Malta - Specific requirements by the Maltese Administration

Flag instructions relating to statutory surveys

National Authorities

Contact details of the Merchant Shipping Directorate

For contact details and after office hours emergency contact numbers (AOH), refer to the Merchant Shipping Notice 99 rev.7 (in attached file “MS Notice 99 Rev 7 - Contact Details of the Merchant Shipping Directorate.pdf”).

All communications related to technical matters shall be addressed to tech.tm@transport.gov.mt without copying mershipmalta.tm@transport.gov.mt.

Hours of business of the Merchant Shipping Directorate

As from 4 March 2013, the hours of business of the Directorate shall be 0800 - 1145 hours / 1230 - 1600 hours, from Monday to Friday (except national and public holidays).

For further information, refer to the Information Notice 3 in the attached file “InfNotice3-HoursOfBusinessOfTheMerchantShippingDirectorate”.

Flag procedural requirements

General policy

Agreement

A new agreement has been signed between the Merchant Shipping Directorate of Transport of Malta and Recognised Organisation (RO) Marine & Offshore SAS. It enters into force on 17^th May 2017. The agreement and its Annexes 1 to 3 show the details of authorization granted (see Agreement governing the delegation of statutory functions and certification services to Annex 3 to the Agreement).

An Amendment to the Agreement has been made and entered into force on 01 October 2020. All references to “Recognised Organisation (RO) Marine & Offshore SAS” are replaced by “Recognised Organisation (RO) SA”.(see Agreement governing the delegation of statutory functions and certification services)

Interpretations, Equivalents and Exemptions

While interpretations of the applicable instruments, as well as the determination of equivalents or the acceptance of alternatives to the requirements of the applicable instruments are the prerogative of the Administration, Recognised Organisation (RO) may use its professional judgement to interpret technical requirements of international requirements and equivalents within the limits of these instruments and in accordance with the technical standards of Recognised Organisation (RO), subject to the approval and acceptance by the Administration.

In issuing certificates or performing statutory functions on behalf of the Administration under this agreement, the interpretations by the Administration of the provisions of applicable instruments shall prevail. In the absence of any specific interpretation, Recognised Organisation (RO) shall consult the Administration.

Exemptions, equivalents, alternative designs and arrangements must be accepted or approved, as applicable by the Administration prior to issuance.

Request for exemption, acceptance of equivalent or alternative design and arrangements submitted to Recognised Organisation (RO) shall be communicated to the Administration. Recognised Organisation (RO) shall consider the request and present the Administration with a report containing all pertinent information and be supplemented with drawings, plans and/or engineering analysis, as applicable. Recognised Organisation (RO) conclusions and recommendations shall also be included in the report.

Authorised classification societies

(Merchant Shipping Notice 96)

A merchant vessel both at the time that is being registered as a Maltese ship and during the period of its registration under the Malta flag must be classed with a classification society authorised to issue statutory certificates on behalf of the Government of Malta.

The list of these classification societies is displayed in MSN 96 (see Merchant Shipping Notices (MSN))

Reporting to the Administration

(Email from the Flag Administration dated 14/05/2014)

All class confirmations shall be sent to the following email addresses:

• Mershipmalta.tm@transport.gov.mt

• Mark.farrugia@transport.gov.mt and

• Amanda.balzan@transport.gov.mt

Prior agreement by the Administration

1. In view of the first issuance of statutory certificates by the society, no survey can be carried out and no statutory certificate can be issued before receipt of the prior agreement of the Administration (under the form of a telex or fax).

2. Prior to registration of a ship, the Administration requests from the society a document (fax / telex) stating that:

   1. the ship is in a regular class position with the society,

   2. the ship holds statutory certificates (specify type and validity) issued by the society on behalf of the previous Flag Administration,

   3. the ship has been / has not been granted with exemption(s).

Survey and Certification - General

1. Recognised Organisation (RO) shall obtain prior authorisation from the Administration for the issue of statutory certificates in the following instances:

   • Change of flag

   • Transfer of Class

   • Change in RO for ISM Certification

   • Change in RSO for ISPS Certification

   • Change in ISM Company and/or in Company details

   • Change in ship type

   • Alterations, modifications and/or major works

   • Issuance of interim ISM DOC

2. Deficiencies/non conformities identified during statutory surveys/ISPS verifications shall be rectified prior to the vessel’s departure from the port of survey, except:

   • except for ISPS Certification, in cases where repair facilities and/or required spares are not available at the port of survey the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor shall notify the Administration of specific measures and/or supplementary equipment as may be available to permit the vessel to proceed to a suitable port where permanent repairs can be affected or replacement equipment fitted. A Short Term statutory certificate(s) is to be issued with validity restricted up to arrival at the repair port and for a period not exceeding 2 months, whichever will the earliest.

   • for the purpose of ISPS Certification, refer to Authorizations & instructions, Tab.7, item “Non-conformity”

Surveys for the first issuance of statutory certificates

(Message of 24/04/98)

1. In case of either change of flag or CAC (even if the ship is already registered under Maltese flag), the survey cannot be carried out and the certificates cannot be issued without the prior agreement of the Administration.

2. This agreement is subject to the Administration receiving from the society the following information (for ships already classed with the society):

   1. Confirmation of class, including any limitation, including copy of the class certificate or a statement clearly stating the “type of ship” and “class notation”,

   2. Expiry dates of all the statutory certificates, including ISM certificates (Document of Compliance and Ship Safety Management certificate), issued under the previous Flag, and

   3. Full details of any outstanding recommendation and / or exemption on both class and statutory certificates. Where there are no recommendation and no exemption, the society shall make a statement to this effect.

3. With the view to preventing from recurrent cases of initial statutory surveys being carried out without the prior authorisation from the Administration, the declaration to the Administration as detailed hereafter shall be issued.

   The declaration is intended for use as follows:

   1. Part 1 “Preliminary notification to the Administration regarding the change of flag and / or transfer of Class” is sent to the Administration by the Marine Operational Centre (with the Survey Centre in charge of the CAC and / or change of flag and the MO in copy).

      A copy of the survey status is appended to the notification. In the case of CAC, a copy of the survey status from the previous society is also appended, and if requested by the Administration, a copy of the TOCA form.

      The Survey Centre cannot proceed with the surveys until it has received the agreement from the Administration.

      (Email from the Administration dated 15/05/2012)

      Prior to the provisional registration of a vessel under the Malta flag, the Recognised Organisation (RO) “preliminary notification to the Administration” containing the following information is to be submitted to the Administration:

      • Classification status.

      • Assigned classification notation.

      • Type / description of ship.

      • The status of all statutory certificates issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) on behalf of the current Flag State Administration.

      • The status, if known, of any statutory certificates issued by the current Flag State Administration.

      • A list of any conditions, limitations, recommendations and / or exemptions issued to the vessel by Recognised Organisation (RO) on behalf of the current Flag State Administration.

      • A list of any known conditions, limitations, recommendations and / or exemptions issued to the vessel by current Flag State Administration and any known equivalents and / or alternative design arrangements accepted.

      • An undertaking by Recognised Organisation (RO) stating that at the request of the owners and upon issuance of a formal authorization by the Administration, Recognised Organisation (RO) will undertake the survey / audit / verify of the ship and issue the respective statutory certificates on behalf of the Malta Administration.

      Should surveys / audits / verifications reveal any deviations from statutory requirements, deficiencies or non conformities, as applicable, these shall be referred to the attention of the Administration for instruction.

   2. Upon completion of the surveys and immediately after the release of the class and statutory certificates to the ship, Part 2 “Notification to the Administration upon completion of the initial statutory surveys” (see Notification to the Administration upon completion of the initial statutory surveys) is completed by the Survey Centre and sent to the Administration. If recommendations have been issued, details shall be appended in an annex to the notification.

      The Marine Operational Centre and the MO shall also be receiving a copy of the notification, along with a copy of the class and statutory certificates issued.

   3. The Marine Operational Centre, upon receipt of the documents, shall send the provisional class and statutory certificates to the Administration.

Short term certificates

(Messages dated 25/05/96 and 21/10/04)

Malta Maritime Authority (MMA) did not accept any more the issuance of “conditionally issued” certificates.

Where deemed advisable, Maltese flagged ships shall be issued with “short term” certificates.

Malta Maritime Authority refuses Maltese registered ships to be granted a “short term” certificate without their prior agreement. If a surveyor deems advisable to deliver a “short term” certificate, he shall get in touch, by fax / email, with the ship-connected MOC and explains the case. The MOC then contacts the MMA to explain the situation and request their authorisation. The MOC conveys the comments and / or agreement of the MMA to the surveyor.

Extension of the validity of statutory certificates

(Message of 24/05/96)

Marine Operational Centres are reminded that any extension of the validity of a statutory certificate issued on behalf of the Administration shall be duly authorised by them.

Drafting of short-term statutory certificates

(Message of 14/02/2000)

Statutory certificate shall be properly typed.

Overdue statutory surveys

(Message dated 27/10/04)

Whenever a surveyor is requested to carry out a mandatory (annual / periodical / intermediate) statutory survey which is overdue (i.e., a survey falling outside the “window”) , the surveyor immediately advises Malta Maritime Authority (with copy to the MOC) before carrying the requested survey.

MMA will then review the case and after taking into consideration a number of factors, including but not limited to, the type, size and age of ship, history of ship, scope of overdue survey and time survey has been allowed to elapse, will advise the surveyor as to the extent of survey to be carried out.

Each notification will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

After the required surveys have been satisfactorily carried out, the existing statutory certificate is to be withdrawn. The surveyor issues an interim certificate and the MOC issues a new full term statutory certificate. The new full term certificate shall retain the original expiry date of the existing certificate and the remaining survey anniversary dates will also remain the same.

Endorsement of the existing statutory certificate for a survey carried out outside the statutory time window is not allowed and will not be accepted by MMA.

A copy of the newly delivered certificate is to be forwarded to MMA immediately upon issuance.

Change of flag

Change of flag surveys

1. No ship should be allowed to operate, with any outstanding statutory recommendation(s). In case where it is deemed that a deviation from this policy is warranted, it should be invariably referred by Recognised Organisation (RO) to the Administration for consideration and issue of the appropriate instruction.

2. In cases where the change of flag occurs outside the statutory time window, change of flag surveys shall be limited to the scope of annual/periodical, with the exception of MARPOL Annex IV surveys that shall be carried out to the scope of renewal survey. In case of Passenger ships, this should be referred to the Administration for consideration and relevant instructions.

3. In the case where the change of flag occurs within the statutory time window, then appropriate surveys to the scope of renewal / intermediate / periodical / annual shall be carried out. If the renewal surveys are due then these should be conducted to the extent possible and the case should be referred to the Administration for consideration and relevant instructions

4. The statutory survey reports for the change of flag surveys shall be made available the soonest possible to the Administration either in hard copy, by email, or through access to the database of Recognised Organisation (RO).

Change of flag procedures

Refer to Technical Notice IRO.1 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices.

Whenever a vessel is changing flag to Malta, Recognised Organisation (RO) shall submit the following information to the Administration:

1. Confirmation of classification, including any limitations/restrictions, and a copy of the Certificate of Classification. Alternatively, an attestation clearly stating the type of ship and assigned classification notation would suffice.

2. Expiry dates of all statutory certificates, issued for and on behalf of the previous Administration.

3. Full details of any existing recommendations, exemptions, equivalents or alternatives endorsed by previous Administration. When no recommendations, exemptions equivalents or alternatives exist, then a statement by Recognised Organisation (RO) to this effect will suffice.

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall issue statutory certificates following satisfactory completion of survey/audits provided that specific authorisation by the Administration has been issued. Recognised Organisation (RO) shall inform the Administration of the validity period of the statutory certificates issued.

With respect to non-existing or not approved Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan and the cargo securing manual, Recognised Organisation (RO) may proceed with the issuance of a short term International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate and short term Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate valid for two months pending the review, approval and placing on board of the plan or manual (after this approval, Interim Certificates may be issued).

Detention

Survey after detention

1. When a Malta flag ship is detained and Recognised Organisation (RO) is called to attend, the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor shall not limit the inspection to the deficiencies noted by Port State Control.

2. If the date of the detention falls within the ±3 months window for statutory surveys, they shall be conducted before the ships sails. In the case of renewal surveys, they shall be conducted to the extent possible, except for safety equipment and radio which shall be completed. A time schedule for the completion of surveys at the next convenient port shall be set and they shall not be delayed until the end of the window.

3. If the date of the detention does not fall within ±3 months window, the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor, after clearing the PSC deficiencies, shall carry out a general examination of the vessel. Then, using professional judgement, the surveyor shall decide whether additional surveys are warranted.

4. In cases where the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor concludes that more thorough surveys are required, the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor shall proceed as agreed for the change of flag when accompanied by a change of the company (see Change of flag surveysd)). Recognised Organisation (RO) shall send to the Administration copies of the reports on such cases.

5. Surveys for PSC inspection with non-detainable deficiencies

   Recognised Organisation (RO) should inform the Administration of cases which are brought to its attention by PSC authorities. The Administration in consultation with Recognised Organisation (RO) will decide whether the case warrants further investigation.

6. Outstanding recommendations

   Any recommendations imposed by the Administration or PSC detention reports received by the Administration, shall be communicated to Recognised Organisation (RO) who shall ensure that rectification has been effected according to the set schedule. Otherwise the RO shall consult the Administration on the course of action to be taken.

7. ISM

   1. Where a ship has been detained and the PSC inspection report explicitly references an ISM major non-conformity, the RO auditor shall board the vessel and perform an additional shipboard audit. The extent of this additional audit shall be equivalent to the mandatory initial audit . In cases where the ship is operating under interim certification and an additional audit in the scope of initial audit cannot be carried out, the RO auditor shall formally request the Administration to authorise an audit covering to the maximum extent possible all elements of the Code.

   2. When the findings of the shipboard audit reveal that the company SMS is not being fully implemented, an additional audit to the extent of the initial audit shall be performed for the company. In cases where the company is operating under interim certification and an additional audit in the scope of initial audit cannot be carried out, the RO auditor shall formally request the Administration to authorise an audit covering to the maximum extent possible all elements of the Code.

   3. If the detention order contains no explicit reference to ISM non-conformities, then the surveyor shall act as in a) to d) above.

   4. If the RO classing the ship and her auditing organisation are different entities, then the surveyor having received the answers to questions of Appendix 2 (see Appendix 1 - Check sheet for survey of ILO item) should notify the ship’s auditing organisation of the findings. In case the auditing organisation, having assessed the findings, deems that an additional audit is necessary, it shall notify MMA and the RO classing the ship and proceed as soon as possible to conduct the additional audit of the SMS of the ship. Audits results should also be reported.

   5. If the RO classing the ship is also her auditing organisation, then in case the RO having assessed the findings of the surveyor based on the answers to questions of Appendix 2 (see Appendix 1 - Check sheet for survey of ILO item), deems an additional shipboard audit necessary, the RO shall notify immediately MMA and proceed as soon as possible to conduct the additional audit of the SMS of the ship and inform MMA of the results.

   6. In all cases MMA should be notified of the finding with respect to the answers received to questions of Appendix 2 (see Appendix 1 - Check sheet for survey of ILO item).

   7. If a vessel is justifiably detained twice within 12 months, then additional audits, in the scope of initial, of the ship’s SMS and of the company shall be performed.

   8. MMA shall be notified of any additional shipboard audit or additional audit of the company intended to be carried out. The audit report of these additional audits is to be forwarded to MMA.

   9. MMA shall decide the extent and scope of additional audits of the shipboard as well as the shore based SMS of company, when a large proportion of that Company’s fleet is detained by PSC.

8. ISPS

   1. Where a ship has been detained and the PSC inspection report explicitly references an ISPS major non-conformity, the RSO auditor shall board the vessel and perform an additional shipboard verification. The extent of this additional verification shall be equivalent to the mandatory initial verification . In cases where the ship is operating under interim certification and an additional verification in the scope of initial verification cannot be carried out, the RSO auditor shall formally request the Administration to authorise an verification covering to the maximum extent possible all elements of the Code.

   2. The Administration shall be notified immediately of any additional shipboard verification or additional Company audit intended to be carried out.The report of these additional audit/verifications are to be forwarded to the Administration. The ISSC shall be endorsed with the additional verification only after the ship has sucessfully applied a corrective action plan, certifying that the ship is in compliance with the Code.

Reporting obligations

Refer to Technical Notice SLS.27 displayed in Technical notices.

In case of any defective and/or inoperable equipment, system, etc., ship owners, DPAs and masters of Maltese ships are to ensure that Recognised Organisation (RO) is contacted / informed immediately and arrangements for the earliest possible attendance by the surveyor, auditor, inspector, as the case may require, is made as necessary.

Postponement of renewal surveys

Postponement of the renewal survey will be considered by the Administration only in cases where circumstances so warrant and after Recognised Organisation (RO) has recommended such a postponement.

No postponement of the renewal survey shall be permitted unless all surveys have commenced and proceeded to the extent possible. Approval of the postponement of the renewal survey is the prerogative of the Administration.

Electronic Certificates

(Merchant Shipping Notice 139 displayed in Merchant Shipping Notices (MSN))

The Administration accepts certificates issued in an electronic format according to FAL.5/Circ.39/rev.2.

HAZard IDentification (HAZID) meeting

(Administration email dated 30/07/2019)

The Administration would appreciate to be informed well in advance whenever a HAZID meeting (concerning Equivalencies onboard Malta Flag vessels) is scheduled to take place as it is their intention to start having a more active role in these important meetings.

Remote Inspection Techniques (RIT)

(Technical Notice IRO.7)

The Administration wishes to inform all concerned that the use of Remote Inspection Techniques (RITs) are accepted onboard Malta Flag vessels in order to facilitate and to enhance the continued maintenance of safety and pollution prevention standards.

RITs acceptance criteria on Malta flagged ships is subject to the below listed conditions being satisfied:

• Recognised Organisation (RO) deems that it is applicable and satisfactory as practicable to apply;

• Any inspection techniques shall reflect those listed in the latest IACS REC 42 Guidelines for Use of Remote Inspection Techniques for surveys. The techniques shall be in accordance with the Recognised Organisation (RO)’s Rules and acceptable to Recognised Organisation (RO). The techniques include:

  - Divers;- Unmanned robot arm;- Remote Operated Vehicles (ROVs);- Climbers (inc. Rope Access);- Drones;- Any other means acceptable to Recognised Organisation (RO).

• Surveys using RITs, shall only be carried out when the conditions are satisfactory, and the proper equipment and suitably qualified staff is available;

• The quality of inspection outcome and the level of safety onboard shall not be compromised and shall provide the same confidence as the ones performed by the physical inspection;

• Surveys using RITs, including the final survey reports shall be completed in full compliance with the contents of the latest IACS REC 42, IACS Unified Requirements UR Z7, Z7.1, Z7.2, Z10.3 as applicable depending on the ship type, in their latest version, and the applicable IMO Regulations;

• Where applicable; service suppliers/firms carrying out RITs shall be approved by Recognised Organisation (RO) in accordance with IACS UR Z17 Procedural Requirements for Service Suppliers. Procedure for approval of service suppliers/firms shall also be incorporated in the procedures of Recognised Organisation (RO); and

• Surveys conducted using a RIT are to be completed to the satisfaction of the attending surveyor.

In addition to the above, refer to Remote Inspection Techniques (RIT) - ESP surveys for RITs applied to Enhanced Survey Programme (ESP) surveys.

Any deviation from the above instructions shall be communicated directly to the Administration for further consideration.

Technical requirements

Notices

The specific maltese requirements are detailed in the Technical Notices (refer to Technical notices) and the Merchant Shipping Notices (refer to Merchant Shipping Notices (MSN)).

