St. Vincent and the Grenadines Maritime Administration expressed that the COVID-19 pandemic could be a force majeure situation; Therefore, they issued guidelines to assist shipping owners, operators and recognized organizations on matters such as audits and seafarers certification.
These temporary measures shall remain in place for a period of three (3) months starting from 18th March 2020 and are subject to review as the situation develops
… the Administration notes.
Concerning scheduled surveys, if a recognized organization is unable to undertake a survey because of restrictions, the Administration will consider applications for extension/postponement under force majeure on a case-by-case basis.
Moreover, they report that they will, at the ISM Manager’s request, extend annual ISM internal audits for up to three (3) months, as per para 12.1 of the ISM Code in cases where audits cannot be carried out due to travel restrictions imposed due to COVID-19.
Due to COVID- 19 restrictions this Administration may authorise its Recognised Organisations to administratively issue a ML Certificate for three (3) months where the renewal inspection cannot be conducted.
Annual flag state inspections will be conducted under availability of the flag state inspectors; Yet, if they can not be conducted, inspector of this Administration will attend the vessel at a mutually agreed location for an initial general inspection after the registration on a case-by-case basis.
Concluding, you may find more shipping regulations here.
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