Gibraltar - Specific requirements by the British Administration for the Gibraltar flag

Flag instructions relating to statutory surveys

Flag procedural requirements

General policy

Agreement

An Agreement has been signed between the Government of Gibraltar and Recognised Organisation (RO) SA commencing on 4th May 2021 (see Agreement governing the delegation of statutory functions and certification services to Appendix 4 to the Agreement).

Interpretations, Equivalents & Exemptions

1. While interpretations of the applicable instruments, as well as the determination of equivalents or the acceptance of substitutes to the requirements of the applicable instruments are the prerogative of the Administration, Recognised Organisation (RO) will co-operate in their establishment as necessary. Recognised Organisation (RO) applies the IMO interpretations and Circulars, as well as the available IACS Unified Interpretations as stated below unless they conflict with written instructions / guidance from the Administration.

For acceptance of IACS Unified Interpretations the following conditions apply:

• IACS Unified Interpretations that been adopted by the IMO shall be applied with respect to statutory certification and services provided by Recognised Organisation (RO) on behalf of the Administration.

• IACS Unified Interpretations that have been submitted to, but which are still under review of, the IMO or have yet to be submitted, shall be subject to review on a case by case basis.

2. Exemptions and deviations from, and equivalents to, the requirements of the applicable instruments are the prerogative of the Administration and only the Administration may approve them prior to issuance. Recognised Organisation (RO) will co-operate in their establishment as necessary.

3. In instances where, temporarily, the requirements of an applicable instrument cannot be met under particular circumstances, Recognised Organisation (RO) will specify such measures or supplementary equipment as may be available to permit the vessel to proceed to a suitable port where permanent repairs or rectification can be effected or replacement equipment fitted and shall immediately inform the Administration in writing of any such action taken.

Meaning of “To the Satisfaction of the Administration”

(Shipping Guidance Notice 086(a))

Guidance or instruction on arrangements that are to be “to the satisfaction of the Administration” are provided in Annex A of SGN 086(a).

For cases where it is not appropriate to provide prescriptive guidance or instruction for all requirements due to the number of factors that have to be taken into consideration, the technical justification for acceptance will be considered by the Administration on a ‘case by case’ basis’; for functions delegated to the Recognised Organisations, these should be supported by the Recognised Organization in the first instance.

Survey / audit / certification policy

(Message dated 8 November 02)

Cargo ships

The Society may undertake all surveys (other than ISM matters) as required under various international instruments in force and, subject to its satisfaction, issue certificates under HSSC as deemed appropriate.

Passenger ships

The Society may undertake all surveys (other than ISM matters and Passenger Ship Safety Certificate) as required under various international instruments in force and, subject to its satisfaction, issue certificates under HSSC as deemed appropriate.

Newbuildings

Every newbuilding shall be built under class and comply with structural, mechanical and electrical requirements of class (SOLAS, Regulation II-1/3-1).

The Society may have to provide the Administration with a partial declaration of survey.

The following drawings / plans shall be forwarded to the Administration after approval by the Society:

1. General arrangement,

2. Accommodations,

3. Bridge layout and visibility,

4. MARPOL (IOPP) arrangement and equipment,

5. Fire and Safety,

6. Structural Fire Protection,

7. SOPEP / SMPEP (for final approval by the Administration after approval by the Society),

8. Cargo Securing Manual (for final approval by the Administration after approval by the Society),

9. Stability information, intact and damage (for final approval by the Administration after approval by the Society).

This is the duty of the ship-connected MOC.

Registry of ships (for reference)

1. Cargo ships

   Every cargo ship shall be inspected once every 30 months for issuance, intermediate endorsement and renewal of the SMC. A general inspection GI / FSI (Flag State Inspection) of the ship shall be carried out.

2. Passenger ships

   Every passenger ship shall be inspected once a year for issuance and renewal of the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate (the Society may be requested to provide a declaration of survey in respect of safety construction).

Change of flag

The concerned TLO is requested to issue a “certificate of survey outlining the parameters of the ship”. A surveyor may also be required to check the carving and marking of the ship, sign the note and fax it back to the Registry.

ISM

Refer to ISM Code.

Alternative means of survey and certification

(SIN 096(a))

The Administration does recognize that there may be exceptional circumstances where a physical attendance by surveyors from Recognised Organisation (RO) may not be possible, and where alternative means such as remote attendances/surveys may be considered. The Administration will consider applications for such alternative means on a case by case basis in respect of the eligible survey items as detailed within the International Association of Class Societies (IACS) UR Z29, Table 1.

In cases where a variation to the traditional survey processes such as via remote means are to be considered, the review and technical consideration of those processes are to be recorded and presented by Recognised Organisation (RO) to the Administration with a recommendation for their use as alternative measures.

Any application to consider alternative measures must contain a detailed description of the applicable statutory function(s) and circumstances which dictate that the relevant activity cannot be undertaken via a physical attendance.

Reviews and technical considerations in respect of alternative means such as remote surveys should ensure a level of assurance and effectiveness equivalent to a survey physically undertaken by a surveyor.

Delegated shipboard verifications via remote means in respect of ISM, ISPS, & MLC will not be considered.

Following review by the Administration of a submitted application by Recognised Organisation (RO) for the use of alternative means, the Administration will inform Recognised Organisation (RO) of the decision taken in respect of the application.

Statutory certificates - endorsement

Gibraltar is one of the Red Ensign registries of the United Kingdom.

As such, the statutory certificates issued since 1 January 2010 to ships registered in Gibraltar are endorsed with the following mention:

“This Certificate is issued on behalf of Gibraltar under the responsibility of the United Kingdom as Flag state under the Convention.”

The mention is automatically printed onto the certificates by ASMS Certificates Editor. The surveyor nevertheless verifies that the mention is duly endorsed when issuing a certificate.

Conditions of class relating to statutory items

(Letter from MCA MS16/62/2 dated 4^th November 2011 and email dated 10^th February 2012)

The use of Condition of Class (CoC) to manage the rectification of minor deficiencies relating to classification items, e.g. hull structure, machinery and electrical / control systems, is acceptable to Gibraltar. It is not necessary to issue short term Safety Construction and / or Load Line certificates in such cases.

However, the use of a condition of class to manage the rectification of deficiencies (or multiple deficiencies) relating to non-classification items, e.g. safety equipment, safety radio, etc., which in the opinion of the RO surveyor may affect the validity of the relevant certificate, is not acceptable to Gibraltar as the only course of action to take. Such deficiencies (or multiple deficiencies) are to be reported to Gibraltar which will advise how the deficiencies are to be dealt with, e.g. by the issue of a short term certificate.

High risk ships - detained ships

(Letter from the Administration AC/12/1048 dated 1^st June 2012).

From 1^st July 2012, any Recognised Organisation (RO) classed ship under Gibraltar Flag which has been detained is to be reported to the Chief Surveyor at the following e-mail address, by FM_TPP: rob.cumbes@gibraltar.gov.gi.

Shipping Guidance and Information Notices/ Instructions to RO

All notices are available through www.gibraltarship.com/ships.

Current Index List of SGN dated 12/06/2026 is in attached file “2026.06.12 - SGN Current Index”.

Current Index List of SIN dated 12/06/2026 is in attached file “2026.06.12 - SIN Current Index”.

Instructions to ROs is in attached file “Instructions to ROs and their Surveyors Gibraltar Rev. 07 13.10.2021”.

Change of Recognised Organisation

In the event that a ship registered in the Gibraltar register transfers class from another Recognised Organisation to Recognised Organisation (RO), Recognised Organisation (RO) shall ensure that it has obtained all, to its knowledge, relevant information on the survey status of the ship, including structural and operational limitations and any outstanding conditions given by the previous Recognised Organisation. The structural and operational limitations of the ship shall be checked and agreed to by Recognised Organisation (RO).If the ship is not classed on transfer, the requirements of IACS procedural requirements for transfer of Class shall apply.

Outstanding recommendations/conditions shall be reassessed and if considered acceptable by Recognised Organisation (RO), followed up within the time limits given by the losing Recognised Organisation.The above procedures shall be carried through before assignment of class to a ship, or before an unclassed ship is registered by Recognised Organisation (RO). This information shall also be copied to the Administration on request.

For Gibraltar registered vessels transferring from Recognised Organisation (RO), but remaining registered in the Gibraltar, Recognised Organisation (RO) will provide the same information to the gaining Recognised Organisation upon request.When a ship registered in the Gibraltar registry of ships is suspended, withdrawn, or withdraws, from class, the Gibraltar Maritime Administration shall be notified by the Recognised Organisation (RO) as specified in Appendix 2 (see Appendix 2 to the Agreement). Such notification shall include brief details of the reason for suspension or withdrawal of class, the name of the owner and the latest known address of the owner.Recognised Organisation (RO) shall not issue statutory certificates to a ship de-classed or changing class for safety reasons before consulting with the Gibraltar Maritime Administration to determine whether a full inspection is required.

Dual Class Ship — is a ship which is classed by two Recognised Classification Societies. both authorised by the Gibraltar Maritime Administration, between which there is a written agreement regarding sharing work, reciprocal recognition of surveys carried out by each of the Societies on behalf of the other Society and full exchange of information on the Class status and survey reports. These agreements shall contain clear confirmation on the demarcation of Class and Statutory tasks responsibility and will be governed by clause 9.3 of the agreement.A list of approved ROs is provided in Appendix 4 to the agreement (see Appendix 4 to the Agreement).

IACS PR 17 report

PR17 reports issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) are to be submitted to the Administration at maritime.survey@gibraltar.gov.gi, after their validation by the MO, with copy to c-r_stat@bureauveritas.com, yannis.calogeras@bureauveritas.com and gbr_clo@bureauveritas.com.

E-certificates

(Administration letter dated 04/12/2019)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to issue certificates in an electronic format according to IMO circular FAL.5/Circ.39/rev.2.

Refer to attached file “2019.12.04 - Recognised Organisation (RO) authorization e-certificates”.

(Shipping Information Notice 088 and 088a)

In case of certificates issued by GMA in electronic format and upon successful completion of the attendance undertaken by Recognised Organisation (RO) on behalf of the Administration, Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor will notify the GMA via maritime.survey@gibraltar.gov.gi. The Administration will undertake the necessary process in relation to the electronic certificate.

Closure of simple Conditions of Class/Statutory Recommendation

(RO BCC meeting - 20 November 2019)

The Administration has no objection to Recognised Organisation (RO) undertaking closure of simple Conditions of Class/Statutory Recommendation, or outstanding survey items for which no more than documentary evidence is required, by remote inspection/verification provided Recognised Organisation (RO) follows procedure in the planned inspection programme Section 13.

It should be noted that Recognised Organisation (RO) remote acceptance of evidence provided by a ship’s manager or owner does not obviate its accountability with respect to verification of Convention compliance.

Publications - Carriage requirement

Refer to SGN 042(a) which details the publications to be carried on Gibraltar Registered ships, as applicable to the type and size of ship.

Authorized RO and RSO

Refer to SGN-081 in attached file “SGN 081.pdf” which specify which organisations are currently authorized to act as ‘recognised organisations’ and ‘recognised security organisations’ on behalf of the Gibraltar Maritime Administration:

Gibraltar Shipping Legislation

The full text be obtained from the HM Government Gibraltar Laws website https://www.gibraltarlaws.gov.gi/

The Gibraltar Merchant Shipping Legislation list has been updated on 11 October 2021 and is available in the attached file “Gibraltar Merchant Shipping Legislation 11.10.2021.pdf”.

LL 66

Load Line Certificate

SOLAS 74

Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate

Inclining test and stability information

(Message of 8 November 02)

For a newbuilding, a surveyor shall attend the inclining test and endorse the result (light ship displacement and KG).

The society is authorised to approve the stability information (intact and damage).

Initial testing of watertight bulkheads (SOLAS II-1/11)

The Administration accepts the application of IACS UR S14 Rev 7 as an equivalent provision for initial testing of watertight bulkheads under SOLAS Chapter II-1/Reg.11, subject to the conditions stipulated in annex of the attached file “SOLAS-UK Acceptance UR S14_XQ164387”.

Application of IACS UI SC 178 on Unified Interpretation of Chapter 12 of FSS code

The Administration accepts the IACS UI SC 178 rev.1, the application date of which is for ships contracted for construction on or after 1^st January 2012 and construction commenced before 1^st January 2013, for a period of one year until 1^st January 2013 and, thereafter, the date of application will be for ships constructed on or after 1^st January 2013.

Devices to prevent the passage of flame in cargo tanks - UK / REG policy on MSC.1/Circ.1324

See the attached file “MCA Policy on MSC-Circ-1324”, and specifically its provisions in chapter 5 (Survey requirements).

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

(4.2 of the Minutes from the 20^th BCC Meeting dated 15^th June 2012)

The Administration will be adopting the principles in MSC.1/Circ.1247 (“Unified Interpretation of “unforeseen delay in delivery of ships””) and will consider requests in the following manner:

1. The Administration will deal with ships under this provision case-by-case.

2. Full details and particulars of the unforeseen circumstances under which the ship is to be accepted to be submitted to the administration along with a statement from the owners and builders that these circumstances were beyond their control.

3. Further evidence may be required from the authorities of the country where the ship was built confirming the unforeseen circumstances were beyond the control of the owner / builder.

4. If it appears to the administration that the delay results from the market conditions for the ship, the owner / builder must provide evidence to the satisfaction of the administration that the decision to delay the delivery of the ship was made at a stage of build when it would not have been reasonable to make modifications to comply with the new standards.

   (For example after a substantial piece of the ship has been constructed, but not if it only relates to a drawing.)

5. A footnote will be added to class certification (Passenger Ship Safety Certificate, Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate or Cargo Ship Safety Certificate) with delivery date annotated, to indicate that the ship is accepted by the administration under the unforeseen delay in delivery provisions of this interpretation.

Loss of anchor and validity of Safety Construction Certificate

In case of loss of a single anchor, the Administration is to be advised, as the decision that this can be handled through the issue of a class recommendation or a memoranda (rather than require the issue of a short term Safety Construction Certificate) remains with the Flag Administration.

