentation standards, inspection intervals, niche area management and verification procedures to support port and flag State oversight.

Target Audience:

Port authorities, shipowners and operators, shipboard personnel, classification societies, and other stakeholders involved in the development, implementation, and oversight of Biofouling Management Plans and Record Books.

Dry Dock Operations for Biofouling Management

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Course Format

in-person

Course Duration

2 days

Course Language

English, French and Spanish

Course Objective:

To promote environmentally responsible biofouling control during dry-docking operations and support shipowners and yards in implementing effective hull maintenance practices.

Course Summary:

The course addresses hull maintenance planning, coating selection, surface preparation, waste management, and inspection protocols during dry dock periods. It emphasizes preventive maintenance, compliance and environmental safeguards.

Target Audience:

Port authorities, port operators, terminal managers, environmental and compliance officers

Biofouling Risk Assessment and Inspection methodologies

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Course Format

in-person

Course Duration

2 days

Course Language

English, French and Spanish

Course Objective:

To strengthen technical competence in planning, conducting and reporting risk-based in-water hull inspections consistent with IMO Biofouling Guidelines.

Course Summary:

The course covers inspection planning, safety considerations, image interpretation, risk categorization, reporting formats and decision-making processes. It supports port State authorities and technical personnel in assessing hull condition and compliance using various methods.

Target Audience:

Maritime administrations, port State control officers, flag State inspectors, classification societies, surveyors.