The IMO has released BWM.2/Circ.80 – Guidance on ballast water record-keeping and reporting. The circular aims to bring clarity to the record-keeping and reporting process under the BWM Convention, including guidance on completing the Ballast Water Record Book.

Ballast Water Reporting Form

The circular includes an updated example ballast water reporting form (BWRF) and guidance on how to complete the form. Some port States may require the submission of a BWRF for ships bound for its ports, offshore terminals or anchorage areas.

Voluntary Tank-by-tank Log Form

The circular also includes an example form for voluntary tank-by-tank logging of ballast water operations and guidance on how to complete the form. Although not required by the BWM Convention, keeping tank-by-tank logs is recommended as a best practice.

Consequential Amendments

The IMO has also published minor amendments to the following:

• Guidelines for ballast water management and the development of Ballast Water Management Plans (G4) – see IMO Res. MEPC.370(80)
• 2017 Guidelines for ballast water exchange (G6) – see IMO Res. MEPC.371(80)
  It is not expected that these amendments will require any reapproval of existing Ballast Water Management Plans.Recommended action

  A copy of the circular should be appended to ships’ Ballast Water Record Books and Ballast Water Management Plans.

• Updated model Ballast Water Management Plans can be found on Lloyd’s Register’s ballast water management page.