Vessels can use either D-1 Ballast Water Exchange Standard or D-2 Ballast Water Performance Standard.

If D-1 Standard is used, vessels must change ballast water in the Black Sea and there must be a record entered into a ship’s ballast log book. Port Control inspector will check ballast water density which should be close to the Black Sea water density.

In case D-2 Standard is used vessels must have a Class approved Ballast Water Treatment system on board. Water exchange in the Black Sea is not required. Port Control inspector will check ship’s ballast water log book and records from Ballast Water Treatment system.  Water from ballast tanks may be tested in a laboratory to determine concentration of chemicals and sediments.

Please note that all vessels should carry a ballast water log book and an international ballast water management certificate.
According to the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments (BWM), Port Control inspector may request approved Ballast Water Management Plan.