Implementing the IMO Resolution MEPC.127(53) Guidelines for Ballast Water Management and Development of Ballast Water Management Plans (G4) in tugs and barges

Abstract

This is a thesis about implementing Marine Environment Protection Committee’s Resolution MEPC.127(53) Guidelines for Ballast Water Management and Development of Ballast Water Management Plans (G4) and special requirements needed for Ballast Water Management Plans used on tugs and barges operating in the Baltic Sea area. An interview was performed with Special Advisor Ville-Veikko Intovuori, Finnish Transport Safety Agency (Trafi), who is in charge of reviewing and approving Ballast Water Management Plans (BWMP). The interview was used to discover what issues Trafi has about these types of vessels and the area they operate in that they would like to see answered or addressed in the BWMP. The issues were aimed at the balance of the tugs, responsibilities of the vessel towing the barge and possible special regulations regarding the Baltic Sea area. A BWMP was then prepared for 9 tugs and 3 barges operated by Alfons Håkans that are classed by Trafi and sent for review. All the plans were approved and put to use on the vessels they were prepared for.