Revocation of Merchant Shipping Notices

Refer to the Merchant Shipping Notice 98 displayed in Merchant Shipping Notices (MSN).

LL 66

Loadline certificate

Multiple load line certificates

Refer to Technical Notice LL.1 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices.

This Administration accepts the provision of more than one international load line certificate on Maltese registered ships.

At the request of the owner, Recognised Organisation (RO) may proceed with the issuing of the additional load line certificate/s. Recognised Organisation (RO) shall forward a copy of the international load line certificate/s issued and confirm the vessel’s maximum deadweight value corresponding to the assigned freeboard.

The following procedures must be followed when more that one international load line certificate has been issued:

1. The load line marks corresponding to the assigned freeboard shall be welded to the side shell and verified by the attending surveyor;

2. The load line marks corresponding to the additional certificate/s shall be cut or punched into the side shell;

3. Only one set of load line marks and corresponding certificate shall be in use at any one time;

4. Statutory certificates, other than the additional international load line certificate/s, shall reflect only the maximum deadweight corresponding to the vessel’s assigned freeboard;

5. Upon owner’s request for change of freeboard, a Recognised Organisation (RO) Surveyor must supervise / verify that the un-associated marks are painted out and that the new marks are painted in. The certificate/s pertaining to the unused marks shall be placed in a sealed envelope by the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor and left in the custody of the master;

6. In instances where a Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor is not available, the change of load line marks and certificate may be carried out by the master provided that arrangements for verification at the next port of call have been agreed between the owner and the Marine Operational Centre;

7. If a ship is engaged on regular voyages to and from remote ports where Recognised Organisation (RO) has no representation, a one time written request for waiver from the verification survey called for in point f) above may be submitted to the Administration. The application shall contain full details, including the names of the ports of call and expected duration of operations on the specified route. Requests will be dealt with on a case by case basis.

8. The master is to make an entry in the ship’s official logbook and deck logbook on every occasion that the load lines are changed. All entries in the official log book on particulars relating to depth of loading shall be as required by Section 259 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1973, as amended;

9. Procedures for change in load lines shall be included in the vessel’s safety management system;

10. When sailing at reduced deadweight there shall be no reduction in safety standards;

11. During statutory surveys, regardless of the deadweight value in use at the time, the vessel shall be surveyed for compliance with the statutory requirements applicable to the maximum deadweight value corresponding to the assigned freeboard. Upon satisfactory completion of statutory surveys, the attending surveyor shall endorse all the load line certificates.

Requirements of NCV Code

Vessels >= 24m in length with keel laid after the 21st July 1968 and vessels >= 150GT with keel laid before the 21st July 1968 shall conform to the requirements of the Load Line Convention, as amended and shall be issued with a Freeboard Assignment Report and a Load Line Certificate. Vessels which do not fall under the above criteria (including vessels < 24m in length) shall be issued with a Freeboard Assignment Certificate (see Specific Certificates: National and bilingual International certificates).

Note: For vessels engaged on Unrestricted Navigation, for which the Load Line Convention (ILLC) is fully applicable; where there is a conflict between the requirements of this NCV Code and the Load Line Convention, the most demanding requirement shall prevail.

SOLAS 74

Harmonised System of Survey and Certification - SOLAS certification for cargo ships

Refer to Technical Notice IRO.2 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices and to SOLAS 74/88 Chapter I Part B Regulation 12(a)(v)(1).

SOLAS safety certificates are to be issued in accordance with Regulation 12(a)(ii), 12(a)(iii) and 12(a)(iv) and that these are not to be consolidated into one certificate (Cargo Ship Safety Certificate) as provided for by Regulation 12(a)(v)(1).

Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate

Cargo securing manual

(Message of 30/06/2000)

If no approved cargo ship securing manual is available, a short term safety construction certificate with a validity of 2 months may be issued.

Review and approval of cargo securing manual

(Message of 01/08/96)

The Society is authorised to review and approve the cargo securing and loading manual on behalf of the Administration.

A copy of both the approved letter and the manual front page shall be sent to the Administration.

Change of flag procedures

In case the vessel is changing flag to Malta, refer to Change of flag procedures and to Technical Notice IRO.1 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices.

Indeed, with respect to non-existing or not approved cargo securing manual, Recognised Organisation (RO) may proceed with the issue of a short term cargo ship safety construction certificate valid for two months pending the review, approval and placing on board of the manual.

IS Code - Implementation

The Malta Administration does not intend to implement the IS Code 2008 prior to the entry into force of the relevant SOLAS and LL Convention requirements. Notwithstanding, shipowner may apply for the voluntary application of the IS Code 2008 provided that the applicable mandatory requirements of the code are complied with in the entirety and that the recommendatory provisions contained in Part B of the code are taken into consideration.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorised to approve, for and on behalf of this Administration, stability loading instruments in accordance with the requirements of IACS Unified Requirement L5. Due consideration is to be given to the guidance contained in MSC/Circ.891.

Stability information (SOLAS Regulation II-1/5-1.1)

(Email from Transport Malta dated 04/01/2012)

Whilst a copy of the approved stability information for Maltese-flagged ships need not be submitted to the Administration, the stability information for a particular ship(s) shall be made available to the Administration upon request.

Inclining test of cargo ships

Refer to Technical Notice SLS.15 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices and to Regulation 5 of Part B-1 of Chapter II-1 of SOLAS as amended by Resolution MSC.216(82).

Recognised Organisation (RO) may dispense with the inclining test of ships in a series provided that reliable stability information for the said ships can be obtained from the basic stability data derived from the inclining test of the lead ship in the series. Dispensation may solely be invoked in favour of subsequent ships within the series that have been built at the same yard, to the same plans and under the supervision of Recognised Organisation (RO).

The inclining test shall be carried out on any subsequent ship in the series when the comparison of data with that of the lead ship indicates a deviation in excess of any one of the limits stipulated in Regulation 5.2.

In instances where deviations in excess of the thresholds laid down in Regulation 5(5) are predicted as a result of intended alterations to a ship, an inclining test shall be carried out and the stability information shall be amended accordingly.

Recognised Organisation (RO) will notify the Administration of any ship/s in respect of which the dispensation provision has been invoked or revoked, and the reasons thereof.

Steering gear test

Refer to Technical Notice SLS.21 dated 18/01/2013 displayed in Technical notices and to SOLAS Regulations II-1/29.3, II-1/29.4, and MSC.1/Circ.1425 concerning the steering gear test with the ship not at the deepest seagoing draught.

Provided that the test conditions are in line with the requirements of MSC.1/Circ.1425 and are to the satisfaction of Recognised Organisation (RO) acting for and on behalf of the Administration, no prior authorization is deemed necessary from the Administration, for application of the alternative steering gear test method on Maltese flagged ships.

Testing of watertight compartments

(RO Meeting dated 05/10/2022)

The testing requirements as laid down in SOLAS shall be adhered to. The Administration does not accept IACS UR S14 as amended as an alternative to SOLAS.

Means of embarkation on and disembarkation from ships

Refer to Technical Notice SLS.18 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices and to Regulation 3-9 of Chapter II-1 of SOLAS 74, as amended, and MSC.1/Circ.1331.

Unless expressly stated otherwise herein, the guidance contained in MSC.1/Circ.1331 should be taken into account.

Means of embarkation and disembarkation on all ships shall be periodically inspected, maintained and surveyed in accordance with the aforementioned circular.

Construction standards

1. Accommodation ladders and gangways for installation onboard ships constructed on or after 1 January 2010 shall conform to the standards specified in MSC.1/Circ.1331. Such accommodation ladders and gangways shall be in possession of a statement of conformity issued by the shipyard or the manufacturer.

2. Replacement accommodation ladders and gangways for use on ships constructed before 1 January 2010 should comply with the guidance contained in MSC.1/Circ.1331 as far as is reasonably practicable.

3. In the context of spacing of steps in accommodation ladders this Administration accepts steps with a spacing of between 300 to 350 mm measured tangentially to the step noses.

Monthly maintenance and inspection

Monthly maintenance and inspection of the accommodation ladders, gangways, associated winches and ancillary fittings may be carried out by the ship’s crew in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Annual thorough examination

During the annual surveys required by SOLAS Regulations I/7 and I/8, the items identified in MSC.1/Circ.1331 should be thoroughly examined for satisfactory condition.

Five-yearly survey

1. For ships constructed on or after 1 January 2010, the first five-yearly survey should be carried out in conjunction with the delivery of the ship and thereafter in conjunction with the class renewal survey.

2. For ships constructed before 1 January 2010, the first five-yearly survey should be carried out at the first scheduled class renewal survey on or after 1 January 2010;

3. At every five yearly survey, following the satisfactory completion of the scheduled annual thorough examination, the accommodation ladder, gangway and winch shall be subjected to an operational test with the specified maximum operational load.

4. In instances where maximum load is unknown, the maximum allowed distributed load should be established by loading the accommodation ladder or gangway until the maximum allowable deflection is reached. The maximum distributed load is to be limited to 735 N/step for accommodation ladders and 4000N/m² for gangways;

5. The established maximum distributed load should be used in the static test of the accommodation ladder arrangement, including the suspension arrangement and holding capacity of the winch.

Length of accommodation ladders

1. Notwithstanding paragraph 3.4.1 of MSC.1/Circ.1331, for ships constructed or after 1 January 2010, the required length of accommodation ladders shall be determined on the basis of the actual ballast arrival condition of the ship in lieu of the lightship condition as defined in SOLAS Regulation III/3.13.

2. For ships constructed before 1 January 2010, the length of accommodation ladders should not be subject to verification unless, for safety reasons, the arrangement warrants otherwise.

Records

1. On all ships records of inspections, maintenance and repair of each appliance should be maintained and be readily available on board for inspection. The records should contain, as a minimum, the information outlined in paragraph 4.6 of MSC.1/Circ.1331.

2. The record-keeping obligation should be appropriately addressed within the ship’s Safety Management System.

SOLAS II-1/3-2 (IMO PSPC)

Delay in delivery of ships

(Email from the Administration dated 24^th May 2012)

The provisions contained in MSC-MEPC.5/Circ.4 and MSC.1/Circ.1247 will be fully implemented on a case-by-case basis, including the reporting obligations.

Tanks not dedicated solely to the carriage of seawater ballast (dual-purpose tanks)

(Email from the Administration dated 19/12/2013)

The Performance Standards of Protective Coatings (PSPC) as laid down in Resolution MSC.216(82) (adopting amendments to Regulation II-1/3-2) are deemed applicable to tanks that are used exclusively for the carriage of ballast water. This position is in line with Regulation II-1/3-2 titled “Protective coating of dedicated seawater ballast tanks in all types of ships and double side skin spaces of bulk carriers”. For these so-called “dual-purpose tanks” a protective coating having performance standards higher than those prescribed for seawater ballast tanks may be applied taking into account however the application procedures laid down in Resolution MSC.215(82) (on PSPC) including the Unified Interpretations in MSC.1/Circ.1465.

The Administration reserves the right to review its position in the light of developments within IMO.

Emergency towing procedures

Refer to Technical Notice SLS.16 Rev.1 dated 20/08/2013 displayed in Technical notices and to SOLAS 74 Chapter II-1 Regulation 3.4 as amended by Resolution MSC.256(84), and MSC.1/Circ.1255.

The emergency towing procedures, which shall complement the “emergency preparedness” element required by paragraph 8 of Part A of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, shall be developed by the company based on the guidance contained in MSC.1/Circ.1255.

The emergency towing procedures may be either incorporated in their entirety within the Safety Management System or may be in the form of a stand-alone booklet with explicit reference thereto being contained within the relevant section of the Safety Management System.

Isolating valves from fuel systems (SOLAS reg. II-2/4.2.2.5.5)

This Administration do not have any additional requirements or specific instructions over and above to those required under the SOLAS regulation II-2/4.2.2.5.5 and respective IMO Guidelines MSC.1/Circ.1321.

For ships constructed on or after 11 June 2009, compliance with the protective location for the operation of the fuel isolation valve should be achieved as stipulated under the Guidelines set forth in MSC.1/Circ.1321. With regards to the situation depicted under 2.1.4 of the IMO Guidelines, any remotely controlled isolation valve(s) are acceptable provided that such an operating mechanism is duly protected from fire.

Calibration means for portable gas detection instruments

(Technical Notice SLS.31, displayed in Technical notices)

Reference is made to Regulation 7 of SOLAS Chapter XI-1. Taking note that there are numerous different atmosphere testing instruments available on the market, with differing calibration requirements, along with the fact that the above regulation refers to the term “suitable means”, the Administration accepts the practice of sending such an instrument to manufacturer’s approved shore facilities for calibration (with the corresponding calibration certificate issued as a documentary evidence) as one of the “suitable means”.

Notwithstanding the above, should the manufacturer’s instructions require that calibration gases should be carried onboard for functional testing, so called “bump testing”, such gases need to be made readily available onboard.

In line with the above, such a calibration procedure shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and operations/maintenance manual of such an instrument. It is of utmost importance that whatever such a calibration procedure entails, the procedure is duly included into the vessel’s safety management system and related onboard manuals.

Remote Inspection Techniques (RIT) - ESP surveys

(Technical Notice IRO.7)

In addition to Remote Inspection Techniques (RIT), when the use of RIT is applied to Enhanced Survey Programme (ESP) surveys, Recognised Organisation (RO) shall ensure that:

• The inspection techniques used are at least, equivalent to the means of access as prescribed in Sections 5.3 of both Annex A and Annex B of the ESP Code; and

• The close-up survey criteria, by ESP Code definition being “details of structural components are within the close visual inspection of the surveyor, i.e. normally within reach of hand” shall be fulfilled using the most suitable and preferred Technique/s;

Any deviation from the above instructions shall be communicated directly to the Administration for further consideration.

Lifting appliances (II-1/3-13)

(Technical Notice SLS.40)

Unless specified, all loose gear which is not permanently fixed to the ship’s structure by welding or bolts and is of non-permanent installation, shall not fall under the requirements of SOLAS Regulation II-1/3-13. Non-permanent loose gear includes mono-rail trolleys in machinery spaces, portable chain blocks and any article which is of a non-permanent fixed installation, and which does not form an integral part of the appliance, winch or load.

Furthermore, Paragraphs 2.1 and 2.4 of SOLAS Regulation II-1/3-13 shall not apply to lifting appliances with a SWL of less than 1000 kg.

Nevertheless, procedures for maintenance, inspection and operational testing, including record keeping for all non-permanently fixed/installed loose gear and lifting appliances with a SWL of less than 1000 kg are to be duly established and maintained in the vessel’s onboard Safety Management System (SMS), taking into account the relevant IMO Guidelines.

Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate

Immersion suits

Immersion suits and anti-exposure suits

Refer to Technical Notice SLS.8 Rev.2 dated 23/04/2017 displayed in Technical notices and to SOLAS 74 Chapter III Regulation 32.3, as amended.

In accordance with the provisions of Regulation 32.3.2 cargo ships, other than bulk carriers (as defined in SOLAS 74 Chapter IX Regulation 1), may be exempted from the requirement of Regulation 32.3.2 when such ships are constantly engaged on voyages within “warm climates”.

Following consideration of the guidance provided in MSC/Circ 1046 – Guidelines for the Assessment of Thermal Protection, this Administration has defined the following sea areas for the scope of application of the exemption provision:

1. the sea area between the parallels of latitude 30º North and 30º South;

2. the sea area of the Mediterranean Sea south of latitude 35º North;

3. the sea area within 20 nautical miles from the coasts of Africa not included in the sea areas above.

On ships that are required to provide every person onboard with an immersion suit complying with the requirements of the Life-Saving Appliances Code Section 2.3 there shall also be available:

1. at least two additional immersion suits of the same type located in the navigating bridge

2. at least two additional immersion suits of the same type located in the engine room

3. at least two additional immersion suits of the same type located at workstations where the crew performs its normal duties (except watch-keeping duties); if the horizontal distance from the workstations to the stowage position of the immersion suits is more than 100 metres.

4. An adequate number of immersion suits intended solely for training purposes and marked accordingly.

Immersion Suits may be either stored at clearly identifiable locations close to the survival craft embarkation stations or may also be distributed to each individual member of the crew.

The monthly shipboard inspection of immersion suits and anti-exposure suits as required by SOLAS 74 Chapter III Regulation 20.7 shall take into account the guidelines contained in MSC/Circ.1047.

Vacuum packed immersion suits which have transparent packaging of sufficient strength durable for stowage during ship operations and are capable of being opened without damaging the suit and with minimal effort, shall meet the following requirements in-lieu of MSC/Circ.1047:

1. the airtight packaging shall be inspected on a monthly basis in-line with the manufacturer’s recommendations, together with a basic check of the visible portions of the package suit

2. if any defects or damages are noticed to either the airtight packaging or the immersion suit, then the suit shall be removed from its vacuumed package and inspected as per MSC/Circ. 1047. In case of any doubt on the suit’s condition inside the vacuumed package, then the immersion suit shall be unpacked and tested in accordance with MSC/Circ. 1047

3. if after the inspection of the unpacked immersion suit, which was tested in accordance with MSC/Circ. 1047, reveals a defective vacuum pack, then additional immersion suits (25% of the vacuum packed immersion suits onboard), shall be unpacked and tested as per MSC/Circ. 1047. If further defects are revealed, then all vacuum packed immersion suits shall be tested in accordance with MSC/Circ. 1047

4. sufficient spares shall be made available to replace any defective or damaged immersion suits sent for additional testing

5. a sufficient number of immersion suits packed in bags similar to vacuum packed immersion suits, shall be made available for drill and training purposes, the number of which shall be included in the Ship’s Management System and/or Safety Inventory. Such suits shall be clearly marked to be used for training and drill purposes only

6. a surveyor may request to open vacuum packed immersion suits to his/her satisfaction in case an inspection in accordance with (a), (b) or (c) warrants such measures

7. immersion suits that have been removed from their vacuum packaging must be treated as suits in standard packaging and shall be inspected as specified in SOLAS Chapter III, until such time that these are sent away for repackaging as an airtight unit by an approved service station. Adequate and sufficient storage space must be provided for immersion suits removed from their packaging.

8. Any irregular but frequent defects or abnormalities related but not limited to the storage, condition, quality or function of vacuum packed immersion suits, shall be immediately reported to the administration.

Air pressure testing of immersion suits, including vacuum packed immersion suits and antiexposure suits is to be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations and the guidance contained in MSC/Circ.1114, as applicable, at intervals not exceeding three years. The intervals are counted from the suit’s manufacturing date up to three for the first testing interval. Subsequent testing intervals shall be counted from the last of the three year testing interval. Testing should be performed at a suitable shore-based facility or alternatively on board the ship provided that suitable testing equipment is available.

Notwithstanding the above, any immersion suits of over 10 years of age must be serviced annually at an approved service station.

Any repairs to immersion suits or anti-exposure suits should be carried out by a facility having trained personnel and access to the manufacturer’s instructions, parts and adhesives.

Lifejackets required by SOLAS 74 Chapter III Regulation 7.2 shall be available onboard regardless of the type of immersion suits provided.

Periodic air pressure test of immersion / anti-exposure suits

(Email from the Administration dated 13/10/2008)

Clarification / instruction with respect to the application of the guidance contained in MSC/Circ.1114 concerning the periodic testing of immersion suit and anti-exposure suit seams and closures:

1. periodic testing of immersion suits and anti-exposure suits could be implemented during annual, periodical or renewal safety equipment surveys, as applicable;

2. Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorised to issue a Short Term Safety Equipment Certificate valid for two months when testing has not been carried out or cannot be done at the port of survey. In such instances, prior authorisation from the Administration need not be sought. Recognised Organisation (RO) Surveyor should submit a copy of the short term certificate upon issuance through the Marine Operational Centre or alternatively notify the Administration of the issue of such certificate and its validity date.

