France - Specific requirements by the French Administration

Flag instructions relating to statutory surveys

Flag procedural requirements

General policy

General

These instructions are based on the French Regulations and Instructions to Class Societies as described below, and available at the following web link:

https://www.mer.gouv.fr/pole-reglementation-de-la-securite-maritime

“Décret No 2020-600” and “Décret No 2025-1101”

The “Décret No 2020-600” of 19th May 2020, relating to the safety of life at sea, the pollution prevention, the ship security and the social certification on-board French ships modifying the “Décret No 84-810” as amended, has been published in the Official Journal of the French Republic on the 21st May 2020 and enters into force on the 22nd May 2020.

It extends the delegation by France to its ROs to the statutory certification of MODUs, of cargo ships of reference length greater or equal to 24m, of special purpose ships of reference length greater or equal to 24 m, of fishing vessels of reference length greater or equal to 24m and high speed crafts of reference length greater or equal to 24m.

The “Décret No 2025-1101” of 19th November 2025, relating to artificial islands, floating installations, floating structures and professional ships modifying the “Décret No 84-810” as amended, has been published in the Official Journal of the French Republic on the 21st November 2025 and enters into force on the 22nd November 2025.

It extends the delegation by France to its ROs to the statutory certification of ships carrying more than 12 industrial personnel (offshore maintenance ship) of reference length greater or equal to 24 m.

Division 130 of the French regulations deals with the issuance of statutory certificates.

Division 140 of the French regulations deals with provisions related to authorised class societies.

Duties delegated

1. “Delegated ships”

   Safety certificates and Pollution Prevention certificates, including Exemption certificates for:

   • MODU

   • Cargo ships of reference length greater or equal to 24 m.

   • Special purpose ships of reference length greater or equal to 24 m.

   • Fishing vessels of reference length greater or equal to 24 m.

   • Ships carrying more than 12 industrial personnel of reference length greater or equal to 24 m.

   • High speed crafts of reference length greater or equal to 24 m.

   Refer to Duties not delegated c) for ships not delegated for safety certificates and pollution prevention certificates.

2. All ships: “delegated ships” and other ships, except ships with nuclear propulsion and ships subject to the INF Code

   As required by the conventions:

   • Engine International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate

   • International Anti-Fouling System Certificate

   • Register of ship’s lifting appliances and cargo handling gear

   • International Load Line Certificate

   • International Energy Efficiency Certificate

   • Confirmation of Compliance - SEEMP Part II and III

   • Statement of Compliance - Fuel Oil Consumption Reporting (DCS) and Operational Carbon Intensity Rating (CII) (see Data Collection System for fuel oil consumption of ships)

   • Approval of corrective action plan before issuance of the Statement of Compliance - Fuel Oil Consumption Reporting (DCS) and Operational Carbon Intensity Rating (CII), after acceptance of Commission Centrale de Sécurité (CCS)

   • EU Inventory Certificate and EU Ready for Recycling Certificate, according to Regulation (EU) No 1257/2013 (see Ship Recycling Regulations)

3. All ships: “delegated ships” and other ships, except ships with nuclear propulsion and ships subject to the INF Code Ships outside the scope of the International Load Line Convention 1966

   (Refer to Issuance, renewal and postponement of National Load Line Certificates)

   • National Load Line Certificate

   However, for ships keel laid before the 1^st September 1984, this certificate may be renewed by the Administration (Head of the CSN; “Centre de Sécurité des Navires” / Ship Safety Centre)

4. All ships with overall length greater or equal to 15 m

   (Refer to Tonnage)

   • International Tonnage Certificate or National Tonnage Certificate, as relevant.

For all the above delegated functions, related surveys and approval of drawings and manuals are carried out accordingly by the class society according to the French regulations.The provisions of the Harmonised System of Survey and Certification as per IMO resolution A.1186(33) as amended apply for the statutory certificates issued, endorsed or renewed on behalf of the French Administration.

For the delegation of “Certificates of Insurance”, refer to Certificates of Insurance.

Duties not delegated

1. All ships - Certificates not delegated

   • Ship Safety Management Certificate (and Company DOC) according to ISM Code

   • Ship Security Certificate according to ISPS Code

   • Maritime Labour Convention Certificate according to MLC 2006 Convention

   • Social Security Certificate for Fishing Vessels according to ILO 188

2. Navigation permit

   The navigation permit (“permis de navigation”) is not delegated in any way to Recognised Organisation (RO).

   However, for “delegated ships”, the surveyor issues to the shipowner or its representative, the list of the ship’s operational limitations. This is done initially once, and thereafter only in case of modifications.

   This list of operational limitations is required for passenger ships through SOLAS Chapter V Regulation 30. For cargo ships of 500 GRT and above in international voyage, SOLAS does not require such list.

   Therefore, for “delegated ships” of 500 grt and above in international voyage, the Administration requires such a list to be issued by Recognised Organisation (RO), prior for the Administration to issue or renew the navigation permit.

   For “delegated ships”, the list should consist in limitations of a similar nature as those required for passenger ships. These limitations are normally recorded through the assignment of navigation notations, operating area notations, restrictions in the sea states such as for the significant wave height, specific memoranda, etc.

   Examples: Exemptions from regulations, restrictions in operating areas, weather restrictions, sea state restrictions, restrictions in permissible loads, trim, speed and any other limitations, whether imposed by the Administration or established during the design or the building stages.

   The form “Limitations on operation” is available in ASMS2.

   For “delegated ships”, the surveyor also issues to the shipowner or its representative, the “Attestation de Conformité aux Divisions Applicables du Règlement Français” (Statement of Compliance to Applicable Divisions of French Regulation) including the confirmation by Recognised Organisation (RO) that operational conditions as declared by the shipowner are compliant with the Applicable Divisions, and which has in its annex the list of proposed exemptions and derogations together with supporting documentation and the advice of Recognised Organisation (RO), as well as the list of due or overdue conditions of Class and Statutory recommendations issued during plan approval and document review and surveys.

   The form “Attestation de Conformité aux Divisions Applicables du Règlement Français” is available in ASMS2.

   For “delegated ships”, for the purpose of sea trials, a temporary navigation permit may be delivered by the Administration. The surveyor issues to the shipowner a statement confirming that, at the day of the survey, taking into account verifications and tests carried out, including abandon and fire drills, this survey did not allow to detect deficiency preventing the ship and the crew to proceed to sea trials.

3. Ships for which safety and pollution prevention certificates are not delegated

   • Safety and pollution prevention certificates, other than those listed in Duties delegated b) c) and d), for: - Passenger ships - Cargo ships of reference length below 24m - Special Purpose ships of reference length below 24m - Fishing vessels of reference length below 24m - Charter yachts, and yachts classified as historic sailing ship designed before 1965 or the replica of such a ship - Submarine ship.

   • Safety and pollution prevention certificates for ships with nuclear propulsion and ships subject to the INF Code

4. However, when the survey/audit/inspection of the ship is carried out abroad, in a high risk area as determined by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Administration may, on a case by case basis, authorize Recognised Organisation (RO) for statutory certification of certificates listed in a) and c) above (i.e excluding the Navigation Permit).

Electronic certificates

Delegated certificates may be issued in an electronic format according to FAL.5/Circ.39/Rev.2. (Administration email dated 20/03/2018).

Certificates delegated to the society (“Division 140” of French regulations)

“Delegated ships”

Recognised Organisation (RO) is fully authorised, on behalf of the Administration, for the following statutory certificates, for “delegated ships”.

Fully authorised means authorised for approval of drawings and documents, surveys, issuance, including interim and short term certificates, endorsement, renewal and withdrawal of certificates.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorised for the issuance of the corresponding SOLAS and Load Line exemption certificates, after prior agreement from the Administration.

• International Load Line Certificate

• Cargo Ship Safety Certificate and Form C

• International certificate of fitness for the carriage of liquefied gases in bulk

• International certificate of fitness for the carriage of dangerous chemicals in bulk

• IOPP certificate (MARPOL Annex I)

• NLS certificate (MARPOL Annex II)

• ISPP certificate (MARPOL Annex IV)

• IAPP certificate; EIAPP certificate (MARPOL Annex VI)

• Register of ship’s lifting appliances and cargo handling gear

• Garbage management plan and register (to be approved by Recognised Organisation (RO)).

• International Anti-Fouling System certificate

• International Ballast Water Management Certificate

• Polar Ship Certificate

• Habitability and hygiene (for plan approval and surveys, no statutory certificate is to be issued)

• Document of Compliance for dangerous goods

• International recommendations (*)

• Certificate of Compliance with the provisions of Council Directive 97/70/EC for fishing vessel, Exemption certificate, record of Equipment for the Certificate of Compliance

• Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit Safety Certificate

• Special Purpose Ship Safety Certificate and Record of Equipment for Special Purpose Ship Safety Certificate

• Offshore Supply Vessel Document of Compliance

• High Speed Craft Safety Certificate (HSC Code 1994 and 2000)

• Safety Certificate for ship carrying Industrial Personnel (IP Code)

A “Flag State Verification and Acceptance Document” (MSC/Circ.645) may be issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) upon request, however not on behalf of the Administration.

For the delegation of “Certificates of Insurance”, refer to Certificates of Insurance.

All ships: “delegated ships” and other ships, except ships with nuclear propulsion and ships subject to the INF Code

Recognised Organisation (RO) is fully authorised, on behalf of the Administration, for the following statutory certificates, for all ships.

Fully authorised means authorised for approval of drawings and documents, surveys, issuance, including interim and short term certificates, endorsement, renewal and withdrawal of certificates.

• International or National Load Line Certificate (Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorised for the issuance of the corresponding Load Line exemption certificates, after prior agreement from the Administration). Upon Owner’s request, a Statement of Compliance in accordance with the International Convention on Load Lines may be issued and renewed to fishing vessels of length equal or above 24 m, in addition to the National LL Certificate required by Division 228, Articles 228-2 and 228-3 of the French Regulations, and subject to the ship being marked accordingly.

• EIAPP certificate (MARPOL Annex VI)

• Register of ship’s lifting appliances and cargo handling gear

• IAFS certificate

• International Energy Efficiency Certificate

• Confirmation of Compliance - SEEMP Part II and III

• Statement of Compliance - Fuel Oil Consumption Reporting (DCS) and Operational Carbon Intensity Rating (CII) (see Data Collection System for fuel oil consumption of ships)

• Approval of corrective action plan before issuance of the Statement of Compliance - Fuel Oil Consumption Reporting (DCS) and Operational Carbon Intensity Rating (CII), after acceptance of Commission Centrale de Sécurité (CCS)

• EU Inventory Certificate and EU Ready for Recycling Certificate, according to Regulation (EU) No 1257/2013

All ships with overall length greater or equal to 15 m - Tonnage

Recognised Organisation (RO) is fully authorised, on behalf of the Administration, for the following statutory certificates.

Fully authorised means authorised for examination and calculation, surveys, issuance, suspension and withdrawal of certificates.

• International Tonnage Certificate

• National Tonnage Certificate

Refer to paragraph Extent of delegation and reporting requirements.

Classification and reporting

The class society which issues the statutory certificates on behalf of the Administration is the class society classing the ship, i.e. issuing the certificate of classification.

Refer to attached file “Documents_to_be_issued_rev4”, for issuance of the “Intervention Certificate of an authorized Classification Society” and of the statutory certificates, depending on the case, and as further detailed in the below paragraphs.

Requirements for all classed ships

For any classed ship, Recognised Organisation (RO) issues the “Intervention Certificate of an authorized Classification Society”, available in ASMS2, to the owner, upon satisfactory completion of the required surveys.

The Intervention Certificate is issued once, at the opportunity of the first survey. The Intervention Certificate is also issued in case of changes / modifications affecting the scope covered by the existing Intervention Certificate.

For any classed ship, the bottom survey is carried out under Recognised Organisation (RO) supervision.

New ship or existing ship transferred to the French Flag, of reference length 24 m and above (length as per Load Line Convention)

Any new ship or existing ship transferred to the French Flag, of reference length 24 m and above (as defined in Article 1 of the decree 84-810), except private yachts, historic sailing ships, traditional ships, competition ships, is to be classed by an authorised class society

The ship’s classification is to include the following requirements:

• Hull construction

• Subdivision

• Intact stability

• Damage stability when required

• Mooring installations

• Machinery

• Boilers

• Cargo refrigerating installations

• Hydraulic installations

• Electrical installations

• Fire protection and extinction

• Fire prevention, protection, detection and ventilation

• Lifting appliances, according to ILO 152.

(At the owner’s request, additional class notations may be assigned as appropriate).

Assessment, verifications and surveys are carried out according to IMO Resolution A.1186(33) as amended, for all the above requirements and provisions.