Collision bulkhead

Cargo ships may, in lieu of complying with the requirements of Regulation II-1/12.5.1, comply with the following:

Except as provided in paragraph 5.2, the collision bulkhead may be pierced below the bulkhead deck in passenger ships and freeboard deck in cargo ships by not more than one pipe for dealing with fluid in the forepeak tank, provided that the pipe is fitted with a screw-down valve capable of being operated from above the bulkhead deck in passenger ships and freeboard deck in cargo ships, the valve being located inside the forepeak at the collision bulkhead. The Administration may, however, authorize the fitting of this valve on the after side of the collision bulkhead provided that the valve is readily accessible under all service conditions and the space in which it is located is not a cargo space. Alternatively, for cargo ships, the pipe may be fitted with a butterfly valve suitably supported by a seat or flanges and capable of being operated from above the freeboard deck. All valves shall be of steel, bronze or other approved ductile material. Valves of ordinary cast iron or similar material are not acceptable.

For further information, refer to the letter from MCA to IMO, referenced MS 067/011/0006 and dated 23 February 2018, in the attached file “EquivalenceForButterflyValves_2018”.

Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor attendance during manoeuvring tests

(Administration email dated 07/04/2025)

The provision for ships to hold manoeuvring information onboard stems comes from SOLAS II-1/28 through IMO Assembly Resolution A.601(15), which specifies display of Pilot Card and Wheelhouse poster; in addition, Manoeuvring booklet containing comprehensive details of ships manoeuvring characteristics and other relevant data should also be provided onboard:

• IMO Resolution MSC.137(76) sets the standard for ship manoeuvrability and the criteria for acceptance of Turning circle, Zig-zag and Crash stop tests;

• Circular MSC/Circ.1053 provides guidance on conducting the manoeuvring tests;

• and MCA MGN 301 (M+F) provides further guidance on manoeuvring information required to be placed onboard.

Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyors should attend manoeuvring tests where required and attest that the tests had been conducted in accordance with relevant IMO standards and criteria.  

Lifting appliances (II-1, Regulation 3-13)

(SIN 128)

Via the publication of SIN 128, the Administration intends to consolidate and encapsulate in a single notice not only vessels subject to the SOLAS Regulation, but additionally vessels under 500 GT, commercial yachts, and vessels under 24 meters Load Line length.

SIN128 also places requirements on non-convention vessels and “offshore construction ships, such as pipe/cable laying/repair or offshore installation vessels, including ships for decommissioning work”, where the Administration requires that such vessels meet the SOLAS (MSC.1/Circ.1662/1663) requirements to the maximum extent possible, whilst setting minimum requirements.

Pursuant to SOLAS Chapter II-1 Regulation 3-13.1.3 in respect of lifting appliances provided on any vessel which have a SWL of less than 1000kg, the Administration requires:

• Lifting appliances are designed and constructed in accordance with a recognised international standard verified by the competent person;

• Meet the requirements of chapter 19 of the United Kingdom Maritime & Coastguard Agency’s Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers (as amended); and,

• The examination and testing of lifting appliances and loose gear shall be undertaken by a competent person in accordance with the definition contained within section 2.4 of SIN 128.

Annual and renewal surveys in accordance with HSSC are independent of the dates for the annual thorough examination (both lifting appliances and loose gears) and the load test for the lifting appliance, providing certification attesting annual thorough examination and the load testing are valid at the time of the annual and renewal surveys.

The Administration recommends that where possible, thorough examinations and load tests are undertaken synchronized with the harmonized system of survey and certification regime (IMO Resolution A.1186(33) as amended).

Manoeuvring tests

(34th RO BCC meeting - 11 June 2025)

The MSC Resolution 137(76) - Standards for Ship Manoeuvrability are considered as guidelines and should be used to evaluate the manoeuvring performance of ships of all rudder and propulsion types, of 100m in length and over, and chemical tankers and gas carriers regardless of the length.

The instruction in relation to RO Surveyor attendance during manoeuvring tests would primarily apply during newbuild sea trials; but should also be considered during sea trials following alterations or modifications, which in the opinion of the RO, may influence the ship's manoeuvrability characteristics.

Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate

Lifeboat and rescue boat Release and Retrieval System (MSC.1/Circ.1392)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is fully authorised to conduct the following work on behalf of the Administration:

Replacement of lifeboat and rescue boat Release and Retrieval Systems (RRS), not meeting SOLAS III/1.5, in accordance with MSC.1/Circ.1392 paragraphs 18-26.

This includes:

1. Review and approval of replacement lifeboat and rescue boat RRS (MSC.1/Circ.1392 paragraph 20)

2. Discretion to decide if the hook fixed structural connections need to be replaced (paragraph 21)

3. Witnessing of the installation (paragraph 23)

4. Witnessing of the post installation testing (paragraph 25)

5. Issuing the Statement of Acceptance as per MSC.1/Circ.1392 Appendix 4 (paragraph 26).

MSC.1/Circ.1392 requires Administrations to send IMO reports on evaluation of hooks. These reports are to be sent by Recognised Organisation (RO) to the Administration’s contact point.

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

Shipping Guidance Notice 078

The Administration delegates Recognised Organisation (RO) for authorization of Authorized Service Providers (ASP).

Existing approvals will be valid after 1st January 2020 until the approval’s expiry date or until 3 years from the date of issue, whichever occurs first. Once the approval has expired, it will have to be reissued in accordance with Resolution MSC 402(96).

The Administration will accept the authorization of service providers issued by other Administrations.

Authorized Service Provider (ASP) includes manufacturers when they are acting as an ASP.

Authorized Service Provider can be accredited to work on a different manufacturer’s equipment, however they will have to demonstrate during their authorisation process that they have sufficient technical information (e.g. the manufacturer’s guidelines) in order to establish a training program for the make and type of another manufacturer’s equipment.

For further information, refer to the attached file “SGN 078.pdf”.

Shipping Guidance Notice 078(a) - Clarifications

The purpose of this SGN, is to clarify Administration requirements in respect of approvals for individual service providers wishing to conduct statutory work on lifeboats, rescue boats, launching appliances and release gear on-board Gibraltar ships. GMA does not directly undertake such approvals. The Administration accepts service providers authorised by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), or one of the UK/Gibraltar authorised RO.

1. OEM and OEM Approved Service Providers

   The OEM and OEM approved service providers do not require any further approval to conduct work on equipment manufactured by that OEM. Any service provider wishing to conduct service work on equipment other than that of the authorising OEM should seek authorisation from a UK/Gibraltar authorised RO or approval from the actual OEM, for the specific equipment on which they wish to undertake work, before commencing such work.

2. Authorisation of Service Providers by Recognised Organisations

   Service providers (other than OEM and OEM approved service providers) wishing to conduct work on lifeboats, rescue boats, launching appliances and release gear fitted to UK ships, should approach a UK/Gibraltar authorised RO, and seek their authorisation as a service provider for the specific equipment on which they wish to undertake work, in accordance with SOLAS Chapter III Regulation 20, as applicable and MSC.402(96).

   Authorisations issued for work in accordance with SOLAS Chapter III Regulation 20 as applicable, and MSC.402(96) may not give automatic authority to conduct work on every type of equipment in

   accordance with these IMO instruments. It may be necessary for service providers to seek authorisation for each specific make and type of equipment on which they wish to undertake work.

   Other than OEM and OEM approved service providers, only service providers authorised by a UK/Gibraltar authorised RO through an assessment against the provisions of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) Z17 “Procedural Requirements for Service Suppliers” and IMO MSC.402(96) will be accepted.

For further information, refer to the attached file “202.06.02 - SGN 078a.pdf”.

Inflatable liferafts

SURVITEC Group inflatable liferafts

The Administration has accepted equivalent arrangements for the servicing of inflatable liferafts in accordance with Chapter Ill regulations 4 and 20.8.3 of the International Convention for the Safety of Life as Sea, 1974 as amended.

SURVITEC SAS inflatable liferafts, other trademarks: “SURVITEC, CREWSAVER, ELLIOT, DSB, SURVITECZODIAC, RFD” are packed for extended service intervals.

Servicing will be carried out at 30 month maximum intervals, only at approved servicing stations which have additionally been appointed for this purpose by SURVITEC SAS.

As long as the hermetic seal has not been compromised, the 30 month service intervals will apply for the first 10 years of their service lives, and thereafter at the frequency required by SOLAS regulation III/20.8.1.1. Hermetic seal verification must be performed at maximum intervals of 12 months from the date of last service. This is done on board the ship according to the manufacturer’s instruction for on board inspection.

All servicing tests prescribed in IMO Resolution A.761(18) which would have been carried out during the period of the extended service interval will be carried out by the service station at the next service after the nominal “due date” of that test.

For further information, refer to the IMO circular SLS.14/Circ.576 in the attached file “SLS.14-Circ.576”.

Extended Service Interval (30 Month) liferafts

(Shipping Guidance Notice 079)

IMO Circular MSC.1/Circ.1328, allows servicing intervals of up to 30 months for inflatable liferafts when specially packed to allow for extended service intervals. Gibraltar Maritime Administration for Gibraltar Registered ships intending to carry such liferafts, for these to be assessed as compliant with the requirements of IMO Circular MSC.1/Circ.1328 as part of the type approval by the Notified Body which carries out the Marine Equipment Directive (MED) approval. The MED certificate for extended service interval liferafts will include details of the extended service interval arrangements.Operators are reminded that, although servicing is only required at extended service intervals (not exceeding 30 months), MSC.1/Circ.1328 requires an annual on board inspection to be undertaken by qualified persons, who have been adequately trained and certificated by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).At every 30 months servicing interval of a davit launched inflatable liferaft, a 10% overload static load test is to be carried out with the liferaft suspended from its lifting hook or bridle, in accordance with the OEM’s servicing instructions.In accordance with MSC.1/Circ.1328, Section 4.1.1, any requests for extension of the 10 year limitation may be extended if real time verification justifies acceptance by the Administration. Applications for such extensions will be reviewed on a ‘case by case’ basis by the Administration.

For further information, refer to attached file “SGN 079.pdf”.

VDR

(Email from the Administration dated 19/08/2014)

With respect to the installation of Voyage Data Recorders (VDRs) in accordance with MSC.333(90), VDR “installed” is to mean “set in position, connected to relevant peripheral equipment, and ready for use and evidence of proper operation is verifiable by the Flag / RO or its representative”.

Breathing apparatus

(Email from MCA dated 14/01/2015, Shipping Guidance Notice 064 dated 30/10/2016)

The Administration’s interpretation of SOLAS II-2 Regulation 5.2.2.6 as amended by MSC.338(91) in relation to the suitable number of spare cylinders is as follows:

In addition to the fully charged spare cylinders required by the regulations for each Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), where no means for recharging such cylinders is provided on board, sufficient additional spare cylinders must be provided for training purposes.

Factors to be considered by the ship-owner when deciding upon the number of training cylinders to be provided include the requirements in the Safety Management System (SMS) for the number / frequency of drills on board where SCBA cylinders may be used, and the nature of the vessels trading pattern with respect to shore based charging facilities. Cylinders intended for training purposes should be prominently marked to indicate their intended use.

The SMS must take account that at least one fully charged spare cylinder for training purposes must be provided for each SCBA set required by regulation to be on board.

If additional training SCBA sets are provided on board (each with a fully charged training cylinder) then the equivalent number of SCBA sets required on board by regulation need not be provided with a spare cylinder for training purposes.

Manually operated call points (SOLAS Chapter II-2 Regulation 7.7)

(Email from MCA dated 22/06/2015)

Recognised Organisation (RO) must not apply the IACS UI SC 241 on manually operated call points but must follow the convention requirements.

(Action 14 from the BCC meeting 2015)

Fixed fire detection systems with manually operated call points shall be capable of immediate operation at all times as per the FSS code.

Arrangement for remotely located survival craft

(Administration email dated 05/07/2019)

The Administration agreed the revised Unified Interpretation of SOLAS Reg III/31.1.4 detailed in MSC.1/Circ.1490/Rev.1.

Quote

1. Liferafts required by SOLAS regulation III/31.1.4 should be regarded as "remotely located survival craft" with regard to SOLAS regulation III/7.2.1.4.

2. The area where these remotely located survival craft are stowed should be provided with:

• .1 a minimum number of two lifejackets and two immersion suits;

• .2 adequate means of illumination complying with SOLAS regulation III/16.7, either fixed or portable, which should be capable of illuminating the liferaft stowage position, as well as the area of water into which the liferaft should be launched; portable lights, when used, should have brackets to permit their positioning on both sides of the vessel;

• .3 an embarkation ladder or other means of embarkation enabling descent to the water in a controlled manner* as per SOLAS regulation III/11.7; and

• .4 self-contained battery-powered lamps (i.e. luminaires) may be accepted as means of illumination for complying with SOLAS regulation III/16.7. Such lamps should be capable of being recharged from the ship's main and emergency source of electrical power, and should be stowed close to the liferaft and embarkation ladder they are intended to serve, under charge. When disconnected from the ship's power, the lamp should give a minimum duration of three hours of undiminished performance. The lamps should comply with the requirements of section 1.2.3 of the LSA Code. The lamps (i.e. luminaires) should meet the requirements of Ingress Protection rating IP 55. The batteries for the subject lamps should comply with IACS Unified Requirement (UR) E18 requirements irrespective of whether the expiry date is marked by the manufacturer or not.

3. With regard to the distance between the embarkation station and stowage location of the liferaft as required by SOLAS regulation III/31.1.4 (remotely located survival craft), the embarkation station should be so arranged that the requirements of regulation III/13.1.3 can be satisfied.

4. Exceptionally, the embarkation station and stowage position of the liferaft (remotely located survival craft) may be located on different decks provided that the liferaft can be launched from the stowage deck using the attached painter to relocate it to the embarkation ladder positioned on the other deck (traversing a stairway between different decks with the liferaft carried by crew members is not acceptable).

5. Notwithstanding paragraph 2, where the exceptional cases mentioned in paragraph 4 exist, the following provisions should be applied:

• .1 the lifejackets and the immersion suits required by paragraph 2.1 may be stowed at the embarkation station;

• .2 adequate means of illumination complying with paragraph 2.2 should also illuminate the liferaft stowage position, embarkation station and area of water where the liferaft is to be embarked;

• .3 the embarkation ladder or other means of embarkation as required by paragraph 2.3 may be stowed at the embarkation station; and

• .4 notwithstanding the requirements in paragraph 4.1.3.2 of the LSA Code, the painter should be long enough to reach the relevant embarkation station.

Unquote

Periodic Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Compressed Gas Cylinders, Fire Extinguishers and Fixed Fire-fighting Systems.

(Shipping Guidance Notice 115(a))

This notice sets out the requirements for periodic servicing and testing of fire extinguishers, compressed gas cylinders and components of fixed fire-extinguishing systems on board Gibraltar registered vessels.

Measurement of General Emergency Alarm and Public Address System

(RO BCC meeting - 20 November 2019)

Sound pressure measurements shall be done separately on each ship.

