Under the International Maritime Organization Ballast Water framework, G9 refers to the approval procedure for Ballast Water Management Systems (BWMS) that use Active Substances.
Guidelines are issued under the Ballast Water Management Convention.
What is an “Active Substance”?
An Active Substance is:
A chemical or biological substance that is introduced into ballast water to kill or neutralize harmful aquatic organisms.
Examples:
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Chlorine (generated by electrochlorination)
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Ozone
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Peracetic acid
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Hydrogen peroxide
What is G9?
G9 = IMO Guidelines for Approval of Ballast Water Management Systems that use Active Substances.
Because chemicals may:
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Harm marine environment
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Produce toxic by-products
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Affect crew safety
IMO requires special approval.
Two-Step Approval Process
1️⃣ Basic Approval
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Assessment of:
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Environmental impact
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Toxicity
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By-products
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Reviewed by IMO’s GESAMP-BWWG (expert group)
2️⃣ Final Approval
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Granted after:
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Land-based testing
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Shipboard testing
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Risk evaluation
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System then receives Type Approval.
Why G9 is Important?
Systems using:
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Electrochlorination
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Chemical injection
Must comply with G9 approval before installation.
UV-based systems usually do NOT require G9 because they do not use active substances.
Chief Engineer’s Responsibility
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Ensure:
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Proper neutralization before discharge
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TRO (Total Residual Oxidant) within limits
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Chemical storage safety
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Calibration of monitoring equipment
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