Renewal IOPP Survey prior the entry into force of the BWM Convention on September 08, 2017.

Renewal IOPP Survey prior the entry into force of the BWM Convention on September 08, 2017.
This circular provides information for a smooth transition towards the .implementation of BWM Convention
Considering that neither the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by
the Protocol 1978 (MARPOL Convention), nor the Survey Guidelines under the Harmonized System of Surveys and
Certification (HSSC) prohibits the renewal inspections in advance or the de-harmonization of the IOPP Certificates, it
has been accepted the International Oil Pollution Prevention (IOPP) Certificate from being de-harmonized from all
other statutory certificates, in order to provide enough time to all applicable vessels to comply with the BWM
Convention requirements.
The de-harmonization of the IOPP survey will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by each Flag. Upon completion of
the early renewal IOPP survey, the RO shall issue a new Certificate with validity of 5 years.
BWM Convention requirements
Prior September 08, 2017, on board all applicable vessels an approved Ballast Water Management Plan (BWMP) and
a Ballast Water Management Certificate (BWMC) or Statement of Compliance must exist.
After September 08, 2017 and vessel’s first IOPP Renewal Survey, Owners must install on board their vessels the
ballast treatment system.
Act now
Owners / Managers / Operators are encouraged to re-harmonize the IOPP surveys and Certificate into the Harmonized
System of Surveys and Certification (HSSC) in the future. The de-harmonization of the IOPP certificate can be done
only prior 8th September 2017, when the BWM Convention enters into force