Distress Signals and Advertised Alternatives to Pyrotechnic Flares

(Shipping Information Notice 076(a))

To be effective, distress signals need to be internationally recognised. Not all EVDS (Electronic Visual Distress Signals) provide a distress signal listed in COLREGS Annex IV (such as SOS), and currently there is no knowledge of any EVDS device compliant with the SOLAS technical performance standards for distress alerting equipment. Consequently, the international carriage requirements do not recognise EVDS and the Gibraltar carriage requirements have not been amended to formally recognise them either.

Fire-fighter’s Outfits

(Shipping Guidance Notice 088)

Fire proximity suits are not suitable for fire-fighter’s outfits.

Fire-fighting protective clothing provided for the mandatory fire-fighting outfits shall be approved for enclosed space entry. Protective clothing approved to a fire proximity standard only (such as EN 531), with limitations such as “not suitable for fire entry” or “not a fire entry suit” are not acceptable as the mandatory fire-fighting outfits.

Fire-fighter’s outfits must be provided in accordance with MED Standards.

For further information, refer to the attached file “SGN 088.pdf”.

Long-range identification and tracking of ships (LRIT)

(Shipping Information Notice 082, in attached file “SIN 082”)

(Shipping Guidance Notice 101, in attached file “SGN 101”)

In addition to the contents of SIN – 054 below:

“Ship-owners, Managers, and Recognised Organisations are reminded of the requirement for Long-range identification and tracking of ships (LRIT) Conformance Test Reports (CTR’s) to be forwarded to the Administration when ships are new to the Registry, or whenever any change to the ship-board equipment used for the transmission of required position reports takes place”.

Ship-owners and Managers, are requested to notify the Administration of circumstances in relation to anticipated/scheduled periods where the mandatory position reports will cease to be transmitted from the ship-board equipment. Examples of such periods may include; dry-docking or repair periods, periods of layup, etc. The Administration upon review of the individual circumstances, and if considered suitable, will stop the reporting requirement from the LRIT datacenter during such periods. Similarly, Owners/Managers are to notify the Administration upon resumption of normal operations in order to re-start the reporting requirements.

Above notifications are to be emailed to; maritime.survey@gibraltar.gov.gi

Authorised Testing Application Service Provider (ASP)

(Shipping Guidance Notice 111)

All ships borne LRIT equipment must be tested and certified by an Authorised Testing Application Service Provider (ASP).

The Administration accepts ASP’s that have been approved by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) to undertake LRIT conformance testing, and whom upon successful testing are authorised to issue the required Conformance Test Report (CTR).Details of MCA approved ASP’s may be obtained via the following link:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/long-range-identification-and-tracking-testers-atasps

ECDIS, Nautical Charts and Publications

(Refer to Shipping Guidance Notice 099 in attached file “SGN 099 - SOLAS Chapter V – Nautical Charts & Publications .pdf”)

Carriage of Charts and Nautical publications

All ships, and all other ships of 150 GT or more and all other ships required by SOLAS to carry a radio installation, shall carry the International Code of Signals published by the International Maritime Organization.

Publications that are considered by the Administration to satisfy the requirements of SOLAS Chapter V Regulation 19.2.1.4 are listed in 1.2 of Shipping Guidance Notice 099.

For Gibraltar ships, the requirement to carry Volume III of the IAMSAR manual does not apply to:

• ships below 150 GT on any voyage

• ships below 500 GT not engaged on international voyages, and

• fishing vessels

Passenger ships and other ships of 300 GT or more on international voyages, when provided with equipment for use in sea areas A2, A3 or A4, i.e. beyond VHF range of coast stations, must also carry the following publications of the ITU:

• List of Coast Stations and Special Service Stations - List IV

• List of Ship Stations and Maritime Mobile Service Identity Assignments - List V

• The Manual for Use by the Maritime Mobile and Maritime Mobile-Satellite Services.

Digital Nautical Publications

Nautical publications presented in electronic format are acceptable when issued by or on the authority of the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO). In this respect, Gibraltar Maritime Administration will accept UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) approved digital publications products/systems for use on Gibraltar ships.

Recommendations for system installation and use aboard ships are included at Section 2 of Shipping Guidance Notice 099.

EPIRB (IACS UI SC295)

Regarding the vague phrase “installed on or after 1 July 2022" in relation to application of new performance standards for EPIRB (adopted by IMO Resolution MSC 471 (101)), it is confirmed that there had been discussions at IMO MSC 106 on a generic interpretation of the terminology “installed on board”, resulting in MSC.1/Circ.1500 Rev 2 (published 30 Nov 2022).

The Administration confirms the acceptance of the guidance agreed by IMO, and that this reflects the wording within IACS UI SC295.

Equivalent Arrangements for Magnetic Compasses carriage requirements

In accordance with SOLAS Chapter I, Regulation 5, the Administration has determined that the carriage requirements for Standard and Spare magnetic compasses under Regulations V/19.2.1.1 and V/19.2.2.1, and a gyro compass under Regulation V/19.2.5.1 may be satisfied by either of the following methods:

1. Fitting of three gyro compasses, under the following conditions:

   1. Each gyrocompass shall:

      • be independently connected to both main and emergency sources of electrical power, and;

      • have a transitional source to be able to supply uninterrupted electrical power for up to 30 minutes (this may be satisfied by use of ship transitional power, if fitted), and;

      • be type approved in accordance with the international standards, and;

      • Display the reading at the main steering position.

   2. To avoid ‘single point of failure’ and to afford redundancy, the installation arrangements should be such that a fire, or other incidents, in one compartment should not render all of the compasses inoperative i.e. One gyrocompass shall be separated from the other units by at least one A Class fire boundary.

2. Fitting of two gyro compasses and one GNSS compass, under the following conditions:

   1. Each gyrocompass and the GNSS compass shall:

      • be independently connected to both main and emergency sources of electrical power, and;

      • have a transitional source to be able to supply uninterrupted electrical power for up to 30 minutes (this may be satisfied by use of ship transitional power, if fitted), and;

      • Display the reading at the main steering position.

   2. The gyrocompasses shall be type approved in accordance with international standards.

   3. The GNSS compass shall be type approved in accordance with the requirements for a Transmitting Heading Device (THD) complying with SOLAS V/19.2.3.5

   4. The GNSS compass is separate to the GNSS requirement stipulated within V/19.2.1.6

   5. To avoid ‘single point of failure’ and to afford redundancy, the installation arrangements should be such that a fire, or other incidents, in one compartment should not render all of the compasses inoperative i.e. One gyrocompass or the GNSS compass shall be separated from the other units by at least one A Class fire boundary.

For further information, refer to General Equivalency Letter to IMO (XQ162569) in attached file “Equivalent Arrangements for Magnetic Compasses carriage requirements - XQ162569”

REG interpretation of SOLAS II-2/7 as applicable to cargo ships

(Administration email dated 21/07/2025)

The phrase “Manually operated call points complying with the Fire Safety Systems Code shall be installed throughout the accommodation spaces, service spaces and control stations” does not require the fitting of a manually operated call point in an individual space within the accommodation spaces, service spaces and control stations.

However, a manually operated call point shall be located at each exit (inside or outside) to the open deck from the corridor such that no part of the corridor is more than 20 m from a manually operated call point.

Service spaces and control stations which have only one access, leading directly to the open deck, shall have a manually operated call point located at the same deck not more than 20 m (measured along the access route using the deck and/or corridors) from the exit.

A manually operated call point is not required to be installed for spaces having little or no fire risk, such as voids and carbon dioxide rooms.

REG interpretation of amendments to SOLAS II-2 (MSC.1/Circ.1694)

(UK MCA email dated 26/11/2025)

With regards to point 5. of MSC.1/Circ.1694 – Unified interpretations of SOLAS Chapter II-2 and the HSC Codes (1994 and 2000), the UK/REG position relating to, which standards are considered “recognized” by the Administration is as follows:

• Noting that all Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) should be PFOS free as per the SOLAS requirements. Also noting that PFOS has been banned by the UK and EU for over ten years (including for marine use).

• Noting that the guidance requires a recognised standard and that there is no UK/REG standard for PFOS testing currently, the UK/REG is open to approval based on other acceptable standards.

• The UK/REG understand that the NPR-CEN/TS 15968 standard has now been withdrawn, however as that standard was withdrawn as it does not work for the testing of other banned PFAS which are banned in the UK and the EU but not in the maritime sector and that no alternative has been published, the UK/REG believe it is still appropriate to use NPR-CEN/TS 15968.

• The UK/REG will also accept a modified version of ISO 25101 that has been adapted for use on foams instead of its intended use in water sampling.

• The UK/REG will be willing to consider other recognised tests methods (for example the US EPA Method 8327) but for now the aforementioned are the preferred tests.

Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate

Guidance on radio-communications under SOLAS Chapter IV

Refer to Shipping Guidance Notice 105 in attached files.

Passenger Ship Safety Certificate

Others

Cargo Securing Manual

(Message of 8 November 02)

The Society is authorised to approve the Cargo Securing Manual.

IGC Code

A0 Wheelhouse windows (IGC Code §3.2.5)

(BBC Meeting dated 28 November 2018)The Administration supported the removal of the A0 windows as the vision through A0 glass can be distorted and it is not possible to get A0 clearview screens. They agree for the early implementation and in the process of drafting a notification to IMO on early implementation of MSC.1-Circ.1549.

OSV Chemical Code

Recognised Organisation (RO) is fully authorized regarding statutory activities relating to the Offshore Support Vessels (OSV) Chemical Code IMO Resolution A.1122 (30) as amended “the Code for the Transport and Handling of Hazardous and Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk on Offshore Support Vessels (OSV Chemical Code)” and issue Certificate of Fitness.

IBC Code

(Shipping Guidance Notice 087)

Guidance on Chapter 18: Information required by section 16.2.3.1 of the IBC Code (necessary data for the safe carriage of cargo in bulk, including a cargo stowage plan) must be on board and available to all concerned. It usually takes the form of appropriate Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS¹) and the MSDS for each product will contain safety information for the correct handling and storage of the product.

For further information, refer to the attached file “SGN 087.pdf”.

IP Code

Recognised Organisation (RO) is fully authorized with regards to necessary technical review, surveys and certification relating to Chapter XV of SOLAS, and resolution MSC.527(106) International Code of Safety for Ships Carrying Industrial Personnel (IP Code) as amended.

Ships currently authorised by the Administration

(Shipping Guidance Notice 135)

To date, the Administration has on a case by case basis authorised individual Gibraltar registered ships for the carriage of more than 12 industrial personnel, via issuance of a Flag State permit.

The Administration will require Recognised Organisation (RO) duly authorised for SPS Code 2008, to undertake a verification of vessels currently authorised by the Administration under the interim recommendations contained within Resolution MSC.418(97), in respect of the following:

• Vessel holds valid Special Purpose Ship (SPS) 2008 certification;

• Compliance with the requirements contained within IMO Resolution MSC.418(97), section 4;

• Personnel transfers shall take into account the guidance contained within MSC-MEPC.7/Circ.10, and IMO Resolution A.1045(27);

• Sleeping rooms allocated to Industrial Personnel shall not impact on the sleeping arrangements of the vessel's crew in respect of MLC 2006 requirements.

Subject to successful above compliance verification, Recognised Organisation (RO) shall issue a Statement of Compliance to the effect on behalf of the Administration, for the same validity period as that of the expiry date of the associated SPS Code 2008 Certificate. A copy of the SOC is to be forwarded to the Administration, which upon receipt, any existing permit will be withdrawn.

The verification required above, may be undertaken by Recognised Organisation (RO) via established remote means, providing such means provide an equivalent level of verification as a physical attendance.

IGF Code

Alternative Design and Arrangements (ADA)

(Shipping Guidance Notice 167 - REG UI 009)

Until the interim guidelines for use of alternative fuels are made mandatory under the IGF code or otherwise, an Alternative Design and Arrangements (ADA) process is to be followed.

The interim guidelines for the fuel or system components in consideration can be used as a basis for the ADA unless otherwise stated by the administration.

In accordance with the ADA process, when the alternative design and arrangements has received final approval, the administration will issue the document of approval and submit the report on approval to the IMO via the IMO Global Integrated Ship Information System (GISIS) website.

Where all risk assessments required by the interim guidelines have been completed and compliance with the prescriptive and functional requirements of the interim guidelines has been confirmed via the plan approval and site survey, the qualitative and quantitative risk analysis as referenced in MSC.1/Circ.1455 are not required.

Where a vessel is unable to comply with any of the provisions of the interim guidelines, no exemption request is necessary as the ‘deviation’ can be addressed within the ADA process and within the context of the whole design. However, these deviations should be highlighted to the Administration.

MARPOL 73/78

Annex I. IOPP certificate

Shipping Guidance Notice 082 dated 07/04/2020 (in attached file “SGN 082 Marpol Annex I.pdf”)

Approval of SOPEP

(Message of 8 November 02)

The Society is authorised to approve the SOPEP of ships in Class with the Society.

The approving Unit shall send a copy of the approved SOPEP to the Administration.

Regulation 12.2.2

The Administration adopts the Unified Interpretation for Regulation 12.2.2 (MEPC.1/Circ.753).

Add-on equipment for upgrading Resolution MEPC.60(33) - compliant oil filter equipment

(Email from MCA dated 11/10/2012)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorised to issue the certificate of type approval for add-on equipment on behalf of the Administration providing the equipment performance has meet the requirements contained within the “2011 Guidelines and Specifications for add-on equipment for upgrading Resolution MEPC.60(33) - compliant oil filter equipment” (Resolution MEPC.205(62)).

A format for this certificate is included in the appendix 1 of these guidelines.

It should be noted however, that the add-on equipment is not a mandatory requirement by the administration.

Stability Instrument

(SGN-082 §9)

Regulation 28.6 requires all oil tankers to have an approved stability instrument on board, capable of verifying compliance with intact damage stability requirements approved by an RO, taking account of the following standards:

a) Part B, Chapter 4 of the 2008 IS Code, as amended;

b) Guidelines for the Approval of Stability Instruments (MSC.1/Circ.1229), Annex, Section 4, as amended;c) The Technical Standards Defined in Part I of the Guidelines for Verification of Damage Stability Requirements for Tankers (MSC.1/Circ.1461).

