Definition(s)
Niche Areas
Niche areas mean areas on a ship that may be more susceptible to biofouling due to different hydrodynamic forces, susceptibility to coating system wear or damage, or being inadequately, or not, painted, e.g., sea chests, bow thrusters, propeller shafts, inlet gratings, dry-dock support strips, etc.
Source: Resolution MEPC.207(62), 2011 Guidelines for the control and management of ships’ biofouling to minimize the transfer of invasive aquatic species, 15 July 2011, International Maritime Organization. Regulatory Guidance