Marine Division and eCMID user community: eCMID Issue 10 – Supplementary Guidance

In conjunction with the guidance provided in information note IMCA M 10/16, additional guidance for users of eCMID on the subject of oily water separators (OWS) is provided in this information note. Section 12.3 of eCMID refers to the bilge oily water separator system.  For guidance, it should be noted that it is considered to be good industry practice to lock and seal the OWS overboard discharge valve when in port, and to display a warning notice on the bulkhead or other suitable place, close to this valve, warning of the potential pollution consequences of opening it in port. This OWS overboard valve is considered as part of the bilge water treatment system, and not part of the main bilge system which would be used to pump bilge water overboard in an emergency, as main bilge system valves should not be hindered in operation in any way (SOLAS II-1/21). Note that although not a regulation, some Port State Control (PSC) officers may insist on these valves being locked when the vessel is in port.  eCMID inspectors are advised to seek clarification from local PSC authorities on this matter before conducting inspections on ships. Any further information on this or any other aspect of the eCMID can be addressed to IMCA, for attention of Chris Baldwin.

Originally issued with the following reference(s): IMCA M 11/16