The US Coast Guard has published a guidance document to assist ship owners and operators as well as marine inspectors and port state control officers in evaluating vessel ballast water management (BWM) plans. The guidance document addresses general elements of the plans as well as fouling and sediment management procedures.
The two latest files posted to help explain the BWM regulations are:
- Guidance on verification of Fouling Maintenance and Sediment Removal Procedures, 5 Nov 2012
- PowerPoint Presentation (with audio narration) – USCG Ballast Water Final Rule, 5 Nov 2012
See also the attached client alert from ECM Maritime Services regarding unannounced oil spill exercises involving tank vessels.