Complying with 2013 VGP

Under the 2013 VGP requirements (2013 VGP, Part 2.2.3), any vessel operating a ballast water treatment system and discharging ballast water to waters subject to the VGP must collect and analyze ballast water discharge samples for:

• Total heterotrophic bacteria (2 times 1st year, 1 time a year thereafter)
• E. coli (2 times 1st year, 1 time a year thereafter)
• Enterococci (2 times 1st year, 1 time a year thereafter)
• Residual Biocides (3 times first 10 discharges, then 2/year)
• Biocides Derivatives (3 times first 10 discharges, then 2/year)

As holding time for microbiological samples is only 8 hours, it is imperative that they should be tested as soon as possible. ATS has established a network of participating laboratories around the country to provide that timely access to testing facilities. With ATS continuously looking to expand the reach of our network, we are currently offering VGP sampling services in the following areas:

• NY/NJ
• Baltimore, MD
• Jacksonville, Ft. Lauderdale, Tampa, FL
• Mobile, AL
• New Orleans, LA
• Houston, Corpus Christi, TX
• Los Angeles, San Francisco, CA
• Seattle, WA   

VGP Sampling & Annual Maintenance:

To save Ship Owners money on travel and accommodation, ATS can also provide the owners with annual maintenance services calibrating BWTS’s sensors.