Standard Club’s Loss Prevention department reminds operators about the ongoing problems regarding false ecological inspections in Ukrainian Ports. As the Club reports, it has been informed that they have seen an increase in the quantity of such incidents.
These incidents are affecting foreign vessels, while that those passing themselves off as ecological inspectors are acting in a more unethical way in the commission of these offenses. Namely, Standard Club reported occasions received up to 3 requests per day.
The Club advised owners to include a separate clause in their charterparty regarding calls to Ukrainian ports requiring that all the costs and expenses regarding payment of fines imposed by the ecological inspectors are to be borne by the charterers.
Considering the heavy fines, amounting to $15,000–60,000 on average, levied by the ecological inspections on ships, such a clause or provision in the charter party could potentially save owners from unnecessary financial losses.