3. bearing in mind that seams and closures of immersion suits and anti-exposure suits experience varying degrees of deterioration, and that materials and adhesives have a finite service life, the Administration is of the view that in line with the intent of MSC/Circ.1114 the testing intervals should commence from the date of manufacture of the suits.

Remotely located survival craft

Under the Circular 1243, the area where these remotely located survival craft are stowed should be provided with:

1. a minimum number of 2 lifejackets and 2 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 ship; and

3. an embarkation ladder or other means of embarkation enabling descent to the water in a controlled manner in accordance with SOLAS regulation III/11.7.

Embarkation arrangements for remotely located survival craft

Refer to Technical Notice SLS.17 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices and to MSC.1/Circ.1243 and its application to all Maltese-registered ships regardless of keel laying date.

The Administration accepts any of the following means of embarkation for remotely located survival craft:

1. An embarkation ladder complying with Section 6.1.6 of the LSA Code;

2. A Jacob's ladder or aluminium ladder complying with Section 6.1.6 of the LSA Code; and

3. Other means of embarkation enabling controlled descent to the survival craft, approved by Recognised Organisation (RO) on a case-by-case basis.

A knotted rope shall not be accepted as “other means of embarkation”.

All means of embarkation should be located clear of any obstructions in way of the vessel's fore part and as far aft of the bow as is reasonable and practicable so as not to compromise safe descent.

In locating the best possible position for the means of embarkation and the liferaft painter securing points, the following should be considered:

1. the distance from the means of embarkation to the sea level in all conditions of loading, list and trim;

2. the position of the means of embarkation relative to the position of the securing point for the liferaft painter and the length of the painter; and

3. preferably, the deployed means of embarkation should be located forward of the liferaft when waterborne.

Recognised Organisation (RO) will verify compliance with this requirement at the first scheduled safety equipment survey (i.e. annual, periodical or renewal).

In instances where due to prevailing circumstances at the port of survey a ship is unable to comply with this Technical Notice, Recognised Organisation (RO) will proceed with the issue of short-term certification valid for two months by which time compliance should be assured.

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall notify the Administration of instances where short-term certification has been issued, the reason/s thereof, and the validity date.

Liferaft servicing

Stations

(Technical Notice SLS.23 dated 13/03/2013 displayed in Technical notices)

Servicing of liferaft may only be carried out by liferaft servicing stations that are in possession of the manufacturer’s approval for the specific liferafts intented to be serviced and approved in accordance with IMO Resolution A.761(18) as amended by Resolution MSC.55(66) by either:

1. the Administration of the SOLAS Contracting Government of the State within which the servicing station is located; or

2. an IACS Member Society recognized by this Administration* acting for and on behalf of the Administration of the SOLAS Contracting Government of the State within which the servicing station is located.

Extended service intervals for inflatable liferafts

(Technical Notice SLS.37 Rev.2)

Liferafts with a 30-month extended servicing intervals may be accepted under SOLAS Reg.III/20.8.3 and under 2000 HSC Code Ch.8 Reg.8.9.9., subject that:

• the liferaft model is issued with an EC-Type Examination Certificate (MED) confirming compliance with MSC.1/Circ.1328 and bearing the wheel-mark;

• the liferaft model is issued with a Type Approval Certificate issued by an authorised Recognised Organisation (RO) confirming compliance with MSC.1/Circ.1328 and all other applicable requirements;

• the servicing of such liferafts shall be carried out at servicing stations approved for this purpose by the manufacturer;

• at 12 months intervals, liferafts shall be visually and technically inspected, by a qualified person, for the verification of the hermetic seal tightness, monitoring of humidity levels and possible CO2 leaks. This inspection may be carried out onboard and if any issue is identified the liferaft shall be serviced and repacked;

• an inspection record book shall be maintained and be kept onboard and the liferafts shall be labelled accordingly.

This acceptance is granted in-line with MSC.1/Circ.1328 and is applicable over the first 10 years of a liferaft’s life. Thereafter, servicing shall be carried out at 12 months intervals, as required by SOLAS Regulation III/20.8.1.1 and 2000 HSC Code Ch.8 Reg.8.9.7.1.1.

The Administration may accept continuation of the extended servicing intervals for a longer period provided that the manufacturer can confirm and demonstrate, by service experience, that ageing of the liferaft fabric and pressure seals remain within acceptable limits and subject to continued compliance with MSC.1/Circ.1328.

This Administration considers that the liferafts (Viking) listed in Technical Notice SLS.37 provide safety standards and have successfully undergone evaluation and testing in compliance with MSC.1/Circ.1328 and are thus considered approved for a 30 Months Extended Service Intervals.

Liferafts marked with an asterisk (*) have their 30-month extended service intervals applicable beyond 10 years and for the life of the product. This is granted, provided that the EC-Type Examination Certificate confirms this timeframe, the integrity of the hermetic seal remains uncompromised, and that the normal monitoring parameters of the internal environment are maintained.

Hermetic seal verification shall be performed on board at intervals not exceeding 12 months from the last service or onboard inspection, in accordance with MSC.1/Circ. 1328 and the manufacturer's instructions by personnel trained certificated by the liferaft manufacture. If the seal verification reveals any loss of the hermetic seal, the raft must be serviced and repacked within a three-month period or by 30 months from its last repacking date, whichever comes first.

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

(Technical Notice SLS.2 Rev.2)

Weekly and monthly inspections and routine maintenance as specified in the equipment maintenance manual(s) shall be carried out by an authorised service provider or by the ship’s crew under the direct supervision of a senior ship’s officer in accordance with the maintenance manual(s). All other inspections, servicing and repairs should be carried out by either:

• a service provider, authorised in accordance with Resolution MSC.402(96), by a Recognised Organisation listed in Merchant Shipping Notice 96 Rev.2 (Service providers seeking approval should contact any of the relevant Recognised Organisations);or

• the original equipment manufacturer when carrying out services on their own equipment conducted by certified personnel in accordance with Resolution MSC.402(96) for each make and type/model of the equipment for which the service is provided.

• a service provider certified by a Recognised Organisation under MSC.1/Circ.1277 prior to 1stJanuary 2020 (until the service provider’s certificate expiry date).

For further information, refer to attached file “Technical Notice SLS 2 Rev 2.pdf”.

Fall preventer devices

(Email from Transport Malta dated 17/06/2011)

Reference is made to MSC.317(89), MSC.320(89), MSC.1/Circ.1392 and MSC.1/Circ.1327.

Fall preventer devices should be provided onboard all Maltese ships that are equipped with lifeboat on-load release devices.

Fall preventer devices shall remain in use until such time as the said devices have undergone the necessary design review and performance test, and have been either confirmed compliant with the relevant requirements of the revised life-saving appliances code or replaced with compliant devices.

Replacement of non-compliant devices is to be effected by the first scheduled dry-docking after 1 July 2014 and in any case by not later than 1 July 2019.

(Email from Transport Malta dated 28/07/2011)The Malta Directorate requires that fall preventer devices be provided on board existing Maltese registered ships by not later than 1 January 2013.

On-load release gear

(Email from Transport Malta dated 09/12/2014)

The application of MSC.1/Circ.1392 (“Guidelines for the evaluation and replacement of lifeboat release and retrieval systems”) is considered as being valid for any on-load release gear, regardless of whether this is installed on a survival craft or rescue boat.

Launch test of rescue boat and lifeboat

Refer to Technical Notice SLS.24 Rev.1 dated 26/03/2025 displayed in Technical notices and to Resolution MSC.81(70), Part 2, Paragraph 5.4 (production and installation test) and to Regulation 17.3 of Chapter III of the International Convention for the Safety Of Life At Sea, 1974, as amended (launch test).

For ships built according to the same plans and with identical rescue boat(s) and launching arrangement(s) installed, the successful results from the launch test at 5 knots headway speed for the lead ship are acceptable as documented evidence of the ability to similarly launch the rescue boat(s) from the sister ship(s) in the series. Recognised Organisation (RO), after having verified that the aforementioned requisites are fulfilled, may proceed with documenting accordingly the waiver from the launch test for the sister ship(s).

For existing ships undergoing the replacement of lifeboat release and retrieval systems as required by MSC.1/Circ.1392, and to address challenges related to the launching test at headway speeds up to 5 knots in calm water, the Administration permits the demonstration test by other equivalent method(s) subject to not damaging the boat(s) or their equipment as a result of this test and to same being acceptable to Recognised Organisation (RO).

Fire and abandon ship drills

(Technical Notice SLS.5 Rev.2 dated 21/05/2020)

Fire and Abandon Ship Drills onboard all Maltese flagged cargo ships, as required in Regulation 19.3 of Chapter III of SOLAS 74, as amended, shall be carried out at fortnightly intervals.

Fire and Abandon Ship Drills onboard all Maltese flagged passenger ships are to be carried out at weekly intervals as prescribed in Regulation 30.2 of Chapter III of SOLAS 74, as amended.

The attention of all concerned is drawn to the Guidelines on safety during abandon ship drills when using lifeboats, as contained in MSC.1/Circ.1578 which supersedes Annex 2 to MSC.1/Circ.1206/Rev.1. Simulated launching of free-fall lifeboats shall be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Due note shall be taken of the Guidelines for simulated launching of free-fall lifeboats, as contained in the appendix of MSC.1/Circ.1578.

Before conducting drills, the lifeboat and its equipment shall be thoroughly checked to ensure that it has been maintained in accordance with the ship's maintenance manuals and with any associated technical documents. The Guidelines require also that all the precautionary measures necessary are noted and exercised. Reference is to be made to the Revised Guidelines for Developing Operation and Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboats Systems, as contained in MSC.1/Circ.1205/Rev.1.

For further information, refer to attached file “Techncial Notice SLS 5 Rev 2 - Fire and Abandon Ship Drills.pdf”.

International code for Fire Safety Systems (FSS)

(Email from Transport Malta dated 29/07/2011)

The Malta Directorate endorses the guidance provided by MSC.1/Circ.1388 (Unified Interpretation of Chapter 12 of the International Code for Fire Safety Systems) and its implementation for Maltese ships contracted for construction on or after 1 January 2012 (as it is the case in the IACS UI SC178).

Fire control plans - Graphical symbols

(Technical Notice SLS.30 Rev.2)

Graphical symbols shall be in colour.

Whilst as from 1 January 2004, any Fire Control Plans shall be prepared and show graphic symbols in accordance with the provisions of the updated resolution IMO A.952 (23).

The Fire Control Plans of vessels being keel laid before 1 January 2004 can continue to apply the previous IMO Res. A.654 however should for any reason; such plans would have to be reissued or updated, the graphical symbols set out in the latest resolution A.952 (23) would need to be incorporated.

In addition to the above, the Directorate wishes to draw the attention of all concerned to IMO resolution A.116 (30) Escape Route Signs and Equipment Location Markings.

Recognising the benefits of standardised safety communication, the symbols contained in the latest versions of ISO 7010, ISO 24409-1, and ISO 17631 shall be adopted. To eliminate dual symbol inconsistencies between paper documentation and physical onboard installations, the use of standard ISO 17631 fire control symbols is accepted for both the fire control plans and physical onboard equipment markings.

The IMO resolution A.116 (30) is to be used in conjunction with the already existing IMO resolution A.952 (23) for new or updated fire control plans.

Paint lockers - Fire-extinguishing requirements

(Message 09/36 of 20.09.95)

IACS Unified Interpretations apply. See Safety Equipment.

Paint Lockers and Flammable Liquid Lockers

Paint lockers and flammable liquid lockers having a deck area of 4m² or more shall be provided with a fixed fire-extinguishing system enabling the crew to extinguish a fire from outside the space. The fixed fire-extinguishing system may be any of the following:

1. a carbon dioxide system that is designed for 40 per cent of the gross volume of the space, or

2. a dry-powder system that is designed for at least 0.5 kg powder per cubic metre, or

3. a water-spraying system that is designed to provide a supply of 5 litres/m²/minute. Water spraying systems may be connected to the ship’s main system.

Systems other than those mentioned above may be accepted provided these are not less effective.

For further information, refer to Technical Notice SLS.1 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices.

Fire protection systems, appliances and compressed gas cylinders - Periodic maintenance, inspection and testing

The Technical Notice SLS.6 Rev.4 is developed in line with IMO MSC.1/Circ.1432 as amended by MSC.1/Circ.1516, MSC.1/Circ.1318 and Resolution A.951(23), for the following equipments:

1. Fixed fire detection and alarm systems (weekly, monthly & annual testing and inspections)

2. Public address and general alarm system (weekly testing and inspections)

3. Fire doors (weekly, quarterly & annual testing and inspections)

4. Low location lighting (weekly testing and inspections & 5-yearly service)

5. Ventilation systems and fire dampers (quarterly & annual testing and inspections)

6. Fire mains, fire pumps, hydrants, hoses and nozzles (monthly, quarterly & annual testing and inspections)

7. Firefighter’s outfit (monthly testing and inspections)

8. Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) (spare charges, weekly testing and inspections, annual testing and inspections & 5-yearly service)

9. Emergency Escape Breathing Devices (EEBDs) (maintenance and records, weekly testing and inspections, annual testing and inspections & hydrostatic pressure test)

10. Marine portable fire extinguishers (instructions and records, spare charges, annual testing and inspections, 5-yearly service and 10-yearly service including test pressure)

11. Portable foam applicators (monthly & annual testing and inspections)

12. Wheeled (mobile) fire extinguishers (monthly testing and inspections, annual testing and inspections, 5-yearly service and 10-yearly service)

13. Galley deep fat cooking fire-extinguishing systems (annual testing and inspections)

14. Fixed aerosol extinguishing systems (monthly testing and inspections, annual testing and inspections & 10-yearly service)

15. Fixed dry chemical powder systems (monthly testing and inspections, annual testing and inspections, biennial testing and inspections & 10-yearly service)

16. Foam fire-extinguishing system (monthly testing and inspections, quaterly testing and inspections, annual testing and inspections and 5-yearly service)

17. Water mist, water spray and sprinkler system (weekly testing and inspections, monthly testing and inspections, quarterly testing and inspection, annual testing and inspections, 5-yearly service & 10-yearly service)

18. Fixed gas fire-extinguishing systems (other than CO₂) (weekly testing and inspections, monthly testing and inspections, annual testing and inspections, biennial testing and inspections, 5-yearly service & 10-yearly service)

19. Fixed carbon dioxide fire-extinguishing systems

20. Medical oxygen cylinders (annual testing and inspections, 3-yearly testing and inspections & 5-yearly service)

All fire protection systems and appliances shall at all times be in good order and available for immediate use while the ship is in service. If a fire protection system is under repair, then suitable arrangements to the satisfaction of Recognised Organisation (RO) and Administration shall be made to ensure that safety is not diminished.

For further information, refer to Technical Notice SLS.6 Rev.4 dated 06/02/2025 in attached files.

Emergency Escape Breathing Device (EEBD)

(Technical Notice SLS.3 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices)

In addition to the number of EEBDs to be carried as per requirements of SOLAS 74 Chapter II-2 Regulation 13.4 all Maltese registered vessels shall carry a minimum of:

1. two (2) EEBD’s within the machinery spaces;

2. two (2) spare EEBD’s; and

3. one (1) spare EEBD to be used solely for training purposes and marked accordingly.

The definite number and location of all EEBD’s within accommodation and machinery spaces will be determined by the Recognized Organization Surveyor taking into account the guidance contained in MSC/Circ.849.

The number and location of all EEBD’s provided onboard shall be duly reflected on the Fire Control Plan.

Magnetic compasses

Refer to Technical Notice SLS.13 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices and to SOLAS 74, as amended, Chapter V Regulation 19 and, HSC Codes 1994 and 2000 Chapter 13 Paragraph 13.2.

Magnetic compasses should be periodically adjusted by a certified compass adjuster at intervals not exceeding three years.

Notwithstanding the above, each magnetic compass should be adjusted by a certified compass adjuster when:

1. it is first installed;

2. the satisfactory operation of the compass is questionable;

3. the ship/craft undergoes structural repairs or alterations that could effect its permanent and induced magnetism;

4. electrical or magnetic equipment in the vicinity of the compass is added, removed or altered;

5. the recorded deviations are excessive;

6. the compass shows physical defects;

7. records of compass deviations have not been maintained;

If a certified compass adjuster is unavailable and the Master deems that adjustment of the magnetic compass is essential, then adjustment may be carried out by a person holding a Certificate of Competence issued in terms of Regulation II/2 of the STCW Convention 1978, as amended. The magnetic compass must then be re-adjusted by a certified compass adjuster at the first available opportunity.

Repairs required on magnetic compasses shall be carried out by a compass manufacturer, when same is readily available.

Alternatively, repairs may be carried out by either:

1. a service provided authorised by a SOLAS Contracting Government; or

2. a service provider nominated by the Company. The Company is responsible for assessing and selecting the service provider and therefore appropriate procedures relating thereto must be established; or

3. a service provider proposed by the vessel’s Recognized Organization;

All repair work shall be carried out in accordance with international standards for magnetic compasses and a certificate to this effect is to be issued to the vessel by the compass manufacturer/service provider that carried out the works.

A compass deviation book shall be available for the purpose of recording deviations, details of any adjustments and repairs carried out. Compass errors should be determined at least once every watch.

Carriage requirements for GPS Receivers

Maltese registered ships subject to the requirements of SOLAS Regulation V/19.2.1.6 shall install two (2) independent GPS receivers conforming to the performance standards set out in IMO Resolution A.819(19), as amended by Resolution MSC.112(73).

For further information, refer to Technical Notice SLS.4 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices.

Nautical publications

(Technical Notice SLS.33, revoking SLS.12).

The use on board of nautical publications in digital format is accepted on condition that:

1. the nautical publications are issued officially by or under the authority of a SOLAS Contracting Government, by an authorized Hydrographic Office or by other institutions of a SOLAS Contracting Government;

2. the updates are original and documentation for receipt of updates and their installation is available onboard. The ship’s Safety Management System shall include procedures related thereto;

3. the data is protected from editing;

4. the nautical publications are installed in a dedicated computer that is supplied from the main and emergency source of power and is readily available to the Officer of the Watch (OOW). The display of data on the monitor shall not compromise the OOW’s night vision;

5. the nautical publications are installed in one additional computer, as back up, and which can be made available to the OOW in a short period of time;

6. the Master and Bridge Team Officers are trained in the use of the system;

7. the equipment and installation complies with the requirements of SOLAS Chapter V Regulation 17 regarding electromagnetic compatibility;

8. due consideration is given to the guidance contained in MSC/Circ.1091 on issues concerning introduction of new technology on board, MSC/Circ.891 regarding on board use and application of computers and MSC/Circ.982 on ergonomic criteria for bridge equipment and layout.

Refer to attached file “Technical Notice SLS.33 - Publications To Be Carried Onboard Malta Flagged Vessels.pdf” for further information and list of publications which are mandatory on board (Ref. MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.2) depending on the type of vessel.

Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) and back-up arrangements

Refer to the Technical Notice SLS.9 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices and to SOLAS 74, as amended, Chapter V Regulation 19.2.1.4, 19.2.1.5, 27 and IMO Resolution A.817(19) as amended.

Ships fitted with an Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS), type approved in accordance with relevant international standards, including IMO Resolution A.817(19), as amended, and with adequate back-up arrangements, are accepted as meeting the chart carriage requirements of SOLAS 74 Chapter V Regulation 27 when navigating within waters covered by Electronic Navigation Charts (ENC) officially issued by an authorised Hydrographic Office.

The following arrangements are accepted as fulfilling the back-up requirement:

1. an appropriate folio of up-to-date paper nautical charts; or

2. a second type approved ECDIS; or

3. a type approved electronic back-up arrangement for ECDIS mode of operation (using ENC).