The following items of IMO Resolution A.1186(33) as amended are to be carried out by Recognised Organisation (RO):

Evacuation:

1. Initial surveys for the issuance of the Passenger Ship Certificate

   • (PI) 5.1.1.18

   • (PI) 5.1.1.26

   • (PI) 5.1.1.27

   • (PI) 5.1.3.97

2. Initial surveys for the renewal of the Passenger Ship Certificate

   • (PR) 5.2.2.96

   • (PR) 5.2.2.98

   • (PR) 5.2.2.99

Pollution prevention:

1. Initial surveys for the issuance of the International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate and the NOx Technical Code

   • (AI) 4.1.2.2.1.1

   • (AI) 4.1.2.2.1.2

   • (AI) 4.1.2.2.1.3

   • (AI) 4.1.2.2.1.4

2. Annual surveys to maintain the validity of the International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate

   • (AA) 4.2.2.4.3

   • (AA) 4.2.2.4.4

   • (AA) 4.2.2.4.5

   • (AA) 4.2.2.4.6

This Intervention Certificate is issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) to the owner, upon satisfactory completion. The Intervention Certificate is issued once, at the opportunity of the first survey. The Intervention Certificate is also issued in case of changes / modifications affecting the scope covered by the existing Intervention Certificate.

In addition, for classed ships, inspections of outside part of hull are to be carried out in presence of Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor.

New ship or existing ship transferred to the French Flag, of reference length less than 24 m, except private yachts

Any new ship or existing ship transferred to the French Flag, of reference length less than 24 m, except private yachts, is to be subject to an assessment of its structure by an authorised organisation, according to the requirements of Division 140 or the simplified procedure as defined in Division 222.

The Intervention Certificate is issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) to the owner, upon satisfactory completion. The Intervention Certificate is issued once, at the opportunity of the first survey. The Intervention Certificate is also issued in case of changes / modifications affecting the scope covered by the existing Intervention Certificate.

For new ships of LL length less than 12m, Intervention Certificate is issued by FPO.

Passenger ship

Without prejudice to the above, every passenger ship subject to Article 6 of Directive 2009/45/CE is to be constructed and maintained in compliance with the structural, mechanical, electrical and automation requirements of Recognised Organisation (RO)’s rules.

The Intervention Certificate is issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) to the owner, upon satisfactory completion.

For the above cases, the Intervention Certificate is issued once, at the opportunity of the first survey. The Intervention Certificate is also issued in case of changes / modifications affecting the scope covered by the existing Intervention Certificate.

Short term certificates

Recognised Organisation (RO) may issue short term certificates with a maximum validity of 2 months.

New ships or ships transferring to French Flag

Prior acceptance of the CSN is required before issuance of the short term certificate by Recognised Organisation (RO), in the following situations:

• Statutory recommendations have been issued in relation with Load Line Convention

• Statutory recommendations have been issued in relation with SOLAS Convention Chapter III.

In all cases, Recognised Organisation (RO) informs the CSN and the Administration (sten2.sdsten.sfm.dgampa@mer.gouv.fr), when a short term certificate is issued, through the CPA.

In all cases, no short term certificate may be renewed without the prior acceptance of the CSN.

The MO is to be contacted in case no approved preliminary or final stability file is available on-board. (prior acceptance of the CSN is also required in such a case).

For cases where prior acceptance of the CSN is required before issuance of the short term certificate, occurring after office hours or during week-ends or public holidays, the surveyor, after MOC agreement, issues the short term certificate (without getting prior acceptance from the CSN), and informs subsequently the CSN on the first working day following the issuance of the short term certificate.

Ships in service

In all cases, Recognised Organisation (RO) informs the CSN and the Administration (sten2.sdsten.sfm.dgampa@mer.gouv.fr), when a short term certificate is issued, through the MOC.

Extension of statutory certificates

Extension of statutory certificates under the conditions permitted by the applicable Conventions (such as SOLAS Convention) may be accepted with MOC agreement and subject to Administration’s final acceptance.

In such a case, Statutory Certificates are not to be re-issued but extended by using the dedicated extension part of each certificate.

The Ready for Recycling Certificate may be extended by Recognised Organisation (RO) for a single voyage to the recycling facility.

Suspension of statutory certificates

The MO is to suspend the validity of the ship’s statutory certificates in the following cases:

• When the ship does not satisfy anymore the conditions under which one of its statutory certificates have been issued, further to damages, substantial changes or deficiencies of its structure or installations.When an important repair has not been notified by the owner to the head of CSN and to Recognised Organisation (RO) having issued the related certificate.

• When a statutory recommendation becomes overdue

• When the ship’s class is suspended or withdrawn

• When the ISM DOC is suspended or withdrawn (upon information received from the Administration)

• When a major deficiency is identified in relation to the ISM Code and Regulation (EC) No 336/2006 (upon information received from the Administration)

• When the ship does not comply anymore with the conditions based on which the MLC Certificate or the Social Security Certificate for fishing vessels has been issued (upon information received from the Administration)

• When the ship does not have a crew on-board for more than 3 months, notwithstanding the requirements in Laid-up ships for laid-up ships (upon information received from the Administration)

• When the situation on-board the ship is not substantially in accordance with the EU Inventory Certificate or when the required surveys are not completed by their limit date, in accordance with the Regulation (EU) No 1257/2013.

• In case of non-fulfilment of a MLC related regulation or non-fulfilment of a requirement related to fitness of the ship to proceed to sea, to safety or to security (upon information received from the Administration for MLC)

The MO informs the owner, copy to the head of the CSN, about the suspension, any associated statutory recommendation and appeal conditions.

The MO cancels the suspension and a full term / permanent certificate is reinstated, when deficiencies which led to the issuance of the suspension have been duly corrected / rectified by the owner:

• When the ship is again in conformity with the conditions leading to the issuance of its statutory certificates

• When the repair has been notified by the owner and considered satisfactory by the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor

• When the ship’s class is reinstated

• When the statutory recommendation is dealt with

• When the ISM DOC is reinstated or reissued.

The attending surveyor duly informs the MO, through the SSQM, of any of the above circumstances. The Owner is informed accordingly.

Withdrawal of statutory certificates

After a 6 months period of suspension and if the conditions leading to this suspension have still not been rectified, the certificates are to be withdrawn, upon request from the MO, subject to prior consultation with the owner.

The MO informs accordingly the owner, including appeal conditions, and the head of the CSN about this withdrawal.

A withdrawn certificate cannot be reinstated; only a new certificate may be re-issued.

Issuance and renewal of an exemption certificate or of a derogation

Any request for exemption is to be sent by the Owner or Manager.The exemptions certificates are the exemptions certificates or the exemptions mentioned on the international certificates foreseen by the International Conventions, EU Directive and Regulations.

For “delegated ships”

The request for exemption or derogation is sent to Recognised Organisation (RO).The exemption certificates or derogations are issued under the following conditions:

• The exemptions certificates are issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) after agreement of the president of CCS. This agreement of the president of CCS (Commission Centrale de Sécurité) is only required for initial certificate. Recognised Organisation (RO) submits the application file to the secretariat of the CCS. The file includes the request, supporting documents, and the assessment carried out by Recognised Organisation (RO) together with Recognised Organisation (RO)'s recommendations. The initial certificate are then renewed directly by Recognised Organisation (RO).

• Permanent derogations are issued by Recognised Organisation (RO):

  • After agreement of the president of CCS for ships under supervision of the “Administration Centrale”;

  • After agreement of the president of the competent CRS (Commission Régionale de Sécurité) for ships under supervision of DIRM (Directions InterRégionales de la Mer) or DM (Directions de la Mer).

  The application file is submitted by Recognised Organisation (RO) to the Secretariat of the competent Commission. The file includes the request, supporting documents, and the assessment carried out by Recognised Organisation (RO) together with Recognised Organisation (RO)'s recommendations.

• Temporary derogations are issued by Recognised Organisation (RO). Recognised Organisation (RO) maintains the list of the cases for which requirements of French Regulations have not been fulfilled. This list, together with supporting documentation, maybe requested by the Administration at any moment. This list is submitted by CPA to the Administration every 6 months.

  Temporary derogations may be divided into two principal categories:

  • Statutory recommendation which leads to the issuance of a short-term statutory certificate.

  • Temporary mobilization / modification of operation of a ship.

  The MOCs involved in the issuance of the temporary derogation informs CPA twice a year (beginning of January and July for the preceding 6-months period) of the list of temporary derogations. CPA sends the consolidated list to the Administration.

For new constructions, a procedure and the associated form to request an exemption or a permanent derogation is available in the attached file “Formulaire Demande Exemption ou Dérogation - Navire en construction_Rev0”. This form is to be filled-in by the Shipyard and/or the Owner and submitted for review to Recognised Organisation (RO).

For “non-delegated ships”

For “non-delegated ships”, the request for exemptions is submitted to the competent authority.

Other request for derogation

This is to be submitted by the relevant entity (Shipyard, Owner, Manager, ...) to the competent Commission and is to be accepted by the president of the said Commission.

The permanent derogations are issued after review of the competent Commission.

Derogations and Authorizations of Use

A form listing the derogations and authorizations of use accepted in accordance with applicable divisions of French regulation is available in ASMS2 (see List of National certificates).

Interpretations

The IMO Unified Interpretations (UIs) apply.

In case there is no applicable IMO Unified Interpretation, the interpretation is the prerogative of the Administration.

The IACS UIs which have resulted in an IMO Circular apply.

The IACS UIs which have not resulted in an IMO Circular do not apply unless individually accepted in writing by the Administration.

Transition and transfer for “delegated ships”

Untitled

With reference to Classification and reporting, the file can only be transferred to the Class Society classing the ship and issuing the International Load Line Certificate, or the Class Society issuing the National Load Line Certificate in case the ship is not classed.

If the Owner wishes to change class as well, this transfer of class will be carried out according to the normal procedure for change of class.

The class society issuing the statutory certificates will also be the one classing the ship.

The CSN submits to the CD, at least 3 months before the limit date of the next periodical or renewal survey of one of the safety or pollution prevention certificates, the following documentation:

• Survey reports of the French specific “visite de mise en service” (initial survey)

• Last annual survey report

• Last survey report for renewal of international (or National) statutory certificates

• Minutes of Meeting of the CCS

• Copy of valid international statutory certificates

• List of exemptions, waivers, equivalents or alternatives, applicable to the ship (these will have to be referenced by the CSN with the No of the "Procès Verbal/PV" from the CCS/CRS which will prevail)

• Official tonnage when the tonnage certificate has not been issued by the Class Society.

• Approved statutory plans and manuals, not available to the Class Society (such as CSM, SOPEP, Safety Plan, BWMP, as endorsed by the CSN, to Recognised Organisation (RO). Otherwise, the "Procès Verbal/PV" from CCS/CRS will be deemed sufficient and Recognised Organisation (RO) will not restamp such documents. In case of missing documents, Recognised Organisation (RO) may endorse a statutory recommendation).

The CD sends the above documentation to the MO.

Recognised Organisation (RO) acknowledges receipt of the file, including above listed documentation, to the CSN, when the file is complete (The 3 months are used to complete the file as needed). Recognised Organisation (RO) informs the CSN of the date at which the transfer will be effective, i.e at the next due survey after Recognised Organisation (RO) acknowledgement of the complete file.

In case Recognised Organisation (RO) is not in a position to carry out the transfer, Recognised Organisation (RO) notifies this situation to the CSN without any delay, with justifying reasons. Refer in such case to Specific cases “Specific cases”.Once the date of effective transfer is confirmed by Recognised Organisation (RO) to the CSN, The Head of CSN informs the Owner by a letter the model of which is in attached file “CSN letter to Owners.pdf”.

If the transfer occurs on the occasion of the endorsement of a certificate, then Recognised Organisation (RO) may endorse the existing certificate (i.e. existing certificate issued by the Administration), without necessarily renewing it by a Recognised Organisation (RO) certificate issued on behalf of the Administration, unless the owner and Recognised Organisation (RO) jointly agree to do so.

An agreement may be found between the owner, Recognised Organisation (RO) (MO) and the Administration (Administration’s HO, i.e. STEN2 and CSN) in case there is no possibility to fulfil the above delays of 3 months.

Specific cases

1. Ships under construction or conversion

   For ship's files which are under progress at the CCS or at the CRS, the transfer will take place after the ship is delivered and the Administration has issued the corresponding certificates (unless otherwise mutually agreed on a case by case basis between the Administration, i.e coordinator of the CCS/CRS, Recognised Organisation (RO) and the Owner).

   The transfer will take place accordingly on the occasion of the next endorsement or renewal of certificates, according to the above procedure.

2. Transfer within the application period of the Decree n° 2020-480 du 27 avril 2020 (emergency measures in the scope of COVID-19 pandemic)

   A file may be transferred to Recognised Organisation (RO) while the certificates have expired or are due to expire in the transfer period, but have been extended as per the provisions of the Decree. In such a case, conditions in Untitled apply.

   Recognised Organisation (RO) restores the validity of the expired certificates at the time of the transfer. The validity of the certificate shall be restored by carrying out the appropriate survey which, in such circumstances, should consist of the requirements of the survey that was not carried out, but its thoroughness and stringency should have regard to the time this survey was allowed to lapse.(IMO Resolution A.1140(31) §5.6).

