Answer
If your BWTS breaks down right before arrival, you must implement the BWM Convention contingency measures immediately:
1.Cease Operations & Log:Immediate.
Stop any ongoing ballast operations. Log the exact time, nature of the breakdown, and troubleshooting steps in the Ballast Water Record Book (BWRB).
2.Notify the Company & DPA:Within 1 hour.
Inform your technical superintendent and DPA to obtain shoreside technical guidance and open an official repair ticket.
3.Notify the Port State Authority & Flag State:Prior to entering territorial waters.
Report the breakdown to the Captain of the Port / Port State Control (PSC) of the destination port and the Flag Administration. Provide the vessel's specific contingency proposal.
4.Implement an Approved Contingency Plan:As directed by PSC.
Propose an alternative arrangement based on the port's local rules, which may include:
Requesting permission to perform a Ballast Water Exchange (BWE) in an approved deep-sea area as per Regulation D-1 (if permitted by the coastal state).
Retaining the un-treated ballast water completely on board for the duration of the port stay.
Discharging the ballast water to a specialized shore reception facility or another dedicated vessel.