Ecochlor Receives IMO BWMS Code Type Approval

Ecochlor said it has received Type Approval from the Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) for the IMO BWMS Code (MEPC.300(72) / revised 2016 G8) standards. The new certification applies to the entire range of Ecochlor ballast water management systems (BWMS), with flow rates of between 500 m3/hr. and 16,200 m3/hr., meaning that vessel owners may continue to install Ecochlor’s BWMS after the IMO BWMS Code October 28, 2020 deadline.

Ecochlor's BWMS uses a two-step treatment process to treat ballast water; filtration and chlorine dioxide. Treatment is during uptake only, with no discharge neutralization step required.

The company completed the additional testing required for active substance technologies for full approval in marine, brackish and fresh waters earlier in the year. The tests confirmed that no changes in equipment or in the operation of the Ecochlor BWMS were required.

Ecochlor’s Vice President of Operations, Pete Thompson, coordinated the testing and documentation efforts for Type Approval. He commented, “For two decades we have continued to test the effectiveness of our system to the highest standards available worldwide. This commitment reinforces our determination to bring a quality, reliable BWMS to the maritime industry.”

After October 28, 2020, all vessels installing a BWMS must comply with the international BWMS Code. Approval pursuant to the previous G8 guidelines (MEPC.174(58)) will no longer be acceptable. Ecochlor is among a limited number of BWMS manufacturers presently providing G8 compliance to shipowners.

“This latest regulatory approval is another example of Ecochlor’s unwavering commitment to obtain and maintain regulatory approvals from Class Societies and Flag Administrations across the globe, even as the requirements continue to evolve,” said Steve Candito, Ecochlor’s CEO.