Both the primary and secondary (alternative b)) ECDIS shall be fully independent and both supplied from the ship’s main and emergency source of power. In addition, a reserve power source (UPS mode) with a capacity of at least 30 minutes is to be provided if change-over of the source of power entails restarting of ECDIS.

For alternatives b) and c) above, an appropriate folio of up-to-date paper charts is to be available to enable the ship to safely reach a port within or adjacent to its trading areas when coverage by ENC is not available.

When paper nautical charts serve as the only back-up arrangement (alternative a)), the charts shall include the planned route and, when navigating within restricted waters, the ship’s position is to be regularly updated to ensure a safe take-over of ECDIS functions should the need arise.

Electronic log books

Refer to the Technical Notice SLS.11 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices and to Sections 190-194 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1973, as amended and Regulation 28 of Chapter V to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, and 1988 Protocol relating thereto.

Electronic log books are accepted for use on Maltese registered ships as full replacement for paper log books provided the following are complied with:

1. the work station on the bridge where the log book is to be maintained shall comply with the IMO “Guidelines on Ergonomic Criteria for Bridge Equipment and Layout” contained in MSC/Circ.982;

2. the presentation of the logbook shall comply with the requirements of Resolution MSC.86(70) and MSC/Circ.982 (5.3.4);

3. lighting of the display and keyboard shall comply with the requirements of MSC/Circ.982 (5.3.6);

4. the electronic log book provides for entry of data required by Section 191 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1973, as amended. Alternatively, the Maltese Official Log Book is to be maintained in conjunction with the electronic log book.

5. updates relative to the system’s basic functionality or security shall be available at all times.

The following documentation shall be carried on board the ship at all times and be readily available for inspection upon request:

1. a declaration from the electronic logbook producer or the installation company that the system has been installed according to current regulations, performance tested and found to be in full functioning order

2. a declaration from the Owners that the officers on board have received training in accordance with STCW-95 Regulation I/14.1.4

Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System (BNWAS)

Refer to the Technical Notice SLS.19 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices and to Resolution MSC.282(86) and Resolution MSC.128(75).

Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm Systems installed prior to 1 July 2011 will be considered eligible for exemption from full compliance with the standards of Resolution MSC.128(75) if the system satisfies the Recognised Organisation (RO)’s rules for the relevant classification notation or the following minimum requirements:

1. The system can be manually switched ON and OFF, and the ON/OFF selection facilities are protected (e.g. key switch, password protected or by location in Master’s cabin).

2. The system remains dormant for a period of between 3 and 12 minutes when switched on.

3. A visual indication and an audible alarm are given in the wheelhouse at the end of the dormant period. For the first 15 seconds only a visual indication may be given.

4. The alarm is transferred to the back-up Officer’s and/or Master’s cabin if not reset in the wheelhouse within 30 seconds.

5. The alarm is sounded in public spaces (e.g. mess room, ship’s office, and conference room) if not reset within 30 to 90 seconds from the first visual indication in the wheelhouse (the period may be extended to 3 minutes for larger vessels). This alarm may be combined with the alarm described in Point d) above.

6. An alarm reset function is provided in the wheelhouse (e.g. push button/s and/or movement detector/s) in position/s providing a proper look out.

7. Electromagnetic compatibility and environmental protection – It should be confirmed that the BNWAS is suited for installation on board ships through a test report, a test certificate or the manufacturer’s specification. Alternatively, a declaration by the vessel’s manager confirming that the BNWAS operates trouble- free will be sufficient.

Exemption from the standards will be approved by this Directorate following receipt of confirmation from Recognised Organisation (RO) that the aforementioned Recognised Organisation (RO) Rules or the listed minimum requirements are satisfied.

For Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System (BNWAS) on Commercial Yachts, refer to Commercial Yacht Code 2025 a).

Devices to measure and indicate speed and distance

Refer to the Technical Notice SLS.25 dated 20/08/2013 displayed in Technical notices and to SOLAS Regulation V/19.2.9.2, Resolution A.824(19) as amended by Resolution MSC.96(72) amended by Resolution MSC.334(90), and MSC.1/Circ.1429.

The requirement for the measure of speed through the water and speed over the ground in respect of ships of 50,000 gross tonnage and above constructed on or after 1 July 2014, shall be satisfied by the provision of two separate devices.

Navigation bridge visibility

(Email from the Administration dated 03/03/2014)

With regard to SOLAS Chapter V Regulation 22[1.1] and [1.2], which is applicable to ships of not less than 55 m in length and constructed on or after 1 July 1998, the Administration does not support the management of the ship’s blind sectors for the purpose of increasing the ship’s cargo carrying capacity and/or altering the cargo stowage positions on deck.

The Administration will revisit this issue in the light of any future developments within IMO.

VDR

(Email from the Administration dated 13/03/2014)

The Administration does not follow IACS UI SC261 and instead endorses the opinion expressed at IMO’s NAV 59 meeting (September 2013), i.e. “actual installation date when the equipment was placed on board” and takes the term “installed” to mean “set in position, connected ready for use and verified by the Flag / RO or its representative”.

LRIT

(Merchant Shipping Notice 77 Rev.1)

Owners of vessels operating under the Malta flag must ensure provision of compliant shipborne equipment which is type approved by this Administration or a recognised organisation acting on its behalf.

When a ship transfers to the Malta flag, the conformance test report will be considered as remaining valid if the LRIT equipment is not being replaced and if the testing ASP that conducted the conformance test for the previous flag is an authorised testing ASP for the new flag. Otherwise, a new conformance test should be conducted.

When the original testing ASP is an authorised ASP for the new flag, the conformance test report is to be re-issued by the testing ASP indicating the new particulars of the ship but without retesting or altering the date of completion of the original conformance test.

Prior to the issue or endorsement of a Passenger Ship Safety Certificate or Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate following an initial, renewal or annual survey, as the case may be, or the amendment of the associated record of equipment, this Administration or Recognised Organisation (RO) will verify that the shipborne equipment has satisfactorily completed a conformance test, is supplied from the main and emergency source of electrical power and conforms with the requirements of section 4 of MSC.1/Circ.1307/Rev.1.

During any subsequent annual or renewal survey following initial certification of compliance of a ship with the requirements of regulation V/19.1, the related safety certificate should be issued or endorsed provided the conformance test report is still valid.

Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate

Ship Radio Station Licence and Short Term certificate

Refer to the Technical Notice SLS.14 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices.

Upon change of Flag or transfer of ownership, the Administration issues a Provisional Ship Radio Station Licence and then a Permanent Ship Radio Station Licence.

If during change of flag / radio surveys a copy of the Provisional or Permanent Ship Radio Station Licence is not yet available on board, the surveyor proceeds with the issue of the relevant statutory certificate valid for two months on condition that no deficiencies related to the radio installation are identified during the survey.

The Administration is to be notified whenever such certificate is issued.

Renewal of radio licence

(Email from the Flag Administration dated 02/07/2015)

A copy of a Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate (CSSRC) accompanied by the respective Record of Equipment (Form-R) are no longer required to process radio renewals.

Nonetheless, a CSSRC + relevant Form-R are still required in the following instances:

• For the issuance of a new permanent radio station licence (i.e. switching from a provisional Iicence).

• In cases whereby the CSSRC in the Administration records has expired and NOT available on line (through Recognised Organisation (RO) website).

GMDSS - Manning

(Message of 3/05/2000)

Cargo ships shall be manned with:

1. 2 Deck Officers holders of a recognised GMDSS General Operator Certificate (GOC), or

2. 1 Dedicated Radio Officer also holder of a recognised GMDSS General Operator Certificate.

Passenger ships shall be manned with:

1. 3 Deck Officers holders of a recognised GMDSS General Operator Certificate, or

2. 2 Deck Officers and 1 Dedicated Radio Officer all holders of a recognised GMDSS General Operator Certificate, or

3. 1 Deck Officer and 2 Dedicated Radio Officers all holders of a recognised GMDSS General Operator Certificate.

The Dedicated Radio Officer shall have no other responsibilities other than those related to radio-communications.

On board ships provided with “on-board maintenance capability”, the person designated to perform such functions shall hold either a 1^st class or a 2^nd class GMDSS Radio Electronician Certificate, or equivalent.

Passenger Ship Safety Certificate

General

Refer also to Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate, Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate and Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate, as relevant.

Periodical bottom inspection of passenger ships other than Ro-Ro passenger ships

Refer to the Technical Notice SLS.20 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices and to the guidance contained in MSC.1/Circ.1348.

Resolution A.997(25) - Survey Guidelines under the Harmonized System of Survey and Certification prescribes that inspection of a passenger ship’s bottom, as required by SOLAS regulation I/7, should be carried out annually, with two such inspections carried out in dry-dock in any five-year period*.

Where acceptable to the Administration, the minimum number of inspections in dry-dock may be reduced from two to one in any five-year period. In such cases, the interval between consecutive inspections in dry-dock shall not exceed 60 months.

This Technical Notice is intended for application to passenger ships of 15 years of age or less* that are not ro-ro passenger ships.

Application for In-Water Survey

1. The shipowner submitting the request for an IWS should have completed, during the construction stage or at a previous dry-dock, a survey of the hull to the satisfaction of Recognised Organisation (RO) with a view of establishing and documenting the ship's future suitability for an IWS. The survey should evaluate the condition of the hull and ensure that appropriate preparations, including markings and fittings, have been satisfactorily addressed.

2. The master of the ship shall provide Recognised Organisation (RO) with written confirmation that the ship, to his best knowledge, has not sustained any grounding or contact damage since the previous bottom inspection and that nothing unusual has been observed to suspect that any part of the ship's bottom or protuberances has been otherwise damaged.

3. A maintenance regime based upon a five-year cycle should be effectively implemented by the company for the following items:

   1. Shafting and stern tube

   2. Shell coating

   3. Shaft seals

   4. Bow thrusters and stern thrusters

   5. Main propellers and shafting for controllable pitch propellers (CPP) ships

   6. Rudders

   7. Sea chests

   8. Anodes and cathodic protection and sea valves

   9. Hull thickness measurements

   10. Podded Propulsion Units (PODs)

4. Recognised Organisation (RO) should review the ship survey records to confirm current satisfactory condition of hull and machinery.

5. The design life of components, manufacturer’s recommended maintenance, company’s implemented ship’s maintenance system and Recognised Organisation (RO) survey requirements should not conflict with the bottom inspection of passenger ships when the inspection is intended to be carried out in dry-dock only once in any five-year period.

6. The owner shall submit a request to Recognised Organisation (RO) for the in-water survey at least four weeks in advance of the intended date of the inspection. The owner's proposed schedule and the conditions for performing the in-water survey should allow for effective planning and execution of the survey.

7. Recognised Organisation (RO) shall seek, on behalf of the Owner, approval for the in-water survey from the Administration.

In-Water Survey

1. The IWS should be carried out in accordance with the plan approved by Recognised Organisation (RO).

2. Sufficient information to the satisfaction of the attending Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor, including specific plans to facilitate the survey, should be available on board in order to ensure a full assessment and survey.

3. The Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor should be satisfied with the hull marking and mapping, as well as with the method of pictorial presentation. To facilitate an efficient survey it is recommended that the underwater hull and fittings are permanently and clearly marked externally (including tank boundaries).

4. The in-water survey should be carried out at an agreed geographical location with the ship at a suitable draught in an area that has been demonstrated to have sheltered waters and with weak tidal streams and currents. The weather at the time of the survey should be conducive to a safe and effective IWS.

5. Surveys of the underwater body should be carried out in sufficiently clear and calm waters. Visibility and water conditions should be suitable to provide sufficient evidence to be able to draw a conclusion that the hull inspection requirements have been met and the hull is in satisfactory condition.

6. Diving companies providing services on behalf of the owner of a ship or a mobile offshore unit (such as measurements, tests, surveys or maintenance of safety systems and equipment), the results of which are used by the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyors in making decisions affecting certification, should be subject to approval by Recognised Organisation (RO).

7. The survey should include CCTV monitoring of the IWS, together with electronic video and still picture (if required and where appropriate) recording of the ship's hull, appendages, sea-chests and other elements of the survey. There should be good two-way communication between the diver and the personnel at the surface, including the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor.

8. The hull below the waterline should be sufficiently clean to the satisfaction of the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor and diver so as to be able to ascertain the physical condition of the hull and coating.

9. Interior sections of the hull plating should be made available for inspection to the same extent as if the ship were in dry-dock.

10. The in-water survey should be performed to the satisfaction of the attending Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor who is properly trained and authorized to conduct such surveys.

Survey findings and reporting

1. If the IWS reveals damage, deterioration or other conditions that require early attention or which can only be assessed reliably out of water, the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor may require that the ship be dry-docked in order that a fuller survey can be undertaken and the necessary work carried out.

2. The Administration should be informed of the results of all in-water surveys conducted.

Safe return to port

(Email from the Flag Administration dated 11/02/2015)

The Interim Explanatory Notes for the assessment of passenger ships systems’ capabilities after a fire or flooding casualty (MSC.1/Circ.1369), in their up-to-date version, shall be implemented in respect of Maltese ships subject to the requirements of SOLAS regulations II-1/8-1, II-2/21 and II-2/22.

Ship-specific authorization from the Flag Administration for the implementation of the “notes” is not required.

Notwithstanding, any contemplated or identified deviations are to be communicated to the Flag Administration for consideration.

Survey Guidelines in line with Directive 2009/45/EC, as amended, and NCV Code Rev.2

(NCV Code Section 33.3.2 Rev.2)

For passenger vessels for which 2009/45/EC, as amended, is applicable, Recognised Organisation (RO) shall fill in the applicable sections of the following forms (see attached files):

• MSD NCV Rev.2 Initial Survey Rev.2.1

• MSD NCV Rev.2 Survey Guidelines Rev.2.1

Passenger Ship Extended Range Tender

(Administration email dated 30/12/2025)

Extended Range Passenger Ship Tenders shall be surveyed in conjunction with the mother vessel during the mother vessel’s Initial/Renewal Survey.

For existing vessels, the Initial Extended Range Passenger Ship Tender survey may be carried outside the mother vessel’s survey window. The subsequent periodical tender surveys shall be aligned with the mother vessel’s survey window.

Extended Range Passenger Ship Tenders shall be surveyed by the same Recognised Organisation (RO) surveying the mother vessel for compliance with SOLAS.

Upon satisfactory completion of the surveys, based on the Passenger Ship Extended Range Tender Guidelines (see attached file), the attending Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor shall issue a TM Passenger Ship Extended Range Tender Survey Report using the dedicated form available in attached files.

The TM Passenger Ship Extended Range Tender Survey Report together with a copy the tender’s CE Certification and a copy of the Builder’s Declaration of Conformity shall be sent to the Administration.

Upon the satisfactory review of the survey report, the Administration will issue a Passenger Ship Extended Range Tender Certificate valid for five (5) years.

Others

International Code of safety for High-Speed Craft, 2000

Evacuation Demonstration

Refer to the Technical Notice HSC.1 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices and to Paragraph 4.8.10 of Chapter 4 to the International Code of Safety for High-Speed Craft, 2000 refers.

This Administration will invoke the provisions of Section 4.8.10 of the HSC Code subject to the following conditions:

1. the evacuation time can be accurately determined from either the data obtained from the type-approval tests incremented with the factor derived from MSC/Circ.1166 or the time extrapolated from trials using a number of participants;

2. the evacuation analysis is based on the guidelines in IMO MSC/Circ.1166;

3. the evacuation demonstration involves the deployment of all MES units (i.e.100%) on both port and starboard side and at least 25% of the link liferafts (i.e. 12.5% on either side).

IBC code

Carriage of vegetable oils

To allow Owners of Type 2 Chemical Tankers that wish to engage in the carriage of identified vegetable oils to do so without the 3000 m³ cargo restriction per cargo tank, the MMA agree the following.

Type 2 Chemical Tankers definitely satisfy all requirements of Type 3 Chemical Tankers and therefore the Malta Administration position is that Type 2 Chemical Tankers should not be restricted for this specific cargo.

However, this can only be possible if the chemical tanker is certified as a Type 3 Chemical Tanker and in possession of the exemption in accordance with Regulation 4.1.3 If the chemical tanker is certified as Type 3 Ship but is not in possession of the exemption then it will not be able to load identified vegetable oils.

Reference: Regulation 4.1.3 of Revised Annex II of MARPOL and Regulation 16.1 of IBC Code, as amended in 2004.

1. At the request of the owner of a Type 2 chemical tanker for additional certification as a Type 3 chemical tanker, Recognised Organisation (RO) should proceed with the issuance of the certification provided that the “exemption” in accordance with the provisions of Regulation 4.1.3 of Annex II to MARPOL concerning the carriage of identified vegetable oils is granted by the MMA. Recognised Organisation (RO) shall notify the Malta Maritime Administration whenever a chemical tanker is issued with the aforementioned dual certification.

2. The exchange of Certificates of Fitness for Type 2 chemical tanker to Type 3 chemical tanker and vice-versa shall be carried out by the Master in accordance with the procedures established in the ship’s Safety Management System.

3. The Procedures and Arrangements Manual shall reflect the provision of dual certification. This can be achieved through an addendum to the existing P&A manual, to be approved as well.

4. As prescribed by the procedures contained within the Safety Management System, the Master shall ascertain that the cargo intended for loading corresponds fully with the list of cargoes annexed to the Certificate of Fitness in use by the vessel. The un-associated Certificate of Fitness for Type 2 chemical tanker or Type 3 chemical tanker, as applicable, shall be kept in the custody of the master.

5. The Master shall make an official entry in the ship's log on every occasion of change in chemical tanker type.

6. The scope and extent of statutory surveys shall be those applicable to a Type 2 chemical tanker regardless of whether the chemical tanker is operating as or downgrading to a Type 3 chemical tanker at the time of the surveys.

7. Upon satisfactory completion of annual / intermediate statutory surveys, the surveyor of the Recognized Organization is to endorse both the Certificate of Fitness for Type 2 chemical tanker and that for Type 3 chemical tanker.

IMSBC code

Statement of Compliance

(Memo 25/03/11 from the Administration)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to carry out document review and / or surveys, as deemed necessary, and issue a Statement of Compliance complete with supplements (i.e. List of cargoes, List of footnotes / notes) as evidence of the ship’s compliance with the requirements of the IMSBC code.

An existing Statement of Compliance may be replaced with an IMSBC code Statement of Compliance in the following instances:

1. change of flag; or

2. new cargo conditions and carriage requirements imposed by the IMSBC code; or

3. expiry of existing Statement of Compliance.

Notwithstanding the above, replacement of the existing Statement of Compliance may be carried out earlier when so requested by the owner.

Carriage of bauxite that may liquefy

Refer to the Technical Notice SLS.28 dated 22/01/2016 displayed in Technical notices.

Masters of Maltese registered ships are urged not to accept bauxite for carriage unless:

• The moisture limit for the specific cargo is certified as less than the indicative moisture limit of 10% and the particle size distribution as is detailed in the individual schedule for bauxite in the IMSBC Code; or

• The cargo is declared as Group A (cargoes that may liquefy) and the shipper declares the transportable moisture limit (TML) and moisture content; or

• The cargo has been assessed as not presenting Group A properties.

Guidelines for the ascertainment of seaworthiness of ships

(MSD Notice No.90 is revoked by Merchant Shipping Notice 127 Rev.1 displayed in Merchant Shipping Notices (MSN))

1. As a rule, merchant ships of 25 years and over will not be registered, while, applications for the registration of other ships will be considered subject to:

   1. the ship being either in class or in the process of being classed with a recognised classification society;

   2. the receipt of an up to date class survey status report or, information on the validity of the current statutory certificates including details of any pending recommendations, exemptions granted, acceptance of equivalents or otherwise, related to both class and statutory certificates;

   3. the receipt of an affirmation by the relative class that the ship is in a position to be issued with all the appropriate statutory certificates without recommendations;

   4. the receipt of appropriate information on the performance of the ISM managers that are to manage the ship.

