Ballast Water Sampling and Sample Analysis for Compliance Control - Global Maritime Transport and Ballast Water Management: Issues and Solutions - page 185

Point-Source Sampler for In-Tank Sampling

To obtain three samples from different depths, the point-source sampler is lowered
three times to the desired depths, i.e., the surface, somewhere in the middle of the
water column, and possibly close to the tank bottom or to the deepest point acces-
sible. Each time the valve of the sampler is opened by pulling the rope which is
connected to the valve at the bottom of the sampler allowing the water to enter the
sampler. The valve is closed again when the rope is relaxed, and then the sampler is
pulled up. The three samples are integrated (mixed together) and one subsample is
taken for subsequent analysis. As a relatively low water volume is to be sampled,
i.e., a few litres, the point-source sampler may need to be lowered only a few times
per the desired depth.

Indicative In-Line Sampling for Compliance Control
with the D-2 Standard

Selection of Ballast Water Sampling Equipment and Methods for Indicative
In-Line D-2 Sampling

Considering the above and especially as in-line sampling may develop also for
detailed D-2 standard compliance checks, we recommended for an in-line indicative
ballast water sampling event that one sequential sample is taken using the same
sampling methodology as for a detailed D-2 standard compliance test (see sections
“ Detailed In-Line D-2 Standard Sampling ” and “ Recommendations for a Ballast
Water Sampling Protocol that Is Representative of the Whole Discharge ”).
For taking one sequential sample a relatively short sampling time is suffi -
cient. The sample analysis may be conducted with a variety of different methods
(see below). The results generated this way may also represent very solid
grounds for different non-compliance actions which PSC may have available.
These include:

• the requirement that, when in doubt, more comprehensive tests are needed and to

proceed to a detailed compliance D-2 standard check,

• redirecting the vessel to a designated ballast water discharge area,

• to require ballast water discharges to a port reception facility, or even

• to ban the vessel from further ballast water discharges.

Which (non-)compliance action to take depends on the sampling results obtained.
For instance, should the organism concentration identifi ed just be above the D-2
standard, this may possibly indicate that further checks are required. In contrast,
should the organism concentration be much higher than the D-2 standard, i.e., gross
exceedence, non-compliance actions as listed above may instantly apply.
The suggested sampling methods and equipment are outlined in Table 4 .