On 14 September 2015, the USCG posted revised guidance for extension requests for compliance dates under the USCG Ballast Water Management (BWM) regulations on the USCG BWM Program website. New USCG policy on extensions is published along with an Excel based Application for Extended Compliance Dates and tips for submitting applications.
The USCG states that extension requests, with the completed Application for Extended Compliance Dates including all required information attached, must be in English and submitted electronically as an e‑mail to environmental_standards@uscg.mil. The new policy allows a company to submit batch extension requests provided the vessels have compliance dates in the same calendar year and have the same reason for the request. At this time, extensions are granted on the basis of non-availability of USCG type-approved ballast water management systems (BWMS).
Extensions are to be submitted within 12 to 24 months of the vessel’s original compliance date. The USCG clarified that supplemental extension applications are due not less than 90 days prior to the termination date in the prior extension granted by the USCG. Supplemental extension requests are to follow the new policy and use the new Excel-based form as well.
ABS will be supplying further guidance to shipowners in the next few weeks on how best to prepare for these new requirements. For questions or assistance, please email environmentalperformance@eagle.org.
.png){kind=icon}
.png){kind=icon}
.png){kind=icon}
