The U.S. Coast Guard Office of Operating and Environmental Standards (CG-OES) has released an updated "Ballast Water Frequently Asked Questions" (FAQs), dated November 18, 2025. This revised document provides critical guidance for vessel operators, manufacturers and maritime professionals on ballast water management regulations and compliance.
Highlights of the Update:
The revised FAQs clarify differences between U.S. Coast Guard and IMO standards, focusing on "living" versus "viable" organisms. They provide compliance timelines for installing Coast Guard-approved BWMS, exemptions for certain vessels, and procedures for extraordinary circumstances like BWMS failures or challenging water quality. Updated reporting and recordkeeping instructions include guidance for submitting reports to the National Ballast Information Clearinghouse (NBIC) and maintaining onboard records. The document also outlines requirements for BWMS testing, approval processes, and enforcement measures such as inspections and ballast water sampling.
Access the FAQs: Ballast Water Frequently Asked Questions
The updated FAQs are available electronically on the CG-OES website and the Marine Safety Center Ballast Water Type Approval webpage.
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