Amid COVID-19 outbreak and the disruptions that has brought within shipping industry, the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) announced that is extending the duration of two marine documents.
In fact, the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) is extending the duration of the Standards of Training Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) certificates and Medical Certificates.
As explained, the validity of these certificates, inclusive of relevant endorsements, will be valid for a period of six (6) months from expiry OR until 10 August 2021 whichever comes earlier. These measures apply to Fijian seafarers on board international vessels who are unable to return due to covid restrictions to revalidate.
This sensible arrangement is put in place to enable Ship owners and Masters to permit seafarers with these expiring Maritime documents as listed above to continue performing their duties.
Ship owners, Operators and Seafarers need not apply to MSAF for such extension. However, the onus is on the ship operator to facilitate crew changes within the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) agreement.
Seafarers are further reminded that once you apply for revalidation of STCW certificates, your new certificate will be renewed for a period of five years, effective from the date your original certificate expires.
…as the autority noted.
Overall, MSAF will be working with other Flag States to recognise their short courses for revalidation of certificates.