3. Documentation file not complete

   When the submitted file is found incomplete or when there is a doubt with respect to the conformity of the ship with the submitted documents, a joint inspection Recognised Organisation (RO)/CSN may be carried out on a case by case basis and upon mutual agreement. The results of this joint inspection will aim at confirming the pertinency and consistency of the submitted documents.

4. Incompatibility of the submitted file with Recognised Organisation (RO) Rules

   Such cases will be brought to the attention of Administration's STEN2 Department (for instance, ship issued with International Statutory Certificates, which must be classed). The CSN remains the competent body, pending the resolution of the case.

5. Ships issued with Navigation permit and Load Line Certificate only (ships of reference length greater or equal than 24 m, but less than 500 grt), non-convention ships above 500 grt (ex: Pontoon), and ships between 300 and 500 grt in international navigation issued with Safety Radio/IOPP/ISPP/IAPP only (ex: research ships):

   Recognised Organisation (RO) issues the following documents:- The “Intervention Certificate of an authorized Classification Society”, duly filled in for the applicable parts.- The survey report - The Statement of Compliance for Non-Convention Ship in accordance with National Regulations.

Transfer to French Flag

Re-Approval and stamping by Recognised Organisation (RO) of statutory drawings and documents already approved by or on behalf of the losing Flag, is not required, unless otherwise indicated.

From an EU Member State Flag Administration (for SPS and Cargo ships of more than 500 GRT and Passenger ships)

The owner submits to the CD, or to the Commission and to the head of the CSN, the following documents:

• All valid international certificates issued by or on behalf of the losing Flag.

• The valid ship’s Certificate of Classification.

• Any ship’s operating conditions.

• Confirmation that no certificate of exemption has been issued or, if issued, justification of the grounds on which this exemption has been accepted by the losing Flag.

• Applicable drawings and documents, in particular those subject to approval or review, operation manuals, approval certificates for marine equipment.

The owner also submits the list of equipment normally subject to approval as per Division 310 and 311 of the French regulations, and requests an “authorisation of use” for those equipment not approved in accordance with Division 310 or 311.

The provisions of IACS PR1A (the related procedure) apply in case of change of class, for submission of information related to the ship’s classification.

Refer to the related technical procedure for examination of stability files and grain loading files further to change of Flag.

Refer also to the related survey procedure for the LPOs tasks contributing to the issuance of statutory certificates by MOCs and to Statutory surveys - General, para. 4.4 for procedures for change of Flag.

For issuance of the certificate of exemption under the French Flag, based on the existing certificate under the losing flag, refer to Statutory surveys - General, paragraph 1.3.2. CPA shall make an application to the Head of CSN for issue of the exemption.

In order to allow Recognised Organisation (RO) to assess the submitted documents, 5 months interim certificates may be issued, provided all above required documents have been duly submitted, the ship’s class is maintained and a change of Flag survey has been carried out with satisfactory results.

From a non-EU Member State Flag Administration (for SPS and Cargo ships of more than 500 GRT and Passenger ships)

The owner submits to Recognised Organisation (RO), or to the Commission and to the head of the CSN, the following documents:

• All valid international certificates issued by or on behalf of the losing Flag.

• The valid ship’s Certificate of Classification.

• Required drawings and documents as per Annex 130-A.1 of Division 130 of French Regulations. Drawings and documents which must be approved by the Flag Administration must be duly approved and stamped by the losing Flag or on its behalf.

The provisions of IACS PR1A (the related procedure) apply in case of change of class, for submission of information related to the ship’s classification.

Refer to the related technical procedure for examination of stability files and grain loading files further to change of Flag.

Refer also to the related survey procedure for the LPOs tasks contributing to the issuance of statutory certificates by MOCs and to Statutory surveys - General, paragraph 4.4 for procedures for change of Flag.

Requests for exemption certificates are carried out as per the provisions of Issuance and renewal of an exemption certificate or of a derogation.

The owner also submits the list of equipment normally subject to approval as per Division 310 and 311 of the French regulations, and requests an “authorisation of use” for those equipment not approved in accordance with Division 310 or 311.

In order to allow Recognised Organisation (RO) to assess the submitted documents, 5 months interim certificates may be issued, provided all required documents have been duly submitted, the ship’s class is maintained and a change of Flag survey has been carried out with satisfactory results.

Fishing vessels from an EU Member State Flag Administration and compliant with Directive 97/70/CE

The owner submits to the CD and to the head of the CSN, the following documents:

• All valid international certificates issued by or on behalf of the losing Flag.

• The valid ship’s Certificate of Classification.

• Confirmation that no certificate of exemption has been issued or, if issued, justification of the grounds on which this exemption has been accepted by the losing Flag.

• Applicable drawings and documents, in particular those subject to approval or review, operation manuals, approval certificates for marine equipment.

The owner also submits the list of equipment normally subject to approval as per Division 310 and 311 of the French regulations, and requests an “authorisation of use” for those equipment not approved in accordance with Division 310 or 311.

Cases other than the above

For cases other than the above, the file of applicable documents and drawings is submitted as for a new ship and subject to examination by MO.

Reporting and notification

The survey report is performed through the ASMS system.

When survey reports are drafted through ASMS, the Flag Administration receives an automatic notification of survey when the ASMS survey report is validated by the SSQM. Administration is getting access to the certificates and reports issued with ASMS Certificates Editor through the VeriSTAR system.

Obligation of information

The owner or manager and the class society when the latter has been informed, inform without undue delay the CSN (and the class society if appropriate), about the following:

• Any major conversion, major repair or important modification.

• Any modification of operational conditions.

• Any change of owner or manager.

• Any marine casualty as per Article R.1621-12 of “Code des Transports”.

• Any maritime labor accident.

Appeals against Recognised Organisation (RO) decisions taken in the scope of the delegation

Pursuant to Article 35 bis of the decree 84-810 as amended and Article 140-15 of the French regulations, appeals against the decisions of Recognised Organisation (RO) as regards delegated functions, are to be brought to Recognised Organisation (RO) first and dealt with according to Recognised Organisation (RO) own procedures.

Therefore, the Recognised Organisation (RO) Marine and Offshore Division General Conditions articles 6.3, 11 and 12.1 are applicable.

Two degrees of examination are provided within Recognised Organisation (RO).

The first decision, if rejecting the claim, is to mention the possibility of appeal to Recognised Organisation (RO) HO Marine and Offshore Management.

The second decision is to mention explicitly that appeal against the decision so taken by the authorized classification society acting in the scope of the delegated public powers conferred by the decree 84-810 dated 30 August 1984, as amended, is to be brought, according to Article 42 of same decree, to the exclusive jurisdiction of the competent courts of the administrative order, in France. Time to bring such recourse is usually two months as per Titre II, Livre IV of “Code de justice administrative“ (available at “Legifrance” internet site).

All decisions taken in this scope are to be copied to the French Administration within 15 days of their date.

The detailed procedure is as follows:

Appeals of Recognised Organisation (RO)’s clients against decisions taken by Recognised Organisation (RO) are to be presented to Recognised Organisation (RO) in writing, including by e-mail, within one month of the date of the notification of the said Recognised Organisation (RO) decision. Appeals must be supported by factual evidence and references of the concerned rules and regulations.

Appeals are submitted by the client to the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor in charge of the surveys or inspections, or, in the case of appraisal of plans and documents, to the Recognised Organisation (RO) local plan approval office.

In case of a ship under construction, the client may give mandate to the shipyard to submit on its behalf an appeal. In such a case, the shipyard is to put the client in copy of the appeal.

1. First examination (at Recognised Organisation (RO) local level: Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor in charge or Recognised Organisation (RO) local plan approval office)

Claims are examined within one month from receipt by Recognised Organisation (RO). This delay is interrupted thereafter upon receipt of any written request for clarification. The Recognised Organisation (RO) decision is sent in writing to the client and its representative if any, as well as to the Administration. This first Recognised Organisation (RO) decision, if rejecting the claim, is to indicate the reason for such refusal and to mention that an appeal may be lodged, in writing and within 15 days, to the Executive Vice-President of Recognised Organisation (RO) Marine and Offshore Division, at Recognised Organisation (RO)’s Head Office.

2. Second examination (at Recognised Organisation (RO) HO Marine and Offshore Management level)

This is carried out by the relevant departments at Recognised Organisation (RO) HO, within 3 months. Recognised Organisation (RO) may submit the case to the advice of its Marine Advisory Committee. The Recognised Organisation (RO) decision is sent in writing to the client and its representative if any, as well as to the Administration. When this second decision confirms the initial rejection, it is to indicate the reason for such confirmation and to mention explicitly that appeal against the decision so taken by Recognised Organisation (RO) is to be brought to the exclusive jurisdiction of the competent courts of the administrative order, in France (ref: Article 140-15 of the French Regulations).

Ship modifications - existing ships

Stability

For all ships, a new stability experiment is not required in case the additional loads are installed on the deck and the new loading cases comply with the applicable stability criteria.

A new stability experiment is required, in case structural modifications are carried out leading to a significant deviation of the ship’s characteristics (more than 2% of the light ship displacement or more than 1% for the longitudinal position of the centre of gravity).

Untitled

For non-delegated ships, in case of minor modification (such as for example the addition of containers on deck for storage, installation of a ROV), it is not required to submit such modifications to the CCS (“Commission Centrale de Sécurité”).

If modifications affect items covered by French regulations (such as for example habitability, fire protection, modification of cranes), a presentation of such modifications is to be made to the CCS (sten2.sdsten.sfm.dgampa@mer.gouv.fr).

Laid-up ships

Definition

A ship is laid up when its operation has been suspended more than 1 month, at berth or anchoring, and this is not due to seasonal employment.

Equivalences and interpretations

For all classed ships, the owner is to submit a lay-up maintenance program to the society for approval. This program is sent to the CSN for information.

• if suspension of the ship operation is less than one month, statutory certificates are maintained.

• if suspension of the ship operation is between one and three months, statutory certificates are suspended.

• if suspension of the ship operation is greater than 3 months, statutory certificates are withdrawn.

The lay-up period starts at the date of completion of the initial laying-up survey as per Rules Part A, Chapter 3, App 1, 5.1.1.

Refer to for the procedures for suspension and withdrawal of statutory certificates.

A renewal survey is to be carried out for the issuance of the new statutory certificates, or a survey the extent of which is according to the specific instructions requested to the Administration.

No cargo on-board is authorised during the lay-up period. The manning requirements are decided by the Administration.

A copy of the memoranda which is entered in the ship’s status upon satisfactory completion of the initial laying-up survey (Pt A, Ch 3, App 1, 5.1.2) is sent by the CD to the CSN.

Ships not classed in service

Refer to Ships not classed in service and also to the occasional and miscellaneous surveys procedure, Section 9.

New ships

Refer to DA (Design Assessment Department) for LPO issues and “List of drawings and documents to be reviewed for French flag new constructions”.

Certificates of Insurance

Certificates delegated to the society

Reference is made to:

• “Décret No 2014-497” of 16^th May 2014 related to the delegation of certificates of insurance or other financial security.

• “Arrêté” of 3 November 2014 for the implementation of the above Decret.

• “Arrêté” of 15^th December 2014 for the implementation of the above Decret and Arrêté, authorizing Recognised Organisation (RO) to issue certificates of insurance from the 15^th January 2015.

• “Décret No 2016-615” of 18th May 2016 related to the Nairobi International Convention on the Removal of Wrecks, 2007, entering into force for France on the 5th May 2016.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized for the issuance of the following certificates:

• “Certificate of insurance or other financial security in respect of civil liability for bunker oil pollution damage”, in accordance with the IMO international convention on civil liability for bunker oil pollution damage, 2001 (ships with gross tonnage greater than 1000).

• “Certificate of insurance or other financial security in respect of liability for the death of and personal injury to passengers”, in accordance with the IMO Athens convention relating to the carriage of passengers and their luggage by sea, 2002.

• “Certificate of insurance or other financial security in respect of liability for the removal of wrecks”, in accordance with the Nairobi International Convention on the Removal of Wrecks, 2007.

• “Certificate of insurance or other financial security in respect of civil liability for oil pollution damage”, in accordance with the IMO International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage, 1992 (CLC).

Certification is not delegated in the case of shipowners located in French Polynesia and New Caledonia.

Process for issuance of certificates

The Certificates are issued in accordance with the process described in the attached file “Insurance_Certificate”, and based on the following documents:

• Insurance attestation specifically addressed to Recognised Organisation (RO), and mentioning the name and address of the insurer or guarantor. The attestation is also to include the details for identification of the ship which are indicated on the certificate.

• Applicant’s letter requesting the issuance of the certificate according to the relevant convention.

• Copy of the French “Registration act” or “Nationality act”.

Above documents may be sent electronically.

An insurance attestation which is received electronically is accepted if it can be verified on the website of the issuer of this attestation.

The list of insurers recognized by the Administration is as per attached file “2023-01-24 Assureurs NAVPRO.xls”.

The period of validity of the certificate cannot exceed that of the financial security.