2. Furthermore, registration of merchant ships of 15 years and over is also subject to the outcome of a prior to registration inspection by an authorised flag State inspector; the Directorate may require the inspection to be carried out in dry-dock. When the Directorate allows the inspection to be carried out on registration only a non-operational provisional certificate of registry will be issued.

3. Ships of 10 years and over but less than 15 years shall also be presented for an inspection by an authorised flag State inspector within one month of registration. On payment of the relevant fees owners may opt to have their ship inspected prior to registration.

4. A negative outcome of an inspection of a registered ship may lead to the immediate closure of registry.

IP Code

(Technical Notice SLS.36)

Applicability of SOLAS Chapter XV can be categorized into two cohorts:

• New – cargo ships and high-speed cargo craft constructed on or after 1 July 2024.

• Existing – cargo ships and high-speed cargo craft constructed before 1 July 2024. This cohort can be further divided into two categories:

  • Authorised - those cargo ships and high-speed cargo craft which are authorized by the Administration to carry more than 12 industrial personnel in accordance with Resolution MSC.418(97); and

  • Not Authorised - those cargo ships and high-speed cargo craft which are not authorized by the Administration to carry more than 12 industrial personnel in accordance with Resolution MSC.418(97).

The existing and authorised cargo ships and high-speed cargo craft shall comply with the applicable parts of the IP Code by the first intermediate or renewal survey, whichever occurs first, after 1 July 2024. (The applicable parts of the IP Code are identified in SOLAS Chapter VX, Regulations 3.2 and 3.3).

On the other hand, the existing and not authorized as well as new cargo ships and high-speed cargo craft shall comply with the provisions of the IP Code as required by SOLAS XV Regulations 3.4 and 3.1 respectively (Refer to Annex 1 of Technical Notice SLS.36).

Shipowners and operators of Maltese registered existing ships carrying more than 12 industrial personnel are hereby urged to seek authorization in line with Resolution MSC.418(97) prior to the entry into force of the IP Code. Any such request shall be made through Recognised Organisation (RO). Where reference is made to the consideration of other standards acceptable by the Administration, prior approval shall be sought.

Upon granting authorization, Recognised Organisation (RO) shall issue a Statement of Compliance.

MARPOL 73/78

Annex I. IOPP certificate

SOPEP (Regulation I/26)

(Message of 27/07/01)

If no approved SOPEP is available, a short term IOPP Certificate with a validity of 2 months may be issued.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to approve SOPEP manuals on behalf of the Administration. It shall be clearly mentioned on the front page of the SOPEP manual that the SOPEP manual is approved “on behalf of the Maltese Administration”. When an attestation is issued, it shall also mention that the approval is made “on behalf of the Administration”.

In case the vessel is changing flag to Malta, refer to Change of flag procedures and to Technical Notice IRO.1 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices.

Indeed, with respect to non-existing or not approved Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan, Recognised Organisation (RO) may proceed with the issue of a Short Term International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate valid for two months pending the review, approval and placing on board of the plan.

CAS

Refer to instruction to ROs from Malta Maritime Authority, Merchant Shipping Directorate, received on 3 June 2005 and Merchant Shipping Notice No 68, attached in CAS - Merchant Shipping Notice No. 68 and CAS Instruction to RO.

By memo received on 23/05/2006, MMA informs that the Thickness Measurement Reports should only be submitted when specifically requested the Malta Administration.

Ship To Ship transfer operation Plan (STS Plan)

(Memo 18/11/2010)

Malta Administration has authorized Recognised Organisation (RO) to review and approve STS Plan under MARPOL Annex I Regulation 41.

MARPOL Annex I Regulation 12, as amended by the resolution MEPC 187(59), sub-paragraph 2.2 (oil residue (sludge) tanks)

(Memo received on 28/07/2011)

The Malta Directorate does endorse the Unified Interpretations to Regulations 12.2, 12.3 and 12.4, as contained in MEPC 61/24, annex 14 (see the attached file “MEPC 61-24 Annex_14”) and amended by MEPC 62 (with MEPC.1/Circ.753, see the attached file “MEPC.1-Circ.753 Amendments to unified interpretation to regulation 12.2 of marpol Annex_I”), and their implementation on board Maltese flagged ships delivered before 1 January 2014*.

• .1 for which the building contract is placed before 1 January 2011; or

• .2 in the absence of a building contract, the keel of which is laid or which is at a similar stage of construction before 1 January 2012; or

• .3 the delivery of which is before 1 January 2014.

Annex II. NLS certificate

Carriage of vegetable oils - Dual certification

Carriage of identified vegetable oils without the 3000 m³ cargo restriction per cargo tank can only be possible if the chemical tanker is certified as a Type 3 chemical tanker and in possession of the exemption in accordance with Regulation 4.1.3 If the chemical tanker is certified as Type 3 ship but is not in possession of the exemption then it will not be able to load identified vegetable oils.

Reference: Regulation 4.1.3 of Revised Annex II of MARPOL and Regulation 16.1 of IBC code, as amended in 2004.

At the request of the owner of a Type 2 chemical tanker for additional certification as a Type 3 chemical tanker, Recognised Organisation (RO) may proceed with the issuance of the certification provided that the “exemption” in accordance with the provisions of Regulation 4.1.3 of Annex II to MARPOL concerning the carriage of identified vegetable oils is granted by the Administration. The issuing Recognised Organisation (RO) Centre shall notify the Administration whenever a Chemical Tanker is issued with the aforementioned dual certification.

The exchange of Certificates of Fitness for Type 2 chemical tanker to Type 3 chemical tanker and vice-versa shall be carried out by the master in accordance with the procedures established in the ship’s Safety Management System. The Procedures and Arrangements manual shall reflect the provision of dual certification.

As prescribed by the procedures contained within the Safety Management System, the master shall ascertain that the cargo intended for loading corresponds fully with the list of cargoes annexed to the Certificate of Fitness in use by the vessel. The un-associated Certificate of Fitness for Type 2 chemical tanker or Type 3 chemical tanker, as applicable, shall be kept in the custody of the master.

The scope and extent of statutory surveys shall be those applicable to a Type 2 chemical tanker regardless of whether the chemical tanker is operating as or downgrading to a Type 3 chemical tanker at the time of the surveys.

Upon satisfactory completion of annual / intermediate statutory surveys, the surveyor is to endorse both the Certificate of Fitness for Type 2 chemical tanker and that for Type 3 chemical tanker.

Annex IV. ISPP certificate

Malta’s ratification of Annex IV to MARPOL

(Email from Transport Malta dated 03/05/2011)

Following Malta’s ratification of Annex IV to MARPOL that entered into force for Maltese-registered ships on 30 June 2011, the replacement of the Statement / Document of Compliance with the International Certificate in respect of the Annex IV shall be carried out at any one of the following occasions arising on or after 30 June 2011, whichever will be the earliest:

1. change of flag

2. owner’s request

3. re-issue of certification (consequential to changes in technical requirements, certification details/entries, etc)

4. renewal survey

In any case, international certification is to be effected by latest 31 December 2012.

National Regulations

(Email from Transport Malta dated 23/05/2011)

Refer to MSN 91 Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution by Sewage) Regulation, 2011 Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution from Ships) (Amendment) Regulations, 2011 displayed in Merchant Shipping Notices (MSN).

Standard discharge connections (Regulation 10.1)

Refer to the Technical Notice MARPOL.1 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices.

Ships shall, irrespective of the sewage treatment/holding system installed, be provided with a dedicated discharge pipeline and a standard discharge connection complying with the requirements of Regulation 10.

Rate of discharge of untreated sewage (Regulation 11.1.1)

Refer to the Technical Notice MARPOL.2 Rev.1 dated 20/08/2013 displayed in Technical notices.

Regulation 11.1.1 of Annex IV to MARPOL requires that the discharge of untreated sewage be carried out at specific distances from shore, with the ship enroute proceeding at a speed of not less than 4 knots and at a rate of discharge approved by the Administration.

The rate(s) of discharge should be based on the guidelines contained in Resolution MEPC.157(55) and subject to review and approval by Recognised Organisation (RO), for and on behalf of the Administration.

Annex V

Discharge of cargo hold wash water

1. Refer to the Technical Notice MARPOL.4 dated 17/10/2013 displayed in Technical notices and to MEPC.1/Circ.810 (“Adequate reception facilities for cargoes declared as harmful to the marine environment under MARPOL Annex V”) of 27 June 2013.

   Once all the conditions prescribed in this IMO circular in respect of the dispensation being granted until 31 December 2015 for the discharge overboard of cargo hold wash water from holds previously containing solid bulk cargoes classified as Harmful to the Marine Environment (HME) are satisfied and discharge overboard is therefore permissible, full details of the operation shall be duly recorded in the Garbage Record Book.

   Furthermore, the reporting on the inadequacy of port reception facilities to the Flag State shall be drawn up in the form presented in the Annex to MEPC.1/Circ.469/Rev.2. The reporting form is to be supplemented with the master’s report and any supporting documentation.

2. Refer also to the Technical Notice MARPOL.3 Rev.2 dated 21/12/2018 in attached file “Tech Notice MARPOL-3 Rev2” and to MEPC.1/Circ.834/Rev.1 (“Consolidated guidance for port reception facility providers and users”) of 1 March 2018 available at following link: https://news.transport.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/MEPC.1.Circ_.834.Rev_.1.pdf further to amendments to MARPOL Annex V introducing new categorizations of garbage.

Amendments to MARPOL Annex V

Refer to the Technical Notice MARPOL.6 dated 24/01/2018 displayed in Technical notices and to Resolution MEPC.295 (71) “2017 Guidelines for the Implementation of MARPOL Annex V).

By 1 March 2018, vessels are required to implement the changes associated with the handling procedures, management and record keeping of garbage on board.

Annex VI. IAPP, EIAPP and IEE certificates

Full authorization is provided to Recognised Organisation (RO) for the issuance of the IAPP, EIAPP and IEE certificates to Maltese flagged ships.

(Email from Transport Malta dated 23/05/2011)

Following Malta’s ratification of Annex VI to MARPOL that entered into force for Maltese-registered ships on 30 June 2011, the replacement of the Statements / Documents of Compliance with the International Certificates in respect of the Annex VI shall be carried out at any one of the following occasions arising on or after 30 June 2011, whichever will be the earliest:

1. change of flag

2. owner’s request

3. re-issue of certification (consequential to changes in technical requirements, certification details / entries, etc)

4. renewal survey

In any case, international certification is to be effected by latest 31 December 2012.

See also NOTICE91 - Prevention of Pollution by Sewage & Prevention from Pollution from Ships Regulations, which is displayed in Annex IV. ISPP certificate.

(Email from Transport Malta dated 25/01/2013)

Guidelines for the development of a SEEMP plan (MEPC.213(63)) regulated in MARPOL 73/78 Annex VI chapter 4, regulation 22 does not differentiate between non-propelled or propelled ships and the definition of Article 2.4 shall be adopted.

For information related to the fuel availability for vessels operating in ECA areas, refer to the Technical Notice MARPOL.5 displayed in Technical notices.

Fuel Oil Consumption Data Collection System (IMO DCS)

(Merchant Shipping Notice 141)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is fully delegated for IMO DCS. No specific authorization is needed from the Administration when Recognised Organisation (RO) is not acting as Classification Society (refer to Administration email dated 10/07/2021).

Report on fuel oil consumption data and transport work parameters shall be submitted to the ship’s classification society. The data collection plan (amended SEEMP Part II) shall be submitted to Recognised Organisation (RO) for approval.

For further information, refer “MS Notice 141 - Fuel Oil Consumption Data Collection System” displayed in Merchant Shipping Notices (MSN).

Implementation of the 2020 Sulphur Limit

Technical Notice MARPOL.8 reminds that the global 0.50% m/m limit for sulphur in fuel oil used on board ships established by Regulation 14.1.3 of MARPOL Annex VI shall enter into force on 1 January 2020.

The Administration highly recommends the development and adherence to the ship specific Implementation Plan. Items recommended to be addressed through such a plan include: risk assessment and mitigation plan on the impact of new fuels (compatibility and stability issues); modifications of the fuel oil system and tank cleaning (if needed); fuel oil capacity and segregation capability; procurement of compliant fuel; fuel oil changeover and documentation and reporting.

For further information, refer to attached file “Technical Notice MARPOL.8 - Preparing for the Implementation of the 2020 Sulphur Limit.pdf”.

Issuance of Short Term IAPP certificate further to EGCS commissioning

(Administration email dated 09/03/2020)

Following successful commissioning and MARPOL surveys/testing of the EGCS installation, provided ascertainment of compliance with the requirements of IMO resolution MEPC.259(68) and relative class rules, RO’s are authorized to issue a Short Term IAPP Certificate for a maximum of 2 months (in case of pending MED conformity assessment & wash water nitrate analysis) with sections 2.3.1.2, 2.3.2.2 and section 2.6 duly marked, indicating that this equivalent arrangement has been fully approved and accepted to be used as an equivalent method in pursuant to regulation 4.1 of Annex VI of the MARPOL Convention. A copy of the Short Term IAPPC issued and a copy of the relative MARPOL survey report shall be sent to the Administration.As per above, in due course (within the 2 month duration of the ST IAPPC), it has to be ensured that a copy of the respective MED Conformity Assessment/Unit Verification (Module G for Scheme B), a copy of the manufacturer’s Declaration of Conformity (DOC) and a copy of the wash water nitrate analysis are forwarded to the Administration. As for the DOC produced by the equipment Manufacturer, this shall follow the model structure set out in Annex III to Decision No. 768/2008/EC. It shall contain the elements specified in the relevant models set out in Annex II of the MED Directive 2014/90/EC.

Recognised Organisation (RO) will then as soon as possible thereof, submit to Malta flag the confirmation letter of satisfactory survey and the approved documentation for the acceptance of the equivalency under the provision of regulation 4 of MARPOL Annex VI.

Upon receipt of Malta Flag's acceptance, Recognised Organisation (RO) will proceed with the issuance of definitive certificate.

Equivalency Provision under Reg. 4 of MARPOL Annex VI

(Administration email dated 01/11/2024)

The Administration reminds all ROs that it does not have any other requirements that are over and above to those mentioned in the IMO EGCS Guidelines MEPC.259(68) or MEPC.340(77) and under the EU LS 2016/802 Directive. Any EGCS meeting the IMO regulations/guidelines and having Class approval, is considered as being fully compliant to be installed onboard a Malta Flagged vessel.

Furthermore, it is also important to note that such equipment (item MED/2.10) is also listed under the implementing regulation to the Marine Equipment Directive 2014/90/EC for conformity assessment. The Administration requires that such unit/s be certified in accordance with the Conformity Assessment Modules of the Marine Equipment Directive 2014/90/EC.

In light of the above, in order for the Administration to be in a position to authorize such an equivalency in accordance with the provisions under MARPOL Annex VI regulation 4 and issue the notification to the IMO, pursuant to the obligation under regulation 4.2, the RO is required to forward to the Administration well in advance, a copy of the below listed documents related to Exhaust Gas Cleaning (EGC) unit/s:

- A copy of the SOx Emissions Compliance Plan (SECP).

- A copy of the SOx Emissions Compliance Certificate/s (SECC), if applicable (only for scheme A).

- A copy of the Onboard Monitoring Manual (OMM). As per MEPC.340(77), the Onboard Monitoring Manual (OMM) shall include the means by which ongoing compliance would temporarily be indicated in case of failure of a single monitoring device (8.2.8). Also, guidance should be given on which indicators can be used to identify a malfunction of the EGCS (8.2.10).

- A copy of the EGC System Technical Manual Scheme B (ETM-B) and/or (ETM-A), as applicable. As per MEPC.340(77) the EGCS Technical Manual (ETM) shall be extended by a clear procedure on how to produce reports that indicate non-compliant conditions or temporarily ongoing compliance as per 8.2.8 (4.2.2.1.9, 5.6.1.7).

- A copy of the EGC Record book Format or any alternative logging arrangement.

- A copy of the Exhaust Gas Declaration (EGD), as applicable.

- A copy of the pH wash water calculation methodology adopted in accordance with Section 10 of the IMO Resolution MEPC.259(68) or MEPC.340(77) EGCS guidelines as applicable. As per MEPC.340(77) par 10.1.5.3, it is now acceptable to gather nitrate concentration data from similar installations instead of performing individual water sampling and analysis. Additionally, nitrate discharge data can now be presented as the difference between inlet and outlet concentrations.

- A copy of the MED 2014/90/EU declaration of conformity. A conformity assessment Module G will be issued for scheme B systems however, the choice of the Conformity Assessment procedures adopted for Scheme A systems will depend on the Manufacturer in co-operation/agreement with the Notified Body (N.B).

Following receipt of the above, along with confirmation that the EGCS MARPOL Verification Survey/s and Commissioning has been carried out to the satisfaction of the RO, the Administration will be in a position to issue its notification to the IMO GISIS Platform.

It is imperative that (apart from the last item MED certification) the Administration is approached at the earliest stages of preparation with the relevant documents. Moreover, it is important to note that final acceptance of such an equivalency and its subsequent inclusion under section 2.6 of the IAPPC rests with the Administration.

In cases where prior acceptance by another Administration is used, Owners/Managers or Recognised Organisation (RO) should request the previous Administration to withdraw their GISIS notification to avoid duplication.

Reporting obligations related to EGCS Malfunctions

(Technical Notice MARPOL.9 Rev.1)

Any malfunction that lasts for more than one hour or in case of repetitive malfunctions, in pursuant to regulation 5.6 of Annex VI of the MARPOL Convention, shall be reported to the Administration, to the vessel’s Class and to the relevant port State control competent authority, along with details of actions to be taken to address such a malfunction/s.An EGCS malfunction event should be duly recorded in the EGCS Record Book including the date and time of the malfunction, along with a description of the actions taken to resolve it and any follow-up actions, as necessary.

Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI)

(Administration email dated 17/11/2021)

The Administration’s position is that the EEXI regulation and statutory surveys related to this new MARPOL Annex VI regulation (applicable on the first periodical survey on or after 1 January 2023) is attributed to and being part of the vessel’s IEEC, hence falls directly also under the IAPPC, such a statutory function is being solely delegated to the Recognized Organizations (ROs), preferable to be carried out by the same RO issuing the statutory certificates.

However considering the nature of such verification activity (limited to reviewing the EEXI Technical File and the estimated speed-power 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)), the Administration have the understanding that it is acceptable to provide EEXI verification to ships classed by other RO’s from the RO issuing the vessel’s main statutory certificates.

As for the situation where an overridable Shaft/Engine Power Limitation system has been installed (which seems to be that a considerable number of vessels may have to carry out such a process in order to comply with these requirements), such a verification would need to be carried out to confirming that the system is appropriately installed and sealed on board in accordance with the Guidelines on the Shaft / Engine Power Limitation system, 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. In such an Shaft/EPL situation, the Administratuion highly recommends that this onboard (Shaft/EPL) verification task remains and would be performed by that same RO that Classes the vessel.

(RO Meeting dated 05/10/2022)

The Administration accepts IACS Recommendation 172 “EEXI Implementation Guidelines“.

Overridable Shaft Engine Power Limitation System

(Technical Notice MARPOL.16)

With regard to section 2.1.1.3 of MEPC Resolution 335(76), as amended by MEPC Resolution 375(80) related to a “control unit for calculation and limitation of the power transmitted by the shaft to the propeller(s)”, if this control is independent from the engine automation, the following shall be satisfied:

• Override of limitation is indicated by giving an alarm on the bridge, clearly informing the ship’s master or officer in charge of the navigational watch (OICNW);

• in case of any exceedance of the power limit, the ship’s master or OICNW shall manually reduce the power to within the limit;

• in case of deliberate use of power reserve, data recording shall commence automatically;

• data recording device as defined in section 2.1.1.2 of MEPC Resolution 335(76), as amended by MEPC Resolution 375(80) and

• any unintentional exceedance of engine power limit due to engine load, this Administration will accept a five (5) minutes delay before recording commences.

Any use of a power reserve should be recorded in the record page of the OMM for ShaPoLi/EPL, signed by the master and the ship should notify this Administration and the competent authority at the relevant port of destination, prior to arrival at that port. On an annual basis, this Administration will report the uses of a power reserve to IMO for the preceding calendar year through the consolidated data received from Recognised Organisation (RO).

The reactivation or replacement of the SHaPoLi / EPL system should be confirmed by Recognised Organisation (RO) on behalf of this Administration at the earliest opportunity by submitting supporting documentary evidence confirming resetting.

Where an EPL/ShaPoLi override is activated pre-emptively when hazards are anticipated, but the power reserve is not subsequently used, this event should be recorded in the bridge and engine-room logbooks. The engine-room logbook should record power used during the period when the override was activated. The EPL/ShaPoLi should be reset as soon as possible, and details of the reset should also be recorded in the bridge and engine room logbooks.

When the SHaPoLi / EPL system is applied and the NOx critical settings and/or components have been altered beyond the limits listed in the NOx Technical File, the engine would have to be re-certified.

The documents described in the appendices to Recommendation on the Provision and Display of Maneuvering Information on Board Ships (annex to resolution A.601(15)) namely the pilot card, wheelhouse poster and maneuvering booklet need to be updated jointly with Recognised Organisation (RO) in accordance with section 6 of the IMO Resolution MEPC. 390(81).

SEEMP Part III and CII

Administration email dated 22/11/2022

Statutory functions are integrated, forming part of and in full scope of works in relation to the IEEC and in turn IAPP surveys, which according to the agreement signed between Recognised Organisation (RO) and this Administration, full authorization has been given full (F) authorization (Annex I) to carry out such functions, hence ideally it is the same RO that issue the rest of statutory certificates carry out also such a statutory function.

The Administration authorizes Recognised Organisation (RO) to carry out the below mentioned list of statutory functions pertaining to the CII and SEEMP Part III:

• Approval of the SEEMP Part III and Issuance of its Conformation of Compliance (CoC) as per reg. 5.4.6 of Chapter I of Annex VI of the MARPOL Convention.

• Verification of the CII in accordance with the methodology specified in SEEMP Part III of reg. 28 of Chapter IV of Annex VI of the MARPOL Convention.

• Issue of a Statement of Compliance for Fuel Oil consumption reporting & Operational Carbon Intensity rating as per reg. 6.6 of Chapter I of Annex VI of the MARPOL Convention.

• Submission of the attained and required annual operational CII to the IMO GISIS platform as per reg. 27.9 of Chapter IV of Annex VI of the MARPOL Convention.

Furthermore, it is also important to note that given the inherent and direct relationship between the ship FO consumption data (gathered under the IMO DSC regime), Administration confirms that it is acceptable to provide CII verification surveys and SEEMP Part III approval to ships classed by other RO’s (such as the one that currently verifies the annual DCS data), other than that issuing the vessel’s main statutory certificates (such as IEEC).

Biofuels

(Technical Notice MARPOL.12 Rev.1)

Refer to MEPC.1/Circ.795/Rev.7, extending the scope of the unified interpretation (UI) of regulation 18.3 of MARPOL Annex VI concerning the use of biofuels to include synthetic fuels, which is applicable to Maltese ships.

(Technical Notice MARPOL.14)

Refer to MEPC.1/Circ.905, containing interim guidance on the use of biofuels under regulations 26, 27 and 28 of MARPOL Annex VI (DCS & CII).

As proof of sustainability the Administration accepts certification in terms of ICAO's Approved Sustainability Certification Schemes and the CORSIA Sustainability Criteria (chapter 2) for CORSIA Eligible Fuels. In addition, the Administration accepts certification schemes with similar sustainability criteria such as those recognized under the EU Renewable Energy Directive.

Biofuels not certified as “sustainable” or not fulfilling the well-to-wake emission factor criterion above should be assigned a Cf equal to the Cf of the equivalent fossil fuel type.

The Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) Part III may have to be revised to take account of the lower Cf in the approved CII calculation method.

This guidance should be considered as an interim simplified method until a more comprehensive method is developed to calculate a fuel's Emission Conversion Factor reflecting its well-to-wake GHG emissions and removals based on the LCA Guidelines. This interim guidance shall cease to apply immediately upon operationalization of a well-to-wake GHG methodology through the LCA Guidelines.

Electronic Record Books and Bunker Delivery Notes

(Technical Notice MARPOL.11)

If a shipowner decides to use an electronic record book to record operational logs instead of a hard copy record book, the electronic system utilised must be fully in compliance with the requirements contained in Resolution MEPC.312(74) before it can be approved for use on behalf of the Administration.

Any electronic system deemed to meet the relevant criteria will be issued with a written Declaration of MARPOL Electronic Record Book issued in terms Resolution MEPC.312(74). The said Declaration must be carried on board the ship for the purpose of regulatory surveys and inspections.

In pursuant to par.12.2 of MEPC.1/Circ.795/Rev.8 on the Unified Interpretation to MARPOL Annex VI, the Bunker Delivery Note (BDN), may be acceptable in either hard copy or electronic format. An electronic BDN should be protected from any modification and authentication shall be possible by means of a verification method such as a tracking number, watermark, date and time stamp, QR code and GPS Coordinates.

Recognised Organisation (RO) Assessment of software and issuance of Declaration of MARPOL Electronic Record Book

(Administration email dated 09 November 2020)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized for the review and attesting the use of electronic record book to support the recording of operations and requirements specified in the following MARPOL Annexes and the IMO Technical Code on Control of Emissions of Nitrogen Oxides from Marine Diesel Engines (NOx Technical Code).

Of utmost importance from the PSC perspective is that such a software product has the capability to produce hard copes of the verified records for the Master to certify as a true copy, upon request from the relevant authorities, in fulfilment of par. 6.3 of the IMO Guidelines MEPC.312(74).

Once an electronic system has been installed and successfully commissioned on a Malta Flagged vessel, such a written declaration on behalf of this Administration is issued to be retained onboard the vessel, with such a copy to be forwarded to the Administration at following email address: tech.tm@transport.gov.mt

Unmanned Non-Self Propelled (UNSP) Barges

(Technical Notice MARPOL.15)

An exemption of a UNSP barge from certain survey and certification requirements under MARPOL Annexes I, IV and VI may be granted.

The shipowner/managers should apply to Recognised Organisation (RO), for such an exemption providing the relevant information on the exemption conditions, along with the relevant drawings (General Arrangement Plan, Capacity Plan and any other plans or documents, as necessary). Upon satisfactory review of the submitted plans and information, a survey of the UNSP barge should be carried out to ascertain whether the actual arrangements on board comply with the above listed conditions.Based on satisfactory results of such a survey, an exemption certificate from the survey and certification requirements under MARPOL Annexes I, IV and/or VI, should be issued with a copy of such certificate forwarded to this Administration on: tech.tm@transport.gov.mt.

TONNAGE 69

Certificate of Survey and International Tonnage Certificate (1969)

Refer to the Technical Notice ITC.1 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices and to Merchant Shipping (Tonnage) Regulations, 2002 and Merchant Shipping Directorate Notice No.55 displayed in Merchant Shipping Notices (MSN).

Prior to issuing Certificates of Survey and International Tonnage Certificates (1969) on behalf of the Administration, Recognised Organisation (RO) shall apply for and obtain specific written authorisation from the Directorate. Authorisations are dealt with on a ship by ship basis.

Upon receipt of a request for issuing a Maltese tonnage certificate, the TLO shall tell immediately the owner to contact the Flag Administration with a view to their granting Recognised Organisation (RO) the necessary authorisation.

This authorisation is distinct from the authorisation for statutory surveys and certification that is issued at the time of a ship’s provisional registration under the Malta Flag.

It should be noticed that:

1. Certificates of Survey and International Tonnage Certificates (1969) should be issued in terms of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage) Regulations, 2002.

2. Certificates of Survey and International Tonnage Certificates (1969) should be issued in the format prescribed by the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage) Regulations, 2002.

3. Pleasure yachts having a length under 24 metres (Article 2(8) of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966 as modified by the Protocol of 1988 relating thereto, as amended) should only be issued with a “Certificate of Survey (Tonnage Measurement) for Maltese Ships under 24 metres length, other than Fishing Vessels of more than 15 metres length overall” (Form MS(R) 19c).

4. Upon the issuance of the certificates, Recognised Organisation (RO) should ensure that the original Certificate of Survey and a copy of the International Tonnage Certificate (1969) are forwarded to the Directorate. See Note below.

5. Under the section headed “Remarks” in the International Tonnage Certificate (1969), there should be inserted a breakdown of the gross and net volumes.

6. In instances where the ship’s Official Number and IMO Number differ, the IMO Number should also be entered in the space allocated to the Official Number.

Certificate of Survey and International Tonnage Certificate (1969) Forms

Refer to the Technical Notice ITC.2 Rev.1 dated 13/03/2013 displayed in Technical notices.

Recognized Organizations making use of computer-generated forms for the Certificate of Survey and International Tonnage Certificate (1969) are reminded that these forms shall reflect the contents of formats contained in the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage) Regulations, 2002.

A copy of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage) Regulations can be downloaded from http://www.justiceservices.gov.mt/DownloadDocument.aspx?app=lom&itemid=9605&l=1.

(Email from the Administration dated 19/12/2013)

The Certificate of Survey in the format corresponding to a new model form shall be used for certificates that are issued on or after 1 January 2014.

Specific requirements for pleasure and commercial yachts

(Email from Transport Malta dated 28/06/2011)

In order to better identify pleasure and commercial yachts registered under the Malta Flag, Recognised Organisation (RO) is requested to insert the Hull Identification Number of the vessel in the Certificate of Survey – Forms MSR 17 and MSR 19C (for ships with length of less than 24m), as applicable.

The Hull Identification Number shall be inserted in the Name and Address of Builders section of the Certificate.

Entry in Certificate of Survey - Accommodation for seamen and apprentices

Recognised Organisation (RO) is requested to include also the Master’s accommodation in the entry under the section titled “The number of seamen and apprentices for whom accommodation is certified”.

Conversion and modification of tonnage

(Administration email dated 23/10/2019)

As regards to the BWTS retrofit installation, the Administration considers that such a modification will not be characterised as constituting a “major conversion”, as defined in regulation A-1.5 of the IBWM Convention and under the Circular BWM.2/Circ.45.

Same for EGCS installation whereby this is also not considered as a “major conversion” for the purpose of the MARPOL Convention.

The Administration understanding is:

• A Tonnage calculation should be carried out for any additional structure e.g. the deck house(s) for BWMS or scrubber compartment(s).

• The International Tonnage Certificate should be re-issued except when the flag agrees to retain the existing certificate without any change in the stated tonnage. However, the existing certificate should be annotated with details of the new structure and the effect it has on the tonnage.

• For existing ships (i.e. those which are trading with national tonnage figures), where the tonnage increase calculated in accordance with 1969 Tonnage Convention is not more than 1% GT, the “Remark” in accordance with Res. A.1073(28) for old national tonnage in ITC certificate can be retained, and the old national tonnage can also be retained in other statutory certificates as before.

Reference is also being made to paragraph 2 and 3 of IMO Resolution A.494(XII) giving provisions to use the old tonnage measurements for ships.In accordance with IMO TM.5/Circ.6 Article 3(2)(d)-1, re-issuance of ITC cert is not required should the change in tonnage be less than 1%.

Measurement Guidelines for Yachts and Other Types of Vessels

(Refer to “TM Measurement Guidelines for Yachts and Other Types of Vessels Rev.1” in attached files)

These Measurement Guidelines shall be read and construed together with the Malta Tonnage Regulations.

Existing Malta Flag yachts and vessels, which were already issued with a valid Tonnage Certificate prior to the entry into force of the 2021 Tonnage Regulations amendment, are not required to be re-measured in line with the requirements/interpretations detailed in these Guidelines, unless the yacht/vessel undergoes any modifications which may affect its dimensions and/or its type.

In case of any modifications affecting an existing Malta Flag vessel’s dimensions and/or type, the yacht/vessel shall be re-measured in line with the requirements/interpretations detailed in these Guidelines.

COLREG 72

Untitled

ILO Conventions

Crew accommodations - ILO 92 & 133 conventions

(Email from the Administration dated 08/01/2015)

Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyors are kindly reminded not to issue certificates under the provisions of ILO 92 and ILO 133, and the Merchant Shipping (Crew Accommodation) Regulations, 2004 since these have been superseded by the entry into force of the Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) Rules 2013 on 20 August 2013.

Notwithstanding the above, certificates that had been issued under the provisions of the above mentioned conventions and regulations shall remain valid until their expiry date and shall not be renewed thereafter.

Cargo gears - ILO 152 convention

According to their Fax Message dated 20 July 1999, MMA has adopted a “Five Year Cycle” with respect to the thorough examination and re-testing of Cargo Gear and Lifting Appliances on board Maltese registered vessels, even if Malta is not a Party to ILO Convention 152.

MMA accepts the implementation of the time window of +/- 3 months and -3 months for the anniversary date of the annual inspections and the five-yearly thorough examination, respectively of cargo handling and other lifting appliances such as provisions crane, engine room gantry crane, etc, etc except personnel lifts and elevators.

(Memo 19/11/2010)

In instances where cargo handling and other lifting appliances have been inspected or thoroughly examined within 3 months from the anniversary date of the statutory surveys (refer to SOLAS 74/88), such inspection or through examination shall be deemed valid for the purpose of harmonizing the anniversary date of the aforementioned appliances with the anniversary date for statutory surveys.

Refer also to Technical Notice SLS.40.

It has to be noticed that Dock Safety Regulations, 1953 were amended by Legal Notice 114 of 1999, which is also applicable to foreign ships calling at ports in Malta.

AFS Convention

Issuance of Certificate

Malta ratified the AFS convention.

Surveyors issue the IMO AFS certificate on completion of the satisfactory AFS survey.

BWM Convention

Certification required for existing ships

(Administration email dated 11/02/2020)

For ships constructed before 8 September 2017, following an IOPP renewal survey for the purpose of compliance with the amended regulation B3 of the IBWM Convention, the IBWMC be issued ONLY with D-2 compliance option, even though D1 option remains available as a contingency measure and BWM plan duly updated to clearly include such a contingency measure.

Ballast water exchange in the North Sea

Refer to the Technical Notice BWM.1 dated 31/07/2015 displayed in Technical notices.

A ship, on a voyage between 2 ports located in the North Sea, which under the convention shall at least meet the standard described in regulation D-1, may conduct ballast water exchange in the designated ballast water exchange area in the North Sea.

The precise geographical co-ordinates of the areas may be found in BWM.2/Circ.56.

Advanced IOPP renewal survey

(Email from the Administration dated 10/04/2017)

The Administration encourages ship-owners/operators to maintain the harmonization of all statutory certification. However, the Administration allows the earlier implementation and hence de-harmonization of the IOPP renewal survey, irrespective of the due date of the scheduled IOPP renewal survey.

No further case by case authorization from this Administration is required, however for record purposes, the Administration shall be informed as soon as such early IOPP renewal surveys have been completed, with a copy of the new IOPP certificate and also a copy of the SoC-IBWM Convention certificate to be forwarded on the following email address tech.tm@transport.gov.mt.

Pursuant to MARPOL Annex I Reg 10.2.3, whenever the renewal survey is completed more than 3 months prior to the expiry date of the existing IOPP certificate, the new certificate shall be valid from the date of completion of the renewal survey to a date not exceeding 5 years from the date of completion of the renewal survey.

A note shall be included in the re-issued IOPP certificate stating that: “This certificate was issued based on the date of completion of the early renewal survey dated (dd mm yyyy) in accordance with the flag State’s instructions to ROs issued on the 10 April 2017”.

Such a record on the certificate will further provide a direct documentary evidence of such Flag State’s acceptance.

It must be stressed that this issue will be further discussed at the next MEPC.71 meeting, with a view to make a final decision before circulation (EIF date 8 September 2017) of the draft amendments to regulation B-3, whereby further changes/amendments to the Convention are expected, hence the above position may be subject to further change.

Re-harmonization of IOPP certificate

(Email from Administration dated 10/08/2017)

The Administration has no objections to the re-harmonization of any of the previously decoupled IOPP certificate/s and administratively re-instate the IOPP certificate/s back to their original statutory cycle.

The Administration shall be informed as soon as the IOPP re-instatement/re-harmonization on any of the Malta Flagged vessels has been carried out and shall be communicated to the following email address: tech.tm@transport.gov.mt.

For further information, refer to attached file “Malta_Re-harmonisation_IOPP”.

BWM Plans

(MS Notice 138 displayed in Merchant Shipping Notices (MSN))

BWM.2/Circ.40 provides the possibility for vessels to trade with an unapproved BWM Plan on board for up to three months after the entry into force of the Convention combined though with a statement issued to the Company when the BWM Plan has been received for approval.

Notwithstanding the above, ship-owners are encouraged to submit BWM Plans for approval, as soon as possible. Furthermore, any BWM Plans, approved in accordance with the previous Resolution A.868 (20) or the latest Resolution MEPC.127 (53), should remain valid until the BWM plan requires revision due to the installation of a Ballast Water Management System (BWMS) in accordance with the revised B3 regulation.

BWMP Contingency Measures

(Technical Notice BWM.2)

The Administration recommends that BWMP includes a new section for contingency measures (such as ballast water exchange for vessels already equipped with a D2 compliant ballast water management system (BWMS)), either as an Annex to the existing approved Plan or by inserting a new section within the existing re-approved Plan indicating the date of the revision.

For vessels still not yet equipped with a Type Approved BWMS, it is recommended that this inclusion into the BWMP should be done by the vessel’s BWMS installation date (option D2), as stated in the revised B3 Regulation of the Convention.

For further information, refer to attached file “Technical Notice BWM2”.

BWM Systems

Untitled

(MS Notice 138 displayed in Merchant Shipping Notices (MSN))

Ships using a BWMS shall carry on board a Type Approval certificate, in line with the applicable Guidelines for Approval of Ballast Water Management Systems (G8). BWMSs used on Maltese ships should have been Type Approved in accordance with the procedures contained in the IMO Guidelines Resolution MEPC.174 (58) or MEPC.279(70), as applicable, i.e. Procedure for approval of ballast water management system (G8) and MEPC.169 (57) - Procedure for approval of ballast water management systems that make use of Active Substances (G9).

Untitled

(Technical Notice BWM.3)

Ballast Water Management Systems (BWMS) “installed” on and after 28 October 2020, shall be Type Approved according to the latest requirements laid down in IMO Res. MEPC.300(72) BWM Code.

It is to be taken that the interpretation of the installation date, shall be in line with the unified interpretation contained in IMO Circular BWM.2/Circ.66 Rev.1, whereby in the absence of the contractual date of delivery of the BWMS to the ship, this has to be taken as being the physical delivery of the BWMS.

For further information, refer to the attached file “Technical Notice BWM.3.pdf”.

Commissioning test

(Technical Notice BWM.4)

In November 2021, IMO approved a Unified Interpretation to clarify that the commissioning testing of individual BWMS should be conducted if the initial or additional survey is completed on or after 1 June 2022.

In the case of new ships, it should be noted this requirement applies to ships for which the date of delivery is on or after 1 June 2022.

