Optimar BWMS approval request first to reach USCG

The Coast Guard Marine Safety Center is now reviewing the testing documentation submitted by DNV GL on behalf of Optimarin

SEPTEMBER 21, 2016 — The application requesting U.S. Coast Guard type-approval for the Optimarin ballast water management system (see earlier story) is the first such request to reach he Coast Guard Marine Safety Center (MSC).

The application request was submitted by DNV GL, a U.S. Coast Guard accepted independent laboratory, on behalf of the system manufacturer.

“The receipt of the first application for a Coast Guard type-approved ballast water management system represents an important milestone for the future of protecting our nation’s waterways from the spread of invasive species,” said Capt. John Mauger, commanding officer of the MSC.

The U.S. Coast Guard type-approval process and application is described in 46 CFR 162.060. This process requires the independent laboratory to oversee and report on a full suite of testing to demonstrate compliance with the design and performance standards specified in the regulations.

The Marine Safety Center will review the application for compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations in 46 CFR 162.060. The MSC’s stated goal is to review and reply to each submittal within 30 days of receipt. Once it has determined that an application meets the requirements, the Marine Safety Center will issue a type-approval certificate.

Once a ballast water management type-approval certificate is issued, the U.S. Coast Guard will continue to manage individual vessel compliance aspects as provided for under the existing regulations in 33 CFR 151, Subpart D.