(Email from MCA dated 09/09/2015)

The Administration does not authorise Recognised Organisation (RO) to grant waivers on their behalf from using stability computers under the conditions laid down in the resolutions and related guidelines (i.e. MEPC.248(66), MSC.369(93) and MSC.370(93)).The Administration default position is that a loading instrument should be fitted / provided ashore for these vessels. The waiver should only ever be a last resort for oil tankers where fitting a loading instrument is impractical or the costs of providing one would be prohibitive and may only be granted by the Administration based upon evidence provided by Recognised Organisation (RO). The waiver would need to be accompanied by comprehensive approved information available on-board to support this.

Regulation 12A - Oil fuel tank protection

(Item 2.b. of the 2015 BCC meeting)

Definition of “major conversion” under MARPOL Annex I (Regulation 1.9.1) includes “any modification which otherwise so alters the ship that, if it were a new ship, it would become subject to relevant disposition of the present convention not applicable to it as an existing ship”. Any modification of tank/s on any ship (existing or new) that results in overpassing the total FO capacity on board over 600 m³ would thus be considered as a major conversion in regard to application of Regulation 12A (Oil fuel tank protection).

In principle, full compliance with Regulation 12A is required. Nevertheless where full compliance with Regulation 12A is not feasible on any specific case, this should be brought to the attention of the Administration by Recognised Organisation (RO) for consideration of any alternate proposal.

Oil Record Book

(SGN-082 §6)

An Oil Record Book must be maintained on fixed and floating platforms, including drilling rigs, floating production, storage and offloading facilities used for the offshore production and storage of oil, and floating storage units used for the offshore storage of produced oil.

Refer also to SGN-075 in Guidance/Requirements on Log Books.

Ship-to-Ship Transfer Operations Plan

(SGN-082 §14)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorised to approve STS Operations Plans in accordance with MARPOL Annex I, Regulations 40 & 41.

MARPOL 2017 Consolidated edition refers only to the 2013 guidelines as the applicable standard; however, the Administration considers the 2013 guidelines as non-mandatory if a vessel has a plan approved in accordance with the 2005 guidelines. This is because the amendment to MARPOL which replaced the 2005 guidelines with the 2013 guidelines was not enacted by an IMO Resolution in accordance with IMO Resolution A.911(22).Nonetheless, it is recommended that existing plans approved to the 2005 guidelines are amended and re-approved in accordance with the 2013 guidelines at the next convenient opportunity. It is also recommended that all new plans are approved to the 2013 guidelines. Verification of an STS Operations Plan is to be conducted as part of the IOPPC periodical survey. Once an STS Operations Plan is approved, Form B of the IOPP must be updated.

(Administration email dated 29/05/2026)

The Administration requires that STS plan approvals pursuant to MARPOL Annex I, Reg. 41.1 in relation to a Gibraltar registered ship subject to the regulation should be undertaken by the RO having assumed responsibility for the statutory functions in respect of MARPOL Annex I.

Control of Discharge for Ships of Less Than 400 GT

(SGN-082 §15)

In the case of a ship of less than 400 GT, oil and all oily mixtures shall either be retained on board for subsequent discharge to reception facilities or discharged into the sea in accordance with the following provisions:

a) the ship is proceeding en route;

b) the ship has in operation equipment of a design approved by the Administration that ensures that the oil content of the effluent without dilution does not exceed 15 parts per million;

c) the oily mixture does not originate from cargo pump-room bilges on oil tankers; and

d) the oily mixture, in case of oil tankers, is not mixed with oil cargo residues.

It is considered unlikely that such vessels registered with Gibraltar will have the oil filtering equipment referred to in point b above installed since this is not a requirement. Therefore the effect of this regulation is likely to be a total prohibition on the discharge of oily mixtures. Instead, oily mixtures must be retained onboard and discharged to a reception facility ashore.

Prohibition on the use, and carriage for use, of Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) in Arctic Waters

(SGN 146)

(Administration email dated 21/03/2025)

Although SGN 146 section 3.6 clearly states that the provision of section 3.3.3 does not extend to vessels which voluntarily comply with Regulation 12A, it could be noted that there is no risk difference between vessels required to comply with Regulation 12A, and those complying on a voluntary basis.

The Administration agrees with the thought process in terms of there being no notable risk difference between vessels required to comply with Regulation 12A, and those complying on a voluntary basis, at MEPC 82, Norway submitted a paper seeking clarification on this point (MEPC 82/16/4). And following a discussion on this subject in plenary, the Committee agreed that regulation 43A was clear and, therefore, only ships covered by the application provisions of regulation 12A of MARPOL Annex I and regulation 1.2.1 of chapter 1 of part II-A of the Polar Code (i.e. only ships required to comply with the requirement, not ships that were not covered by the application provision but had opted to voluntarily meet the requirements) could use HFO as fuel or carry HFO for use as fuel (specifically the oils listed in regulation 43.1.2 of MARPOL Annex I) in Arctic waters until the end of June 2029.

Therefore, given MEPC has explicitly considered this point, and subject to any future amendment to Regulation 43A, the exception under SGN 146 section 3.3.3, may only be applied to vessels covered by the application provisions of regulation 12A of MARPOL Annex I and regulation 1.2.1 of chapter 1 of part II-A of the Polar Code, and not those which voluntarily meet the requirement.

Annex II. NLS certificate

Approval of Shipboard Marine Pollution Emergency Plan (SMPEP)

(Message of 8 November 02)

The Society is authorised to approve the SMPEP of ships of 150 grt and above, certified to carry noxious liquid substances in bulk, in class with the Society.

The approving unit shall send a copy of the approved SMPEP to the Administration.

Application of MARPOL Annex II to Offshore Support Vessels

(Shipping Guidance Notice 109)

This SGN 109 explains how amendments to MARPOL Annex II (control of pollution by noxious liquid substances in bulk) and the IBC Code, which came into force on 1 January 2021, impact on vessels operating under the Guidelines for the Transport and Handling of Limited Amounts of Hazardous and Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk on Offshore Support Vessels (“OSV Guidelines”) and the Code for the Transport and Handling of Hazardous and Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk on Offshore Support Vessels (“OSV Chemical Code”), and provides guidance to owners and operators of existing OSVs, certified in accordance with the OSV Guidelines, on how they can comply with these amended requirements.

Now that the transitional period for the implementation of the recent IBC Code amendments has ended (since 31 December 2021):

• existing OSVs that have chosen to continue to operate as A.673(16) vessels should follow the product carriage requirements in Annex I of this SGN 109.

• the requirements of Chapter 16 of A.1122(30) shall be followed by all OSVs (A.673(16) and A.1122(30)) carrying offshore contaminated bulk liquids. See Annex II to this SGN 109 for further information on the carriage of contaminated bulk liquids.

The provision for continued operation under A.673(16) in this SGN 109 apply to OSVs operating in UK & Gibraltar waters. If the vessel is to operate in other waters outside the UK and/or Gibraltar, then the owner/operator of the vessel is advised to contact the relevant Administration to discuss its requirements accordingly.

Although the transitional period has ended, where existing OSVs cannot comply with requirements brought about by the amendments to MARPOL Annex II and the IBC Code, alternative arrangements may, without guarantee, be considered. Owners/operators of OSVs should discuss this with the vessel’s Class Society in the first instance before contacting the Administration.

For further information, refer to the attached files “SGN 109 - Application of MARPOL Annex II to offshore support vessels - Amendment.pdf”

Annex IV. ISPP certificate

International convention certificates can be issued further to the extension of MARPOL Annex IV to Gibraltar.

Refer to the Shipping Guidance Notice 092 “The Prevention of Pollution by Sewage (MARPOL Annex IV)” in attached file “SGN 092” which detailed requirements from the Gibraltar Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution from Ships) Regulations 2009 concerning discharge of sewage, meaning of “special circumstances”, sewage system, comminuting and disinfecting systems and holding tanks.

Maximum permissible rate of discharge

(Shipping Guidance Notice 104, in attached file “SGN 104 - MARPOL ANNEX IV Regulation 11 – Discharge of Sewage”)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is to approve the maximum permissible rate of discharge of untreated sewage (as per MARPOL Annex IV reg.11.1.1) which should be vessel specific and achievable, taking fully into account the capacity (fixed/variable) of the pump provided, for different combinations of draft and speed.

Administration confirms it shall be retrospective with reviews for discharge rates taking into account this requirement undertaken at the first available opportunity. This would be in line with Annex IV Reg 4.6.

Variable Discharge Pumps

(Shipping Guidance Notice 104(a))

Recognised Organisation (RO), undertaking approval of maximum discharge rates for untreated sewage in accordance with MARPOL Annex IV Regulation 11.1.1, can accept existing variable rate discharge pumps providing that the variable rate of the pump can be fixed to a discharge rate which renders the most effective discharge rates compliant with the Regulation.

Above pump discharge rate should be detailed on the sewage discharge rate table approved by Recognised Organisation (RO). Also, suitable instructions should be included within the ship’s SMS Sewage discharge procedures to ensure that the approved pump discharge rate is not exceeded in service during sewage discharge operations.

(33rd RO BCC meeting - 2nd May 2024)

Where a variable discharge rate pump is fitted, it can be accepted, subject to the rate being fixed at whatever rate is the most suitable for the pump (e.g. in relation to suction, flow rate, cavitation, overheating etc) provided the discharge rate is within the requirements of the Regulation.

If the maximum discharge rate of the installed pump(s) means the discharge is greater than that allowed under the Regulation, then a lower rate will need to be used that is within the Regulation parameters, if that rate is not suitable for the pump in question (i.e. ineffective or damages the pump) a new or alternative pump will need to be used, that allows discharge in line with regulation.

Annex V

Authorization is not applicable, including for the Garbage Management Plan.

Annex VI.

International convention certificates can be issued further to the extension of MARPOL Annex VI to Gibraltar.

EEDI & SEEMP

(Email from MCA dated 11/10/2012)

As the new EEDI and SEEMP requirements are based on the amendment of MARPOL Annex VI (as per the resolution MEPC.203(62)), Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorised to carry out survey and issue certification for these new requirements, under the existing MARPOL Annex VI authorisation.

0.5% Sulphur Cap

(Shipping Guidance Notice 076)

Equivalent means of compliance - EGCS The Administration is able to accept Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (EGCS) as an equivalence under MARPOL Annex VI Regulation 4.1 provided that they are approved by a Recognized Organization in accordance with the IMO guidelines within MEPC.259(68).

Ship Implementation Plan The Administration recommends operators to consider the usefulness of completing such a plan, particularly where difficulties are anticipated.

For further information, refer to attached file “SGN_076”.

Boil-off gas co-firing equivalence

(Email from MCA dated 22/06/2015)

The Administration accepts co-firing of high sulphur oil with boil-off natural gas for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) carriers when operating in the North Sea and Baltic Sea Emissions Control Areas and for compliance with European at-berth requirements as permitted by the European Commission Decision of December 2010 (2010/769/EU), as per the letter from the European Commission to the European Community Shipowners Association, dated 6^th June 2014.

Approved method

(Email from MCA dated 13/10/2015)

The Guidelines on the approved method process for engine in compliance to IMO NO_x emission limits (Resolution MEPC.243(66)) are applicable to Gibraltar flag vessels.

Data Collection System for fuel oil consumption of ships

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

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

2. Verification of reported data, (MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 22A)and Issuance of Statement of Compliance (MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 6)

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

In the event that at the owner’s request a Recognized Organisation (RO) other than the ship’s Classification Society assumes responsibility for all or part of the requirement, a written agreement between the RO’s concerned detailing the specific responsibilities assumed by each respective RO must be forwarded to the Administration and attached to International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate (IAPP).

In this respect, the Administration requires a statement to be issued by the RO assuming responsibility for all or any activities of MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 22A requirements (as detailed in points I to IV of SGN 072), confirming the afore-mentioned.

During IAPP survey, it is to be verified that the SEEMP and associated Confirmation of Compliance are on board and valid.

For further information, refer to attached files “SGN 072.pdf” and “SGN 072(a).pdf”.

Enhanced Collection of Fuel Usage Data

(SGN 145(b) - REG-UI 006 Amendment 02)

The simplest and most direct method to record and report the enhanced DCS is by fitting flow meters for each consumer taking into account the guidance provided within MEPC.346(78), section 7.2.

These meters would then be read each year and the difference calculated. Photographic evidence of flow meter readings may be used in support of the required data submission. Recognised Organisation (RO) verifying the submission may be sent the evidence and the completed submission at the agreed time. Flow meters should be maintained and calibrated in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.

The IMO also allow for systems of calculation and estimation to be used as the basis for submission of the Enhanced DCS. The Administration do not recommend the use of such systems for recording the enhanced DCS given the potential for the data to be compromised by inconsistencies over the course of a year.If such a system is to be used, the SEEMP must incorporate clear and detailed instructions of the measurements and estimates to be used for the submission. In this case the data will need to be accumulated consistently throughout the year.

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall:

• Ensure ships have in place all required equipment for measuring or otherwise determining the fuel usage in each consumer.

• Ensure that for all ships, the SEEMP has been modified with all procedures required to complete the required measurements or alternative procedures.

• Ensure all ships are recording Enhanced DCS data for submission in January 2027 and each year thereafter.

Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI)

(Shipping Guidance Notice 118(a))

The Administration deems as acceptable to provide EEXI verification to ships classed by another of the Administration’s RO’s upon request of the ship owner, except that:

1. Verification would be limited to reviewing the EEXI Technical File and the estimated speedpower curve obtained from the tank test and/or numerical calculations and/or the sea trial results calibrated by the tank test in accordance with the EEDI Survey and Certification Guidelines (MEPC.333(76)), and;

2. where an overridable Shaft/Engine Power Limitation system is installed, the verification would not confirm that the system is appropriately installed and sealed on board in accordance with Guidelines on the Shaft / Engine Power Limitation system to comply with the EEXI requirements and use of a power reserve (MEPC.334(76)), and that a verified Onboard Management Manual (OMM) for overridable Shaft / Engine Power Limitation is on board the ship. This on-board verification task would be performed by the RO that Classes the vessel.

Cruise passenger vessels fitted with gas turbine

(Shipping Guidance Notice 118(a) - REG-UI 003 Amendment 01)

Cruise passenger vessels fitted with gas turbine plant as part of a diesel engine / gas turbine installation are allowed to exclude the gas turbines from the power-weighted average calculation of the specific fuel consumption used in the EEXI calculations for these ships.

This is conditional on the gas turbines only being used for emergency situations to secure the safety of the ship or saving life at sea.

When a Gas Turbine, which has been excluded from the ship’s EEXI rating, is used in an emergency situation it will be considered a use of the power reserve. Examples of this include operating in, or the avoidance of, adverse weather and ice-infested waters, participation in search and rescue operations, when sick passengers or crew need to be transferred ashore urgently, avoidance of pirates and for engine maintenance. Details must be recorded in the Onboard Management Manual (OMM) as described in MEPC.335(76) section 3.2. Use of the power reserve must be reported to the Recognised Organisation (RO) and the port of destination. The flag administration will report all cases of the use of power reserve to the IMO on an annual basis.

