4 Guideline objectives and background
4.1 The objectives ofhese Guidelines, developed under technical and scientifc guidance, are intended to assist Govemments 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 fom 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 fom part or all of the relevant provisicns. Notwihstanding any administration wishing to apply restricions to ballast water operations should still follow these GuideHnes, 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 Adrninistations me encouraged to rnfnuin md alchange Monnation relevant to these Guidelines through the Organization. Accordingly, administrations are encouraged to provide the Organization with the following:
.1 Informalicn on severe outbreak or infestations of harmhl aquatic organisms which may pose a risk
'2 Copies of currgnt domestic laws and regulations;
.3 Technical and research information;
.4 Education materials (such as audio and video tapes) and printed materials; and
.5 Locaion and terms of ue of altemative exchange zones, contingency strategies, availability of shore reception facilities, fees, etc.
5.2 Member States, applying ballast water and sediment discharge procedures, should notify theOrganization of specific requirements and provide to the Organization, for the infomlation of other MemberStates and non-govemmental organizations, copies of any regulations, standards, exempdors or guidelines being applied. Verification and detailed information conceming port State requirements should be obtained by the ship prior to arrival.
5.3 Port State auhorities should provide the widest possible distribution of Mormapon 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 organizmions md ships' managers should be familiar with the requiremenu with the requirements of port Stateauthorities with respect to ballast water and sediment management and treatrnent procedures, including infonnation that will be needed to obtain enqv clearance.
5.5 Member States are invited to provide the Organization with detaila of any research and develoment studies that they carry out with respect to the impact and control of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens in ships'ballst water and sediment.