Electronic Ballast Water Record Books (e-BWRB)

(Administration email dated 26/11/2025)

The approval of the e-BWRB and the issuance of the Declaration of BWM Convention Electronic Record Book are to be handled in the same manner as for MARPOL-related electronic record books.

Following the above and as stated in the Technical Notice MARPOL 11 Rev.1 (see Electronic Record Books and Bunker Delivery Notes), section 5.2 of the IMO Guidelines MEPC.312(74) states that the delegation of the assessment of the electronic record book against the Guidelines and the issuing of a written declaration on behalf of the Administration by recognized organizations (ROs) remains at the discretion of the Administration. In pursuant to the above, the Administration has delegated such a statutory function to the IACS Recognized Organizations.Once an electronic system has been installed and successfully commissioned on a Malta Flagged vessel, the Declaration of BWM Convention Electronic Record Book on behalf of the Administration is to be issued by Recognised Organisation (RO) and to be retained onboard the vessel. A copy of the Declaration is to be forwarded to the Administration’s office at the email address: tech.tm@transport.gov.mt

Miscellaneous Technical Requirements

European Marine Equipment Directive 20/4/90/EU

(Merchant Shipping Notice 145 displayed in Merchant Shipping Notices (MSN))

The Administration inform us of the Directive 2014/90/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on marine equipment and repealing Council Directive 96/98/EC (“MED”).

The MED applies to equipment placed or to be placed on board a Maltese ship and for which the approval of the Directorate is required by international instruments, regardless of whether the ship is situated in the European Union at the time when it is fitted with the equipment. The MED has been transposed into Maltese legislation through the Merchant Shipping (Marine Equipment) Regulations (S.L.234.40).

Equipment covered by Council Decision 2004/425/EC on the conclusion of an agreement between the European Community and the United States of America on the mutual recognition of certificates of conformity for marine equipment does not require prior authorization from this Directorate.

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall inform the Administration in cases where it has been proven or suspected that MED equipment placed on board a Maltese ship is not compliant with the applicable EU and international legislation or whenever any suspected fraudulent conformity documents/wheel marks are found onboard.

Exemptions

In accordance with Article 32 of the MED, in exceptional circumstances, which shall be duly justified to the Administration, when marine equipment needs to be replaced in a port outside the EU, where it is not practicable in terms of reasonable time, delay and cost to place on board equipment which bears the wheel mark, other marine equipment may be placed on board provided that:

• the marine equipment placed on board shall be accompanied by documentation, certifying its compliance with the relevant international requirements; and

• the Administration is informed at once of the nature and characteristics of such other marine equipment.

Equivalences

Upon registration and change of flag, for any non-MED marine equipment identified on board, a Non-MED Equipment form shall be completed (can be filled by ship-owners or their authorized representative, however such a list will have to be endorsed or stamped by the vessel.s class) providing the details of the non-MED items already placed/installed on board.

The Administration will subsequently decide whether the said equipment is considered to be equivalent and can therefore be retained on board or whether it needs to be duly replaced. Furthermore, in accordance with Article 7(4) of the MED, the Administration may also impose any restrictions or lay down any provisions relating to the use of the equipment.

List of non-MED equipment: Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1397 of 6 August 2019 on design, construction and performance requirements and testing standards for marine equipment has entered into force, repealing Implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/773. To this effect the List of non-MED equipment Form has been updated. The revised List of non-MED equipment shall be used in all cases of transfer from a non-EU flag to Malta flag and is in attached file “List-of-non-MED-equipment-Form-2019.docx”.

EU Declarations of Conformity

(Merchant Shipping Notice 153, in attached file “MS Notice 153”)

The Administration reminds that when marine equipment is placed on board a Maltese ship, a copy of the EU declaration of conformity covering the equipment concerned shall be kept on board until the said equipment is removed from the ship. Such EU declaration of conformity should be in the English language and may be in electronic format. During the course of inspections carried out by Recognised Organisations, checks that EU declarations of conformity for specific pieces of equipment are maintained on board shall be conducted. This Directorate shall be informed in cases where EU Declarations of Conformity are not available on board.

Personal lifts and elevators

Refer to the Technical Notice IRO.6 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices.

Personnel lifts and elevators installed onboard Maltese-registered ships shall be subject to periodical inspections, maintenance and testing. The requirements and recommendations of the manufacturer as well as the relevant Recognised Organisation (RO) survey requirements shall be taken into account.

Periodic inspection, maintenance and testing should be carried out by a lift / elevator service provider that is approved or recognized by the manufacturer.

In instances where the Company is unable to source a lift / elevator service provider approved or recognized by the manufacturer, the inspection, maintenance and testing may be carried out by either:

1. a lift / elevator service provider nominated by the Company. The Company shall be responsible for assessing and selecting a suitable service provider and therefore appropriate procedures relating thereto must be established. Shipboard staff should not be nominated for such task/s ; or

2. a lift / elevator service provider proposed by Recognised Organisation (RO).

The Company should notify Recognised Organisation (RO) on arrangements.

Records of inspections, maintenance and testing should be duly maintained and be readily available on board for inspection.

Non-Convention Vessels

Non-Convention Vessels’Single Voyage Procedure

The “Non-Convention Vessels’ Single Voyage Procedure” shall be followed for single transfer voyages of Non-Convention Vessels (NCV) outside the vessel's certified area of operation.

Owners/Managers/Operators shall apply to the Merchant Shipping Directorate (MSD) for the issuance of a Single Transit Voyage Short Term non-Convention Vessel Statement of Compliance (IACS 99) providing the reasons and full details/information/confirmations with regards to the request for the voyage.

An occasional survey shall be carried out in order to confirm that the instructions in the procedure and any MSD additional requirements have been complied with AND to confirm that the vessel is Fit to undertake the single voyage. Any observations and restrictions, such as weather restrictions, distance from shore etc. are to be clearly mentioned on the surveyor’s report/attestation.

The surveyor’s report/attestation/statement shall clearly mention:

1. That an occasional survey has been carried out onboard and that the vessel’s compliance with the IACS Recommendation No.99 requirements is confirmed,

2. That the details/information/confirmation as required in the MSD Single Voyage procedure have been verified and found satisfactory,

3. That the vessel is fit to carry out the single voyage,

4. Any restrictions (such as weather restrictions, distance from shore etc.) imposed by MSD or by the attending surveyor.

Once the surveyor’s report together with (when applicable) the risk assessment are received and satisfactorily reviewed by MSD, a Short Term Non-Convention Vessel Statement of Compliance (IACS 99) may be issued.

For further information, refer to attached file “MSD NCV Single Voyage Procedure Rev 02”.

Non-Convention Vessel (NCV) Code

(Merchant Shipping Notice 170, in attached file)

Rev 2 of the NCV Code replaces NCV Code Rev 1. The NCV Code Rev 2 is effective and comes into force on the 1st September 2021.

NCV Code Rev.2 Section 22 (Passenger Vessel Specific Requirements) and Section 33 (Survey and Certification) come into force on the 1st January 2023.

The Non-Convention Vessel (NCV) Code is applicable to all Non-Convention Vessels equal or above 15m in length overall (LoA) which:

• is a non-SOLAS vessel (self propelled vessels < 500 GT other than passenger vessels; and non-self propelled vessels) engaged on international navigation, which, depending on its GT, may or may not be covered by the provisions of other IMO Conventions; AND/OR

• is a vessel operating exclusively on domestic voyages, irrespective of its GT (including vessels operating exclusively in Maltese Waters). Maltese Waters shall mean Maltese Ports, Maltese Internal Waters and Maltese Territorial Waters.

Compliance with Rev 2 of the NCV Code for Existing vessels, including those vessels already certified in accordance to the NCV Code Rev 1, shall take place at the vessel’s first periodical survey carried out on or after the 1st September 2021.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorised by this Administration to perform the required surveys leading to the issuance of the NCV Certificate. The NCV certificate together with a Record of Equipment is issued by the Administration upon satisfactory review of the required survey reports.

The NCV Code, the NCV Initial Survey Report, the NCV Survey Guidelines and NCV Guidance Notes are in attached files.

Existing vessels not yet under NCV Code

For existing vessels, already certified under the CVC and/or IACS 99 Certification Scheme shall comply with the NCV Code by not later than the 1st periodical survey that is carried out on or after the 1st June 2019.

The revised Non-Convention Vessel (IACS 99) (rev.07) Survey Guidelines shall be used for Initial, Annual and Renewal surveys pertaining to Commercial Non-Convention vessels flying the Malta flag (see attached file “IACS 99 Survey Guidelines Rev 07.docx”).

The Non-Convention Vessel (IACS 99) Survey Guidelines Form duly signed and filled in, shall be sent by the surveyor to the Technical Department of this Administration on email: tech.tm@transport.gov.mt with copy to the MOC.

In case of Initial and Renewal surveys, subsequent to a full review, a Non-Convention Vessel (IACS 99) Statement of Compliance is issued by the Administration. The endorsed Non-Convention Vessel (IACS 99) Survey Guidelines form shall also be sent to the Administration in case of Annual Surveys.

The Non-Convention Vessel (IACS 99) Statement of Compliance document will have a validity of 5 years subject to annual endorsements by an Appointed Surveyor or a Recognised Organisation.

For vessels currently holding valid IACS 99 certification/statements issued by Appointed Surveyors or ROs, compliance with these new procedures shall take place at the vessel's next periodical survey i.e. at the next be it an Annual or a Renewal Survey (whichever is due first).

Static chartering of commercial Non-Convention Vessels

(Refer to “Guidelines for the Static Chartering of Commercial Non-Convention Vessels Rev.01”)

These guidelines are applicable to registered Commercial Vessels issued with an NCV Certificate and flying the Malta Flag.

In the event that the commercial vessel will remain static; berthed or anchored at sea, the vessel may be allowed to carry more than 12 passengers in line with the requirements and the process set out in these guidelines.

For a commercial vessel to be able to be chartered on a static basis, the vessel shall be issued with a Statement by the Administration, allowing Static Charters to be held onboard.

For this statement to be issued an application shall be made to the NCV Section of the Merchant Shipping Directorate and the application shall include in particular (refer to the guidelines for the complete list of requirements):

• a risk assessment, carried out by a Classification Society/Recognised Organisation (RO) or by a Government Appointed Surveyor (AGS). The risk assessment shall identify all risks associated with the vessel being chartered on a static basis, when berthed and when anchored at sea and shall include recommendations about any necessary mitigating measures;

• confirmation from a RO or an AGS verifying that the vessel’s approved Stability Booklet includes a loading condition calculated taking into consideration the maximum number of persons carried onboard and any additional ancillary equipment utilised during the static charter. This loading condition shall also include the possible shifting of all persons to one side of the highest deck of the vessel altogether at the same time (crowding), and shall comply with the requirements and limitations set out in the NCV Code with regards to Intact Stability and to Minimum Freeboard together with the requirements set out in the 2008 Intact Stability Code Part A Chapter 3 – Special Criteria for Passenger Ships (excluding the requirements set out in sections 2.2 and 2.3);

Dynamically Supported Craft

General requirements for lifejackets

Refer to the Technical Notice DSC.1 dated 06/12/2012 displayed in Technical notices and to Section 8.3 of Chapter 8 of the “Code of Safety for Dynamically Supported Craft” (IMO Resolution A.373(X) as amended).

All craft to which the Code applies shall be equipped with lifejackets compliant with the requirements laid down in Section 2.2 of Chapter 2 of the International Life-Saving Appliances Code.

Commercial yachts

Refer also to Commercial Yachting Notice 6 in attached file for the list of MS Notices that are also applicable to Commercial Yachts flying the Malta Flag.

Commercial Yacht Code

The Commercial Yacht Code 2025 (CYC 2025), is the fifth edition of the Commercial Yacht Code that has been drawn up by the Merchant Shipping Directorate, within the Transport Malta. This version updates and replaces the 2020 version (CYC 2020) and is effective as from 1^st July 2025 (see Commercial Yacht Code 2025).

Existing yachts which have been certified or are currently under survey to CYC 2020, shall comply with the requirements of the CYC 2025 by not later than the yacht’s first renewal survey carried out after the 31st December 2025. Thus, all renewal surveys of CYC 2020 certified yachts which are carried out prior to the 31st December 2025 shall be carried out in conformance to CYC 2020, unless the yacht is ready to be voluntarily certified against CYC 2025 prior to the 31st December 2025.

In case of existing yachts already certified in conformance with the CYC 2020 and in case of newbuildings with keel laid prior to the entry into force of this revision of the Code, which may not comply with certain sections of this Code; the Administration may give consideration to proposals made by the attending Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor to phase-in the necessary requirements or equivalents, within an agreed timescale.

Recognised Organisation (RO) has full authorization:

• to approve procedures, plans, manual, bokklets, etc

• to perform interim, initial, annual, periodical, intermediate and renewal survey, and audit/verification, as applicable.

The Certificate/Statement of Compliance is issued by the Administration upon receipt of the Recognised Organisation (RO) survey report.

Commercial Yacht Code 2025

This Code applies to motor and sailing yachts intended for commercial operations, which do not carry more than 12 passengers and which are ≥ 24m length. This Code covers the following categories of yachts:

• Yachts < 500 GT,

• Yachts ≥ 500 GT.

Commercial Yachts certified in accordance with this Code may be granted one of three Navigation Notations as follows:

• Short Range - Navigation within 60 nautical miles from a safe haven; or

• Extended Short Range - Navigation within 150 nautical miles from a safe haven; or

• Unrestricted Navigation.

Surveys and Certificates

As part of the Initial Survey a brief, photographic survey report complementing the Survey Forms MSD CY Initial Rev.2 and MSD CY Survey Guidelines Rev.2 shall be submitted to the Administration.

Upon satisfactory review of the survey reports and related documentation, the yacht will be issued with a Commercial Yacht Certificate having a five (5) year validity. The Commercial Yacht Certificate will clearly indicate the yacht’s operational range and maximum number of passengers and this certificate shall be issued only by the Administration.

Yachts shall carry out annual surveys during the five (5) year validity of the Commercial Yacht Certificate. The Form MSD CY Survey Guidelines Rev.2 shall be utilised during this survey and the applicable sections duly filled in.

Subject to the satisfactory outcome of the annual survey, the Commercial Yacht Certificate shall be duly endorsed on the prescribed space and a copy of the endorsed Commercial Yacht Certificate, together with the survey report, shall be provided to the Administration. Copies of any Statutory Certificates endorsed by the attending surveyor, shall also be sent to the Administration.

A Renewal Survey shall be carried out within three (3) months prior to the expiry of the Commercial Yacht Certificate. The Form MSD CY Survey Guidelines Rev.2 shall be utilised during this survey and the applicable sections duly filled in.

On successful completion of the Renewal Survey, the attending Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor shall endorse the relevant section on the Commercial Yacht Certificate and shall report to this Administration, which after reviewing the survey report and documentation, will issue a new Commercial Yacht Certificate, valid for another five (5) years.

Please refer to attached files as follows:

• Commercial Yacht Initial Inspection Guidelines/Datasheet - “MSD CY Initial Rev.02”

• Commercial Yacht Survey Guidelines - “MSD CY Survey Guidelines Rev.02”

For reference, the Commercial Yacht Code 2025 is displayed in Commercial Yacht Code (CYC).

Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC) 2024

(Commercial Yachting Notice 12)

The sCYC (see Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC)) is applicable to all commercial yachts ≥ 12 metres in hull length LH (ISO 8666) and < 24 metres in Length Art. 2(8), engaged in commercial operations, and which do not carry more than 12 passengers. The sCYC updates and replaces the applicable requirements for commercial yachts < 24 metres Length Art. 2(8) contained within the Commercial Yacht Code (CYC). The sCYC and is effective as from the 1st April 2024.

Existing commercial yachts < 24m Length, already certified in accordance with the Commercial Yacht Code (CYC), shall comply with the requirements of the sCYC by not later than the yacht’s first renewal survey carried out after the 1st June 2024.

sCYC Certified Yachts operating commercially in territorial waters of another country shall also comply with any additional requirements as required by that particular country/port state.

(Administration email dated 05/07/2024)

While the sCYC Section 1.21 states that yachts must hold a CE Certificate conforming to the EU Recreational Craft Directive 2013/53/EU, as amended, yachts issued with a CE Certificate under a previous revision/version of the EU Recreational Craft Directive are considered equivalent for meeting these requirements. Therefore, if a yacht has a valid CE Certificate from an earlier revision/version, a Post Construction Assessment is not necessary.

Surveys and Certificates

A sCYC request shall be made by the yacht’s owner / manager / builder / legal representative to Recognised Organisation (RO). Recognised Organisation (RO) shall request a Certification Authorisation from the Administration by sending an e-mail to:

shipreg.tm@transport.gov.mt

Upon the satisfactory completion of the designated surveys and inspections, a yacht complying with the standards set out in this Code, will be issued with a Small Commercial Yacht Certificate, by the Administration. The sCYC Certificate shall be issued solely by the Administration and shall be valid for five (5) years with the requirement of intermediate and renewal surveys.

As part of the Initial Survey, the survey guidelines form (see attached file ‘MSD sCYC 2024 Survey Guidelines Rev.1”) shall be duly followed and filled in, as applicable, and the survey form shall be submitted to the Administration. A brief photographic reportage, a copy of the yacht’s CE Certificate and CE Declaration of Conformity shall be included with the survey report.

A detailed survey, having the same criteria of a Renewal Survey of the hull, the machinery and of all equipment shall be carried out. A Dry-docking survey shall also be carried out. If at the time of survey, it is not possible to carry out a Dry-docking Survey, then the yacht shall be surveyed afloat and the Dry-docking Survey of the underwater parts shall be carried out not later than six (6) months from the date of the Initial Survey (which may be extended by the Administration for not more than a further 6 months) subject to an internal hull inspection being carried out during the Initial Survey itself.

A Renewal Survey shall be carried out five (5) years subsequent to the last Initial or Renewal Survey anniversary date. A renewal survey shall be carried out within three (3) months prior to the expiry of the sCYC Certificate. As part of the Renewal Survey the survey guidelines form (see attached file ‘MSD sCYC 2024 Survey Guidelines Rev.1”) shall be duly followed and filled in, as applicable, and the survey forms shall be submitted to the Administration. A brief photographic reportage of the yacht shall be included with the survey report.

During a renewal survey a full inspection of the yacht shall be carried out. A Dry-docking Survey shall also be carried out.

On successful completion of the renewal survey, the attending surveyor shall endorse the relevant section on the existing sCYC Certificate and shall report to the Administration. Subsequent to a satisfactory review of the survey report and documentation, the Administration will issue a new sCYC Certificate, valid for another 5 years.

A yacht shall carry out an Intermediate Survey between the 2nd and 3rd year from the last Initial / Renewal Survey anniversary date. The window for the Intermediate Survey opens three (3) months prior to the 2nd year anniversary date and closes three (3) months after the 3rd year anniversary date.

As part of the Intermediate Survey the survey guidelines form (see attached file ‘MSD sCYC 2024 Survey Guidelines Rev.1”) shall be duly followed and filled in, as applicable, and the survey forms shall be submitted to the Administration.

On successful completion of the Intermediate Survey the attending surveyor, shall endorse the relevant section on the sCYC Certificate and shall report to the Administration.

A minimum of two (2) inspections of the outside of the yacht's bottom shall be carried out, in dry dock, during any five-year (5) period. The interval between any two (2) such inspections shall not exceed 36 months.

Deviations / Exemptions / Equivalencies

The Administration may consider specific Deviations / Exemptions / Equivalencies, on a case by- case basis, to any standard mentioned in this sCYC.

For any proposed Deviations / Exemptions / Equivalencies, Recognised Organisation (RO) shall send a formal request to the Administration using the specific Deviation / Exemption / Equivalency Application Form (see attached file “sCYC 2024 Deviation_Exemption_Equivalency Application Form Rev.1”). The application, will be reviewed and, if satisfactory, an acceptance will be issued by the Administration.

