What is VGP Compliance Testing?
Vessels that sail to the United States must have the Vessel General Permit (VGP) to validate that the Ballast Water Treatment System complies with the imposed standards. During the first year, it is required to test the water between 2 to 4 times. If sampling results are below permit limits for two consecutive events, sampling may be reduced to one time per year.
If the vessel exceeds the limits, it should return to monitoring twice a year. Analyses should be conducted on Total heterotrophic bacteria, E. Coli and Enterococci. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administers compliance with these VGP requirements, which requires that tests are carried out according to their specific guidelines.
Why is VGP Compliance Testing important?
The United States of America require United States Coast Guard (USCG) approved BWT systems along with VGP monitoring to enforce the rigorous requirements of the the EPA. Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to enormous fines in the US port calls and delays in your activity. Mr. Marine Ballast is your trusted partner in minimizing the risks of these problems.
How can you arrange the VGP Compliance Testing with Mr. Marine?
Arranging your VGP compliance testing is simple and fast with Mr. Marine! Once you have sent us your requirements and details, one of our project managers will send you a quotation for the most cost-effective port. If you are satisfied with our offer then send us your purchase order and we will get to work.
How does it work?
A trained specialist will board your vessel and collect water samples from specific locations using current EPA best practices and materials. The specialist will then return these samples to the laboratory where they will be tested, analysed and a full report produced. Finally, our project manager will send you the full results and a completed chain of custody form for your records.
Please feel free to contact us for further information and we look forward to helping you soon!
