Liberia: INTERTANKO’s PCWQ database

The Liberia Maritime Authority issued Marine Advisory 37/2024 on December 5, 2024, to highlight the availability and importance of INTERTANKO’s ‘Ports with Challenging Water Quality’ (PCWQ) database. This resource is designed for shipowners, operators, inspectors, and masters to improve planning and operational decision-making regarding ballast water management systems (BWMS).

The PCWQ database compiles information from INTERTANKO members about ports where challenging water quality (CWQ) has adversely impacted BWMS performance. It serves as a valuable tool for navigating both well-documented and lesser-known PCWQ locations, enabling stakeholders to anticipate and mitigate risks effectively.

Key benefits and uses of the database include:

Voyage Planning: Helps ships prepare for calls at ports with CWQ by offering insights aligned with IMO guidance in MEPC Resolution 387(81).
Problem Analysis: Provides historical data on BWMS challenges, identifying trends and issues by region and treatment type.
Collaboration: Supports discussions with Port State authorities by referencing documented instances of CWQ impacts.
Improvement Initiatives: Encourages continuous improvement in BWMS design by identifying recurring challenges and solutions.

Effective October 24, 2024, the database is accessible to all stakeholders for submitting reports and reviewing data. Full access instructions and information are available on the INTERTANKO website. For specific inquiries related to environmental challenges, INTERTANKO can be reached at environment@intertanko.com.

Additionally, the Liberia Maritime Authority advises stakeholders to contact its Regulations and Standards department at regsandstandards@liscr.com for further clarification or guidance on this advisory.

The PCWQ database is expected to foster better understanding and management of BWMS issues, contributing to safer and more efficient maritime operations while promoting compliance with international standards such as the Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention.