antigua - Specific requirements by the Antigua & Barbuda Administration

Flag instructions relating to statutory surveys

Flag procedural requirements

General policy

Agreement

An Agreement has been signed between Recognised Organisation (RO) and Antigua and Barbuda starting on 10 May 2016.

An Amendment to this Agreement has been signed between the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and Recognised Organisation (RO) Marine & Offshore SAS and entered into force on 1st January 2017 (see Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services).

Authorizations for statutory services outside the scope of Annex 1 to this Agreement (see Appendix 1 to the Agreement) will be dealt with, as mutually agreed on a case-by-case basisIn so far as the certification services covered by this authorization are concerned, Recognised Organisation (RO) agrees to co-operate with the Port State Control officers to facilitate the rectification of reported deficiencies on behalf of the Administration on ships classed with Recognised Organisation (RO), to review proposed action with respect to safety management system non-conformities and report to the Administration.

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall promptly inform the Administration when a ship is found to be in operation with deficiencies or discrepancies such that the condition of the vessel or its equipment doesn’t correspond substantially with the particulars of its certificates or the requirements of applicable instrument such that, in the opinion of Recognised Organisation (RO) the vessel is not fit to proceed to sea without danger to the ship or persons on board or presenting unreasonable threat of harm to the environment. If corrective action is not taken to the satisfaction of Recognised Organisation (RO), then Recognised Organisation (RO) shall withdraw the relevant certificates, after consultation with the Administration.

Change of flag - Surveys

(Message of 3 April 2003)

In case of change of flag, i.e. registration in Antigua and Barbuda, where Recognised Organisation (RO) was not involved in the statutory certification on behalf of the former Flag State, then initial / renewal surveys shall be conducted.

PSC inspection - Defect reporting

Refer to the circular 2014-004 in the attached file “Circular2014-004”.

Moreover, Director’s Directive 001-2014 (“Port State Control Reporting Directive 2014”), in the attached file “Directive001-2014”, has been issued in order to encourage better communication between all involved in safe management of Antigua and Barbuda flagged vessels.

Port of registry

The port of registry is always “St John’s”.

Interpretations, Equivalents and Exemptions

While interpretations of the applicable instruments, as well as the determination of equivalents or the acceptance of substitutes to the requirements of the applicable instrument, are the prerogative of the Administration, Recognised Organisation (RO) may interpret the technical requirements of applicable instruments and may determine the equivalency in accordance with Recognised Organisation (RO) technical requirements unless otherwise instructed by the Administration.

The Administration shall be kept informed of the interpretations and the determination equivalency. Recognised Organisation (RO) will cooperate in their establishment as necessary.

Exemption from the requirements of the applicable instruments are the prerogative of the Administration and must be approved by the Administration prior to issuance.

In instances where, temporarily, the requirements of an applicable instrument cannot be met under particular circumstances, the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor will accept such measures or supplementary equipment as may be available to permit the vessel to proceed to a suitable port where permanent repairs or rectifications can be effected or replacement equipment fitted.

With regard to exemptions Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorised to issue without prior consultation with the Administration :

1. Exemptions from the fitting of Cargo Hold Fixed Fire Extinguishing Systems in accordance with the conditions set out in SOLAS Chapter II-2 Regulation 10.7.

2. Exemptions from the requirements for existing BNWAS to comply with resolution MSC.128(75) provided that they comply with the standards set out in the Administration’s Circular on the subject.

Whenever an exemption is issued either in accordance with the two directly permitted ones above, or as may be authorised by the Administration on a case by case basis (indicated by P in the table of Appendix 1 to the Agreement), Recognised Organisation (RO) will send a copy of the exemption to the Administration.

For more details about the precise arrangements made in this respect, refer to the Agreement in Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services.and Appendix 1 to the Agreement

Meaning of “to the satisfaction of the administration”

For the Administration the interpretation of this expression is resolved by considering in order:

1. Antigua and Barbuda Acts and Regulations,

2. Where the Acts and Regulations do not provide guidance on “to the satisfaction of the administration” in any case then reference should be made to IMO Circulars, guidance, resolutions and unified interpretations,

3. Where the IMO publications do not provide clarity on interpretation, reference is made to the Unified Interpretations of IACS, and

4. Where the IACS Unified Interpretations do not provide guidance on interpreting “to the satisfaction of the Administration” in any particular case, reference is made to established industry best practice in the area concerned.

