ClassNK advises: Install BWMS early on

Distribution of BWMS installation dates for ClassNK existing ships as of November 30, 2020

Shipowners waiting too long to install ballast water management systems (BWMS) by the deadline set by the IMO BWM convention may face problems.

Classification society ClassNK has been periodically analyzing the retrofitting status of ballast water management systems (BWMS) on its registered ships since 2018. Based on the latest data , the society has confirmed that installation deadlines based on the BWMS convention for many of its registered ships are still concentrated in the year 2022.

As of the end of November 2020, 7,220 of the 9,159 ships registered with ClassNK are required to install BWMS in accordance with the BWM Convention. Of these, 3,982 ships have completed the installation, leaving 3,238 ships that still require attention. Although the number of ships without BWMS has decreased by 1,280 since August 2019, the installation deadline for the remaining ships remains largely concentrated in 2022.

Since difficulties in the installation of BWMS are likely if everyone around the world waits until 2022, ClassNK recommends installing well in advance. In addition, plan approval applications are also expected to concentrate during this period, therefore early application is strongly recommended.

• Download ClassNK technical information TEC-1086 guidance on BWMS plan examinations HERE