If an operator wishes to continue to use gas turbines during the routine operation of the vessel, then the gas turbines must be taken into account when calculating the EEXI rating for the ship.

Use of SHaft Power Limitation (SHaPoLi) systems (IACS Rec.172)

(SGN 139(b) - REG-UI 004 Amendment 03)

The Administration accepts the IACS Recommendation 172 as amended, provided SHaPoLi systems comply with the following requirements:

1. The SHaPoLi system should be fitted with a visual indication and an audible alarm at the control position on the bridge. The visual indicator should indicate when the power is approaching the power limit and remain visible whilst the power limit is being exceeded. The audible alarm may be acknowledgeable (silenced).

2. In addition to the above an alarm is to be fitted to indicate system malfunction.

3. The SHaPoLi / EPL system should be non-permanent but should require the deliberate positive action of the ship's master or the OICNW to enable the use of unlimited shaft / engine power (power reserve) of the ship. This should be via the use of a key switch or similar. For existing vessels where the use of a key switch to access the power reserve is not practicable, a suitable alternative may be considered. By way of example, the acknowledgement of the audible alarm(s) required in 3.1.1 and the continued use of the reserve power may be considered as deliberate positive action. For systems that use a Password/PIN to control access to the power reserve override, attention should be paid to ensure that the necessary Password/PIN is always available when override is required by the ship in a scenario specified in regulation 3.1 of MARPOL Annex VI, which may endanger safe navigation of ship. Immediate use may be achieved by procedural arrangements for pre-emptive un-limiting of the SHaPoLi / EPL system.

4. Records of the use of the power reserve shall be submitted to Recognised Organisation (RO) and the port of destination without delay. The Administration interprets ‘without delay’ to mean within 24 hours of the last event. Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to transmit these records onward to the IMO, at the appropriate intervals. Recognised Organisation (RO) is also requested to transmit copies of these records to the office of the Administration which is responsible for the vessel.

5. If the power limit is exceeded inadvertently (due to a change in sea or tidal conditions, for example) the system should alert the bridge and automatic data recording shall begin within 300 seconds (5 minutes) after the limit is exceeded. This time delay is intended to allow the operator to modify the input if the use of reserve power is not necessary.

6. Any use of the power reserve or inadvertent exceedance of the power limit (beyond the 300s time limit) must be recorded in the OMM and in accordance with the guidelines.

7. The reactivation or replacement of the SHaPoLi / EPL system following any use of the power reserve, must be confirmed and supported by documentary evidence such as OMM log extracts and photographic evidence, by the Master or operator of the vessel, to Recognised Organisation (RO) at the earliest opportunity. Recognised Organisation (RO) shall review all documentary evidence submitted, to verify the satisfactory reactivation or replacement of the SHaPoLi / EPL system. Such verification may, if so required, extend to an occasional survey, which may be undertaken via stablished remote survey means.

8. Recognised Organisation (RO) shall during the required MARPOL Annex VI (IAPP) periodical attendances, verify that all occasions where the reactivation or replacement of the SHaPoLi / EPL system has taken place, have been reported. Recognised Organisation (RO) shall verify that corresponding entries are contained within the OMM log, together with supporting documentary evidence demonstrating the reactivation or replacement of the SHaPoLi / EPL system.

For overridable systems, the existing manoeuvring booklet, if available, and the manoeuvring information displayed on the navigating bridge shall (1) include the ship’s power; if it has been limited and (2) state the limiting power for the attention of the Master to account for the ship’s performance in case no corresponding sea trials are carried out.

For non-overridable systems, the stopping times and distances, and the data of the turning circles as per SOLAS Reg. II-1/28.3 and Res.MSC.137(76) respectively, are to be recorded on new trials, where applicable. Also, the existing manoeuvring booklet, if available, and the manoeuvring information displayed on the navigating bridge (pilot card and wheelhouse poster) are to be updated.

The Administration requires that any update of the manoeuvring characteristics of the ship (in respect to Overridable or Non-overridable system) is verified by Recognised Organisation (RO) and to be completed no later than the next scheduled periodical survey related to the Safety Construction Certificate (SAFCON).

In cases where the manoeuvring characteristics of the ship are determined by new sea trials; Recognised Organisation (RO) will, as part of the verification stated above, verify that the new sea trial has been undertaken in accordance with the requirements for new sea trials contained within IACS Recommendation No. 172 (as amended).

In cases where Recognised Organisation (RO) has witnessed the new sea trial, a witness statement attesting to the effect of the SHaPoLi arrangement, shall be issued by Recognised Organisation (RO).

Alternative methods for updating the manoeuvring characteristics, such as CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) numerical calculations, are acceptable subject to plan appraisal, and are to be included in the EEXI technical file.

Issuance of short term/limited validity letter/permit in relation to any interim compliance scheme for EEXI (ShaPoLi/EPL systems)

(32nd RO BCC meeting - 29th June 2023)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is to approach the Administration when situation arise, for possible temporary dispensation, on a case by case basis.

EEXI implications in case of change from Bulk Carrier to General Cargo

(33rd RO BCC Meeting - 2nd May 2024)

The position of the Administration is: if a vessel has been built and designed as a bulk carrier, and there is no evidence of significant change, then it will remain a bulk carrier.

SEEMP Part III and Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII)

(Administration email dated 16/09/2022)

The authorisation for approval of SEEMP Part III under MARPOL VI/26 and verification of Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) under MARPOL VI/28 of Gibraltar ships is extended to the respective Gibraltar RO who has additionally taken on the responsibility for IMO Data Collection System (DCS) for Fuel Oil Consumption of those ships, i.e. the DCS and CII verification, and issuance of Statement of Compliance for a Gibraltar ship must be carried out by the same Gibraltar RO irrespective of whether that RO has classed the ship.

This permission is subject to that RO taking full legal responsibility for the whole of the DCS, CII and SEEMP Part III work, or the ship owner ensuring an agreement exists between the DCS/CII RO and the ships’ primary RO as to who owns responsibility for the shipboard elements of the DCS and CIII work and related certifications. The Administration would emphasise the importance of the owner having documented, legal clarity as to who takes responsibility for each element.

In addition, the DCS/CII RO shall provide an annual list of Gibraltar ships for which they have undertaken the verification work before 30th June of each year starting 2023.

(Administration letter dated 23/04/2026)

Shipboard verifications

The Administration is of the view that IACS 175 Rev.1 provides suitable/preferred guidance in respect of SEEMP verification and SEEMP company audit requirements whilst aligning with the requirements of MARPOL VI, Reg. 26.3.3 & MEPC 347(78).

The Administration is of the view that realistically the ship related function is a technical SEEMP verification and not necessarily an audit. A combined shipboard verification/audit though of certain value may not necessarily lend itself to suitable scheduling when considering the prescriptive SMC timeframes e.g. initial, intermediate, and renewal windows against the potential SEEMP verification timeframes as outlined within the periodical verification scenarios within IACS 175.

The Administration’s view is that shipboard audits would not necessarily achieve any greater benefit over and above of SEEMP verifications. From an audit perspective the procedural aspects would be addressed via the SEEMP company audit. As such, Gibraltar would not be inclined to mandate shipboard audits unless SEEMP verifications or company audit results warrant a shipboard audit. Any such requests will be approached on a case-by-case basis.

The requirements and scope in terms of SEEMP verifications are in Administration’s view suitably addressed within IACS 175.

The Administration aligns with IACS 175 section 7 in as much that verifications may be remotely undertaken based on documentary evidence. The Administration would only expect a physical attendance in cases where the verification of any physical shipboard compliance arrangements may be required.

In respect of SEEMP verifications (initial, periodical, additional) the RO should be the DCS verifier.

Company audits

The Administration retains all ISM audit functions inclusive of ISM DOC audits, with delegation to its RO’s remaining on a case-by-case basis. Given the current policy, a combined ISM DOC and SEEMP company audit may not be common practise, with SEEMP company audits remaining for the most part as a stand-alone function. Notwithstanding the above, Gibraltar retains the right to undertake SEEMP company audits as deemed necessary or upon a specific request by a company.

The selection of RO in respect of company audits is left to the discretion of the company and where the company should give due consideration to the make-up in respect of the entities’ responsible for fleet SEEMP verification’s and DCS verification.

The Administration accepts a remote based methodology in respect of SEEMP company audits providing that these are based on established documented procedures which are at least as effective as a physical attendance.

In the case of a ship rated as D for three consecutive years, or E for one year, an additional SEEMP company audit may if deemed necessary be undertaken in addition to the additional SEEMP verification. In accordance with MEPC 347(78) section 5.11, if these are undertaken, they should take place within six months after the issuance of the Statement of Compliance.

Biofuels

MEPC.1/Circ.905

Ships using fuel blends with biofuels or synthetic fuels, regardless of percentage, do not fall under “alternative fuel oils” as defined in MARPOL Annex VI Regulation 4. Therefore, no acknowledgement by the Administration is required, and there is no obligation to report particulars to IMO under MARPOL Annex VI Regulation 4. However, this does not remove the obligation to report fuel usage under the Data Collection System (DCS) (Regulation 27).

The following schemes are considered acceptable for biofuel certification:

• ISCC and RSB (recognised internationally and by IMO).

• Schemes listed under the UK RTFO recognised voluntary schemes.

• ICAO-approved sustainability schemes and CORSIA criteria.

• Other schemes aligned with EU RED Directive sustainability criteria may be assessed individually.

Documentation such as Proof of Sustainability (PoS) and LCV values (either within certification or via laboratory results) is deemed adequate alongside Bunker Delivery Notes.

Use of Cf based on Well-to-Wake emissions for certified sustainable biofuels is accepted for DCS reporting and CII calculation, provided:

• The biofuel is certified under an international scheme.

• It achieves at least 65% WtW emissions reduction compared to fossil MGO (94 gCO2e/MJ), resulting in less or equal to 33 gCO2e/MJ.

For blends, Cf should be calculated as a weighted average based on energy content.

MEPC.1/Circ.795/Rev.9

(Shipping Guidance Notice 166 - REG UI 008)

This REG-UI 008 is to provide the REG position on the application of the guidance in interpretation 15 of MEPC.1/Circ.795/Rev.9 as amended. The flow chart given in Figure 1 provides a comprehensive summary of the REG policy position on biofuels and NOx emissions for all scenarios.

Use of Electronic Record Books

(Shipping Guidance Notice 100(b) - REG UI 002, in attached file “SGN 100(b) - Electronic MARPOL & NOX Technical Code Record Books”)

The Administration has delegated the approval of electronic MARPOL record books to Recognised Organisation (RO) who will verify the electronic record book meets the requirements stated in IMO Resolution MEPC.312(74). For information on record books, see Guidance/Requirements on Log Books.

This is applicable to the use of the following electronic record books and recording requirements under the MARPOL Annexes and the Technical Code on Control of Emission of Nitrogen Oxides from Marine Diesel Engines (NOx Technical Code):

• Oil Record Book, parts I and II (MARPOL Annex I, regulations 17.1 and 36.1)

• Cargo Record Book (MARPOL Annex II, regulation 15.1)

• Garbage Record Book, parts I and II (MARPOL Annex V, regulation 10.3)

• Ozone-depleting Substances Record Book (MARPOL Annex VI, regulation 12.6)

• Recording of the tier and on/off status of marine diesel engines (MARPOL Annex VI, regulation 13.5.3)

• Record of Fuel Oil Changeover (MARPOL Annex VI, regulation 14.6)

• Record Book of Engine Parameters (NOx Technical Code, paragraph 6.2.2.7)

BWM Convention

Decoupling of IOPP certificate

(Shipping Guidance Notice 065(b) see attached file)

There is no legal reason to prevent the decoupling of single certificates and this is not prohibited by the HSSC system.

However, if the IOPP was decoupled, then the GMA requires realignment of all HSSC surveys at the next renewal date of the decoupled IOPP. The renewed IOPP Certificate should be assigned an expiry/renewal date in line with remaining HSSC, thus potentially have a limited validity (less than 5 years) in order to achieve harmonisation with the HSSC system.

Renewal of the decoupled IOPP is subject to the Ballast water Treatment System (BWTS) having been installed and commissioned.

Re-harmonisation of IOPP certificate

(Administration email dated 12/12/2017)

The Administration follows the UK MCA policy in relation to re-Harmonisation of IOPP Certificates within the HSC system, who provided the following guidance in respect of re-harmonising IOPP certification:

1. Re-harmonisation will be permitted until 31 January 2018, unless a new renewal survey is carried out (see point c) below).

2. If the ship undertook a decoupling IOPP renewal survey inside the window period applicable to an annual or intermediate survey of the original certificate, the MCA has no objection to Recognised Organisation (RO) reissuing a new IOPP certificate with the same expiry date as the original certificate. The annual/intermediate surveys will be endorsed on the certificate as applicable. The “de-harmonising” survey status will change from renewal to annual/intermediate as appropriate. This will result in all certificates being re-harmonised with immediate effect.

3. If the ship undertook a decoupling IOPP renewal survey outside the window period applicable to an annual or intermediate survey of the original certificate, then the status of the de-harmonising survey cannot be changed. The operator should notify MCA before 31st January 2018, through their RO, to discuss options for re-harmonisation.

4. Owners must also be informed that we are aware that some States have made public statements that they have legislation which prevents decoupling/re-coupling and may take enforcement action against ships which have taken advantage of this provision.

Initial Survey for D-1 compliance only

(UK/REG interim policy received on 24/08/2017).IMO BWM.2/Circ.40 provides for a three-month period of grace for BWM Plans to be approved and placed onboard vessels. This implies that completion of the initial survey has a similar grace period, until an approved plan is onboard.

The validity of the Statement of Compliance issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) shall reflect the status of the initial survey required by the convention. Once Recognised Organisation (RO) is satisfied that the requirements of the initial survey have been fully met, then a full term Statement of Compliance may be issued.As a consequence of the above, if the initial survey requirements are substantially met and Recognised Organisation (RO) is satisfied that the vessel is compliant with the applicable requirements of the Convention, then a one-off Statement of Compliance valid until 7th December 2017 is issued to allow sufficient time for verification of full compliance onboard.

For further information, refer to attached file “BWMC - REG Initial Survey Policy.docx”.

