Two new IMO resolutions related to the Ballast Water Management Convention are set to take effect, altering the format of the Ballast Water Record Book (BWRB) and introducing new requirements for electronic BWRBs:
Key Resolutions:
- IMO Resolution MEPC.369(80): Amendments to the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004, specifically Appendix II (Form of Ballast Water Record Book). Effective from 1 February 2025.
- IMO Resolution MEPC.383(81): Amendments to the same convention, focusing on Regulations A-1 and B-2 (Use of Electronic Record Books). Effective from 1 October 2025.
New Format BWRB:
Under the BWM Convention (Reg. B-2), maintaining a BWRB on board is mandatory, containing information specified in Appendix II. The amendments in IMO Resolution MEPC.369(80) will be effective from 1 February 2025. Model BWRBs that comply with the new format are available in the resources section of the LR ballast water website. Guidance on completing BWRB entries can be found in BWM.2/Circ.80.
Electronic BWRBs:
IMO Resolution MEPC.383(81) introduces new requirements for electronic BWRBs, effective from 1 October 2025. These include:
- Approval: Electronic BWRBs must meet the IMO performance standard (see Guidelines for the use of Electronic Record Book under BMW Convention, IMO Resolution MEPC.372(80)).
- Ship-specific Declaration: A declaration confirming the electronic BWRB installation meets IMO guidelines must be carried on board. This can be issued by the flag Administration or by LR following an installation survey.
Electronic BWRB Declarations:
The declaration may be issued by the flag Administration or by LR, if authorized. The installation survey will demonstrate that entries can be made, countersigned, and printed by authorized officers. Without this declaration, electronic record books may not be accepted during surveys or Port State Control inspections.
Action Items for Shipowners and Operators:
- Ensure compliance with the new BWRB format by 1 February 2025.
- Obtain ship-specific approval for electronic BWRBs by 1 October 2025.
- Maintain BWRB entries on board for at least two years after the last entry, and in the company’s control for a minimum of three years thereafter.
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