4 Guideline objectives and background
4.1 The objectives of these Guidelines, developed under technical and scientific guidance, are intended to assist Governments and appropriate authorities,ship masters, operators and owners, and port authorities as well as other interested parties, in minimizing the risk of introducing harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens from ships' ballast water and associated sediments while protecting ships' safety.
4.2 The Guidelines allow port States to exempt ships within the area under their jurisdiction from part or all of the relevant provisions. Notwithstanding any administration wishing to apply restrictions to ballast water operations should still follow these Guidelines, when developing legislation or procedures.
4.3 In order that the Guidelines may be implemented in a standard and uniform manner, all Member State Governments, ship operators, other appropriate authorities and interested parties are requested to apply these Guidelines.
5 Dissemination of information
5.1 Administrations are encouraged to maintain and exchange information relevant to these Guidelines through the Organization Accordingly, administrations are encouraged to provide the Organization with the following:
.1 Information on severe outbreaks or infestations of harmful aquatic organisms which may pose a risk;
.2 Copies of current domestic laws and regulations;
.3 Technical and research information;
.4 Education materials (such as audio and video tapes) and printed materials; and
.5 Location and terms of use of alternative exchange zones, contingency strategies, availability of shore reception facilities, fees, etc.
5.2 Member States, applying ballast water and sediment discharge procedures, should notify the Organization of specific requirements and provide to the Organization, for the information of other Member States and non-governmental organizations, copies of any regulations, standards, exemptions or guidelines being applied. Verification and detailed information concerning port State requirements should be obtained by the ship prior to arrival.
5.3 Port State authorities should provide the widest possible distribution of information on ballast water and sediment management and treatment requirements that are being applied to shipping. Failure to do so may lead to unnecessary delays for ships seeking entry to port States.
5.4 Shipping organization and ships' managers should be familiar with the requirements of port State authorities with respect to ballast water and sediment management and treatment procedures, including information that will be needed to obtain entry clearance.
5.5 Member States are invited to provide the Organization with details of any research and development studies that they carry out with respect to the impact and control of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens in ships' ballast water and sediment.
