This coincides with the entry into force of the IMO’s Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention.
BIMCO's new 'Shipmaster's Ballast Water Manual’ provides clear, accessible information for seafarers dealing with practicalities of daily ballast water management. The manual covers all aspects of the Convention, including regulatory implementation, inspections by port state control and charterers and the latest guidance issued by the IMO.
There are currently numerous ballast water management systems that have been approved by the IMO but member states and most seafarers are still unfamiliar with their operations.
Lars Robert Pedersen, BIMCO deputy secretary general, said: "Implementation of the BWM Convention has been just around the corner for a long time, but there is still a great deal of confusion over the actual realities of the operational requirements, each ships' ballast water management plan and the associated record keeping to demonstrate compliance.
"This new guide has been written with seafarers in mind, in a practical and easily accessible way, to be used on board at sea, helping the crew to manage the new obligations safely and effectively," he said.
The manual links to the already established safety management system (SMS) covering the company and the ship, which includes proper plans for shipboard operations. The SMS requires crew and officers to be familiar with applicable on board instructions and procedures, including ballast water management.
The manual reflects latest guidance from the IMO and can be ordered online on the following link: http://www.witherbyseamanship.com/shipmasters-ballast-water-manual.html or by emailing [email protected].
The manual is priced €150, or €85 for BIMCO members.