In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) issued a marine information note, providing information in case that an unexpected outbreak impacts UK Seafarer Services.
Specifically, the note provides guidance on best practice due the disruption caused by the pandemic and subsequent outbreak in the United Kingdom that has impacted on essential Seafarer Training and Certification services delivered by the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA).
From the publication date of this MIN, the MCA advise all seafarers to take full and complete copies of any documentation (including application forms) sent to the MCA.
As a result, if the COVID-19 virus results in disruption to postal services or access to premises issuing licences or certificates, it would be possible to provide digital scans of all necessary documentation to facilitate the processing of the application.
- In case of severe disruption, that limits access to MCA premises or services (e.g., in the event widespread quarantine), the MCA recommends applicants submit all their documents via email to the appropriate processing team as well as sending the full postal application. A contact email address for the correct team can be found in the application form.
- On receipt of digital copies of certification and ancillary documentation, the MCA will, providing the documents can be verified and authenticated, issue temporary certification for a duration of up to 12 months to enable continued service to be rendered by the certificate holder.
- When business as usual can be resumed, the MCA will process the postal application and replace the temporary licence with a full certificate.
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