Hopper Dredgers

(Administration email dated 29/06/2018)

With reference to BWM.2/Circ.32, the Administration position is that water held in the hopper of a dredger does not fall under the requirements of the Convention. This does not impact on application of the Convention to any water held in the ballast tanks of hopper dredgers, should they have them.

Commissioning testing

(Refer to “Instructions to ROs” Section 10(2) see Shipping Guidance and Information Notices/ Instructions to RO)

In relation to the commissioning testing of ballast water management systems on Gibraltar Ships, the Administration would require the guidance contained within BWM.2/Circ.70 as amended is taken into account in the interim period precluding the amendments adopted by Resolution MEPC.325(75).

BWTS installation and Major Conversion

(Administration email dated 10/01/2023)

The Administration would as per the current interpretation of MEPC contained within BWM.2/Circ.45, not consider a new installation of a BWTS as a “major conversion”, as defined in regulation A-1.5 of the BWM Convention.

Electronic Ballast Water Record Book

(Shipping Guidance Notice 151)

The generic system must have been approved by a REG authorised Recognised Organisation (RO) or member of the REG (in most cases this will be by a RO); and

Recognised Organisation (RO) must be contacted in order to arrange for the system to be accepted for use onboard the ship. Recognised Organisation (RO) is to verify the system has been installed correctly on the ship, including anything ship specific such as back-up systems. If satisfied the system is acceptable, Recognised Organisation (RO) is to issue a Declaration of electronic Ballast Water Management Record Book to the ship. This Declaration must be retained onboard as evidence that the system has been accepted.

Refer to attached file “SGN 151 - BWM Convention - GUIDELINES FOR THE USE OF ELECTRONIC RECORD BOOKS UNDER THE BWM CONVENTION” for Administration’s policy on electronic signatures, storage of data and offline records.

(Administration email dated 15/04/2025)

In respect to the declaration required by REG-UI 007, 2.1.2, the Administration would have no objection for declarations to be issued in respect of electronic Ballast Water Management record books installed on Gibraltar registered ships prior to the effective date of MEPC.372(80) being that of 01 October 2025, subject to the electronic record book meeting the requirements of MEPC.372(80) and REG-UI 007 as amended.

Challenging Water Quality (CWQ)

(SGN 158)

The Administration requires that in respect of Gibraltar registered ships to which the BWM Convention, Regulation D-2 exchange standard is applicable, and which operate in areas of CWQ, that:

• Suitable measures are developed based on the guidance IMO Resolution MEPC.387(81) and are implemented within the approved ship specific Ballast Water Management Plans (BWMP);

• Such measures extend to ensuring the reporting of any related instances to both the Administration and applicable Port and/or Coastal States; and,

• Such measures ensure respective entries are recorded in the BWRB as applicable.

Tonnage 69

Certification

The Administration has authorised the organisations listed in Shipping Information Notice 087 to act as Certifying Authorities on behalf of the Administration, for the measurement of tonnage of Gibraltar registered ships (see attached file).

The TLO shall send to the Administration:

1. one copy of the tonnage certificate,

2. one copy of the certificate of survey.

(Agenda item 10 of the BCC meeting 2015)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is to ensure all Tonnage Certificates (ITC 69) contain the correct information as required in the convention and the specimen certificate thereto, and also to ensure the original Certificate of Survey contains the correct information of the ship and its tonnages.

In circumstances where the original Certificate of Survey had been reissued with insufficient data, then this certificate must be promptly updated when the correct data is available at the time of completion of vessel’s construction and delivered to the owner.

Change of tonnage - REG Unified-Interpretation

(Administration email dated 03/06/2020, REG-UI 0001.A01)

The Administration would not normally consider small changes made solely for compliance with a new regulation to affect tonnage or application of regulations under other Conventions.

For “new” ships under the Tonnage Convention, tonnage shall always be re-measured following changes to enclosed spaces and if <=1% then either annotate the current certificate or issue a new certificate, at owners discretion; in either case using retaining the existing tonnage. If the cumulative effects of more than one such change exceeds 1% of the original tonnage, then the recalculated figure shall be used on the Tonnage Certificate and all other Convention certificates.

For “existing ships” the current 1% allowance under TM5./Circ.6 applies.

Yachts

(REG Tonnage Guidelines for Yachts Rev.1.2)

Yachts can be regarded as purpose-built ships which have some unique constructional features in exterior areas for aesthetical reasons or for guest recreation that do not affect the overall size or useful capacity for which it would be unreasonable to include in the vessel’s tonnage.

The document “REG Tonnage Guidelines for Yachts Rev.1.2” provides Recognized Organizations (ROs) acting on behalf of this Administration additional guidance on how to apply the International Convention of Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969 and TM.5/Circ.6 for typical yacht arrangements.

Guidelines Rev.1.2 are applicable to vessels with contracts signed on or after 1st January 2025 and projects with contracts signed before 1st January 2025 keel to be laid no later than 1st January 2026.

COLREG 72

Untitled

ILO Conventions

Crew accommodations - ILO 92 & 133 conventions

Cargo gears

Refer to Lifting appliances (II-1, Regulation 3-13).

Gibraltar Administration shall be informed when Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor has not been requested to inspect the cranes which are used for the handling of hatch pontoons.

The Administration may be notified by e-mail maritime.survey@gibraltar.gov.gi using the form “Notification crane” in the attached files.

Miscellaneous technical requirements

Marine Equipment: Design, Construction, Performance and Testing Standards

Refer to the attached file “SGN 093a”.

In accordance with the IMO Conventions, Gibraltar ships must carry marine equipment which has been approved to the applicable international standards.Gibraltar ships may place on board either:

1. Marine equipment holding UK conformity approval granted by one or more UK Approved Bodies, bearing the UK conformity mark for marine equipment and otherwise compliant with the Regulations; or;

2. Marine equipment holding Marine Equipment Directive (MED) conformity approval granted by one or more EEA Notified Bodies, bearing the MED conformity mark and otherwise compliant with the MED; or;

3. Approved by a recognised third country and accompanied by such declarations and marks of conformity (if any) as the GMA may specify.

The Administration will decide on the acceptance on any equipment, which is not subject to one of the above approvals, on a case by case basis.

Commercial Yachts

Load Line & SOLAS Certificates endorsements

The endorsement requirements for all Load Line and SOLAS Certificates for yachts should be along the following lines.

Load Line Certificate endorsements

1. For yachts compliant with LY1 (“The Code of Practice for Safety of Large Commercial Sailing & Motor Vessels”)

   QUOTE

   CONDITIONS: This vessel is to comply with the requirements of “LY1” – “The Code of Practice for Safety of Large Commercial Sailing & Motor Vessels”, as an equivalent to the International Convention on Load Lines 1966, under the terms of IMO Circular Letter No.1996, dated 25 July 1997, as a “yacht engaged in trade as a commercial vessel (12 passengers max)”

   UNQUOTE

2. For yachts compliant with LY2 (“The Large Commercial Yacht Code”)

   QUOTE

   CONDITIONS: This vessel is to comply with the requirements of “LY2” – The Large Commercial Yacht Code, as an equivalent to the International Convention on Load Lines 1966, under the terms of IMO Circular Letter No. 2937, dated 13 January 2009, as a “yacht engaged in trade as a commercial vessel (12 passengers max)”

   UNQUOTE

3. For yachts compliant with LY3 (“The Large Commercial Yacht Code”)

   QUOTE

   CONDITIONS: This vessel is to comply with the requirements of “LY3” – The Large Commercial Yacht Code, as an equivalent to the International Convention on Load Lines 1966, under the terms of IMO Circular LL.3/Circ.228, dated 16 September 2013, as a “yacht engaged in trade as a commercial vessel (12 passengers max)”

   UNQUOTE

SOLAS Certificates endorsements

1. For yachts compliant with LY1 (“The Code of Practice for Safety of Large Commercial Sailing & Motor Vessels”)

   QUOTE

   CONDITIONS: This vessel is to comply with the requirements of “LY1” – “The Code of Practice for Safety of Large Commercial Sailing & Motor Vessels”, as an equivalent to the International Convention for the Safety Of Life At Sea, 1974, under the terms of IMO Circular Letter No.1996, dated 25 July 1997, as a “yacht engaged in trade as a commercial vessel (12 passengers max)”

   UNQUOTE

2. For yachts compliant with LY2 (“The Large Commercial Yacht Code”)

   QUOTE

   CONDITIONS: This vessel is to comply with the requirements of “LY2” – The Large Commercial Yacht Code, as an equivalent to the International Convention for the Safety Of Life At Sea, 1974, under the terms of IMO Circular Letter No. 2937, dated 13 January 2009, as a “yacht engaged in trade as a commercial vessel (12 passengers max)”

   UNQUOTE

3. For yachts compliant with LY3 (“The Large Commercial Yacht Code”)

   QUOTE

   CONDITIONS: This vessel is to comply with the requirements of “LY3” – The Large Commercial Yacht Code, as an equivalent to the International Convention for the Safety Of Life At Sea, 1974, under the terms of IMO Circular SLS.14/Circ.523, dated 16 September 2013, as a “yacht engaged in trade as a commercial vessel (12 passengers max)”

   UNQUOTE

Large Commercial Yachts

Guidance for the control and operation of lifting gear

(Shipping Guidance Notice 085)

This guidance applies to lifting appliances such as cranes, derricks, engine room cranes, beams and loose lifting gear such as chain blocks, slings, strops, shackles, eye bolts, plate clamps and associated equipment used in connection with maintenance work and stores handling on board. Personal safety and boarding equipment including gangways, passerelle and over side working equipment.

This guide will provide:

• Information on how lifting appliances and loose lifting gear shall be regularly inspected and tested to ensure that the equipment is always in good and safe condition, that faults are identified and managed promptly and appropriately.

• Information on the certificates and reports which should be kept readily available on board and shall be made available for survey upon request.

For further information, refer to the attached file “SGN 085.pdf”.

Fire retardant treatments

(Shipping Guidance Notice 106)

In order to approve that the fire retardant treatment process, including quality controls, is equivalent to appropriate standards of the IMO Fire Test Procedures Code (FTP Code), the MCA has produced MCA Approval Procedures and a Declaration of Conformity for such treatments, which can be found as Appendixes 1 & 2, respectively, to this SGN 106.

An Application date of 1st January 2020 for Service Providers to comply with these Procedures will apply, after which date, the Service Provider of any fire retardant treatment used to protect floor coverings, suspended textile materials, upholstery materials and bedding components onboard United Kingdom or Red Ensign Group flag Large Commercial Yacht Code certificated vessels, must be approved, and certificated in accordance with these Procedures.

Notwithstanding the above, any prior approval in accordance with MGN 453 will be valid until the expiry date of the approval certificate.

For further information, refer to the attached file “SGN 106 - Large Commercial Yachts - Fire Protection – Fire Retardant Treatments for fabrics.pdf”.

Launching Appliances - Replacement Intervals for Synthetic Fibre Rope Falls

(SIN 100 - REG-UI 005)

The provision for the use of synthetic fibre rope falls and this REG-UI regarding their replacement intervals is limited to those vessels certificated in accordance with the REG Yacht Code only.

The REG has concluded than an extension of the renewal interval to no more than 24 months in order to align with the annual attendance by Surveyors is considered appropriate, subject to compliance with the criteria outlined below.

Synthetic fibre rope falls shall be designed with a Factor of Safety on the basis of the maximum working load assigned and the ultimate strengths of the materials used for construction. The required Factor of Safety shall be at least 7.5 or in accordance with the Rules of a Recognised Organisation (whichever is higher).

Synthetic fibre ropes including the details of any splicing and terminal connections shall comply with the requirements of a Recognised Organisation, be certified accordingly and be suitable for the specific application for which they are proposed.

The weekly and monthly tests and inspections as required by Regulations 20.6 and 20.7 of SOLAS Chapter III shall be carried out onboard under the direction of a senior ships officer.

The thorough examination of synthetic fibre rope falls for man riding launching appliances (both LSA and non-LSA) shall be undertaken by an Authorised Service Provider in accordance with the applicable requirements of IMO Resolution MSC.402(96).

In lieu of compliance with the above paragraph, launching appliances installed onboard vessels of less than 500GT may be dealt with in accordance with the provisions of Part A, 13.4 (3) (g) of the REG Yacht Code (2024 Edition).

The inspection of launching appliances including their synthetic fibre rope falls during periodical surveys shall be dealt with by the attending Surveyor in accordance with standard survey procedures.

Synthetic fibre rope falls shall be replaced at intervals specified either by the manufacturer, the Rules of the applicable Recognised Organisation or 24 months, whichever is less. It shall, however, be noted that the aforementioned provisions are subject to ensuring that no defects are identified during the periodical inspection regime outlined above that would require their replacement any sooner.

Where replacement intervals are based on the number of operating cycles, records of the same shall be maintained and kept onboard as part of the mini-ISM or ISM system as applicable.

Disapplication of requirements of the 2024 Edition of the REG Yacht Code

(Shipping Information Notice 126 - REG Yacht Code Guidance Information 2024/1 Amendment 03)

REG has taken the decision to disapply the following requirements of the 2024 Edition of the Code to those vessels, whose contract for construction is signed prior to 01 January 2027, or, in the absence of a building contract, the keel of which is laid, or the vessel is at a similar stage of construction prior to 01 January 2027:

• Stability Criteria: Stability criteria for vessels with openings in the hull, the lower edge of which is less than 600mm above the uppermost load line and floodable tender garages (Part A, Chapter 11, sections 11.5 & 11.6 refer).

  Refer to section 2 of the REG Yacht Code Guidance Information 2024/1 Amendment 03 for the final set of regulatory amendments to the criteria for vessels with openings in the hull, the lower edge of which is less than 600mm above the uppermost load line including vessels with floodable tender garages.

  These amendments shall apply to those vessels, whose contract for construction is signed on or after 01 January 2027 or, in the absence of a building contract, the keel of which is laid, or the vessel is at a similar stage of construction on or after 01 January 2027. However, the early adoption of these amendments, either partial or in full, is recommended.

Following the inspection of several sub 500GT yachts specifically to examine the technical feasibility of installing structural fire protection in tender garage spaces and larger lockers containing Personal Watercraft (PWC’s), due consideration being given to the damp and sometimes wet environment within such spaces and a further review of incident data in relation to fires in such spaces, the REG has taken the decision to remove the following requirement from the 2024 edition of the Code:

• Fire Safety: Vessels of less than 500GT - Passive fire protection for enclosed spaces containing vehicles with petrol in their tanks (Part A, Table 14A.1 and 14A.2 (3) (b) refer).

