From 1 September to 30 November 2025, the Paris and Tokyo MOUs will jointly conduct a Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) focusing on Ballast Water Management (BWM).
In preparation, the Liberia Maritime Authority has issued an advisory to shipowners and operators, emphasizing the importance of compliance with BWM requirements such as certification, recordkeeping, and crew familiarization. This campaign aims to ensure that vessels fully meet the Ballast Water Management Convention standards and reduce the risk of invasive species transfer through ballast water.
Key Areas of CIC Focus
The inspection will revolve around 10 critical questions that cover certification, operational readiness, and crew awareness. Some key areas include:
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Certification & Documentation
Ships must carry a valid International Ballast Water Management Certificate (IBWMC) and an approved Ballast Water Management Plan (BWMP). Both documents must be updated and reflect current operational procedures, including contingency measures for challenging water conditions. -
Crew Familiarization & Training
Inspectors will assess whether officers and crew are trained in ballast water handling, sediment management, and contingency actions in case of system failure. Regular drills and internal mock CIC inspections are encouraged to ensure readiness. -
System Approval & Operation
The Ballast Water Management System (BWMS) must be type-approved and operational. Functionality tests should be carried out before port calls, with records maintained in the Ballast Water Record Book (BWRB). Proper sediment disposal and compliance with exemption conditions will also be verified.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Port State Control Officers will use a standardized questionnaire during inspections. If deficiencies are found, actions may include:
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Recording a deficiency and requiring rectification within a set timeframe.
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Detaining the vessel until serious issues are resolved.
Inspection results will later be published on the Paris and Tokyo MoU websites. Although the CIC does not specifically question the Safety Management System (SMS), any BWM-related non-conformities may indirectly affect the ship and company SMS compliance.
The upcoming CIC on Ballast Water Management highlights the growing international focus on environmental protection and regulatory compliance in shipping. By ensuring valid certification, updated plans, crew training, and proper operation of systems, shipowners and operators can avoid detentions and penalties while contributing to sustainable maritime practices. Proactive preparation, including internal audits and mock inspections, will be key to achieving full compliance during this campaign.
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Source: SAFETY4SEA
