The Port State Control Concentrated Inspection Campaign 2022: Focus on Ballast Water Management
This year’s Port State Control Concentrated Inspection Campaign (PSC CIC), scheduled to take place from September 1 to November 30, will hone in on ballast water management. DNV reports that the Paris and Tokyo MoUs have agreed to lead the CIC, with an expectation of participation from the majority of other PSC MoUs.
The CIC will be accompanied by an additional questionnaire highlighting the focus areas, typically released in early August. To provide further insights and guidance, DNV will host a complimentary webinar on September 2.
Key Findings in Ballast Water Management
DNV’s internal data from 2024 and 2025 revealed the most common findings related to ballast water management. These include issues with ballast water record books, Ballast Water Management Systems (BWMS), and ballast water management plans.
Ballast Water Record Book
- Electronic record book used on board without a flag approval letter present
- Incorrect or missing entries in the ballast water record book
- Mismatch between recorded entries and observed ballast operations
- Mismatch between entries and BWMS log entries
- Outdated version of the record book in use
Ballast Water Management System (BWMS)
- Failure to report BWMS malfunctions to PSC
- Failure to document BWMS issues in the record book
- Non-functional BWMS components
- Non-compliance with contingency measures in case of BWMS failure
Ballast Water Management Plan
- Missing or outdated information in the management plan
- Inconsistent details regarding BWM methods, designated personnel, etc.
DNV emphasizes the importance of incorporating these findings into regular onboard maintenance practices and continuous crew training to ensure ongoing compliance with ballast water management regulations.
Stay informed and prepared for the upcoming PSC CIC by addressing these common findings and enhancing your vessel’s ballast water management practices.