5 Dissemination of Information
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Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - Resolutions - Assembly - IMO Resolution A.868(20) – Guidelines for the Control and Management of Ships Ballast Water to Minimize the Transfer of Harmful Aquatic Organisms and Pathogens – (Adopted on 27 November 1997) - Annex - Guidelines for the Control and Management of Ships Ballast Water to Minimize the Transfer of Harmful Aquatic Organisms and Pathogens - 5 Dissemination of Information

5 Dissemination of Information

  5.1 Administrations are encouraged to maintain and exchange information relevant to these guidelines through the Organization. Accordingly, administrations are encouraged to provide the Organization with the following:

  • .1 Information on severe outbreaks or infestations of harmful aquatic organisms which may pose a risk;

  • .2 Copies of current domestic laws and regulations;

  • .3 Technical and research information;

  • .4 Education materials (such as audio and video tapes) and printed materials; and

  • .5 Location and terms of use of alternative exchange zones, contingency strategies, availability of shore reception facilities, fees, etc.

  5.2 Member States, applying ballast water and sediment discharge procedures, should notify the Organization of specific requirements and provide to the Organization, for the information of other Member States and non-governmental organisations, copies of any regulations, standards, exemptions or guidelines being applied. Verification and detailed information concerning port State requirements should be obtained by the ship prior to arrival.

  5.3 Port State authorities should provide the widest possible distribution of information on ballast water and sediment management and treatment requirements that are being applied to shipping. Failure to do so may lead to unnecessary delays for ships seeking entry to port States.

  5.4 Shipping organisations and ships' managers should be familiar with the requirements of port State authorities with respect to ballast water and sediment management and treatment procedures, including information that will be needed to obtain entry clearance.

  5.5 Member States are invited to provide the Organization with details of any research and development studies that they carry out, with respect to the impact and control of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens in ships' ballast water and sediment.

  5.6 Member States should provide to the Organization details of records describing reasons why existing requirements could not be complied with, e.g. force majeure, heavy weather, failure of equipment, and lack of information concerning port State requirements.

Parent topic: Annex - Guidelines for the Control and Management of Ships Ballast Water to Minimize the Transfer of Harmful Aquatic Organisms and Pathogens
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