BWM.2 Circ.80 Guidance on ballast water record-keeping and reporting

The Marine Environment Protection Committee, at its eightieth session (3 to 7 July 2023) approved the Guidance on ballast water record-keeping and reporting to assist in bringing clarity to the record-keeping and reporting process under the BWM Convention, including guidance on completing the Ballast Water Record Book, an updated example ballast water reporting form and an example form for voluntary tank-by-tank logging of ballast water operations, as set out in the annex.

 

Ballast Water Reporting Form

The circular includes an updated example ballast water reporting form (BWRF) and guidance on how to complete the form. Some port States may require the submission of a BWRF for ships bound for its ports, offshore terminals, or anchorage areas.

 

Voluntary Tank-by-tank Log Form

The circular also includes an example form for voluntary tank-by-tank logging of ballast water operations and guidance on how to complete the form. Although not required by the BWM Convention, keeping tank-by-tank logs is recommended as a best practice.

 

Consequential Amendments

The IMO has also published minor amendments to the following:

• Guidelines for ballast water management and the development of Ballast Water Management Plans (G4) – see IMO Res. 370(80)
• 2017 Guidelines for ballast water exchange (G6) – see IMO Res. 371(80)

 

Implications

It is not expected that these amendments will require any reapproval of existing Ballast Water Management Plans, it is recommended its update, as applicable.

 

 

Source LR