Spaces containing lithium-Ion batteries in isolation or lithium-Ion batteries in combination with petrol shall still need to be provided with passive fire protection in accordance with the requirements of the REG Yacht Code 2024, Part A, Chapter 14A, Table 14A.1 and MGN 681 (M) Fire Safety and storage of small electric powered craft on yachts.

Heliports on Large Yachts

(SIN 115(a) - REG-GN 001 Rev.1)

Aviation Inspection Bodies (AIBs) are approved by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), under the authority of the UK Department for Transport (DfT). AIBs are authorized to conduct yacht heliport inspections and certification against the requirements of the REG Yacht Code (YC) Annex H – ‘Helidecks’.

The ROs have authority to approve aspects of the yacht heliports which are relatively routine for them, such as shipboard heliport structural strength and fixed firefighting systems.

The full division of work between AIBs and ROs is as per the delegation matrix in Annex 1 to this Guidance Note REG-GN 001 (attached file).

Any ‘equivalent arrangements’ to prescriptive requirements must be supported by a robust technical justification which is supported by the AIB and/or RO, in order to receive Flag approval. AIBs and ROs should not be involved in prescribing any mitigation measures, this is the responsibility of the builder/designer or operator, who should seek advice from an independent expert when necessary. Each REG Administration with have their own template for an ‘equivalent arrangement application form’; the AIB or RO, as appropriate, will submit to Flag for approval.

For a newbuild project, the AIB will issue a ‘Helideck Landing Area Technical Certificate (HLATC)’ to the yacht builder when they are satisfied with the shipboard heliport’s physical characteristics and associated hardware under their direct purview as well as the matters being dealt with by the RO.

Code on Noise Levels on Board Ships

Interpretation: Ch. 6 Acoustic Insulations between Accommodation Spaces

Further to email dated 11/07/2017, the Administration agrees the following interpretations:

1. Public spaces and Offices:

   - Rw45 is required to the boundaries between public spaces and cabins/hospitals.

   - “Offices” are not categorized as “Public Spaces”, but may be regarded as “Accommodations” in accordance with SOLAS Chap. II-2/ Reg.3.1 which defines each spaces

2. Category of Stairways/staircases/elevator:

   Stairways/staircases/elevator should not be categorized as corridor, and then the airborne sound insulation for bulkheads between cabins and stairways/elevator are NOT required.The Administration agrees the code does not require sound insulation in this case, but the maximum noise levels (dB(A)) required for cabins in section 4.2 of the Code must be followed.

3. Concealed or inaccessible space:

   As to concealed or inaccessible space behind lining, the airborne sound insulation for bulkheads and decks are NOT required.

POLAR Code

Recognised Organisation (RO) is fully authorized for statutory activities relating to the POLAR Code - International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters including issuance of the Polar Code Certificate and review of the Polar Water Operations Manual.

Code of practice for Small Commercial Vessels, workboats and pilot boats

Recognised Organisation (RO) is fully authorized for Small Commercial Vessel and Pilot Boat Code / Workboat Code and issuance of Certificate of Compliance for Workboat Code (for small workboats of less than 24m loadline length).

Recognised Organisation (RO) Newcastle should be contacted when a request for such a code survey is received.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is delegated for survey and certification under the code. Only Recognised Organisation (RO) classed ships are considered for survey and certification under this code.

The code includes a process for the initial survey and subsequent certification of vessels which seek certification under the codes. This process commences with the owner operator applying to a Certifying Authority (CA) for an application form for examination / survey, (SCV1); and is completed when the certificate is issued. During the process a CA surveyor surveys the vessel, and produces a SCV2.

The authorization includes survey and issuance of Document of Compliance for the Carriage of Dangerous Goods on Small Workboats certified under the relevant UK Code of Practice. Document of Compliance for the Carriage of Dangerous Goods for small workboats of less than 24m loadline length.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to survey and issue full term Document of Compliance for the Carriage of Dangerous Goods in line with UK MAC SAN 75 when the vessel is operating in Workboat Mode only. This authorization allows Recognised Organisation (RO) to undertake Dangerous Goods Document of Compliance certification work on Small Workboats for which the Code certificates may have been issued by another GMA authorized Certifying Authority.

(SIN 107(a))

This Shipping Information Notice (SIN) 107(a) is intended to supplement SIN 107 and The Workboat Code Edition 3 Standards and Guidelines for Best Practice, by providing where appropriate references to Gibraltar legislation and/or requirements which should be referred to in addition to those referenced within the original summary of standards for small workboats and pilot boats certified under this edition of the Code.

(SGN 173)

The purpose of this Shipping Guidance Notice (SGN) 173, is to consolidate and update previously published guidance and information about Small Commercial Vessels of up to 24m in length.

MCA Guidance

The position of the Administration is aligned with that of the following UK MCA guidance and subject to consideration on a case-by-case basis in accordance with section 8.7 of the Workboat Code:

• AN1038 - Guidance on the use of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO)

• AN1039 - Guidance on the use of Sodium-Ion Batteries

Sport or Pleasure vessel code

(Administration emails dated 8 & 9 January 2026)

Requirements for Gibraltar registered small commercial vessels are mostly in relation to workboats. In most cases such vessels will have, as per the applicable transitional provisions, to migrate from certification under MGN 280 onto certification under the Workboat Code.

It is not the Administration intention to apply the Sport or Pleasure vessel code to all small commercial vessels, and where the application would be for new and existing commercial vessels that are not workboats.

Noting the transitional provisions for existing vessels within the Sport or Pleasure vessel code and the Workboat Code:

• Existing small commercial workboats previously under the MGN 280 (or Brown Code) regime, shall continue to be certified under the Workboat Code;

• The Sport or Pleasure vessel code will apply to:

  Existing sail vessels previously under the MGN 280 (or Brown Code) regime;

  Existing small commercial sailing vessels previously under the “Blue Code” regime; and,

  Existing small commercial motor vessels previously under the “Yellow Code” regime.

Guidance/Requirements on Log Books

Shipping Guidance Notice 075 provide guidance on requirements in relation to Log Books which must be maintained on board and retention periods.

For further information refer to attached file “SGN_075”.

Ship Recycling

EU Regulation No 1257/2013

(Shipping Guidance Notices 089 and 089a)

Survey and Certification of the EU Regulation has been delegated to Recognised Organisation (RO).

Gibraltar ships which are not classed by one of the authorised RO’s should approach the Administration.

The requirements of the EU Ship Recycling Regulation 2013 (EU Regulations) are retained in Gibraltar domestic legislation. Gibraltar Regulations retain the requirement for Gibraltar ships to carry an Inventory of Hazardous Material and Inventory Certificate (IC) onboard.

From 01 January 2021, Gibraltar registered ships will be classed as third country ships by EU member states. The Administration advises that Gibraltar registered ships of 500GT and over, which are subject to Port State Control at EU ports, may wish to carry a SoC in addition to an IC onboard.

For further information, refer to the attached files “SGN 089.pdf” and “SGN 089a.pdf”.

Hong Kong Convention

(Shipping Guidance Notice 154)

As of the date of publication of this SGN, the HKC has not been implemented under Gibraltar legislation.

Gibraltar registered ships may be issued with a Statement of Compliance confirming the ship’s compliance with the requirements of the HKC. Subject to implementation of the HKC under Gibraltar legislation, such Statements of Compliance may be exchanged for an International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials by the issuing authority.

Given the similarities between IHM’s under both (EU) No 1257/2013 and the HKC, it may be possible that existing Gibraltar registered ships in compliance with (EU) No 1257/2013 IHM requirements and which hold a valid Statement of Compliance in respect of (EU) No 1257/2013, may satisfy the IHM requirements of the HKC.

For existing ships, the Administration has no objection for Recognised Organisation (RO) to undertake administrative reviews of initial/renewal surveys and IHM reviews undertaken pursuant to (EU) No 1257/2013, and if satisfied in respect of the HKC requirements, issue a HKC Statement of Compliance based on the aforementioned (EU) No 1257/2013 initial/renewal survey, to be harmonised with the (EU) No 1257/2013 Statement of Compliance.

New construction, major construction, major modifications or conversions & type approval

Statutory equipment requiring type-approval must be accompanied by a type approval certificate issued by:

a) an RO on behalf of an IMO Member State; or

b) or a National Administration who are an IMO Member State. Equipment which has been certified under the Marine Equipment Directive (MED) is acceptable to be used on GMA registered vessels.

Refer to Shipping Guidance Notice 093 displayed in Marine Equipment: Design, Construction, Performance and Testing Standards

UK High Speed Offshore Service Craft (HS-OSC)

(Administration email dated 21/03/2024)

In respect of the United Kingdom - High Speed Offshore Service Craft Code (HSOSC), Recognised Organisation (RO) are hereby authorised to undertake initial and periodical surveys as required by HSOSC, and the issuance of full term certification inclusive of records of equipment, on behalf of the Government of Gibraltar, for Gibraltar registered vessels falling under the scope of HSOSC.

In respect of any equivalences or exemptions as may be required, these may only be issued by the Administration.

Permits to operate as required by HSOSC, may only be issued by the Administration, subject to review of Route Operational Manuals submitted by the owners/operators to the Administration.

In respect of the ISM requirements contained within HSOSC, the function is to be primarily retained by the Administration, with delegation of the function to Recognised Organisation (RO) only on a case by case basis. 

Cargo vessel of less than convention size

(Shipping Information Notice 134)

Cargo vessels of 24m load line length and above and under 500 gross tons shall meet the requirements of IACS Recommendation No. 99. In addition, cargo vessels of 300 GT and over shall meet the requirements of SOLAS Chapter IV in respect of radio-communication.

Cargo vessels engaged in the carriage of dangerous goods, chemicals, and/or liquified gasses in bulk shall meet the requirements of the following codes as applicable to the vessel:

• The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code

• The International Code of the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code)

• The International Code of the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (IBC Code)

The Gibraltar Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution from Ships) Regulations 2009 bring into effect the requirements contained within the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL). Gibraltar registered cargo vessels of 24m in load line length and less than 500 GT shall meet the requirements of MARPOL as applicable to the vessel.

The Administration requires that the following survey and certification 5-year cycle is applied:

• An initial survey prior to the vessel being brought into service or upon a change of registry to the Gibraltar Ship Registry (as applicable);

• An annual survey within +/- 3 months of the anniversary in respect of the validity date of the associated IACS Recommendation No. 99 Statement of Compliance; and,

• A renewal survey within 3 months of the expiry date of the IACS Recommendation No. 99 Statement of Compliance.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is to issue a Statement of Compliance to the vessels attesting that the vessel meets the requirements of IACS Recommendation No. 99. Such a Statement of Compliance shall not exceed a validity period of 5 years from the date of completion of the initial survey. A specific template of “Statement of Compliance” for ships less than convention size under Gibraltar flag is available in ASMS2.

The survey and certification may be included by the Recognised Organisation under the Harmonized System of Survey and Certification (HSSC) if in respect of the vessel it may be applicable to other survey and certification requirements under HSSC.

ISM Code

Authorizations and Instructions

Refer to Instructions to ROs - ISM Code in attached file “RO Instructions on ISM Code Rev 8”.

The Administration retains the right to undertake all ISM verifications on Gibraltar registered vessels to which the ISM Code applies.

The Administration may, on a ‘case by case’ basis delegate functions to Recognised Organisation (RO). Recognised Organisation (RO) shall confirm acceptance of such delegations in writing to maritime.survey@gibraltar.gov.gi at the earliest opportunity.

Specific Requirements

Emergency drill

As part of shipboard verifications, an emergency drill to verify emergency preparedness is to be undertaken by the crew and witnessed by the attending auditor. Simulated scenarios should be based upon the shipboard implemented emergency procedures, and only undertaken with the consent of the Master.

If in the Master’s view, undertaking a proposed drill could compromise the general safety of the vessel, crew, and/or the environment, the drill should not be undertaken.

Details of emergency drills undertaken must be included within the audit report.

Reporting

Within thirty (30) working days of the completion of the delegated verification, Recognised Organisation (RO) is required to submit all relevant documentation pertaining to the verification to maritime.survey@gibraltar.gov.gi

Major non-conformities (MNC)

The Administration must be consulted immediately if a MNC is identified. Additional verifications as a direct result of a major non-conformity is subject to the Administration authorization.

Cyber Security for Ships

(Shipping Guidance Notice 084(a))

The Administration require in respect of Gibraltar Registered ships to which the ISM Code applies, that risk assessments are undertaken in relation to digital and cyber systems which could be threatened, and for mitigating measures and procedures to be developed in relation to the identified risks, which are to be implemented via the Safety Management System.

In addition, ISM Companies are to ensure cyber security objectives have been addressed within their Safety and Environmental Protection Policies.

From the 1st January 2021, ISM verifications for ISM Document of Compliance (DOC) and subsequent Safety Management Certificate (SMC) verifications conducted by the Administration or, a Recognised Organisation on behalf of the Administration, will verify that the safety management systems contain elements showing that cyber risks have been addressed.

For further information, refer to attached file “SGN 084(a).pdf”.

Safe Manning

Refer to the attached file “SGN 077(a).pdf” regarding GMA Requirements for Safe Manning and Watchkeeping

Refer to attached file “SIN 059(a).pdf” regarding Safe Manning Documents requirements for commercially operating vessels above 24 metres, and under 500 gt

Search and Rescue Cooperation Plans on Passenger Ships

(Shipping Guidance Notice 108)

SOLAS requires the carriage of plans for co-operation between passenger ships and relevant Search and Rescue (SAR) services. All Gibraltar passenger ships and all passenger ships in British Gibraltar Territorial waters (BGTW) must have on board an agreed and up to date plan for cooperation with relevant SAR services for use in the event of an emergency.

Where possible, the periodic exercise should be incorporated into the Company’s existing exercise schedule, such as those already being undertaken in accordance with the International Safety Management Code, so as to include the relevant SAR services and test cooperation arrangements without imposing an additional burden on ship’s staff. Gibraltar registered passenger ships are required to exercise its plan for cooperation annually.

The review, updating and auditing of SAR cooperation plan should be carried out as part of the ISM safety management system (SMS).

For further information, refer to attached file “SGN 108 - Search and Rescue Cooperation Plans on Passenger Ships.pdf”.

ISPS Code

Authorizations and Instructions

Refer to Instructions to ROs - ISPS Code in attached file “RO Instructions on ISPS Code Rev 6 17.09.2020.pdf”.

The Administration retains the right to undertake all ISPS verifications on Gibraltar registered vessels to which the ISPS Code applies.

