Ballast Water Management Requirements and Treatment Systems

Ballast water treatment systems which meet US Coast Guard approval are now required on all ships traveling through international water.  The Ballast Water Management Convention was adopted in 2004 in an effort to control the spread of invasive aquatic species. With the continual increase in international trade and the practice of most ships using ballast water in their hulls, contaminated ballast water is causing bio invasions with the introduction of harmful, new invasive species which devastate foreign ports.  

Contaminated ballast water is seen as one of the greatest threats to the sustainability of the planet’s oceans. The most recent global enforcement of the Ballast Water Management Convention (BWMC) took effect September 8, 2017 and affects all ships traveling through international waters.  This is a landmark step towards halting the spread of harmful invasive species which cause substantial economic loss and affect the biodiversity of natural aquatic habitats.

The BWMC enforces standards for all vessels to maintain a ballast water treatment system with all ships required to carry a record book with an international ballast water management certificate.  Ultraviolet (UV) water treatment systems meet the BWMC requirements, US Coast Guard approval and provide many advantages.

Advantages of UV Ballast Water Treatment Methods

UV ballast water treatment systems harness the power of UVC radiation which is proven effective at eradicating harmful microorganisms yet is completely safe to humans.  UV germicidal lamps emit wavelengths at an effective 254 nm which instantly kills viruses, bacteria and harmful aquatic organisms.  There are many benefits with UV sterilization systems such as highly effective germ killing power and long-lasting effectiveness with little to no maintenance.

The LightSources Group offers UVC germicidal lamps proven in demanding water treatment applications. We provide UV germicidal solutions for water treatment and air treatment systems. Our lamps are proven to outperform comparable products with maximum energy efficiency and long-lasting effectiveness.

LightSources is a leading global supplier of UV germicidal lamps used in a wide range of sterilization applications. We offer custom designed solutions for water treatment and air treatment systems. Contact us to speak with an engineer and learn more about the most effective UV lamps for ballast water treatment systems.