The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has introduced significant updates to the Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention through the adoption of three revised circulars on 24 October 2024.
These amendments provide updated guidance on critical aspects of ballast water management, including record-keeping, type approval processes, and the use of active substances in ballast water management systems (BWMS). The revisions aim to enhance compliance with the BWM Convention and address evolving challenges in operational and technical contexts. Shipowners, operators, and BWMS manufacturers are encouraged to review these changes to ensure adherence to the updated requirements and best practices.
IMO – BWM.2/Circ.43/Rev.2 – 2024 Guidance for Administrations on the Type Approval Process for Ballast Water Management Systems
This circular introduces essential updates to the type approval process for ballast water management systems (BWMS). Specifically, it outlines procedures for evaluating and approving modifications, whether major or minor, to an already type-approved BWMS as proposed by manufacturers. This guidance aims to streamline the approval process while ensuring that modifications maintain compliance with the stringent standards of the BWM Convention, thereby enhancing the adaptability and reliability of BWMS in evolving operational contexts.
IMO – BWM.2/Circ.34/Rev.13 – List of Ballast Water Management Systems That Make Use of Active Substances
The latest revision of this circular provides the annual updated list of ballast water management systems that utilize Active Substances, which have received either Basic Approval or Final Approval under the IMO’s rigorous evaluation process. This list serves as a crucial resource for shipowners and operators, offering clarity on the approved systems available in the market and ensuring that selected systems comply with the BWM Convention’s environmental and safety requirements.
