1.7 BWM And PSC (Challenge Questions)

Question 1

How will the PSC inspector check if BWM was done?

Answer 1

• Take sample and send to the lab
• The electronic log

Question 2

As the chief mate, what are the entries you expect to enter in the ballast water record book or ballast handling log?

Answer 2

Entries:
- Date
- Time
- Location
- Vol of Ballast
- Treatment system used
- Signature

Question 3

What are the 3 methods of achieving ballast exchange at sea?

Answer 3

1. Sequential
2. Flow-through
3. Dilution

Question 4

Which is the Australian governmental agency concerned with preventing damage to the marine environment by ballast water discharged from ships?

Answer 4

The Department of Agriculture administers the Biosecurity Act 2015 to manage the biosecurity risks of ballast water and biofouling from vessels operating in Australian seas.

Question 5

How is the shipowner affected when one of its vessels is detained by PSC?

Answer 5

1. Time loss - Detentions can last from a few hours to several days, resulting in significant delays.
2. Financial loss - This includes crew wages, fuel costs, port charges, liquidated damages due to delayed cargo delivery, and potentially high repair costs. For shipowners, time is money.
3. Reputational damage - If a ship is frequently detained, it will be blacklisted, leading to more frequent inspections for that vessel and others owned by the same company. This harms the reputation of the shipping company and the flag state.
4. Operational disruptions - The detained ship cannot continue its scheduled voyage, impacting the shipowner’s operations and potentially causing further delays and losses.

Question 6

As a chief mate, list 10 key areas which you will focus in preparation for an upcoming PSC inspection.

Answer 6

Documentation: Ensure all required documents are up-to-date, including certificates, manuals, records of drills, and crew qualifications.

Safety Equipment: Verify that all safety equipment is in good condition, properly maintained, and readily accessible. This includes lifeboats, life rafts, fire extinguishers, and personal protective equipment.

Fire Safety: Inspect fire detection and suppression systems, including fire alarms, extinguishing agents, and firefighting equipment. Ensure that fire drills are conducted regularly, and crew members are trained in fire response procedures.

Pollution Prevention: Confirm compliance with MARPOL regulations regarding sewage, garbage disposal, oily water separation, and ballast water management. Keep records of waste disposal and pollution prevention measures.

Navigation Equipment: Check the accuracy and functionality of navigation systems, including GPS, radar, AIS, and echo sounders. Ensure that charts and publications are up-to-date, and navigational watchkeeping procedures are followed.

Cargo Operations: Review cargo handling procedures to prevent spills, overloading, and improper stowage. Ensure that cargo securing arrangements comply with SOLAS requirements and that dangerous goods are properly labeled and stored.

Security Measures: Assess compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, including access control, security training, and emergency response plans. Conduct security drills and maintain security records.

Machinery and Engine Room: Inspect machinery spaces for cleanliness, proper maintenance, and compliance with SOLAS regulations. Ensure that critical systems such as propulsion, steering, and power generation are fully operational.

Crew Competency: Verify that crew members are properly certified, adequately trained, and familiar with emergency procedures. Maintain records of crew qualifications, training, and rest hours to ensure compliance with STCW requirements.

General Maintenance: Conduct regular inspections of the vessel’s structure, hull, and equipment to identify and address any signs of wear, corrosion, or deterioration. Maintain a planned maintenance system to track maintenance activities and ensure timely repairs.