July 15, 2008

DNV type approval for ballast water treatment system

DNV has issued its first type approval certificate for a ballast water treatment system.

The system has been developed by Alfa Laval.

Together with Alfa Laval and the Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), DNV oversaw intensive tests to ensure that the product is ready for installation on board ships.

IMO has adopted a new Ballast Water Convention that is expected to come into force in the next few years after the required number of ratifications has been achieved.

Once the convention has been ratified, systems to prevent the spread of organisms through ballast water will be mandatory. In a transition period different systems for exchanging the ballast water will be accepted, but ballast treatment systems will be required to be installed from 2012 - 2016, dependent of ship size and age.

"Right now, global trade is increasing by more than ever before and more ballast water is being transported across all oceans. At the same time, we have never had better information on the consequences of introducing new organisms to new areas. All those involved have to take responsibility for reducing these problems. By approving this new system, another step has been taken to solve a major environmental problem," says Kare Klokk, head of section at DNV Maritime.

The type approval certificate has been issued on behalf of the Norwegian Maritime Administration and confirms compliance with MEPC.125(53) and MEPC.126(53)