Bahamas: Revised Ballast Water Record Books transition and early adoption guidelines

Eda Zenic -

The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) has issued Technical Alert TA006, Version No. 1 to inform about the revised Ballast Water Record Books. These books comply with the amendments specified in the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004 (BWM Convention).

Introduction:

  • IMO Resolution MEPC.369(80): This resolution introduces changes to the format of the Ballast Water Record Book, which is detailed in Appendix II of the BWM Convention. These changes will take effect on 01 February 2025.
  • Changes in Format: The revised Ballast Water Record Book includes expanded items for recording and a new system of code letters and item numbers, similar to other maritime Record Books.
  • Availability: The BMA has prepared new Record Books in line with MEPC.369(80). These new Ballast Water Record Books (Version 3.1 dated May 2024) are available for purchase from the BMA publications section. Refer to BMA Marine Notice 51 for more details.

Voluntary Early Adoption:

  • BMA Stance: The BMA permits and supports the voluntary early adoption of the new format Ballast Water Record Books before the official implementation date of 01 February 2025.
  • Procedure for Early Adoption: Companies opting for early adoption should close their existing Ballast Water Record Books (old format) and mark through any unused pages to transition to the new format.

Existing Record Books:

  • Incompatibility: Due to the changes in item numbers introduced by MEPC.369(80), the old format Ballast Water Record Books are not compatible with the new system. Therefore, the BMA will stop providing these old format books.
  • Using Existing Stock: To minimize waste, existing stocks of old format Ballast Water Record Books can be used until they are exhausted, provided the following steps are taken:
    • Close the old format books and mark through any unused pages.
    • Attach a copy of the instructions and relevant introduction pages from MEPC.369(80) to the old Record Book (provided in Annex I of the alert).
    • Mark through the old format introduction pages.
    • Make entries using the new Code/Item numbers specified in MEPC.369(80).

Electronic Record Keeping:

  • Alternative Method: Electronic systems for recording ballast water management activities can be used as an alternative to the hard copy Record Books. For more details, refer to BMA Marine Notice MN09 on Electronic Record Keeping Systems.

Validity:

  • Effective Period: This Technical Alert remains valid until further notice from the BMA.

Annex I:

  • Introduction Pages for the New Format Record Books:
    • These pages provide guidance on keeping records of each ballast water operation, including discharges at sea and to reception facilities, in compliance with regulation B-2 of the BWM Convention.
    • Definitions and guidelines for estimating the volume of ballast water are also included, emphasizing adherence to an approved Ballast Water Management Plan and the relevant guidelines from the Organization (IMO).