Developments regarding Ballast Water Management in US Waters

Piraeus Marine Services S.A. would like to inform you about the latest news, requirements and dates regarding the installation of the Ballast Water Management Systems.

USCG published a Policy Letter (CG-OES Policy Letter No. 13-01, Revision 1) and an associated Marine Safety Information Bulletin (MSIB 13-15) that provide revised guidance to vessel owners and operators seeking to extend compliance dates for implementing approved ballast water management methods.

The original compliance date of a vessel is determined by the following table, which reflects the implementation schedule as listed in 33 CFR Part 151.1512(b) (Subpart C) or 151.2035(b) (Subpart D).
All new vessels (constructed on or after 1 December 2013) must use an approved ballast water management method on delivery. Existing vessel’s ballast water capacity and is set as the first scheduled drydocking after 1 January 2016 or 1 January 2014.

MSIB 13-15 clarifies the term ‘first scheduled drydocking’ for the purposes of compliance with the BWM implementation schedule. In all cases, a vessel’s first scheduled drydocking date is the date the vessel enters a drydock.

If that happens sometime during 2015 and the vessel goes not leave drydock until after 1 January 2016, this drydocking is not considered the first scheduled after 1 January 2016 for purposes of compliance.

You can also visit the webpage of our BWT Unit, the ‘BlueZone BWMS’, where you may find all the necessary information you need regarding this system, which is based on the use of OZONE MICRO BUBBLES. By that, all harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens in ballast water are disinfected. The micro OZONE bubbles reduce the power consumption substantially. This method is unique and has been patented.

Here you may find all the necessary information regarding the Policy letter (CG-OES Policy Letter No. 13-01, Revision 1), the associated Marine Safety Information Bulletin (MSIB 13-15), as well as the video for the BlueZone BWMS system.

We remain at your disposal for any information you may require.