The Coast Guard has been made aware of instances of the use of unauthorized chemical products in Ballast Water Management Systems (BWMS). Companies and vessels must ensure they use chemicals that are listed in the Operations, Maintenance, and Safety Manual (OMSM) for their particular BWMS. Use of the incorrect chemical product for treatment invalidates the type approval for the BWMS and could result in ineffective treatment. During BWMS checks, Coast Guard Inspectors verify that the chemical manufacturer and type on the chemical storage tank matches that required through the OMSM. Operators must ensure that the proper listed chemicals are being used for the BWMS to prevent the issuance of deficiencies or fines for not operating the type approved BWMS in accordance with the system’s OMSM.
The use of non-approved chemicals can result in safety concerns for the crew, vessel and inspectors. Further, it could result in the BWMS failing to meet system testing standards in 46 CFR 162.060 or the discharge standards in 33 CFR 151.
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