The Administration may, on a ‘case by case’ basis delegate functions to Recognised Organisation (RO). Recognised Organisation (RO) shall confirm acceptance of such delegations in writing to maritime.survey@gibraltar.gov.gi at the earliest opportunity.

Specific Requirements

Reporting

Within thirty (30) working days of the completion of the delegated verification, Recognised Organisation (RO) is required to submit all relevant documentation pertaining to the verification to maritime.survey@gibraltar.gov.gi.

Major non-conformities / Major failures

If during the course of verifications a major non-conformity/major failure is identified, the Administration must be consulted immediately.

Additional verifications as a direct result of a major non-conformity are subject to the Administration authorization

MLC, 2006

Scope of authorisation

Refer to MLC Delegations to ROs in attached file “RO Instructions on MLC Rev 07 11.02.2021.pdf”.

The Administration retains the right to undertake all MLC inspections on Gibraltar registered vessels to which MLC applies.

The Administration may, on a ‘case by case’ basis delegate functions to Recognised Organisation (RO). Recognised Organisation (RO) shall confirm acceptance of such delegations in writing to maritime.survey@gibraltar.gov.gi at the earliest opportunity.

Specific Requirements

All notices are available through http://www.gibraltarship.com/maritime-labour-convention

Maritime Labour Notice 001

Current index list updated 03/01/2023 (file attached “2023.01.03 - MLN 001 - Maritime Labour Notice Index”)

MLC Guidance Notice – 027 - A route to MLC certification (amended 07.08.13)

The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) was ratified by the United Kingdom 07 August 2013 and extended to Gibraltar on the same day. The convention will come into force internationally on 20 August 2013 and, notwithstanding the transitional provisions, it is the Gibraltar Administration’s intention to give it full effect. We have prepared our guidance literature and domestic legislation* accordingly.

Given that the implementation date is imminent, the Gibraltar Maritime Administration proposes to continue the delegation, on a case-by-case basis, of MLC 2006 related services, inspections and certification to approved classification societies (ABS, Recognised Organisation (RO), GL, LR, NKK, RINA, DNV).

Please find the procedure below:

1. Ship-owner** applies for DMLC I to the Flag State, including notification of which class society the ship-owner prefers to undertake the MLC review and inspection on behalf of Flag State;

2. At the same time, the ship owner requests Flag State for any exemptions and substantial equivalences that the ship-owner considers may be necessary. ***

3. In exceptional circumstances Flag State may include an exemption or acceptance of a substantial equivalence on the DMLC Part I.

4. DMLC Part I issued by Flag to ship owner, copied to designated class society;

5. Preparation of DMLC II by the ship-owner **;

6. Submission of DMLC I + II for review to designated class society;

7. The result of a satisfactory review is communicated to ship owner by class;

8. Ship owner applies to class for an on-board inspection;

9. On board inspection. During the on-board inspection, the class maritime labour inspector will verify compliance with the ship’s national requirements *;

10. Issuance of an MLC certificate. After a successful inspection has been conducted, the class maritime labour inspector will sign and stamp the DMLC Part II and issue a Maritime Labour Convention certificate. The original DMLC Parts I & II and the statement shall be retained on board.

11. For ships which have already been issued with statements of compliance, these remain valid. On expiry of the statement of compliance, class will issue an MLC certificate based on the statement of compliance. The MLC shall be issued with a maximum validity period of five years commencing from the date of completion of inspection as entered in the statement of compliance it replaces.

12. To avoid potential problems with some Port State Control offices, ship-owners may request the statement of compliance to be replaced with an MLC certificate before expiry of the statement of compliance.

*A copy of the draft national legislation may be obtained from the GMA on request.

** Ship owner refers to ship owner, operator or ship manager as defined by MLC that appears on the DMLC Part II and MLC statement of compliance / certificate. For the purposes of MLC, unless otherwise agreed by the Maritime Administrator, the ship owner shall be the ISM DOC holder.

*** A request for an exemption or substantial equivalence shall be made using the MLC exemption / substantial equivalence form available on the GMA website.

MLN 039 - MLC Title 2 Seafarers’ employment agreements - Use of electronic signatures

(MLN 039 replaces MLN 029, in attached file “MLN 039.pdf”)

The Maritime Labour Convention 2006 requires that all Shipowners and Seafarers hold an originally signed copy of their SEAs.

The Administration accept the use of electronic signatures on SEA’s as an equivalent to an originally signed SEA, subject to:

1. The software used to generate the electronically signed SEA complying with the requirements of the Gibraltar Electronic Identification and Trust Services for Electronic Transactions Regulations 2017 (as amended), and

2. Subsequently, the requirements of Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council (as amended).

For the avoidance of doubt, a simple scanned copy of a written signature is not an acceptable equivalence.

Extract of MLN 030 - 2014 MLC Amendments

Requirements:

Ships that are subject to the MLC will, after 18 January 2017, be required to have in place insurance or other financial security for the cost and expense of crew repatriation, as well as contractually entitled arrears of wages and entitlements following abandonment (MLC Regulation 2.5, as amended).

Insurance or other financial security is also required, covering liabilities for contractual claims arising from seafarer personal injury, disability or death (MLC Regulation 4.2, as amended).

Regulation 2.5, as amended – Financial Security in relation to repatriation and non-payment of wages This requires a financial security system to be provided to assist seafarers in the event of abandonment. The standard defines abandonment as:

1. when the shipowner fails to cover the cost of the seafarer’s repatriation; or

2. when the shipowner has left the seafarer without the necessary maintenance and support; and

3. when the shipowner has otherwise unilaterally severed their ties with the seafarer, including failure to pay contractual wages.

Ships will have to carry and display a certificate or other documentary evidence of financial security on board, as issued by the financial security provider. Regulation 4.2 as amended – Shipowner’s Liability This sets out the minimum requirements for a system of financial security that assures compensation in the event of a contractual claim.

A ‘contractual claim’ is any claim which relates to death, personal injury or long-term disability of seafarers due to an occupational injury, illness or hazard.

Ships will be required to carry and display a certificate or other documentary evidence of financial security issued by the financial security provider.

Where there is more than one financial security provider for repatriation or shipowner’s liability, documentary evidence from each provider shall be carried on board.

New MLC Appendix A2-1 details the information required to be on the certificate or other documentary evidence.

In order to assist owners in complying with these additional financial security requirements, the P&I Club members of the International Group Clubs currently propose to provide the necessary MLC certification by way of an extension clause to the P&I rules, and indemnify the seafarers directly, should this be necessary.

Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance (DMLC) and Maritime Labour Convention Certificate (MLC) The amendments do not affect the validity of MLC Certificates nor DMLC already issued. Existing MLC certificates and DMLC will remain valid until first renewal inspection after 18 January 2017, at which time the new provisions will be verified.

No immediate changes will be required to the DMLC or MLC Certificate.

The certificates / documents confirming insurance / financial security will be evidence of compliance with the new amendments.

Revised MLC certificates and DMLCs shall be required to be issued or renewed not later than the date of the first renewal inspection after 18 January 2017.

New DMLC Part 1 & Part 2

Currently the Gibraltar Flag issue the DMLC Part 1 with 14 inspection points. As a result of the new amendments the new DMLC Part 1 will include inspection point 15 - ‘Financial Security for Repatriation’ and point 16 - ‘Financial Security Relating to Shipowners’ Liability.’

Prior to the renewal inspection date, shipowners should request the Administration for a new DLMC Part 1, complete a new DMLC Part II and submit it for approval to the Administration or to an RO delegated to undertake the review and approval on behalf of the Administration.

The amended DMLC Part II will need to reflect compliance with inspection point 15 and 16 on the DMLC Part I.

Shipowners are advised this should be done at the earliest opportunity, but no later three months prior to the first MLC Renewal Inspection due after 18 January 2017.

Extract of MLN 036 (a) - Revised Application of the MLC for Vessels less than 500 GT

(Superseding MLN036)

1. Application

This MLN 036 (a) applies to Gibraltar registered vessels operating under the following standards and other seagoing vessels of between 200GT and 500GT in commercial use:

1. Marine Guidance Note 280(M) - Small vessels in commercial use for sport or pleasure, workboats or pilot boats – Alternative construction standards, encompassing:

   • The Code of practice for the safety of small commercial motor vessels (the Blue Code)

   • The Code of practice for the safety of small commercial sailing vessels (the Yellow Code)

   • The Code of practice for the safety of small vessels in commercial use for sport or pleasure operating from a nominated departure point (the Red Code)

   • The Code of practice for the safety of small workboats and pilot boats (the Brown Code)

2. The Workboat Code Edition 3

3. International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) - Recommendation No. 99

2. Survey & Inspection

Gibraltar registered vessels of less than 500 GT operating commercially internationally are not subject to MLC certification requirements. Such vessels are however required to carry a record of MLC inspection report for vessels under 500 GT which is valid for 3 years in order to demonstrate compliance with MLC.

MLC ship-owners of Gibraltar registered vessels of less than 500 GT may request full MLC certification from the Administration which would be valid for a maximum period of 5 years and subject to periodical inspections. In such cases a Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance (DMLC) Part I stating the national requirements must be requested from the Administration, with a DMLC Part II drawn up by the shipowner which shall identify the measures adopted to ensure ongoing compliance with the national requirements set out in DMLC Part I. The measures declared within the DMLC Part II will be verified by the authority undertaking periodical shipboard inspections required under MLC (initial, intermediate, and renewal), with the DMLC Part II normally approved by the authority at the time of the initial inspection, following changes to the measures declared on the DMLC Part II, or following amendments to National Regulations and/or the MLC Convention.

A Valid MLC Certificate, DMLC Part I, and an approved DMLC Part II must remain always available on the vessel and made available for inspection by appropriate authorities.

The periodical inspections required by the Gibraltar Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) Regulations 2013 and MLC 2006 (as amended), are undertaken by duly appointed Administration’s surveyors or may be delegated to the Administration’s Recognised Organisations.

3. Substantial Equivalence for crew accommodation for vessels of 200GT to less than 500GT

In respect of crew accommodation requirements for vessels between 200 GT and less than 500 GT, the Administration via virtue of the Gibraltar Merchant Shipping (Application of United Kingdom Provisions and Standards) Regulations 1997, invokes the substantial equivalence contained within Annex I of the United Kingdom’s Marine Guidance Notice (MGN 602) (M) as amended.

Extract of MLN 037 - MLC Inspection of Coded Vessels

The Administration considers the application of the UK Maritime and Coast Guard Agency (MCA), Marine Guidance Note (MGN) 600 (M) (as amended), as a substantial equivalence in respect of compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) requirements, for vessels where it is not practical to comply with the full MLC standards set out in part A of the MLC Code.

Certifying Authorities are required to apply the requirements of the UK MCA MGN 600 (M) (as amended) for vessels certified under The Workboat Code (as amended) with the exception of sections 4.2 and 4.3 of MGN 600, where the GMA will issue any MLC certification for Gibraltar registered vessels.

Applications for Maritime Labour Certificates should be made to:

Gibraltar Maritime Administration Watergate House 2/8 Casemates Square Gibraltar GX11 1AA maritime.survey@gibraltar.gov.gi

Extract of MLN 040 - 2018 MLC Amendments

The 2018 MLC Amendments will enter into force on 26 December 2020.

The new DMLC Part I will include the applicable requirements. Prior to the initial/renewal inspection, ship-owners should request the Administration for a new DLMC Part 1, complete a new DMLC Part II and submit it for approval to the Administration or to an RO delegated to undertake the review and approval on behalf of the Administration.

The amended DMLC Part II will need to reflect compliance with the 2018 amendments.

Ship-owners are advised this should be done at the earliest opportunity, but no later three months prior to the first MLC initial/renewal Inspection due after 26 December 2020

Extract of MLN 042 - 2022 MLC Amendments

The 2022 Amendments do not immediately affect the validity of MLC Certificates, or DMLC Part II issued/approved in respect of Gibraltar registered vessels prior to 23 December 2024. Existing MLC certificates and approved DMLC Part II shall remain valid until first periodical inspection after 23 December 2024.

At the first periodical MLC inspection mentioned above, the shipowner must ensure that a revised DMLC Part II incorporating the additional measures for compliance with the 2022 Amendments is available for review and approval by the Administration. Subject to the aforementioned approval, the MLC Certificate will be issued (or re-issued if applicable to an Intermediate inspection).

Notwithstanding the above, MLC shipowners may irrespective of the periodical MLC inspections stated in above, request a revised DMLC Part I to be issued by the Administration. Any such requests must be accompanied by a revised DMLC Part II incorporating the additional measures for compliance with the 2022 Amendments. Subject to approval of the revised DMLC Part II by the Administration, a revised DMLC Part I, and revised MLC Certificate will be issued for the applicable vessel.

Ship’s Medical Stores

Refer to Shipping Guidance Notice 102 in attached files

Masters, Managers, and Operators of Gibraltar registered ships are advised to review Annexes contained within Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) Merchant Shipping Notice (MSN) 1905 (M+F) (as amended) for Gibraltar registered ships, as applicable to the ship type, category, and operation, in order to ensure medical stores carried meet the minimum requirements.

Appendix — Agreement governing the delegation of statutory functions and certification services

Agreement

See the attached file “Agreement_Gibraltar_RO SA_04052021”.

Appendix 1 to the Agreement

Applicable instruments and degree of authorization

See the attached file “Appendix 1_Gibraltar_RO SA_29072024”

Appendix 2 to the Agreement

Reporting to the Administration

See the attached file “Appendix 2_Gibraltar_RO SA”.

Appendix 3 to the Agreement

Definitions

See the attached file “Appendix 3_Gibraltar_RO SA”.

Appendix 4 to the Agreement

Recognised Classification Societies

See the attached file “Appendix 4_Gibraltar_RO SA”.

Appendix — Specific Certificates: National and bilingual International certificates

List of National certificates

1. Non-convention ship

   Statement of Compliance

2. Small Commercial vessel

   - Small Commercial Vessel certificate

   - SCV1 Application for examination

   - SCV2 Record of Construction, Machinery and Equipment

   - DOC Dangerous Goods

   - MLC Inspection Report (MGN 600)

   - Workboat Certificate (Edition 3)

   - Workboat Certificate with Pilot boat endorsement (Edition 3)

   - Pilot boat Certificate (Edition 3)

3. Anti-Fouling under Regulation (EC) No 782/2003

   - Anti-Fouling certificate

   - Record of AFS

   - Endorsement of Records

   - Declaration on AFS

4. UK High Speed Offshore Service Craft (HS-OSC)

   HS-OSC Safety Certificate