Withdrawal of certificates

Recognised Organisation (RO) must inform without delay the Administration in case, to Recognised Organisation (RO)’s knowledge, a French Flag ship is not in accordance with the provisions of the convention, in particular in case the ship’s certificate has been withdrawn, or when Recognised Organisation (RO) has not been able to issue the certificate or when Recognised Organisation (RO) finds, during a survey on-board, that the certificate is not available on-board the ship.

Recognised Organisation (RO) may withdraw a certificate when Recognised Organisation (RO) is aware of an event affecting the correctness of the information mentioned on the certificate or affecting the maintenance of the financial security on which the certificate is based; in particular, Recognised Organisation (RO) withdraws the certificate when the insurer / guarantor or the ship owner informs Recognised Organisation (RO) of the withdrawal of the financial security.

The withdrawal of the certificate is effective on the date the information mentioned on the certificate becomes incorrect or on the date the financial security ceases to be effective.

In case of certificate withdrawal, Recognised Organisation (RO) asks the owner to return the certificate to Recognised Organisation (RO).

Monthly listing to the Administration

BIS dpt sends a monthly list to the Administration, at Fabien.Joret@developpement-durable.gouv.fr, Mfc.Dam.Dgitm@developpement-durable.gouv.fr, according to the provisions of the “Décret” and with a mutually agreed format, including certificates issued, refused or withdrawn, together with the information mentioned on the certificates and with the details of the insurer/guarantor on which the certificates are based.

Towed ships and other floating objects

Ships which are in emergency towing situation and ships which are operating exclusively in the 5th navigation category are not subject to the below provisions.

Every towed ship and other floating object shall be in conformity with all the provisions of the IMO Resolution A.765(18).

The owner/operator of the towed unit and the master of the tug are respectively responsible for the operational aspects such as route planning, preparation of the towing operation or the handling of an emergency situation.

In particular, a route planning and an emergency plan have to be established and available on-board the tug, as well as a towing and operation manual.

To satisfy the provisions of the Article 3 of the “84-810 Decree”, a “Statement of Compliance in accordance with the relevant provisions of IMO Res. A.765(18)” is to be issued, from the 1st July 2016, to units of length greater or equal to 24 m, in case they are towed beyond the 5th navigation category without personnel on-board.

This Statement of Compliance, which is available in ASMS2, is issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) on behalf of the Administration, for a validity of 2 years, and subject to satisfactory verification of the structural strength, the stability and the safety of navigation, as follows:

• With respect to the intact stability, the owner/operator submits the loading conditions which are representative of the different towing conditions expected during the voyage, in accordance with the provisions and criteria of the IMO Intact Stability Code 2008 (Res.MSC.267(85)).

• The following items are also to be verified, before the issuance of the Statement of Compliance: watertight and weathertight integrity (paragraph 5 of Res. A.765(18)), when appropriate the securing of rudder in the amidships position and measures taken to prevent the propeller shaft from turning (paragraph 7 of A.765(18)), navigation lights and sound signals (paragraph 4 of Res.A.765(18)).

In the case of an international navigation, an International Load Line Certificate is required.

(A navigation permit may be maintained or issued by the Administration upon the operator’s request, in which case the Statement of Compliance in accordance with Res.A.765(18) would not be required anymore).

Tenders

IMO MSC.1/Circ.1417 “Guidelines for Passenger Ship Tenders” is not mandatory for French Flagged ships.

Other authorizations

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized for the measurement of noise levels in application of the “Décret No 2006-1044” of 23rd August 2006, and in accordance with the requirements of the “Arrêté” of 21st March 2007, pursuant to the temporary instructions for the “Habilitation des organismes pour procéder au mesurage du bruit” (PV CCS 982/INF.02).

In case of request, DA-DS/VLM Dept is to be contacted through the MOC.

STCW

The minimum Safe Manning Certificate is called “Décision d’ Effectif”.(it is reminded that it is to be checked that the master, officers and ratings are certificated as required by the STCW Convention, during statutory surveys).

Document language

Damage control plan and manual

(Email from the Administration dated 08/12/2016).

When damage control plan and manual are required in accordance with Division 221, they should be provided in the working language of the ship. For several French flag vessels, the working language of the ship is the French language. It is therefore required that the instructions of the damage control plan and manual are written both in English and in French. The extract of drawings issued by the yard or the designer such as piping diagrams, which are not considered as instructions, may remain in English or in the original language if the content is understandable by the crew.

Statutory deficiencies/findings, related to Classification

Any statutory deficiency which is related to statutory regulations and classification rules must always be also recorded as a statutory recommendation or statutory observation, in addition to being recorded as a Condition of Class or class observation.

Mandatory declaration of serious Marine casualties to "BEA Mer" (i.e Marine Accident Investigation Bureau) - Article R1621-12 of Code des Transports

The ship Owner, the Master, and the Classification Society when and if having been informed, must inform the BEA Mer in the following cases connected to the operation of a French Flag ship:

• the death of a person or serious injuries

• material damages sustained by a ship

• missing person overboard

• the loss, presumed loss or abandonment of a ship

• a ship stranding or a damage to a ship or its implication in a collision

• material damages to the external maritime environment of the ship, prone to seriously affect the ship's safety, another ship’s safety or a person’s safety.

• serious damages to the environment, or possible serious damages to the environment, resulting from the damages sustained by a ship or by several ships.

Such information shall be sent by Recognised Organisation (RO) local office to the MO and to FM_CDR, for further submission to the BEA Mer using the attached Accident Report Form (French and English versions, “CREM version française.pdf” & “CREM version anglaise.pdf”).

Online reporting is also possible on EMCIP (European Marine Casualty Information Platform): https://portal.emsa.europa.eu/emcip-public/#/dashboard (refer to BEA letter and its annex dated 31/03/2022 in attached files).

Iridium Mobile Satellite Service in relation to GMDSS

(Instruction SMC-STEN INST/SCH-CSN/013 dated 15th June 2021)

IMO has adopted Res. MSC. 451(99) recognizing Iridium Mobile Satellite Service, as meeting the necessary technical criteria of a GMDSS Satellite Service.

The Administration considers that the Iridium Ship Earth Station (SES) does not offer equivalent functionalities to those required by the GMDSS.

The Administration implements the following provisions, to be taken into account by Recognised Organisation (RO):

• Iridium SES is not to be used as the primary means of distress alert and reception of maritime safety information, equivalent to the functions required by article 221-IV-04 of the French Regulations.

• Iridium SES is not to be considered as a means of emission and reception of distress alerts nor as a means of reception of maritime safety information, equivalent to the functions required by articles 219.4 and 219.15 on cargo ships in national trading and in oceanic zones A1 and A2.

• Iridium SES is to be used only for duplication purpose or for trial experiment.

Marine Equipment (MED and non-MED)

In case of transfer to French flag, Recognised Organisation (RO) must asks to the Owner the list of equipments installed on board with details of certificates issued.

PSC deficiencies

Pursuant to Article 38 of the Decree 84-810 as amended, the Owner shall inform Recognised Organisation (RO) when at least 5 (five) deficiencies or non-conformities have been raised by PSC in relation with safety, labour certification or prevention of pollution.

When Recognised Organisation (RO) is aware of such situation, Recognised Organisation (RO) shall inform without delay the Administration.

Electronic logbooks and record books

For delegated ships, Recognised Organisation (RO) can approve electronic bridge, machinery and radio logbooks, as well as MARPOL Electronic Record Books, and BWMC Electronic Record Books, and issue the respective ship’s Declarations on behalf of the Administration (available in National Certificate section of ASMS2).

Load Line

Issuance, renewal and postponement of National Load Line Certificates

Specific procedures for the issuance of the French national load line certificate, similar and related interventions are available and to be requested from CPA / FPO.

Load Line certificates are renewed according to the following procedure:

• Unless otherwise instructed, the National Load Line Certificate is renewed by Recognised Organisation (RO), with a maximum validity of 5 years. In each case, the anniversary date remains the same than the class period.

• For ships keel laid before the 1^st September 1984, upon decision from the head of CSN, the National Load Line Certificate may be endorsed and renewed by the Administration.

• For ships keel laid on or after the 1^st September 1984 and for which the National Load Line Certificate was formerly endorsed and renewed by the Administration, the National Load Line Certificate may, upon decision from the head of CSN, be endorsed and renewed by the Administration for a period of five years from the 7^th April 2012.

The National Load Line Certificate of existing ships, formerly endorsed and renewed by the Administration, is endorsed and renewed by Recognised Organisation (RO), according to the provisions here below.

The French regulations require the issuance of a National Load Line Certificate to ships when not subject to the ILLC 1966, i.e. passenger ships whatever their length, cargo ships of 12 m in length and above engaged in national trade, fishing vessels of 12 m in length and above, private yachts of 24 m and above.

For new constructions, request for intervention (i.e first issuance of a National Load Line Certificate), as per the related technical procedure, of a French ship not falling under the scope of the international SOLAS/Load Line Conventions, is to be forwarded to FPO Nantes.

For ships in service, request for intervention (i.e first issuance of a National Load Line Certificate), as per the related technical procedure, is to be forwarded to the MO together with a preliminary survey report (scope as per the related procedure) for prior agreement, before a possible submission to CPA and FPO.

FPO Nantes will provide the necessary instructions to CPA.

The first issuance of a National Load Line Certificate is done by FPO or other authorised TLO.

The National Load Line Certificate is issued by Recognised Organisation (RO), with a maximum validity of 5 years. In each case, the anniversary date remains the same than the class period.

Recognised Organisation (RO) may extend the validity of National Load Line Certificates for a maximum of 3 months, in exceptional circumstances, for those certificates issued or renewed by Recognised Organisation (RO).

Transfer procedure

The owner submits to Recognised Organisation (RO) the following documents, for renewal of a National Load Line Certificate formerly renewed by the Administration:

• lines drawing or equivalent

• structural drawings

• stability file

• initial free-board report

• last hull survey report

• Thickness measurement report for steel ships

• Initial survey report

• The two latest periodical survey reports

• Specific survey reports in case of important modifications

• Reports of the CRS (“Commission Régionale de Sécurité”)

• Report of the last weighing test.

In case no weighing test report is available or available weighing test report is dated more than 5 years ago, consideration may be given to require a new weighing test.

Upon receipt of the above documents by Recognised Organisation (RO), a joint survey Administration-RO is carried out.

Upon completion of the joint survey, the head of CSN decides if the renewal of the National Load Line Certificate is carried out by Recognised Organisation (RO), or otherwise.

In case of doubt, such as for example inconsistency or lack of documents, the MO is to be contacted for final decision in consultation with the CSN.

Retroactive requirements for fishing vessels of length between 12 and 24 m

With reference to Division 226, Article 226-2.17 of the French Regulations, freeing ports of existing vessels which are not in conformity with paragraph 9 of this Article, are to be made compliant by the 1st January 2016.

With reference to Division 211, Article 211-2.04 of the French Regulations, a lightweight survey is to be performed every 10 years, from the 1st January 2017, with the attendance of a representative from the CSN, concurrently with the 10 years Load Line renewal survey.

The results of this lightweight survey is to be sent to Recognised Organisation (RO).

In case of:

• more than 5% in light ship displacement, compared to the approved stability file, in case of ships for which last stability file was approved less than 15 years ago

• more than 10% in light ship displacement, compared to the approved stability file, in case of ships for which last stability file was approved 15 years ago or more

an updated stability file is to be submitted to Recognised Organisation (RO) for approval and a new stability experiment is to be carried out with the attendance of Recognised Organisation (RO).

Fishing vessels operating in 3^rd, 4^th or 5^th navigation category, which keel was laid before 01/10/1986 and which didn’t have major conversion after that date, are not subject to the lightweight survey.

Ships not classed in service

Refer to: - the attached file “Procédure SNC - France rev8”, and - “Recognised Organisation (RO) M&O - Conditions de Certification” available in ASMS2.

Refer also to the occasional and miscellaneous surveys procedure, Section 9.

Fishing vessels of length between 12m and 24m, with keel laying date over 10 years

The following items are to be examined and surveyed by Recognised Organisation (RO) for the five-year renewal of the National Load Line Certificate issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) on behalf of the Administration:

• Close-up examination of the following critical zones: (1) bottom shell in way of crew areas, (2) Bottom of forward bulkhead of steering gear compartment, (3) bilge wells, (4) sea chests, (5) eroded areas of the hull due to propeller cavitation.

• Tightness test of freeing ports, port holes, hatches/hatch covers and weathertight doors

• For steel hulls, ultrasonic thickness measurements of a plate to be carried out on 5 measurement points at least and to be also carried out on the 5 critical zones. The general requirements of Recognised Organisation (RO) Classification Rules also apply for thickness measurements of plates.

• For a wooden hull, the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor verifies systematically the satisfactory condition of the fishpond compartment at every load line survey.

Fishing vessels of length greater or equal to 24m

(Article 218-3.09 §4 Division 228)

A stability test with determination of light ship displacement and position of her center of gravity is required at least every 10 years after delivery.

Approval of “Maintenance Facilities”

Application

These requirements apply to:

1. Fleets of ships fulfilling all the following criteria:

   1. the ships are: - twin ships, - of reference length below 24 m - built in accordance with the Classification Rules of an Authorized Classification Society - issued with a valid National Load Line Certificate.

   2. the ships are exclusively navigating in National waters abroad.

   3. the maintenance of the ships in relation to the Load Line is exclusively carried out by the facility(ies) subject to approval.

2. Maintenance Facilities fulfilling each of the following conditions:

   1. The industrial facility has means to ensure the inspections of the external part of the hull of the ships.

   2. It is located in a State outside the European Union.

   3. It is carrying out the effective maintenance of at least 10 twin ships over a period of 12 months, this total number may include ships flying another Flag than France.

Approval of a Maintenance Facility and associated exemption regime:

At Owners' request, an authorized Classification Society may authorise a Maintenance Facility to carry out load line inspections for a given fleet. An approval process of the Maintenance Facility is then engaged by the Classification Society. The approval of the Maintenance Facility will lead to the issuance of an Exemption Certificate for the ship, instead of a National Load Line Certificate.

Conditions and procedure for approval of a Maintenance Facility

The ship Owner sends a formal request for approval of a Maintenance Facility to an authorized Classification Society.

The following documentation and information is to supplement the request:

• The list of ships concerned with such approval to the Maintenance Facility.

• An organisation chart of the Facility with associated competences, with identification in particular of the responsible person in charge of the relationship with the Classification Society.

• All procedures governing the ships' maintenance process and, in particular, including the control items subject to verifications during annual and renewal Load Line surveys.

An initial audit of the Maintenance Facility is carried out by the Classification Society, covering infrastructures, organisation as well as competences.

The Classification Society may ask for additional requirements, as deemed necessary.

The conclusions of the initial audit are submitted to the CCS. The approval of the Maintenance Facility is therefore issued by the authorised Classification Society, following satisfactory recommendation from the Administration.

The approval may then be subject to amendments without any additional audit, but only in the case where the changes concern a modification of the list of concerned ships.

Each Maintenance Facility is then subject to an annual audit by the Classification Society. An annual report is then submitted by the Classification Society to STEN2, as well as to the involved CSN.

An inspection of the external part of the hull and associated elements is carried out under witnessing of the Classification Society and at least every 5 years, for each concerned ship of the subject fleet.

In addition, at least 20% of the fleet ships are subject to an annual inspection of the external part of the hull and associated elements.

General obligations of a Maintenance Facility

The Facility carries out annual Load Line inspections. The window for such inspections is plus or minus 3 months of the anniversary date of the initial Load Line survey.

The Maintenance Facility carries out the inspections of the external part of the hull and associated elements.

The Maintenance Facility has a process of continuous improvement of its maintenance management system. This process ensures the data analysis of damages and incidents of the subject ships. The experience feedback leads to the implementation of corrective actions on generic type of damages on a series of ships. as well as to the implementation of instructions and verification checklists, on the basis of which the annual load line inspections are carried out.

The Maintenance Facilities maintain a database for damages, incidents and related experience feedback, for the whole fleet of subject ships. The database is updated and submitted every 6 months to the Classification Society

General obligations for the ships

The ships connected to an approved Maintenance Facility are issued with an Exemption Load Line Certificate, valid until the expiry date of the National Load Line Certificate it replaces, and thereafter periodically renewed for a maximum period of 5 years.

Suspension and Withdrawal

The Classification Society or the Administration may suspend the approval of a Maintenance Facility, in case one of the above requirements is not complied with. In such a case, the exemption certificates of any ship inspected by this Maintenance Facility is suspended.

SOLAS

Bottom survey

The bottom survey may be carried out afloat as per the following provisions:

The survey report, supplemented by the diver’s report as applicable, is submitted by the owner to the CSN.

The “Intervention Certificate of an authorised Classification Society” includes the annual bottom inspection of passenger ships.

The window (- 3 months, +/- 3 months or +/- 6 months) is to be considered in relation with the anniversary date of the relevant international certificate, or in the absence of international certificate the validity date of the navigation permit.

For cargo ships and passenger ships in international voyages, the limit date of the bottom survey is not to exceed the limit date of the safety certificates. The bottom survey is to be carried out according to the provisions of IMO Resolution A.1186(33) as amended.

For in-water surveys carried out in the scope of the renewal of the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate, no dismantling or taking of clearances is required, if no anomaly was found during the in-water survey.

The in-water visibility is to be clear enough to permit, for example, to see at the same time and distinctly, the rudder blade and the propeller.

The in-water visibility and the cleanliness of the hull are to be sufficient to allow the surveyor and the diver to determine the condition of the plating, appendages and the welding.

Cargo Ship Safety Construction

ESP surveys

Tankers, for which regulation 20 of MARPOL Annex I applies, are subject to an Enhanced Survey Programme (ESP) in accordance with the IMO Resolution A.744(18) as amended.

The fulfilment of such provisions is a condition for the validity of the IOPP certificate.

Tankers and bulk carriers for which SOLAS Chapter XI-1 applies are also subject to the ESP.

The fulfilment of such provisions is a condition for the validity of the Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate or for the validity of the provisions for the safety of construction in the Cargo Ship Safety Certificate.

Condition Assessment Scheme (CAS)

Tankers, for which regulation 20 or 21 of MARPOL Annex I apply, are subject to a CAS, in accordance with the IMO resolution MEPC.94(66) as amended.

The fulfilment of such provisions is a condition for the validity of the IOPP certificate.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorised to carry out such assessment, in accordance with the above IMO resolution.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is therefore authorised to carry out the CAS survey, to prepare the CAS survey report with pertinent comments regarding the continuation of the operation of the tanker.

Every year, CPA forwards, to the Administration (“sous-directeur chargé de la Sécurité des Navires”), details of Recognised Organisation (RO)’s CAS report and associated comments regarding the continuation of the operation of the tanker.

The CSN monitors the work carried out by Recognised Organisation (RO) in relation with CAS.

Usage of foam

Pursuant to Paragraph 5 of Annex 221-II-2/A.1, foam mattress must be compliant with the requirements of French regulation Division 311 implementing the MED 2014/90/EU, as amended.

Cargo Ship Safety Equipment

Safety of navigation

For BNWAS installed prior to July 2011, the following requirements apply (letter reference SM2 No 1553 dated 28^th April 2011):

• prior to 18/03/2009, as per PV CCS 585/REG.O1

• since 18/03/2009, as per MSC.128(75) (BNWAS already comply with IMO resolution MSC.128(75) as per the amended version of Division 212 art.212.2.03 "Arrété du 18/03/2009").

See the attached file “Letter_SM2”.

Requirements for maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair of lifeboats and rescue boats, launching appliances and release gear (MSC 402(96)) - Divisions 140 and 337 of French Safety Regulations and RO instruction No STEN INST/SCH-RO/005 dated 7th January 2020.

Issuance, maintenance and renewal of the Authorization of Service Provider

The content of the below provisions apply equally to service suppliers and to manufacturers when they are acting as service suppliers.

The Company is responsible to ensure that maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair of lifeboats and rescue boats, launching appliances and release gear on board its ships , is carried out in accordance with the provisions of this Chapter and with SOLAS III/20.

Periodic overhaul and maintenance are to be carried out by approved service suppliers in accordance with below provisions.

The service supplier is to request a "Certificate of approval" and “Authorization of Service Provider” to Recognised Organisation (RO), in accordance with the requirements given in the related survey procedure and the provisions of this Chapter. The certificate of approval/authorization of service provider is issued by Recognised Organisation (RO), further to satisfactory review of the required documentation and satisfactory completion of initial audit.The assessment report attached to the related survey procedure is to be used and filled in for that purpose.

The application submitted to Recognised Organisation (RO) must include the following documentation and information:

• Identification of the applicant (type of company, scope, address)

• Makes and Types/models of equipment for which the Authorization is requested

• Information showing conformity with the applicable provisions of the MSC.402(96).

• Certificates issued by the Manufacturer showing that the service supplier is part of its maintenance network.

The validity of the certificate of approval/authorization of service provider is not to exceed 3 years. It is renewed upon request from the service supplier, subject to the same conditions being fulfilled as for the initial issuance. The model of “Authorization of Service Provider” to be issued on behalf of the French flag is attached and is available in the “Service Suppliers” database (“Habilitation à la Fourniture de Service v2.docx”)

The approved Service Supplier must inform Recognised Organisation (RO) of any change or condition affecting its activities, of any modification of its quality control system, of any change of its certification by the manufacturer, of any change of its personnel in charge of annual and five-yearly tests as per paras. 4.2 and 4.3 of Res.MSC.402(96).

Overhaul and maintenance on-board

Tests are to be carried out, as for initial installation, in case of replacement. The replaced items must be subjected to the tests required, for the parts concerned, as for initial installation.

The annual thorough examination is to be carried out in the +/- 3 months window of the anniversary date of the safety certificates for cargo ships and fishing vessels, and - 3 months window of the anniversary date of the safety certificate for passenger ships. The five-year thorough examination is to be carried out in the - 3 months window of the anniversary date of the certificates.

Upon completion of the service, the approved service supplier issues a report confirming that the equipment remains fit for purpose. (A copy is to be kept on-board and another copy sent to the CSN.)

Recognised Organisation (RO) communication and exchange of information with the Administration

Recognised Organisation (RO) (c&r_stat Dpt) shall submit to the Administration, annually, an activity report, as well as a copy of the ISO 9001:2015 Certificate.

Recognised Organisation (RO) (c&r_stat Dpt) shall inform the Administration without delay in case of change in Recognised Organisation (RO) organization or procedures which may affect the Recognised Organisation (RO) authorization for approval of service supplier in accordance with IMO Resolution MSC.402(96) and the French Regulations.

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall ensure, by periodic or unscheduled audit or other means, that work continues to be carried out in accordance with these Requirements, and shall withdraw the authorization of service suppliers who are not in compliance. Recognised Organisation (RO) (CPA) will notify any such suspension or withdrawal to the Administration within 3 working days.

Recognised Organisation (RO) (c&r_stat) will inform the Administration, without delay, in case of change affecting the scope and conditions of the Authorization of Service provider.

Case by case authorization by the Administration

In cases where a manufacturer is no longer in business or no longer provides technical support, the Administration may authorize a service supplier for the equipment on the basis of prior authorization for the equipment and/or long-term experience and demonstrated expertise as an authorized service provider.

The approval of a service supplier which would not have makes and types/models of equipment for which they apply defined by the manufacturer, is subject to a case by case evaluation by the Administration.

On-load release and retrieval systems

For ships constructed after 1^st January 2013 and for replacements of existing systems after the 1^st January 2013, Article 2d of Directive 96/98 EC makes the LSA code as amended by IMO resolution MSC.320(89) applicable from the 1^st January 2013.

For replacements before the 1^st January 2013, it is recommended to have replaced systems in accordance with LSA code as amended by IMO Resolution MSC.320(89) or at least in accordance with paragraphs 4.4.7.6.4 to 4.4.7.6.6 of LSA code as amended by IMO resolution MSC.320(89).

Replacements are to be carried out in accordance with the procedure as per MSC.1/Circ.1392. Refer also to the “Guidelines for Replacement of Lifeboat Release and Retrieval System when not Supplied by the Lifeboat Manufacturer”, as per attached file “PV CCS 884_INF05”, in case of alternative lifeboat release and retrieval system.

The “statement of acceptance of the installation of replacement release and retrieval system to an existing lifeboat”, as per Appendix 4 of MSC.1/Circ.1392, is to be issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) for delegated ships or by the CSN upon recommendation from Recognised Organisation (RO) for other ships.

Literally, the provisions of SOLAS III/1.5 related to the replacement of lifeboat on-load release-mechanisms not complying with paras. 4.4.7.6.4 to 4.4.7.6.6 of the LSA Code and the provisions of IMO MSC.1/Circ.1392, do not apply to rescue boats.

(The Administration, through letter ref: SM2 No 2570 dated 26th November 2014, has however drawn the attention of shipowners to such on-load release mechanisms fitted on rescue boats and has recommended to them to replace the on-load release mechanisms fitted on rescue boats which would not be provided with “safety pins” as per MSC.1/Circ.1327 or which would not have been declared in compliance with paras. 4.4.7.6.4 to 4.4.7.6.6 of the LSA Code).

Emergency training and drills

With respect to SOLAS Regulation III/19, 3.3.3, the French safety regulations, Division 221 refer to IMO MSC.1/Circ.1326 “Clarification of SOLAS Regulation III/19” and MSC.1/Circ.1327 “Guidelines for the fitting and use of Fall Preventer Devices (FPDs)”.

When performing drills with persons on board a lifeboat, it is recommended that the boat first be lowered and recovered without persons on board to ascertain that the arrangement functions correctly. In this case, the boat should then be lowered into the water with only the number of persons on board necessary to operate the boat.

FPDs, in accordance with MSC.1/Circ.1327, are to be used during the drills, excluding locking pins which would modify the on-load release hooks and therefore imply a re-approval.

