- Loading instrument
As far as applicable to the selected exchange method the officer of any ship should be advised to precalculate the stability and strength curves for every step during a ballast water exchange operation using a loading instrument on board.
- Procedures for managing ballast water
This section gives guidance on ballast handling procedures. The preferred method or methods of ballast water handling should be stated here, e. g. ballast water exchange at sea through sequential method, flow-through method, dilution method, ballast water treatment or discharge to reception facilities.The section has to inform about precautionary practices for avoiding unnecessary discharge of ballast water and minimizing the uptake of aquatic organisms and sediments.The vessel’s staff should be familiar with the requirements of the port authorities with respect to ballast water and sediment management and treatment procedures, including information that will be needed to obtain entry clearance.A ballast handling plan for a voyage with ballast should be prepared in advance.
