The North of England P&I Club informs that its Correspondent in Ukraine, Dias Marine Consulting, reported that there have been recent attempts by Ukrainian ecological inspectors to board vessels and collect samples of ballast water for testing.
In 2014, ecological inspectors were denied authority by the Ukrainian government to board the vessel to collect and test samples of ballast water.
However, local attorney Viktoria Kovalchuk of Legal Force Law Offices reports that legislation was amended in August 2017 which reinstated the inspector’s right to take samples if during ballast discharge operations any visible floating particles, traces of oil or oil-containing or other pollutants are observed.
The North Club notes that, according to information provided, there is currently no approved procedure for sampling and testing. However the situation is being closely monitored and is subject to change should methods of sampling and testing be approved by the Ukrainian government.
The Club encourages ships’ crews to seek assistance from the local P&I correspondent or vessel agent if necessary.
[divider]
Above article has been amended following our communication with the North P&I Club which produced that article. You may find all changes of Ukraine’s ballast water requirements by clicking here