Drills may also be carried out without persons on-board during lowering and recovering. In such a case, the operating crew in charge of manoeuvring the lifeboat in the water may embark into the lifeboat from a service boat.

Liferafts with extended service intervals not exceeding 30 months

In order to be accepted under French Regulations article 221-III/20.8.3 (extended service interval) and article 8.8 of HSC 2000 and to be granted an extended service interval of 30 months, liferafts must comply with IMO MSC.1/Circ.1328 “Guidelines for the approval of inflatable liferafts subject to extended service intervals not exceeding 30 months” and must be approved by an authorized Classification Society.

The types of liferafts which have been authorized by another EU Member State or by a Member of the EEA (European Economic Area) or by Turkey, for such an extended service interval, and which comply with the provisions of IMO MSC.1/Circ.1328, are accepted on-board French Flag ships.

Any document which can attest the technical specifications and testing requirements under which the equipment has been tested, is to be available to the CCS in order to verify its safety level.

As an example some types of “Viking” liferafts and “Survitec” liferafts are accepted; details are given in CCS reports “PV CCS 864/INF 03” and “PV CCS 866/INF 03”. In case of doubt, local CSN is to be contacted.

Refer also to “PV CCS 958/REG 05”: for types of “Viking” liferafts, for which extension of service interval is accepted for 30 months until they reach 15 years since their date of manufacture.

Maintenance and Inspection of fire protection systems and appliances

The Administration applies the amendments to the “Revised guidelines for the maintenance and inspection of fire protection systems and appliances”, i.e amendments to MSC.1/Circ.1432 as per MSC.1/Circ.1516.

Fixed CO2 fire-extinguishing systems - Test periodicity

(Division 322, Article 322-2.01)

High-pressure carbon dioxide cylinders of CO2 fixed fire-extinguishing systems installed on board ships built on or after 1 September 1984 are subject to the following provisions:

1. In the tenth year following the first test, 10% of the bottles in each batch are to be examined externally and internally and re-tested. The quantity of CO2 is to be verified.

2. This same procedure will then be applied every 5 years to 10% of the bottles of each batch, not checked during the previous survey(s).

3. This procedure is subject to the issue of:

   • Certificates of proof and control of CO2 cylinders, with identification lots, if any, by an authorized classification society.

   • A statement of compliance with the ISO 5923 standard for CO2 used.

ECDIS

The following back-up arrangements may be provided:

• paper nautical charts, sufficient folio to satisfy the applicable requirements.

• one additional/second approved ECDIS, provided it has its own power supply and protection, without interruption (UPS), and distinct from the main ECDIS as a minimum from the switchboard. This ECDIS must comply with the provisions of appendix 6 of IMO Res.MSC.232(82).

Immersion suits

Immersion suits to be used in conjunction with a lifejacket are not authorised on-board French Flag ships.

Cargo Ship Safety Radio

The surveyor sends through the system to ANFR (Agence Nationale des FRéquences), without delay after the survey, the form “Updating of Shipborne Radio Licence Equipment with Search and Rescue information (ANFR SAR) with Examination of UHF Shipborne Transceiver (450 to 470 Mhz UHF band)”, available in ASMS Certificates Editor and in the attached file “Updating shipborne radio licence equipment_Rev4”. Part 5 of this form is to be completed in accordance with Recommendation ITU-R M.1174-3 (see attached file “Recommendation ITU-R M 1174-3 (10-2019)”).

When the radio survey is carried out by the ANFR, the document “Updating of Shipborne Radio Licence Equipment with Search and Rescue information (SAR) and Examination of UHF Shipborne Transceiver (450 to 470 Mhz UHF band)” is not to be issued. Instead of this document, a copy of the ANFR report is to be uploaded in the system.

For new ships or ships transferred to the French Flag, the surveyor forwards without delay the documents “Updating of Shipborne Radio Licence Equipment with Search and Rescue information (ANFR SAR) with Examination of UHF Shipborne Transceiver (450 to 470 Mhz UHF band)” and “Periodical Survey Report for Issuance / Renewal of Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate” to CPA. CPA sends these reports to the ANFR (Agence Nationale des FRéquences).

Before initial commissioning and modification of radio installation, drawings of antennas shall be submitted for approval.

In application of Article 221-IV/19, for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), the detection, identification and isolation of interference shall be performed by using a spectrum analyser with appropriate pre-amplifier.

SOLAS Codes

IP Code - Division 237

(Administration email dated 04/06/2024)

The following clarifications have been provided by the Administration:

• In accordance with SOLAS Chapter XV regulation 3.2 and MSC.418(97), a ship already certified under 2008 SPS Code, may have an authorization for the carriage of more than 12 aggregated number of IP + SP + PAX (<=12), provided the ship is fitted for purpose and upon request from the Owner. This authorization must be delivered before 1st July 2024. The SPS Code Certificate will be replaced by the IP Code Certificate at the first intermediate or renewal survey, whichever occurs first, after 1 July 2024.

• The Administration does not consider that Resolution A.534(13) (1983 SPS Code) is equivalent to 2008 SPS Code. A ship already certified according to Resolution A.534(13) cannot be authorized for the carriage of more than 12 aggregated number of IP + SP + PAX (<=12).

High Speed Craft less than 500 GT

According to Division 237, the following is applicable to High Speed Crafts, carrying more than 12 Industrial Personnel, and having less than 500 Gross Tonnage in National voyages: these ships are to be approved in accordance with 2000 HSC Code and additional requirements of Division 237. By consequence, they are surveyed and certified as if they were High Speed Crafts having more than 500 gross tonnage, without application of EU Regulation 336/2006 CE dated 15 February 2006 and SOLAS Chapter IX.

A Safety Certificate for ship carrying Industrial Personnel (IP Code Certificate) and the Attestation de Conformité Règlement Français with reference to Division 222 are to be issued. The Load Line certificate is not necessary as these ships are assimilable to 2000 HSC Code.

MARPOL

Untitled

In case of modifications of the SOPEP, the SMPEP or the garbage management plan, re-approval of these documents is to be carried out by Recognised Organisation (RO), if last survey was carried out and endorsed / credited on the corresponding certificate by Recognised Organisation (RO). (If last survey was endorsed by the Administration, then it is for the Administration to approve the said modifications.)

Data Collection System for fuel oil consumption of ships

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to perform the following statutory services on “delegated” and “non delegated” French ships:

• 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). The recording must be made under the profile "France", and not under other French Registries.

Amendments to Appendix IX of Marpol Annex VI on inclusion of data on transport work and enhanced granularity in the IMO ship fuel consumption database (IMO DCS) - IMO Res.MEPC.385(81) and associated guidance MEPC.1/Circ.913

(STEN INST/SCH/2024-26)

The entry into force date of these amendments, for French Flag ships, is the 1st August 2025.

Revision and verification of the SEEMP, as well as retrofits, must be completed before the 1st January 2026.

Data will be collected with the existing level of granularity throughout the entire year of 2025 and, therefore, the data reported at the beginning of 2026 will be based on this consistent level.

Data will be collected and reported with the enhanced level of granularity from 1st January 2026 and beyond.

New ships delivered on or after 1st August 2025 should collect data at the enhanced level of granularity from the date of delivery and the data reported from the beginning of 2026 will be based on appendix IX of MARPOL Annex VI in the annex to resolution MEPC.385(81) with the same enhanced level of granularity.

A French Flag ship may decide to apply these amendments early, from 1st January 2025, on a voluntary basis.

In such a case, revision and verification of the SEEMP, as well as retrofits, must be completed before the 1st January 2025 or before the delivery date for ships delivered on or after the 1st January 2025. Data will be collected and reported with an enhanced level of granularity throughout the entire year of 2025 and beyond.

In all case, prior to collecting data specified in appendix IX of MARPOL Annex VI as amended by resolution MEPC.385(81), each ship to which regulation 27 applies should have their SEEMP revised to ensure compliance with regulation 26.2 of MARPOL Annex VI, taking into account the 2024 Guidelines for the development of a Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) (resolution MEPC.395(82)).

Use and carriage of HSFO during:

The period of installation and test of an EGCS (Interim IAPP)

Within the scope of approval of an EGCS on-board a ship, the Administration accepts the use and carriage of HSFO as secondary fuel oil, for the purpose of the approval of the EGCS and in accordance with an approved protocol.

A validation protocol (including installation, procedure for handling HSFO, tests during installation, conformity with emission requirements of Marpol Annex VI) must be submitted to Recognised Organisation (RO) by the Owner, for Recognised Organisation (RO) review.

The LSFO is used as primary fuel oil and in case of malfunction of the EGCS, in order to avoid pollution and deviations from the requirements of Reg.14 of Marpol Annexe VI.

The IAPP certificate will be re-issued for a short period (the period necessary for the approval of the installation).

The supplement to the IAPP certificate will indicate in 2.6 the equipment and the approval phase.

Upon completion of the satisfactory initial survey, the MOC shall submit the "confirmation letter" to the Administration STEN2 for their acceptance of the equivalency under the provision of regulation 4 of MARPOL Annex VI, and for their notification to IMO.

A definitive IAPP certificate may be issued on the basis of the module G certificate of the equipment, and stating the equivalency.

The failure or malfunction of the EGCS

In case of failure or malfunction of the EGCS, the IMO Circular MEPC.1/Circ.883 applies. (refer to MARPOL Annex IV, 2.2.5.6 f))

Marpol Annex VI - Regulation 13 - NECA

As of 1st January 2021, the Tier III requirements will have to be documented by the ship's EIAPP and IAPP certificates and the NOx technical file.

Exemptions may be granted on a case by case basis, as allowed by the Regulations, if no replacement engine of same power and in accordance with Tier III requirements is available on the market.

Biofuels

(STEN INST/SCH-RO/017/REV.01 and Administration email dated 23/08/2023)

In application of MEPC.1/Circ.905, the Administration accepts certification against ISCC EU scheme. The certification shall demonstrate that biofuel fulfils the CORSIA Sustainability Criteria (chapter 2) for CORSIA Eligible Fuels from ICAO and provide a well-to-wake GHG emissions reduction of at least 65% compared to the well-to-wake emissions of fossil MGO.

Blends of not more than 30% by volume of biofuel

The provisions of the circular MEPC.1/Circ.795/Rev6 are recognised by the French administration, without the need for any particular submission for its approval.

Blends containing up to 30% biofuel by volume will be considered as standards fuels.

The use of biofuels for engines on board ships in blends of less than 30% by volume is considered by the Administration to be in compliance with the provisions of Regulation 18.3.1 and may be authorised by the Administration without modification of the IAPP certificate. The biofuels in question must, however, meet the applicable marine fuel standards, including ISO 8217.

Shipowners will have to ask Recognised Organisation (RO) to check that any modifications made to engines to burn these mixtures remain within the limits set in the engine NOx technical file for each equipment concerned.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is requested to report to the STEN1 department the data on the engines for which this uniform interpretation will be applied, on a half-yearly basis (name of the vessel, fuel used, confirmation of compliance with the technical characteristics, compliance with the 30% volume threshold).

Blends of more than 30% by volume of biofuel or obtained from processes other than petroleum refining

Biofuels other than FAME (fatty-acid-methyl-esters) or HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oils)

The provisions of the circular MEPC.1/Circ.795/Rev6 are recognised by the French administration with particular attention to be paid to assess the impact in terms of the permitted NOx emission limits from the combustion of these fuels. Blends containing more than 30% biofuel will be subject to flag review and advice from Recognised Organisation (RO) to ensure that NOx emissions remain in compliance with the applicable regulations. It is up to the shipowner to demonstrate that the provisions of regulation 18.3.2 are complied with by means of a technical file for each ship, approved by the RO in charge of the ship. In demonstrating compliance with regulation 18.3.2.2 of MARPOL Annex VI, and insofar as it applies to possible deviations when undertaking measurements on-board, an allowance of 10% of the applicable limit may be accepted.

The ship's IAPP certificate may continue to be issued, provided that it has been verified beforehand that the overall NOx emission performance does not lead to excess regulatory emission limit.

The shipowner shall follow the requirements of the NOx Technical Code (2008) and in particular Chapter 6 which details the methods applicable to ensure compliance with the on-board NOx emission limits for each engine concerned by the use of biofuel:

• simplified on-board measurement method (§6.3),

• direct measurement and control method (§6.4),

• method by reference to relevant tests on test benches.

The implementation of these methods must be verified and approved by Recognised Organisation (RO) in charge of the vessel.

Recognised Organisation (RO) in the case of a delegated ship, or the operator in the case of a non-delegated ship, must send the technical file drawn up to comply with the provisions of regulation 18.3.2. and the Recognised Organisation (RO) report to STEN1 unit for its opinion.

The data relating to the engines, for which this uniform interpretation will be applied, must be sent to STEN1 unit on a half-yearly basis (name of the ship, fuel used, confirmation of compliance with the technical characteristics).

Use of FAME (fatty-acid-methyl-esters) or HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oils)

This case applies following the 2024 revision of the ISO 8217, as certain biofuels (FAME and HVO) can be considered as standard fuels.

When FAME or HVO biofuels are present in a proportion that exceeds 30% of the total volume and up to 100% of the fuel used, the procedure described in Blends of not more than 30% by volume of biofuel applies, as they are considered similarly to standard fuels by ISO 8217:2024 and the Administration authorises the ship to use these biofuels without having to undertake the assessment provided for in regulation 18.3.2.2.

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall continue to request to the ship-owner information on the change of fuels when the ship switches to biofuels, especially for safety reasons (such as flashpoint / proportion of blends / effects on circuits or separators, etc.).

Engines designed and certified to run on biofuels

The provisions of the circular MEPC.1/Circ.795/Rev6 are recognised by the French administration.

In the specific case of ships with engines designed and certified to operate on biofuels or biofuel blends without modification of NOx critical components or operating/settings values, other than those indicated in the approved technical file of the engines in question, the Administration accepts using biofuels on ships without having to undertake the assessment provided for in regulation 18.3.2.2.

The ship owner may use biofuels for an engine in question, within the limits for which the engine has been certified.

CII and SEEMP Part III

The Owner is to submit to Recognised Organisation (RO) the DCS and CII data by the 28th February at the latest, including any possible corrective action plan.

Recognised Organisation (RO) verifies the DCS data, the attained annual operational CII reported, and the corrective action plan if any.

When a corrective action plan is included, Recognised Organisation (RO) submits to the Administration (DGAMPA/STEN1, at cii.admin@mer.gouv.fr) the verified file, as soon as possible and at the latest 1 (one) month after receipt of the documentation from the Owner.

This file must include the results of the verification of the DCS data, of the verification of the attained annual operational CII of the previous year, the determination of the operational carbon intensity rating of the ship, and an analysis of the relevance of the corrective action plan so that the ship reaches the required CII.

The Administration reviews the file, in consultation with the ship CSN if necessary. If needed, the Administration may also consult Recognised Organisation (RO) and/or the Owner and/or the CSN to clarify or amend the corrective action plan.

The president of the CCS notifies compliance 45 days at the latest after receipt of the file submitted by Recognised Organisation (RO). The President of the CCS may ask the advice of the CCS if deemed necessary.

In case of notification of compliance from the President of the CCS, Recognised Organisation (RO) issues the Statement of Compliance - Fuel Oil Consumption Reporting and Operational Carbon Intensity Rating, before the 31st May.

If, during the process of verification of the attained CII, it is concluded that a corrective action plan is required, then Recognised Organisation (RO) informs the Owner that he has to develop a corrective action plan as soon as possible, and Recognised Organisation (RO) informs the Administration accordingly. The case will be reviewed as soon as possible in order to avoid, as far as possible, a situation where the SoC would not be issued as of the 1st June.

Recognised Organisation (RO) transfers the data directly to IMO GISIS.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is not delegated to perform company audits which are directly carried out by a dedicated team from the Administration and which may be combined with the ISM audits.

Use of methanol as fuel

(INST/STEN2/SCH-RO/2026-8 dated 05/03/2026)

For delegated ships, MSC.1/Circ.1621 is to applied (it is not required by the Administration to apply IGF Code Part A 2.3.2 “Alternative design”).

Suspension or withdrawal of the Class Notation “METHANOLFUEL” is to be notified to the Administration by the MOC.

Item 2.2 of the Cargo Ship Safety Certificate must be worded as follows:

“2.2 que le navire satisfaisait aux prescriptions de la partie G du chapitre II-1 de la Convention ainsi que la Circulaire MSC.1/Circ.1621 en ce qui concerne l'utilisation de Methanol en tant que combustible / N.A. the ship complied with the requirements of Part G of Chapter II-1 of the Convention as well as Circular MSC.1/Circ.1621 with respect to the use of Methanol as fuel / N.A.”

BWM Convention

BWM Plans Approval & Issuance of certificate

(Email from the Administration dated 15/02/2017)

For delegated ships, Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to approve the BWM Plans and to issue an International BWM Certificate.

Contingency measures

Recognised Organisation (RO) is to verify that such “contingency measures” are incorporated in the BWMP at the earliest opportunity but not later than the date when the D2 becomes mandatory for the ship.

For existing ships certified for D2 only, the contingency measures are to be incorporated in the BWMP by the next scheduled survey of the BWM Convention and verified accordingly by Recognised Organisation (RO).

Commissioning test

The Administration requires a Commissioning test to be carried out in accordance with the IMO Circ. BWM.02/Circ.70. Any test method used must be included in the BWM.2/Circ.42. In case a detailed analysis is carried out, the test results must, in order to be acceptable, be submitted by a Laboratory accredited for such test by a National Accreditation Body member of UE/AELE or by a Government which is signatory of the ILAC recognition agreement. A written report including the methods used and the test results must be submitted to Recognised Organisation (RO) before the issuance of the IBWMC.

As a participation to the experience building phase of the BWM Convention, the analysis results of the Commissioning test and the "MMF type approval certificate" of the Ballast Water Treatment Systems are to be reported through CPA respectively to STEN1 and STEN 2, at:

sten1.dam.dgitm@developpement-durable.gouv.fr

sten2.sdsten.sfm.dgampa@mer.gouv.fr

Tonnage

Extent of delegation and reporting requirements

Recognised Organisation (RO) is delegated for the issuance of the International Tonnage Certificate (ITC 69) for ships with length greater or equal to 24 m in international voyages.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is delegated for issuance of the National Tonnage Certificate for all ships of length greater or equal to 24 m not in international voyages, and for fishing vessels of overall length greater or equal to 15 m not in international voyages.

(A declaration from the Owner, i.e "Déclaration de Jauge" may be issued for passenger ships, cargo ships, special purpose ships, commercial yachts, training yachts, of reference length less than 24m, in lieu of a National Tonnage Certificate. Private yachts of length less than 24 m are not subject to Tonnage).

Such national certificates are only issued by FPO Nantes, France.

A copy of each issued tonnage certificate is to be sent by Recognised Organisation (RO) Tonnage Office to FPO. FPO sends in turn a copy to the Administration at the following e-mail address: sten2.sdsten.sfm.dgampa@mer.gouv.fr

Upon owner’s request, a ship with length greater or equal to 24 m may be issued with an International Tonnage Certificate, even if the ship is not trading in international voyages.

A provisional tonnage certificate may be issued in the following cases:

• Upon owner’s request for a ship which is to undergo sea trials with provisional documents.

• Pending the issuance of the definitive tonnage certificate in case of transfer to French Flag.

A provisional certificate is issued for a period of 3 months and may be renewed once. On a case-by-case basis, the society may decide to extend this validity beyond 3 months.

In case of a request for a ship connected to CSN in Noumea or Papeete, the request is to be submitted to the Administration at the following e-mail address, for a case by case decision whether the certification will be carried out by the Administration itself or by Recognised Organisation (RO): sten2.sdsten.sfm.dgampa@mer.gouv.fr

Upon owner’s request, Recognised Organisation (RO) may issue SUEZ and PANAMA certificates.

Conversion and modification of gross tonnage

As regards the retrofit installation of BWM systems and scrubbers, a new calculation of the gross tonnage is to be carried out and a new tonnage certificate is to be issued, if the total variation of volume is V >= 3m³.

ILO Conventions

ILO 152 - Lifting appliances and cargo handling gear

Refer to Division 214 of the French Regulations.

For cranes used in harbour only

Within the scope of issuance of a cargo register book the certification of design and construction is deemed to be satisfied when a lifting appliance is CE approved pursuant to the décret n° 2008-1156 du 7 novembre 2008 “relatif aux équipements de travail et aux équipements de protection individuelle” (Transposing the Machinery Directive, Directive 2006/42/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 May 2006).The structural integration of the equipment on the classed ship must be reviewed by the classification society of the ship and  before to be put in service the crane must be tested by the classification society of the ship.

For cranes used at sea

Within the scope of issuance of a cargo register book a complete design assessment in accordance with NR 526 is required.

The structural integration of the equipment on the classed ship must be reviewed by the classification society of the ship and before to be put in service the crane must be tested by the classification society of the ship.

In case of doubt in relation to the conformity of a given lifting appliance against Division 214, the LPO and/or MOC may be contacted, which in turn may contact the CSN.

The annual inspection has a window of +/- 3 months.

Crew accommodation - Habitability

Existing ships

1. The scope of the survey for habitability during periodical surveys is restricted to the constructive requirements.

   The surveyor checks:

   • Partitioning and bulkheads

   • Drainage

   • Ventilation

   • Lighting

   • Noise and vibrations

   The surveyor asks confirmation to the owner that no modifications have been carried out since the last survey and with reference to the “Record of approved cargo / passenger ship crew accommodation”.

   If no such record(s) (to meet the provisions of ILO conventions 68 and 92 / 133) are available, then the surveyor asks confirmation to the owner that no modifications have been carried out on the approved arrangements. The surveyor is to issue such record(s) upon completion of the renewal survey.

2. Drinking water is to be periodically analysed according to the requirements of Division 215 paragraph 23. The surveyor confirms, at annual surveys, that the required analysis has been carried out at the required periodicity through documentary evidence submitted by the owner.

   For ships equal or above 500GT, a logbook for the traceability of operations of drinking water is to be available on board since the 1st July 2017.

3. “Registre des réclamations” (“log book for complaints”) applicable only for Passenger ships.

   The surveyor verifies, during annual surveys, that such a log book is available on-board.

   (There is no requirement for the surveyor to review the content of this log book.)

4. Dispensations and exemptions in relation with the provisions of Division 215 (Habitability) of the French regulations, are to be accepted at first by the Commission Centrale de Sécurité (CCS, sten2.sdsten.sfm.dgampa@mer.gouv.fr).

New ships

The provisions of Division 215 of French regulations, as modified by “ Arrêté du 23 Janvier 2013”, apply. Refer to New ships.

Miscellaneous technical requirements

Medical equipment including medicine chest

Medical equipment, including medicine chest, is governed by the provisions of Chapter 217-3 of Division 217 and its examination and checking as per Article 217-3.10 of the French regulations.

The list of medicines stored in dedicated cupboards is to be posted in a visible manner on the front opening door of the cupboard. A “Register” is annexed to this list and is to be updated by the crew for available quantities and expiry dates of medicines. The ship’s Master is to sign this Register upon each update. This Register is a permanent inventory.

For delegated ships, this Register is to be endorsed by the Recognised Organisation (RO) Surveyor in connection with issuance/renewal as well as annual endorsement of statutory cargo ship safety certificate, after verification that:

• the storage conditions are satisfactory, and

• the annual verification has been satisfactorily carried out confirming the compliance with Division 217 requirements of the French Regulations and the expiry dates are not overdue.

For initial/annual/renewal surveys, medical equipment is to be verified by a French representative of “Service de Santé des Gens de Mer” (i.e, “Seaman’s Health Service”), or a French pharmacy.

1. In case this verification is carried out by a French representative of “Service de Santé des Gens de Mer” (i.e, “Seaman’s Health Service”), usually in French territories, the following items are to be verified by them: - the medicines chest and the registry are in conformity with Division 217 requirements of the French Regulations. - the storage conditions are satisfactory. - the expiry dates are not overdue.

2. In case this annual verification is carried out by a French pharmacy (which therefore did not board the ship), usually abroad, the verification that the storage conditions are satisfactory is carried out by the Recognised Organisation (RO) Surveyor, for delegated ships. In such a case, the confirmation that the storage conditions of the medical equipment including medicine chest are satisfactory is carried out by Recognised Organisation (RO) Surveyor through ASMS by answering “Yes” to the question of Item FRA0090: “Has the medical equipment been verified by a French pharmacy, as declared by the Captain?”. Then, the following items: FRA041A, FRA042A, FRA043A, FRA045A, FRA047A, FRA050A and FRA051A will have to be filled.

The endorsement of the Register by Recognised Organisation (RO) Surveyor is carried out in connection with issuance/renewal as well as annual endorsement of cargo ship safety certificate (ASMS item FRA052B).

European Marine Equipment Directive

(Refer to Statutory surveys - General, Sections 7 and 8)

European Marine Equipment Directive 96/98/EC is repealed with effect from 18 September 2016, and replaced by the Marine Equipment Directive 2014/90/EU.

French regulations Division 311 are implementing the MED 2014/90/EU, as amended.

Equipment listed in Part 1 to 8 of Commission Implementing Regulations (refer to Tab 4 of para.8.2.2 of Statutory surveys - General) is to bear the mark “wheelmark” for placing on board French flagged ships, as applicable.

Equipment listed in the Part 9 of Commission Implementing Regulations (refer to Tab 4 of para.8.2.2 of Statutory surveys - General) is to be MMF type approved in accordance with the French regulations Division 310 by an authorized body. French regulations Division 140 in its annex 140-A.3 appoints Recognised Organisation (RO) SA as authorized body to approve equipment as per Part 9 of Commission Implementing Regulations for which a testing standard has been defined between Recognised Organisation (RO) (EMC) and the Administration to date, only the item MED/9/6.2 on sound signal appliances is concerned), as well as equipment subject to other parts of the French regulations (Division 218, 332, 333, 335, 361):

• Ballast Water Management System

• Alarms systems for man overboard and salvage actions “DAHMAS”

• Collective Life-Saving Appliances

• Equipment with Long Range Identification & Tracking System (LRIT) capability

• Flooding detection & alarm systems

The division 311 (MED) apply to equipment fitted on board French passenger ships, cargo ships and fishing vessels.

Fire-Fighter’s outfit protective clothing which were MED approved in accordance with EN 531 or ISO 15538 level 1, are not anymore accepted on-board French Flag ships.

For change of flag, refer to Marine Equipment (MED and non-MED).

Barges and pontoons

Applicable requirements for pontoons

See the attached file “Note Technique MEDDE 10Avril2015”, “Note technique du 10 Avril 2015 relative au traitement des pontons à usage professionnel” for pontoons subject to local examination or examination by CRS.

For cases 1 and 2 the “Attestation de Conformité de Franc-Bord” (available in ASMS2) may be delivered in accordance with Division 222.

Non-propelled barges and pontoons operating in New-Caledonia

These units are considered as ships and subject to surveys and statutory certification depending on their size, tonnage and navigation type.

For new and existing mining barges of gross tonnage of less than 500, the applicable regulation 224 is in attached files (French version: “Règlement_224_FR”, English version: “Regulation_224_EN”) and the corresponding SNC local procedure is in attached file: “SNC Local procedure for New Caledonian Mining Barges R224”.

For non classed units with a national navigation type, refer to the attached file “PV-CRS-REG(52-02)-TITRES_SECU_PONTONS”.

The MO is to be contacted for instructions.

Ship Security Alert System (SSAS)

General

Recognised Organisation (RO) has no permanent delegation for ISPS. However, on delegated ships, the verification of the conformity of the SSAS installation and of the conformity of tests for correct functioning, according to the provisions of the Division 351 of the French Regulations, is carried out by Recognised Organisation (RO).

Initial survey at the time of NC delivery or at the time of Change of Flag to France

The initial survey is to be carried out by a Recognised Organisation (RO) qualified Marine Security Auditor (as per “qualif” database), with the assistance of an approved radio communication equipment service supplier (as per the related survey procedure).

The ASMS survey code ISSA is to be selected (additional audit with the scope of initial SSAS survey for French Flag).

The radio technician is to fill in and sign the dedicated check-list “Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) - Installation and Survey Check-List for France only” (see attached file “SSAS_checklist_France”). Parts 1 “Installation”, 2 “Operation” and 3 “Test” are to be completed. The Recognised Organisation (RO) auditor is to witness accordingly the radio technician inspections and tests.

The checklist is to be countersigned by the Recognised Organisation (RO) MSA.

Upon completion, the completed and signed checklist and “Request for Audit” are to be attached to the audit report.

At Owner’s request, an attestation confirming that the SSAS has been installed, operated and tested according to the provisions of the Division 351 of the French Regulations may be issued (form Ad 464).

The wording on the attestation shall be concise and factual such as: “This is to certify that the undersigned auditor to the Society did witness the installation, operation and test of the SSAS on board the ship xxxx, on the day/month/year, which was found to be in accordance with the requirements of the Division 351 of the French Regulations”.

Annual survey

Tests are to be carried out at least once per year by the Master and/or SSO, on the occasion of a safety radio periodical survey, and are to be witnessed by a Recognised Organisation (RO) qualified Surveyor or a Recognised Organisation (RO) qualified MSA respectively, with the assistance of an approved radio communication equipment service supplier, and in application of IMO MSC/Circ.1155 and MSC/Circ.1190.

ASMS items are available with the following codes FRA100 to FRA121 in connection with periodical and renewal radio survey.The Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor/auditor is to witness accordingly the radio technician inspections and tests.

At Owner’s request, an attestation confirming that the SSAS has been installed, operated and tested according to the provisions of the Division 351 of the French Regulations may be issued (form Ad 464).

The wording on the attestation shall be concise and factual such as: “This is to certify that the undersigned surveyor/auditor to the Society did witness the installation, operation and test of the SSAS on board the ship xxxx, on the day/month/year, which was found to be in accordance with the requirements of the Division 351 of the French Regulations”.

Ship Recycling Regulations

Regulation (EU) No 1257/2013

After satisfactory surveys, Recognised Organisation (RO) issues/endorses as relevant EU Inventory Certificate or a EU Ready for Recycling Certificate in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 1257/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (20 November 2013).

The development of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM Parts I and II) is to be carried out by an organisation accredited for this scope of service against the NF EN ISO/CEI 17020 (2012-10-01) standard by a National Accreditation Body of a EU Member State signatory of the multilateral recognition agreement within the European Co-operation for Accreditation (EA) (except for the asbestos which must be exclusively carried out by an organization accredited by COFRAC; see Note below)

In that respect, the Recognised Organisation (RO) approved service supplier engaged in Visual and/or Sampling Checks on-board ships and development of IHM, which is authorized for such activities on-board French Flag ships is: “Recognised Organisation (RO) Exploitation SAS" (see attached Recognised Organisation (RO) Certificate of Approval). Other service suppliers (not Recognised Organisation (RO) approved) may be accepted for such activities on-board French flag ships, provided they are accredited according to the above provisions.

IHM Parts I and II which have not been developed by an accredited organisation, before the 1st March 2019, may be accepted subject to satisfactory verification by Recognised Organisation (RO).

IHM Part III may be carried out by an accredited organization, or by the shipowner or his representative.

The EU inventory certificates issued by the Administration remain valid until their expiry date. Upon Owner's request and at any time, Recognised Organisation (RO) may replace the Certificate issued by the Administration, by the Certificate issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) on behalf of the Administration. For ships issued only with a Statement of Compliance, this Statement of Compliance can be replaced administratively by a Certificate issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) on behalf of the Administration.

Hong Kong Convention

(STEN INST/SCH-RO/4301)

Pending the modification of Division 140, the Administration (STEN2) will issue the International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials (HK IHM Certificate) and the International Ready for Recycling Certificate.

Pending the modification of “Décret No 84-810” of 30/08/1984, the Administration relies on the Regulation (EU) No 1257/2013 (EU SRR). The technical requirements applicable to the EU SRR are based on guidelines from IMO which are also included in the Hong Kong Convention. They are at least equivalent or more stringent than those from the Hong Kong Convention. Therefore, compliance with EU SRR is deemed to be in compliance with the Hong Kong Convention.

In the case of an existing ship (date of built before 26/06/2025), the HK IHM Certificate is to be issued after an initial survey conducted after 26/06/2025 at the occasion of the renewal survey required by other applicable statutory instruments of the IMO, but not later than 26/06/2030.

The survey must be completed at the latest before the expiry date of the existing EU Inventory Certificate.

The following procedure is applicable:

1. The EU Inventory Certificate and the associated survey report are the technical documents reviewed for the issuance of the HK IHM Certificate. For existing ships, in order to harmonize the HK IHM Certificate with the other statutory certificates, the ship status is also to be submitted.

2. The Connecting District (CD) or Survey Centre (SC) is to inform the MCC Marseilles or the MOC South West Europe & Africa (PARIS) - depending on the CD - of any request for an initial/renewal survey for ships flying French flag and for which the Hong Kong Convention is applicable.

3. MCC Marseilles or the MOC South West Europe & Africa (PARIS) - depending on the CD - informs the Administration (STEN2: pierre.thevenous@mer.gouv.fr and marie.bathilde@mer.gouv.fr) and sends a copy of the current EU Inventory Certificate and of the ship status.

4. In case of a renewal survey out of France, MCC Marseilles or the MOC South West Europe & Africa (PARIS) instructs the SC to perform the survey under HKIR (together with EUIR) without issuance of the HK IHM Certificate. After the renewal survey, the SC inform MCC Marseilles or the MOC South West Europe & Africa (PARIS) and sends the Survey Statement and the EU Inventory Certificate.

5. MCC Marseilles or the MOC South West Europe & Africa (PARIS) sends the Survey Statement and the EU Inventory Certificate to the Administration (STEN2: pierre.thevenous@mer.gouv.fr and marie.bathilde@mer.gouv.fr).

6. After review of the IHM against requirements of Article 5, Regulation 11 of the Hong Kong Convention, the Administration (STEN2) issues the corresponding HK IHM Certificate.

7. The HK IHM Certificate is transmitted by the Administration (STEN2) to the shipowner, Recognised Organisation (RO) and the relevant CSN.

The procedure for the issuance by the Administration of the Hong Kong International Ready for Recycling Certificate is also based on the documents issued for the EU Ready for Recycling Certificate.

Non-Convention Ship

Safety surveys on non convention ships, are to be carried out using survey codes NCVA, NCVR.

It includes a radio survey (item FRA0153A) which is to be performed by a Recognised Organisation (RO) approved service supplier, unless it is handled by the Agence Nationale des FRéquences (ANFR). ANFR is acting on ships with reference length greater or equal to 24 m and less than 500 GRT, as follows:

• Ships with less than 500 GRT and greater or equal to 300 GRT, in national navigation

• Ships with less than 300 GRT, in national or international navigation.

When the survey is performed by ANFR, the survey report is to be attached to safety survey report.

When the survey is performed by a Recognised Organisation (RO) approved service supplier, radio check-list is to be uploaded from the system, transmitted to radio surveyor, verified & signed by attending surveyor and attached to safety survey report.

In each case, possible remarks are to be reflected in Rec./Obs. on the SOC.

The SOC referred in Specific cases e) is to be issued for 5 years, and its validity aligned with load line certificate, with annual endorsements and annex listing the derogations, authorizations of use and exemptions (see Derogations and Authorizations of Use).

Annual and five yearly verifications in accordance with MSC 402(86) are to be carried out.

Fishing Vessels

Surveys according to CE/97/70 applicable to fishing vessels of reference length >=24m, are to be carried out using survey codes FVCI, FVCF, FVCA, FVCR, FVRP, FVRR, FVEA, FVAT, FVEP, FVER, FVQT.

The certificate of compliance is to be issued for 4 years, with endorsements for FVRP, FVCI and FVEP. To be noted that despite FVEA and FVCA must be carried out when required, there is no provision for endorsement of FVEA nor FVCA on certificate in its present form.

Offshore Supply Vessel

Surveys according to OSV code for issuance of DOC OSV.

Special Purpose Ship

Surveys according to SPS code 2008 applicable to special purpose ship of 500 grt and above, are to be carried out using survey codes SPAR, SPCA, SPCF, SPCI, SPCN, SPAT, SPEA, SPEP, SPEQ, SPQT, SPRD, SPRP.

The SPS certificate are to be issued for 5 years, its validity aligned with load line certificate, with annual and intermediate endorsements.

For vessels with more than 240 persons onboard, provisions of the related survey procedure are applicable

ISM Code

Authorisations & instructions

ISPS Code

Authorizations & instructions

MLC

Authorization

No certificate shall be issued, except if authorised by the Administration on a case by case basis, on high risk areas, as determined by French Ministry of Foreign Affairs as per Article 3-1 of “Décret No 84-810” of 30/08/1984.

Seafarer’s complaints

Requirements related to complaints from seafarers are given in Articles R. 5534-1 of Code des Transports, in particular:

• R. 5534-16: Confidentiality obligations are also applicable to the Owner and other seafarers who are not at the origin of the complaint.

• R. 5534-2: Seafarer may delegate to any person or entity the power for presenting a complaint on his behalf.

• R. 5534-43: In case of such delegation, the identity of the seafarer may not be disclosed without his agreement.

Appendix — Specific Certificates: National and bilingual International certificates

List of National certificates

- Certification Conditions

- FB Attestation de conformité

- FB National Français (Rev 12/2020)

- FB National Français pour Navire de Pêche (between 12m and 24m)*

- FB National Français pour Navire de Pêche (above 24m)*

(* for Fishing vessels built between 27/04/2000 AND 31/12/2002)

- Certificate of Compliance for Fishing Vessel (Division 228) + Exemption Certificate + Record of Eqipment

- Declaration of compliance for electronic book

Polynésie & Nouvelle Calédonie

- FB National Français (J.O. 04/01/02)

- FB National Français pour Navire de Pêche (between 12m and 24m)*

- FB National Français pour Navire de Pêche (above 24m)*

(* for Fishing vessels built between 27/04/2000 AND 31/12/2002)

- New Caledonian Regulation 224 - Provisional SoC

- New Caledonian Regulation 224 - Statement of Survey

Attestations

- Limitations on Operation

- Intervention Certificate of an authorized Classification Society

- Updating shipborne radio licence equipment

- Interventions during the construction

- SOC - Towed Units (IMO Res. A.765(18)(1))

- SNC Attestation of Intervention

- To whom it may concern (COVID-19)

- Attestation de Conformité pour navires Hors Convention

- Statement of Compliance for Safety Survey (Attestation de Conformité de Visite de Sécurité)

- Attestation de Conformité Règlement Français

- List of Derogations and Authorizations of Use

International certificates

- International Certificates must be bilingual French/English.