Why Cleaning of Bilges in Ships and Their Disposal Is Critical for Marine Operations?

A bilge is the lowest part of a ship’s hull. It is often exposed to contaminants that require regular ship bilge cleaning services. A contaminant build-up in a ship’s bilge can cause fire accidents, pollution and also health issues for the ship’s passengers.

So, what causes the build-up of contaminants in the ship’s bilge?

There are several reasons bilges can get contaminated, including:
Oil leakages from the ship’s machinery, engine pumps and cooling systems can cause bilge contamination. Further, leakage of coolants and other fluids into the ship’s bilge can lead to a dirty bilge.
Condensation from the ship’s cooling systems can collect in the bilge, causing stagnant water bodies that can breed mould and algae.
Since the ship’s bilge is the lowest part of the ship, contaminants and pollutants from other parts of the ship naturally drain and accumulate in the bilge.

Why ship bilge cleaning services in Bahrain is important?

Bahrain is an Island country with multiple ports that facilitate the country’s commercial trade and tourism. In 2024, a total of 34 cruise ships and an estimated count of more than 3200 cargo ships docked at Bahrain ports. The ships docked at ports essentially undergo maintenance, repairs and cleaning to ensure a safe and successful onward journey. So, ship bilge cleaning services are a crucial part of ship maintenance.

Prevents pollution

Oil residue or ship leakages drain into the ship’s bilge. These oil contaminants can spill into the ocean waters and cause an imbalance in the ecosystem. So, one of the reasons cleaning of bilges in ships is important is to prevent or minimise the ship’s environmental impact.

Compliance with regulations

Bahrain is a signatory to the MARPOL Treaty or the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships.The treaty’s guidelines strictly prohibit ships from releasing oil or toxic waste. Therefore, ships need regular bilge cleaning to meet treaty guidelines and maintain compliance. Non-compliance can attract hefty fines and severe penalties, including vessel detention and also criminal prosecution.

Safety requirements

Ship bilge cleaning services are also mandatory to ensure the safety and operational efficiency of the vessel. For example, accumulated water in the bilge can compromise the ship’s stability in rough seas or choppy waters. Further oil leakages into the bilge can be a major fire hazard. That is why experts always recommend regular bilge cleaning to protect ships from fire risks.

The best ship bilge cleaning services in Bahrain

For ship cleaning services in Bahrain, Modern Global Cleaning Co. W.L.L. is a name to reckon with. Our professional services make us one of the preferred cleaning companies in the country. We follow international protocols to ensure proper disposal of bilge water and waste. Our disposal practices are governed by the guidelines laid down in the MARPOL treaty.

At Modern Global Cleaning Co, we adopt the latest technology, modern tools and equipment to ensure the best disposal methods. We also strictly adhere to sustainable waste management practices. Contact Modern Global Co today for the best ship bilge cleaning services in Bahrain.