Meaning of “approved” equipment or “type approval” certificate

For Antigua and Barbuda ships, where a piece of equipment is required to be “approved“, or to have a “type approval” certificate it will be accepted if the equipment has been approved by either:

1. One of the recognised organisations with which the Administration has an agreement on the delegation of statutory services; or

2. Another member of IACS; or

3. An European Union (EU) Member State in accordance with the EU Council Marine Equipment Directive; or

4. On a case by case basis agreed by Antigua and Barbuda Department of Marine Services and Merchant Shipping) St. John’s, representing the Administration which is a member state of the IMO.

Circulars and directives

Refer to the website of the Administration: www.abregistry.ag.

De-registration of unsuitable ships

If at any time:

1. the ship fails to meet the standards required by the applicable international conventions and the owner fails to take acceptable steps to rectify the situation;

2. the owner fails to take acceptable steps to rectify deficiencies following Port State Control inspections;

3. the owner or manager of the ship ceases to be certificated in terms of the ISM code; or

4. otherwise the condition of the ship as regards safety, pollution prevention, its condition as regards health and welfare of crews, or the interests of Antigua and Barbuda, would make it inappropriate to continue registry

the Administration may remove the vessel from the register.

For further information, refer to section 18A of the Merchant Shipping (Amendment) Act, 2014 in the attached file “MerchantShipping(Amendment)Act,2014”.

LL 66

Multiple Load Line Certificates

(Miscellaneous Circular 2024-001)

The general conditions for the issuance and carriage of additional International Load Line Certificates ships are as follows:

1. The ship must fully comply with all the relevant safety requirements in force for a ship of maximum draught/deadweight, for which minimum freeboard could be assigned.

2. Each set of Load Line marks corresponding to the certificates shall be permanently marked on the ship’s sides and be verified by a surveyor from Recognised Organisation (RO).

3. Only the set of Load Line marks corresponding to the least freeboard assigned shall normally show the full grid markings. The additional increased freeboard shall be marked as all seasonal, and only the Load Line mark and the Fresh Water Load Line need be marked. However, in individual cases and at the discretion of the owner, a full grid of density and seasonal Load Lines may be marked.

4. Only one set of Load Line marks shall be visible at any one time and the remaining Load Line marks shall be effectively obliterated with paint.

5. The Master may alter the Load Line marks for the vessel in accordance with the applicable Load Line Certificate and item d) above. The new marks shall be verified by the Master who, when satisfied with the alterations and the condition of the vessel, makes an official entry in the ship's deck logbook stating the certificate in use. The Master must ensure that the correct Load Line mark and associated certificate are on display, and that all other certificates are placed in a sealed envelope on board. If electronic certificates are issued by Recognised Organisation (RO), the Master shall ensure that the correct electronic certificates are on display in the database.

6. Recognised Organisation (RO) should attend the ship at the first convenient port to survey and endorse the change, in accordance with the requirements above.

7. Punching or cut-in methods may be accepted as permanent means of marking the Load Line rings, lines, and letters in accordance with Regulation 8 of the LLC, provided that:

   1. The marks are of sufficient depth to remain clear and legible for the service life of the vessel.

   2. The marks are placed in a location and orientation that ensures unobstructed visibility.

   3. The marks are painted in accordance with Load Line Regulation 8 to provide clear contrast.

   4. The attending Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor is satisfied that the marking method used achieves durability and permanence equivalent to welded marking.

   Where these conditions are met, punching or cut-in markings may be accepted in lieu of welded marks.

SOLAS 74

Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate

SOLAS II-1/3-2 (IMO PSPC) - Delay in delivery of ships

(Email from the Administration dated 31/05/2012)

The Administration will be implementing the content of IMO Circulars MSC-MEPC.5/Circ.4 and MSC.1/Circ.1247 in so far as they address the term “unforeseen delays in delivery” in relation to SOLAS Chapter II-1, 3-2 and the coatings for dedicated ballast sea water ballast tanks an double side skin spaces in bulk carriers. However, in any case where the application of the “unforeseen delays in delivery” provisions are requested for application, the Administration will be guided by the interpretation in MSC.1/Circ.1247 and in particular by the requirement to consider each instance on a case by case basis including the requirement for a report from the Authorities in the country of build to verify that the delay was due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the builder and the owner.

The Administration remains conscious of the requirement to report to the IMO any instances where a ship has been accepted under this provision and the grounds on which it has been accepted. To this end, the grounds put forward must be grounds that are strictly “beyond the control of the builder and owner”. Mere lacks of funds to complete the ship would not normally fall into this definition. The Administration would expect the RO to work closely with this Administration in any such case as it will be needed to coordinate the footnote to be placed on certificates.

Fireman’s outfits

With reference to new paragraph 10.4 “Fire-fighter’s communication” of regulation 10 of SOLAS Chapter II-2, for new ships constructed on or after 1^st July 2014, a minimum of 2 two-way portable radiotelephone apparatus for each fire party for fire fighter’s communication is to be carried on-board. Existing ships shall comply not later than the first survey after 1^st July 2018. The Administration confirms that the two way radiotelephone apparatus referred to in this regulation are additional to any required by Chapter III Regulations 6.2.1 and 6.4.1. The two way radiotelephone apparatus provided to meet this requirement should be stowed with the fireman’s outfits and ready for use with them at any time.

With reference to new paragraph 2.2.6 of Regulation15 of Chapter II-2, coming into force on 1^st July 2014, this amendment is intended to ensure that ships have spare filled air cylinders for use during drills without depleting the availability of cylinders for emergency use. The Administration is of the view that, if the requirement is to be met by carrying additional air cylinders, there should be a minimum of two provided to allow for drills to be conducted with a two man fire fighting team.

Refer to Circular 2013-009 as per attached file “2013-009 Fireman’s Outfits amendments”.

Means of embarkation and disembarkation

Sub-paragraph 3 of SOLAS Chapter II-1 Regulation 3-9 (as introduced by resolution MSC.256(84)) applies to “ALL SHIPS”, hence the maintenance and inspection requirements as well as the marking requirements are to be followed in ships constructed before 1^st January 2010 as well as those constructed after that date.

“Periodically” in the context of regulation III/20.4, which is referred to in sub-paragraph 3 of SOLAS regulation II-1/3-9, is regarded by the Antigua and Barbuda administration as meaning monthly and it is recommended that any falls used in gangway systems are included in the monthly checks of lifesaving equipment required by other parts of SOLAS.

Ships constructed before 1^st January 2010 and which have gangways and other means of embarkation replaced should ensure that the replacements comply with MSC.1/1331 as far as is practical.

SOLAS permits an administration to deem compliance impractical and to accept alternative means in cases where:

1. A vessel has low freeboards and is provided with boarding ramps, or

2. A vessel is engaged in voyages between designated ports where appropriate shore accommodation / embarkation ladders (platforms) are provided.

ADOMS will accept these relaxations on application by owners / managers in any case where they are considered to apply.

For further information, refer to the circular 2010-004 in the attached file “2010-004meansOfEmbarkationAndDisembarkation”.

SOLAS II-2/19.3.5 - Bilge Pumping

(Administration email dated 10/08/2017)

Where the additional bilge system required by Regulation / Chapter II-2 of SOLAS 74 consists of ejectors which are located inside a ballast tank, the requirement of Regulation 19.3.5.4 / Chapter II-2 of SOLAS 74 for mechanical ventilation is not applicable.

SOLAS Reg II-1/3-13 - Lifting Appliances

(SOLAS Circular 2025-004)

Recognised Organisation (RO) must use the MSC.1/Circ.1663 Guidelines for Lifting Appliances and MSC.1/Circ.1662 Guidelines for anchor Handling Winches when applying SOLAS regulation II-1/3-13.

The Administration, has determined the extent the provisions of SOLAS Reg. II-1/3-13 paragraphs 2.1 and 2.4 apply to lifting appliances which have a safe working load below 1,000 kg as follows:

Appliances with SWL < 1,000 kg installed before 1 January 2026 may continue in service, provided they are properly maintained and documented through the vessel’s Planned Maintenance System (PMS) within the Safety Management System (SMS). Specifically:

• Load testing and thorough examination should be carried out, and the SWL permanently marked, with documentary evidence provided no later than the first Cargo Ship Safety Construction renewal survey on or after 1 January 2026 (SOLAS II-1/3-13.2.4; MSC.1/Circ.1663, 3.2.1.2).

• Existing certificates issued under another international instrument acceptable to the Administration, such as ILO C.152, may be maintained until their expiration (MSC.1/Circ.1663, 3.3.3).

• For appliances where SWL or design information is undocumented (e.g., manufacturer no longer exists), the test load shall be based on the SWL nominated by the company (Owner or Management Company) (MSC.1/Circ.1663, 3.2.1.6).

• Shipowners must ensure that maintenance records, inspections, and any repairs are current and readily available for review by flag surveyors, Recognised Organisations (ROs), or Port State Control (PSC) authorities.

Appliances with SWL < 1,000 kg installed on or after 1 January 2026 must fully comply with SOLAS II-1/3-13 and MSC.1/Circ.1663.

Surveyors employed by the authorised Recognised Organisations (ROs) will be regarded as “competent persons” for most appliances and all the ROs have expertise in certification of lifting appliances. The Recognised Organisations are available in many cases to undertake annual thorough examinations of equipment and may be engaged for that purpose and will often be the ones supervising testing. There are many other organizations and companies that will undertake annual examinations of equipment. It is for each owner and manager to assess the competence and ability of the chosen organization for the purpose, and if organizations other than the ROs are engaged, owners should establish that they are authorised for the examination of lifting appliances in their country.

The Administration is not required to approve “Competent Persons” and does not intend to undertake this work. Therefore, any company or organisation properly authorised in its own country may be used.

(Administration letter dated 21/07/2026)

The annual survey of lifting appliances and anchor handling winches within the scope of SOLAS regulation II-1/3-13 is a statutory survey and is to be aligned with the vessel's annual statutory survey, carried out within the window of three months before to three months after the anniversary date.

For Antigua and Barbuda flagged ships the SOLAS regime is now the single applicable framework. The requirements follow the same survey scheme as ILO Convention 152, with the scope extended to appliances such as provision cranes, engine room cranes and hose handling cranes.

Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate

Maintenance and inspection for fire fighting appliances and equipment

Refer to the SOLAS Circular 2012-011 in the attached file “SOLAS-Circular-2012-011rev-2-Maintenance-and-Inspection-for-Fire-Fighting-Appliances-and-Equipment”.

LRIT - Conformance test report

Refer to the circular 2008-003 in the attached file “Circular2008-003”.

Among others, the organisations appointed as testing Application Service Providers (ASP) are listed in this circular.

(Paragraph 6 of the Information Notice 2015-004)

A full list of Antigua and Barbuda approved ASPs that can carry out the conformance test is provided at: http://abregistry.ag/technical-services/security/

(Letter from the Administration dated 29^th April 2011)

ROs are instructed to endorse name changes or other critical data changes such as ship’s tonnage, etc. manually (i.e. for example by hand writing, together with date, place and RO’s stamp) on the “conformance test report”, instead of having a new document reissued, this in order to keep the issuance date and the testing date of the initial report either coincide or be typically relatively close.

BNWAS

The circular 2011-001 (see the attached file “circular2011-001Rev1”) serves as authorisation to the ROs to issue exemptions where required for BNWAS systems fitted prior to 1^st July 2011 and which do not have documentary evidence of meeting the performance standards in MSC.128(75) if the existing systems meet either the German national standard or the minimum standards set out in this circular.

Where there is an option for a 1.5 minute dormant period, this should be disabled if possible and if not disabled it should be clearly marked “not to be used” and the ship’s operational procedures should ensure this.

While ADOMS can accept the correction by the IMO (Resolution MSC.350(92)) the administration would strongly recommend that all Antigua and Barbuda ships should comply with the original implementation dates.

ECDIS and carriage of electronic publications

Refer to the circular 2012-006 (Rev 1) in the attached file “Circular2012-006-revised”.

Requirements for ECDIS

Antigua and Barbuda permits the carriage of ECDIS as an alternative to paper charts and as the primary navigation system provided that :

1. The ECDIS is type approved as meeting the IMO Performance Standard (as per MSC.232(82))

2. It uses up to date chart data issued by or under the authority of a Government hydrographic office conforming to International Hydrographic Office standards.

3. There is an adequate independent back system. This may be a second ECDIS unit that meets the functional requirements set out in Annex 6 to MSC.232(82), or an up to date outfit of paper charts.

4. The bridge watchkeepers have been appropriately trained.

Recording of ECDIS arrangements on certificates

The entry “ECDIS” in the Form E to the Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate or in the Form C to the Cargo Ship Safety Certificate or in the Form P to the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate should only be completed when the vessel is fully equipped with ECDIS, including a back-up system in accordance with the performance standard and the operators have met the training requirements for ECDIS.

The entry should specify the type of back-up system, either full paper charts or an electronic system.

Other specific requirements

This circular details also training requirements for ECDIS and requirements related to electronic navigational publications and to areas where full coverage of system electronic navigational charts is not available.

Requirements for maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair of lifeboats and rescue boats, launching appliances and release gear (MSC 402(96))

(Information Notice 2017-006 - Rev.3)

The Administration no longer approves individual service providers to conduct statutory survey work on lifeboats, rigid rescue boats, launching appliances and on-load release gear, on board Antigua & Barbuda flag ships.

The Administration accepts service providers authorized by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), or one of their IACS authorized Recognised Organisations (ROs).

In order to maintain the validity of applicable international certification on Antigua & Barbuda ships, all thorough examinations, operational testing, repair and overhaul work undertaken on lifeboats, rigid rescue boats, launching appliances and on-load release gear shall be conducted in accordance with SOLAS Chapter III Regulation 20, as applicable and MSC.1/Circ.1206/Rev.1.

Care should be taken to ensure that service providers conducting work on Antigua & Barbuda ships are authorized by either the OEM, or an RO.

In cases where a manufacturer is no longer in business or no longer provides technical support, the Administration may, on a case by case basis, authorize a service provider to service the equipment if the service provider had prior authorization for the equipment and/or long-term experience and demonstrated expertise as an authorized service provider can be provided.

Lifeboat on-load release mechanisms and fall preventer devices

Refer to the circular 2012-007 in the attached file “Circular2012-007-rev-1”.

The SOLAS and LSA code amendments affect lifeboat and rescue boat on-load release mechanisms fitted on all ships, existing and new.

For Antigua and Barbuda ships, the ROs are authorised to conduct the design reviews and witness the performance tests of systems on behalf of the Administration. Any RO which is engaged in the review, testing and evaluation of any release and retrieval system used in an Antigua and Barbuda ship and which is not otherwise reported to the IMO by another Flag State, should make a report to ADOMS in the format set out in MSC.1/Circ.1392.

The post-installation test of replaced on-load release mechanisms in order to verify that the replacement release and retrieval system fully complies with the LSA code, paragraph 4.4.7.6 and subparagraphs, can be carried out in two steps:

1. 5-knot towing test by lowering the life-/rescue boat into the water without releasing it, no persons should be on board the life-/rescue boat during this test.

2. Test of the release mechanism may be performed with the vessel stopped. The Administration accepts alternative equivalent testing methods to achieve the 5 knot launch post-installation test subject to acceptance by Recognised Organisation (RO), such alternatives may include;

   • Creating a wash of 5 knots induced by a vessel located forward of the launching position with both vessels securely moored to quay.

   • Use of tidal streams. In all cases It must be ensured that the water is moving at the required speed to a depth deeper than the survival craft draft.

Policy for fitting of fall preventer devices as an immediate temporary measures until systems are shown to be compliant, and wherever possible, is given in pages 3 and 4 of the above circular.

Recovery of persons from the water

Refer to the circular 2013-008 as per the attached file “2013-008 Means of Recovery from the Water”.

Reference is made to the new regulation 17-1 of SOLAS Chapter III (IMO resolution MSC.338(91)).

The target date for existing ships is the first periodical or renewal Cargo Ship Safety Equipment survey after 1^st July 2014. The plans and procedures do not require approval but will be checked as a part of the Cargo Ship Safety Equipment survey.

Appendix 1 of the circular 2013-008 contains the text of the IMO circular on guidance for the development of plans and procedures (MSC.1/Circ. 1447).

The SOLAS amendment clearly states that the plans and procedures are to be “ship-specific”.

Enclosed space entry drills

Antigua and Barbuda encourages the early implementation of new SOLAS regulation XI-1/7 on atmosphere testing instrument for enclosed spaces, which requires ships to carry an appropriate portable atmosphere testing instrument or instruments, capable of measuring concentrations of oxygen, flammable gases or vapours, hydrogen sulphide and carbon monoxide, prior to entry into enclosed spaces.

For further information, refer to the Information Notice 2014-007 in the attached file “Inf-not-7-2014”.

Rescue boat - Launching appliances

The Administration accepted the following equivalent arrangement which was circulated by the IMO in SLS.14/Circ.224/Rev.1 dated 30/11/2004.

QUOTE

This is to certify that the Government of Antigua and Barbuda has accepted an equivalent arrangement under the provisions of Regulation 5 of Chapter I of SOLAS 74 (as amended) in respect on ships equipped with a six persons rescue boat which is not one of the ship’s survival craft, having a weight of less than 5000N in fully equipped condition, with engine but without the crew, the launching appliance of the crane does not need to be fitted with stored mechanical power. Slewing of the launching appliances shall be possible by one person against and adverse list of 20 degrees and a trim of 10 degrees. For the other aspects the launching appliance shall be in full compliance with paragraph 1 and 2 of section 6.1 of the LSA Code.

UNQUOTE

For further information, refer to attached file “224-rev1_Antigua”.

Magnetic Compass(es)

(Circular 2018-001, in attached file “Circular 2018-001”)

Magnetic Compass Installation

As part of the shipborne navigational equipment, any magnetic compass installation will be approved by the vessel’s classification society. The RO will approve the installation with respect to compliance to above mentioned regulations, as part of the [Cargo] Ship Safety Equipment Certificate (CSSEC). This also applies to any permanent physical alterations and/or retrofitings. The approval also includes the physical provision(s) for compensation but not the compensation itself.

Magnetic Compass Compensation (Adjustment)

1. The magnetic compass(es) must be compensated at least every 24 months (2 years) by a professional adjuster, officially authorised/recognized by the administration of his principal place of business, respectively the location of adjustment. Alternatively, the adjuster might also be authorised by any of ADOMS authorised ROs.

2. On this occasion, also the deviation table should be drawn up by a professional adjuster. Alternatively, it can also be drawn up by competent ship’s crew (STCW II/2).

3. There is no adjustment/compensation required in between this period, unless any permanent changes to any installations/ship structure, that do or may affect the magnetic compass deviation or it’s installation, have occurred.

4. If the latter did occur (or it's at the competent ship's crew – STCW management level - desire) then the Deviation Table (see b) above) should be corrected accordingly, providing documentary evidence of the same (e.g. logbook entry and attachment), until a proper compensation can be performed at the next suitable occasion respectively location.

Pilot ladders

(SOLAS Circular 2026-001)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is requested to ensure that pilot ladders carried on board vessels are properly constructed, maintained, inspected and rigged in accordance with SOLAS requirements. Particular attention should be given to pilot transfer arrangements during statutory surveys, safety inspections and prior to port arrivals where pilot boarding is required.

Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate

Passenger Ship Safety Certificate

Others

MARPOL 73/78

Annex I - IOPP certificate

Annex II - NLS certificate

Annex IV - ISPP certificate

Regulation for the prevention of pollution by sewage from ships

Annex V

Regulation for the prevention of pollution by garbage from ships

Annex VI - IAPP, EIAPP and IEE certificates

NOx technical code

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorised to issue EIAPP certificate to marine engines upon satisfactory completion of the NO_x Technical Code requirements.

SEEMP - International Energy Efficiency certificate

SEEMP do not require class or Flag approval.

Both new and existing ships are required to show that they have a SEEMP on-board at the date of survey in order to be issued with a certificate.

All ships are required to have a SEEMP on-board by the first IAPP intermediate survey or renewal survey after the 1^st January 2013 in order to be issued with an IEE certificate.

Refer to the circular 2012-003 (Rev 1) as per the attached file “2012-003 SEEMP and IEEC requirements”.

Data Collection System for fuel oil consumption of ships

(Information Notice 2018-003, rev.3)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to perform the following statutory services:

• Reviewing of SEEMP Part II and issuance of Confirmation of Compliance, (MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 5, para. 4.5)

• Verification of reported data, (MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 22A)and Issuance of Statement of Compliance (MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 5, para. 4.5)

• Submission of reported data to the IMO Ship Fuel Oil Consumption Database ((MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 22A, para. 9)

For further information, refer to attached file “Notice 2018-003 EU MRV _ IMO DCS Regulation (rev3).pdf”.

Use of Electronic Record Books (ERB) and Logbook Systems

(Miscellaneous Circular 2023-001)

Electronic logbooks are permitted to be used by the Administration and even though the Administration has not approved or developed any format, system, or layout in respect of any mandatory on-board documentation, electronic logbooks must be approved by either a Recognized Organization (RO) acting on behalf of the Administration or carry an approval by another SOLAS contracting Government.

ERBs may be used on board to meet the following record book and recording requirements, under the MARPOL Annexes and the NOx Technical Code:

1. Oil Record Book, parts I and II (MARPOL Annex I)

2. Cargo Record Book (MARPOL Annex II)

3. Garbage Record Book, parts I and II (MARPOL Annex V)

4. Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS) Record Book (MARPOL Annex VI)

5. Recording of the tier and on/off status of marine diesel engines (MARPOL Annex VI)

6. Record of Fuel Oil Changeover (MARPOL Annex VI)

7. Record Book of Engine Parameters (NOx Technical Code)

A set of guidelines for the use of ERBs under MARPOL has been developed by the IMO, providing standardized information on approving ERBs. This is to ensure that the obligations of MARPOL are met and that there is a consistent approach to approving such systems.

The type of approval process has been delegated to the ROs of the Administration and may also include on-board installation. Recognised Organisation (RO) issues to the ship a Declaration of MARPOL Electronic Record Book.

Once switching over to MARPOL ERBs or other electronic logbooks, vessels must continue to preserve their existing, hard copy books for a minimum of three (3) years after the last entry is made, unless otherwise required.

BWM Convention

Ballast Water Management

Since 8. Sept. 2017 it is no longer possible to de-couple (de-harmonize) the IOPP Certification.

All International Ballast Water Management Certificates (IBWMC) are issued with dates harmonized with the HSSC in order to facilitate easy resumption of full harmonization of the ship‘s certification by suitable planning to resume full harmonization of certification at the earliest possible time.

For the re-harmonization of the IOPP certificate, the vessel’s Classification Society will determine the applicable scenario. Owners/operators will be guided by the ROs through the process of re-instating the original IOPP Certificate. There is no separate authorization required from ADOMS.

• D-1 Standard: Ballast Water Management Plan Approvals

  As to date, all Ballast Water Management Plans (BWMP) for any Antigua and Barbuda registered vessels must have been approved by the respective RO, as the corresponding survey deadline as mentioned in BWM.2/Circ.40 - 3 months - has expired. All BWMPs approved in accordance with resolution A.868 (20) will remain valid until compliance with the D-2 Standard requires also a corresponding revision of the BWMP.

• D-2 Standard: Ballast Water Treatment Systems Approvals

  ADOMS accepts all ballast water treatment systems for installation on board Antigua and Barbuda flagged ships that have been approved to the G8 MEPC.174 (58) or G9 MEPC.169 (57) guidelines by one of ADOMS Recognized Organizations (ABS, LR, DNVGL, NK, RINA, Recognised Organisation (RO), KRS, CCS, RS, IRS). ADOMS will also accept systems that have been approved to the G8 or G9 guidelines by any other Administration that has acceded to the convention.

  (Administration email dated 28/10/2022)

  In case of successful installation and commissioning of the BWTS witnessed by a Recognised Organisation (RO) Surveyor, and the only outstanding item is the sampling and/or analysis of the treated ballast water, Recognised Organisation (RO) is duly authorized to issue a two (2) months short term IBWM certificate D2 including a statutory recommendation which shall be rectified by the expiry date of the certificate. The ballast water management operation shall be carried out as per approved Ballast Water Management Plan D-2.

  The sampling and or analysis of treated ballast water by an accredited laboratory has not necessarily to be witnessed by Recognised Organisation (RO): Recognised Organisation (RO) may credit the sampling administratively. Upon receipt of the report and after verification of the results, Recognised Organisation (RO) shall issue the definitive IBWM D2.

Exemptions

Exemptions from BWM Compliance (D-1 or D-2) will be considered on a case-by-case basis by ADOMS Technical Division, and will likely impose strict limitations on the operational area of the vessel concerned. A vessel granted specific port exemptions will still be subject to general compliance with respect to certification and practical management (= record keeping).

Tonnage 69

Tonnage Certificate

The TLO shall send to the Administration:

1. one copy of the tonnage certificate,

2. one copy of the certificate of survey.

In accordance with the agreement and in connection with Appendix 1 to the Assembly Resolution A.739 (18) Recognised Organisation (RO) may manually endorse the name change in the ITC instead of having a new document reissued. The attending surveyor shall sign, stamp and mentioned the date, properly strike through the previous name and the new name is to be clearly written in capital letters.

Non-Convention International Tonnage Certificate

(Administration email dated 11/01/2023)

Non-convention ships (i.e. ships with length less than 24m) requesting a tonnage certificate shall have tonnage measurements according to ITC 69.

A Non-Convention International Tonnage Certificate, available in Tonnage Manager, shall be issued accordingly by Recognised Organisation (RO).

COLREG 72

Untitled

ILO Conventions

ILO 92 & 133 conventions - Crew accommodations

A Statement of Compliance for crew accommodations is to be issued.

The Merchant Shipping (Crew Accommodation) Directive 2008 is revoked and replaced by a new directive as per the attached file “Directive 002-2013 Crew Accommodation”.

The new directive applies ILO 92 and 133 to existing ships and requires the carriage of a Certificate of Compliance by 20^th August 2013. It leaves ships which have keels laid after that date to comply with the requirements in Title 3 of the MLC and does not apply 92 / 133 to them.

Additionally it includes a general exemption for existing ships from Article 11 of the ILO 92 convention relating to separate mess rooms. This is intended to deal with the situation in many small modern ships which are registered in Antigua and Barbuda and which do not have separate mess rooms. Any Certificate of Compliance or similar issued in respect of an Antigua and Barbuda ship for compliance with 92 / 133 should therefore contain a note to the effect that the compliance is subject to the general exemption from separate mess rooms contained in the directive.

Miscellaneous Technical Requirements

POLAR Code

Polar Water Operations Manual (PWOM)

(Circular 2019-001)

The International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code), 2014, as amended, by Chapter II requires all vessels subject to the Code carrying a ”Polar Water Operational Manual” (PWOM) in accordance with the provisions specified in this Chapter.

The manual may either be a stand-alone document or integrated in the ship’s and/or company’s ISM System:

1. If the manual forms an integral part of the vessel’s and company’s ISM system, then it is subject to approval by the RO issuing the DoC. If approved as such, the RO issuing the vessels Polar Water statutory certification, i.e. the vessel’s class, must then accept it as fulfilling the Polar Code’s requirements respectively criteria.

2. If the manual is a stand-alone document, it is subject to approval by the organization issuing the Polar Water statutory certification, i.e. the vessels class.

For further information, refer to attached file “Circular-2019-001-PWOM”.

Ship Recycling & IHM

(Directive 001-2019)

The Administration notes that vessels may be certified in accordance with the requirements of the convention (Reg. (EU) No1257/2013). Vessels eligible for certification shall apply to their classification society for certification. If all requirements are met, class will issue relevant certification in the form of a Statement of Compliance, in accordance with Directive 001- 2019.

Upon entry into force of the Hong Kong Convention all vessels to which this Directive applies must be certified in accordance with the requirements of the Convention. The Administration therefore recommends the early preparation of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials in order to smoothly implement the requirements of the Convention after its entry into force.

Upon ratification of the Hong Kong Convention by Antigua and Barbuda all vessels must be certified in accordance with the requirements of the Convention and the relevant Regulations made by Antigua and Barbuda and issued an International Certificate of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials or an International Ready for Recycling Certificate.

For further information refer to attached file “001-2019-Recycling-of-Ships-Directive”.

Asbestos

(Circular 2020-006)

During inspections of ships in service, asbestos has regularly been found in such places as fire blankets, joints and insulation materials, some types of sealants, friction material of brakes, wall and ceiling coverings, cords, gaskets, and electric fuses.

Under IMO MSC.1/Circ.1374, Article 13, when asbestos is detected on board, in contravention of SOLAS regulation II-1/3-5, action should be taken to have it removed. The removal, assigned to professional asbestos removal companies, should take place within a time frame of three years, from the date when the contravention is found.

In such cases, a suitable Exemption Certificate should be issued by Recognised Organisation (RO).

ISM Code

Authorizations & instructions

ISPS Code

Authorizations & instructions

Obervation(s):

All existing circulars / directives / Info letters were reviewed and included in the website: www.abregistry.ag

In General Circulars we find circulars related to: Guidelines on stowaways, piracy and armed robery, out of hours contact information, maintaining the CSR file, ISPS requirements and others guidance (SSAS specific instructions included).

MLC, 2006

Scope of authorisation

Specific Flag requirements

Refer to Circular 2024-003 and Directive 001-2024 for information on the 2022 Amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006) that entered into force on the 23 December 2024.  

An amended DMLC Part I (attached file) is available to:

1. all ships registering with Antigua & Barbuda on or after 23 December 2024,

2. ships registered in Antigua & Barbuda, prior to the first renewal inspection on or after 23 December 2024; and

3. any ship upon request.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to review the compliance with these amendments, at the time of carrying out the interim, initial, intermediate or renewal audits, as of its entry into force. Nevertheless, upon receipt of a new DMLC I with the amendments incorporated, the new DMLC I & II are to be submitted for review.

Appendix — Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services

Agreement

See the attached files:

• “Agreement_Antigua_and_Barbuda_RO_10052016”.

• “Amendment_RO_Antigua & Barbuda_01012017”

Appendix 1 to the Agreement

Applicable instruments and degree of authorization

See the attached file “Annex1_Antigua_and_Barbuda_RO”.

Appendix 2 to the Agreement

Reporting to the Administration

Recognised Organisation (RO) agrees to report to the Administration information pertaining to services performed pursuant to this agreement.

See the attached file “Annex2_Antigua_and_Barbuda_RO”.