The verification process will involve reviewing policies, procedures, guidance, and relevant documented evidence. It is important to ensure that vessel operators have implemented and maintained procedures to mitigate the environmental impact of their operations. These procedures should include the following provisions:
- Systematically identifying and assessing sources of marine and atmospheric pollution.
- Minimizing adverse environmental impacts and reducing waste generation.
- Ensuring the safe and responsible disposal of residual waste.
- Having contingency plans in place to address potential pollution incidents.
- Establishing reporting mechanisms for all pollution incidents or near-miss occurrences that could have led to pollution.
- Setting reduction targets to minimize the discharge of pollutants.
- Establishing requirements for ballast water exchange.