Deviations, Exemptions and Equivalencies accepted for CYC certified yachts will be automatically accepted under the sCYC.

Crew Authorisation Attestation

A number of foreign Port Authorities require that they issue a Charter Licence to Commercial Yachts operating in their ports. In order to issue the Charter Licence, in some instances, Port Authorities require a Crew Authorisation Attestation issued by the flag Administration. The Crew Authorisation Attestation confirms that the crew presently onboard are “authorised” and meet the requirements as set out in the Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC).

For the issuance of Crew Authorisation Attestation, a request (see attached file “sCYC Request for Crew Authorisation Attestation Rev.1”) shall be sent by Recognised Organisation (RO) to the Yachting Section at the Merchant Shipping Directorate (MSD) on yachtsmalta.tm@transport.gov.mt

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall check the completeness of the required documentation prior to forwarding the Crew Authorisation Attestation request to the MSD Yachting Section.

Together with the e-mail application the following documents’ / certificates’ copies shall be provided:

1) Yacht’s crew List;

2) Flag Endorsements for all Deck and Engine Officers, or their valid Acknowledgment of Applications in cases where a Flag Endorsement is still in process to be issued;3) In cases where a Flag Endorsement is not applicable for Deck and Engine Officers, such as holders of Yacht Master Certificates or AEC Certificates, their Certificate of Competence shall be provided;4) The Assistant Engineer’s Engine qualification, as applicable;

5) STCW Basic Training Certificate(s) for all Ratings (including the Assistant Engineer if applicable) forming part of the yacht’s minimum safe manning;6) Food handling or Cook’s Certificate for Cooks or Chefs that are required to be included in the Crew Authorisation Attestation.

Commercial Yacht Extended Range Tender

(See Commercial Yachting Notice 2 Rev.1, Commercial Yachts Extended Range Tender Guidelines Rev.2 and Commercial Yachts Extended Range Tender Survey Report Rev.2 in attached files)

The Commercial Yachts Extended Range Tender Guidelines shall be read and construed together with the Commercial Yacht Code (CYC), as amended and the Malta Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC). The requirements detailed in the Guidelines shall be applied in conjunction to the requirements as detailed in the CYC and sCYC, as amended.

Revision 2 of the guidelines replace Revision 1 and will be applicable from the 1st April 2024 and are applicable only to Malta Flag Commercial Yachts’ Tenders which are <= 24m Length of Hull and which are designated as an appurtenance and falling under the Registration Certificate of the Mother Yacht. Extended Range tenders shall be engaged solely and exclusively in the business of the Mother Yacht.

Existing Commercial Yachts Extended Range Tenders shall comply with these guidelines by not later than the Mother Yacht’s first periodical survey on or after the 1st June 2024.

Survey and Certification

Extended Range Tenders shall be surveyed in conjunction with the mother yacht during the mother yacht’s Initial/Renewal Survey and also during the mother yacht’s Intermediate Survey (for mother yachts < 24m) or during the 2nd or 3rd year mother yacht’s Annual Survey (for mother yachts >= 24m)

For existing yachts, the Initial Extended Range Tender survey may be carried outside the mother yacht’s survey window. The subsequent periodical tender surveys will be aligned with the mother yacht’s survey window. The tender’s survey dates will be shown on the Tender’s Certificate.

Extended Range Tenders shall be surveyed by the same Appointed Surveyor/RO surveying the mother yacht for compliance with the Commercial Yacht Code. Tender(s) details and survey outcome shall be duly included in the mother yacht’s survey report and the tender(s) shall be mentioned on the COC.

Upon satisfactory completion of the surveys, the attending surveyor shall issue a Commercial Yacht Extended Range Tender Survey Report using the dedicated Form in attached files.

The Commercial Yachts Extended Range Tender Survey Report together with a copy the tender’s Certification and a copy of the Builder’s Declaration of Conformity shall be sent to the Administration. Upon the satisfactory review of the survey report, and upon payment of the necessary fee, the Administration will issue a Commercial Yacht Extended Range Tender Certificate.

Alternative fuel and bilge lines on commercial yachts < 24m

Refer to Commercial Yachting Notice 10 in attached files.

The bilge and fuel lines shall be made of metallic piping. Furthermore, it is allowed to use certified non-metallic piping meeting the requirements of the IMO Fire Test Procedures (FTP) Code.

MLC Inspections on Commercial Yachts

(Administration email dated 15/10/2024)

The Administration noticed a number of Commercial Yachts < 500 GT which are issued with a Master's declaration or a self-declaration instead of an MLC Inspection Report issued by a RO or by a qualified Appointed Government Surveyors (AGS).This practice goes against CYC (Sections 13.8 & 25.4.11)  and sCYC (Section 21.19) requirements as the CYC and sCYC require ROs or qualified AGSs to carry out MLC Inspections on all yachts and issue an MLC Inspection Report which shall be retained onboard.

In this regard, Recognised Organisation (RO) shall check each yacht for which Recognised Organisation (RO) carry out CYC or sCYC surveys and ensure that MLC Inspections have been duly carried out by a RO or a qualified AGS, and that the relevant MLC Inspection Report has been issued by a RO or by a qualified AGS, in line with the requirements as detailed in the CYC and sCYC.

Endorsements on the SOLAS and Load Lines Certificates

(Email from Transport Malta dated 14/11/2024)

Upon issue or re-issue of the below listed SOLAS and Load Line Certificates to commercial yachts, as applicable, the said certificates should bear the following endorsement:

1. Safety Construction, Safety Equipment and Safety Radio Certificates

   This vessel is to comply with the requirements of the Commercial Yacht Code, 2020, as an equivalent to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended, under the terms of IMO Circular SLS.14/Circ.298 dated 8 November 2007 as a “yacht engaged in trade as a commercial vessel (12 passengers max)” .

2. Load Line Certificate

   This vessel is to comply with the requirements of the Commercial Yacht Code, 2020, as an equivalent to the International Convention on Load Lines 1966, as amended, under the terms of IMO Circular LL.3/Circ.172 dated 7 November 2007 as a “yacht engaged in trade as a commercial vessel (12 passengers max)”.

These endorsements have to be entered into the dedicated box provided in the certificate form displayed in ASMS Certificates Editor.

Radar requirements for Yachts < 300 GT

(Commercial Yachting Notice 8)

CYC Section 15.1.2.1.6 has been amended and should now read:

“All yachts shall be equipped with a MED or CE Certified (for yachts < 300 GT) 9 GHz X-Band radar capable of determining and displaying the range and bearing of radar transponders (SARTs), and of other surface craft, obstructions, buoys, shorelines and navigational marks to assist in navigation and in collision avoidance. For yachts >= 300GT the unit shall be capable of triggering a SART transponder within at least a 5nm radius.”

Any active recommendations concerning the replacement of the 9 GHz radar on yachts < 300 GT, requiring compliance with the 5nm triggering radius, shall be duly deleted and the owners/managers shall be informed by Recognised Organisation (RO) accordingly.

Medical Stores on Commercial Yachts

All yachts are required to carry adequate medical stores suitable for their area and range of operation.

The medical stores and its contents shall be inspected and certified at intervals not exceeding 12 months by a qualified pharmacist or doctor.

Manning guidelines during lay-up and/or wintering periods

(Commercial Yachting Notice 11)

In accordance with Section 17 of the Malta Commercial Yacht Code (CYC), all yachts >= 24m in length shall carry a valid Minimum Safe Manning Certificate, while yachts < 24m must follow the minimum safe manning requirements as detailed in Section 17 of the CYC (Minimum Safe Manning Scales for yachts < 24m metres in length).

The number of crew may be reduced when a yacht is not operational and is laid-up and/or wintering at berth. In these instances, the requirements of the Minimum Safe Manning Certificate/Scales are no longer applicable. In such cases the yacht’s owners/managers are responsible to ensure the necessary manning requirements of the yacht. The number of crew may be reduced below the minimum safe manning levels following a risk assessment carried out by the yacht’s Master.

Refer to attached Commercial Yachting Notice 11.

Garage Structural Fire Protection

(Commercial Yachting Notice 14)

Refer to this Commercial Yachting Notice for clarification about the requirements from the table in the Commercial Yacht Code (CYC) 2025, Section 11.5.5.1, pertaining to Garage Structural Fire Protection for Unrestricted Navigation Yachts < 500 GT having an engine power >= 375 kW.

Ventilation ducts serving category A machinery spaces

(Administration letter dated 27/07/2026)

Regarding the application of Section 11.2.6.2 of the Malta Commercial Yacht Code (CYC), the ventilation duct construction and routing requirements specified in Section 11.2.6.2 are intended to apply strictly to Category A Machinery Spaces, galleys, and other designated high-risk areas, in full alignment with SOLAS Regulation II-2/9.7.2.2. They are not intended to apply to non-Category A machinery spaces.

For ease of reference, Section 11.2.6.2 shall be read and applied as follows:

“Galley exhaust ducts shall have means of access to allow for periodic cleaning of accumulated oily residues. Ventilation ducts serving Category A machinery spaces, galleys, and other high-risk areas shall generally not pass through accommodation spaces. Where it is unavoidable that such ventilation ducting passes through accommodation spaces...”

Pleasure Yachts (Private Yachts)

Carriage capacities

(Email from the Administration dated 27/12/2016)

The carriage capacity of a yacht is measured in number of persons carried onboard.

The Administration, on a case by case basis, and at its own discretion, shall consider approval of any requests for pleasure yachts ≥ 24m in length to carry more than 12 persons onboard. The navigation of Pleasure yachts granted this approval shall not exceed 150 miles from a safe haven (extended short range navigation).

The approval requirements are depending of the yacht’s characterisitics.

For further information, refer to attached file “Pleasure Yachts Carriage Capacity Rev 06 (4).pdf”.

Pleasure Yachts less than 24m hull length

(Yacht Notice 16)

The Non-Mandatory Pleasure Yacht Safety Guidelines for Yachts < 24m and the associated Certification scheme enter into force on a voluntary basis on 1st June 2026.

Surveys should be carried out by Recognised Organisation (RO) and a Pleasure Yacht Safety Certificate be issued by Recognised Organisation (RO). The surveys shall be carried out using the form: MSD Pleasure Yacht < 24m Survey Guidelines Rev.1 whilst the certificate shall be issued using the template: MSD Pleasure Yacht < 24m Safety Certificate Rev.1.

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall forward an electronic copy of the Survey Guidelines and the issued Pleasure Yacht Safety Certificate to the Yachting Section of the Administration at: yachtsmalta.tm@transport.gov.mt by not later than three (3) days from the date of issuance.

MODU code 2009

(Email from Transport Malta dated 04/08/2010)

1. Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to undertake plan review and approval, and survey and certification of units constructed on or after 1 January 2012 in accordance with the provisions of the 2009 MODU Code.

2. Exemptions, Equivalents and / or Alternative Design and Arrangements, contemplated or identified, shall be brought to the attention of the Administration by Recognised Organisation (RO), who shall provide full details thereof including the Recognised Organisation (RO)'s comments / recommendations on the deviation from prescribed requirement/s. Application of the aforementioned provisions is subject to endorsement by the Administration.

Unit of the ship’s engine power

(Email from Transport Malta dated 30/08/2011)The Malta Directorate advises that, taking due note of the Directive 80/181/EEC (see the attached file “CouncilDirective80_181_EEC”), the ship’s engine power that is to be entered by the Recognized Organization on Maltese forms, such as the Certificate of Survey, shall be stated in kilowatts.

Drilling mud as cargo

Refer to the Information Notice 5 in the attached file “InfNotice5-PotentialHazardsAssociatedWithDrillingMud”, which is related to the potential hazards associated with the carriage and handling of drilling mud.

Thiourea dioxide cargo

Refer to the Information Notice 6 in the attached file “InfNotice6”, which is related to the potential hazards associated with the carriage of Thiourea Dioxide (also known as Formamidine Sulfinic Acid).

Indeed, high ambient temperatures and humidity may cause the exothermic decomposition of this substance, resulting in fire and smoke.

Ship Recycling & IHM

Regulation (EU) No.1257/2013

(Merchant Shipping Notice 147)

In application of Regulation (EU) 1257/2013 on Ship Recycling, Maltese-flagged ships will be subject to the following surveys:

1. An initial survey which, for new ships, shall be conducted before the ship is put in service, or before the International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials is issued. For existing ships, an initial survey shall be conducted by 31 December 2020. The initial survey shall verify that Part I of the Inventory complies with the requirements of the Regulation;

2. A renewal survey at intervals not exceeding five years. This survey shall verify that Part I of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials complies with the requirements of the Regulation;

3. An additional survey may be made at the request of the shipowner after a change, replacement, or significant repair of the structure, equipment, systems, fittings, arrangements and material. The survey shall be such as to ensure that any such change, replacement, or significant repair has been made in the way that the ship continues to comply with the requirements of the Regulation and that Part I of the Inventory is amended as necessary;

4. A final survey prior to the ship being taken out of service and before the recycling of the ship has started. This survey shall verify: (i) that the Inventory is in accordance with the requirements of the Regulation; (ii) that the Ship Recycling Plan reflects the information contained in the inventory of hazardous materials and complies with the requirements of Article 7 of the Regulation; and (iii) that the Ship Recycling Facility(ies) where the ship is to be recycled is included in the European List.

Insofar as existing ships intended for ship recycling are concerned, the initial survey and the final survey may be conducted at the same time.

Ships shall be required to carry on board a valid certificate attesting the inventory of hazardous materials or a valid ready for recycling certificate, as applicable, in accordance with the EU Regulation.

For further information, refer to attached file “MS-Notice-147”.

(Merchant Shipping Notice 163 Rev.1)

The Administration wishes to draw the attention of all concerned to the obligations under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation No.1257/2013 related to the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM).

In particular, reference is made to the obligation to carry on board an IHM with a certificate or statement of compliance as appropriate, effective as from 31 December 2020.

Any material declaration supplied to a shipowner shall include confirmation that no Cybutryne is present, with such a suppliers’ declaration following the format given in Appendix 6 of Resolution MEPC.379(80).

New ships built on or after 1 January 2023 shall have onboard an IHM showing record that there is no Cybutryne in their anti-fouling system. For existing ships, before their next IHM renewal survey, shipowners should record whether Cybutryne is present in the ship’s antifouling system (in concentrations on average above 1,000mg per kg of dry paint).

Updated formats in commission implementing decisions (EU) 2026/121 and (EU) 2026/116

(Administration email dated 09/02/2026)

Following the Commission Implementing Decisions (EU) 2026/121 and (EU) 2026/116, on 19 January 2026, the formats of the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) Certificate, and the Ready for Recycling Certificate (RfRC) have been updated, respectively.

All Malta flagged vessels shall now be issued with one International Certificate on Inventory of Hazardous Materials and when applicable, one International Ready For Recycling Certificate, which satisfy the requirements of both regulatory frameworks. The formats of both documents are specified in Commission Implementing Decisions (EU) 2026/121 and (EU) 2026/116, respectively.The updated IHM certificate and when applicable, the Ready for Recycling Certificate shall be issued and replace the existing certificates (including also any SoC on IHM Hong Kong), at the vessel’s next Renewal Survey but no later than 26 June 2030, or prior to recycling of the ship, if earlier.

Hong Kong Convention

Recognised Organisation (RO) is fully authorized for the survey and certification in accordance with IMO Hong Kong Convention.

Wire ropes maintenance

Refer to the Information Notice 35 in attached file “Information Notice 35.pdf” which is related to the dangers of sheathed steel wires on board ships due to restricted access to the wire rope for a thorough inspection and the possible factors for corrosion in wire ropes.

Remote surveys

(Administration email dated 12/10/2020)

The Administration must be contacted on a case by case basis, with supporting elements and advice to the Flag, for Flag formal acceptance, before proceeding with a statutory remote survey/audit/inspection.

Passenger yachts

Passenger Yacht Code (PYC)

(See Passenger Yacht Code (PYC))

The Passenger Yacht Code (PYC) is applicable to Passenger Yachts, which carry more than 12 passengers up to 36 passengers, which carry not more than 200 persons, which do not carry cargo and which are engaged on international voyages.

The PYC is effective and comes into force on the 25th May 2021.

Equivalencies

The Administration, may, on a case by case basis, consider specific equivalencies to any standard mentioned in the PYC. Any proposed equivalency to any specific requirement of the PYC is to be reviewed, accepted and approved first by Recognised Organisation (RO) and then by the Administration.

Exemptions

Exemptions shall be granted only by the Administration.

Applications for any exemption shall be made to the Administration by Recognised Organisation (RO) and shall be supported by a reasonable justification and recommendation for the exemption. The granting of exemptions shall be regarded as exceptional.

Classification

All Passenger Yachts shall be designed, constructed, maintained and assigned a Class Notation as a Passenger Ship in compliance with the structural, mechanical and electrical requirements of a Recognised Organisation and the Passenger Yacht shall be classed and be issued with a Class Certificate by Recognised Organisation (RO). The applicable Recognised Organisation (RO) Rules for classification purposes shall be those used for the classification of Passenger Ships.

The use of classification rules for Commercial Yachts and Pleasure Yachts is not permitted.

Certification under REG Yacht Code

Passenger Yachts which are already Certified under REG Yacht Code Part B, as amended, will be issued with a three month provisional Passenger Yacht certificate (having the same navigation range and restrictions as the existing REG Code Part B certification), pending the compliance with the PYC Code and pending completion of the Initial Surveys.

Passenger Yachts issued with Passenger Yacht Certification by other flag states may also be accepted under this scheme, on a case by case basis, and at the sole discretion of the Administration.

PYC certification

In addition to the issuance of a PSSC Certificate, upon the satisfactory completion of all the required surveys/audits, Recognised Organisation (RO) shall issue a PYC Certificate confirming compliance with the Malta Passenger Yacht Code (PYC). A copy of this certificate shall be sent to the Administration. The form MSD PYC Certificate shall be used as detailed in Annex I of PYC (see attached files) and is available in ASMS2 Certificates.

The Passenger Yacht Code Certificate shall:

1. have a validity of 5 years without any requirement for any annual endorsements and shall be renewed thereafter;

2. include a list of equivalencies applied to the Passenger Yacht, namely:

   1. PYC enhanced Safety and Survivability requirements in lieu of the carriage of lifeboats;

   2. SOLAS 90 Double Bottom requirements in lieu of SOLAS Reg.II-1/9.1;

   3. SOLAS 90 Subdivision and Stability requirements in lieu of SOLAS Reg.II-1/6, Reg.II-1/7 and Reg.II-1/8 for passenger yachts < 80m in length;

   4. PYC requirements in lieu of SOLAS Ch.II-2 requirements in relation to materials used for bulkheads, subdivisions, furniture and furnishings for open decks and cabin balconies;

   5. PYC requirements in lieu of SOLAS Ch.II-2 requirements in relation to Exposed Surfaces Low Flame Spread characteristics in areas designated for the use of the owner and passengers;

   6. PYC enhanced Safety and Survivability requirements in relation to SRtP requirements of SOLAS Reg.II-1/8-1.2, Reg.II-2/21 and Reg.II-2/22 Yachts engaged on Short International Voyages;

   7. Navigation Bridge Visibility in relation to SOLAS Reg.V/22;

   8. PYC requirements in relation to ICLL requirements in relation to Sill/Coaming Heights;

   9. PYC requirements in relation to ICLL requirements in relation to Plimsol markings;

   10. PYC requirements in relation to ICLL requirements in relation to Glazing.

Other statutory surveys, audits and certificates

The Statutory Surveys/Audits that shall be carried out and the Statutory Certificates compliment that shall be issued to a Passenger Yacht are the same as those required for a Passenger Vessel carrying not more than 36 passengers.

The Passenger Ship Safety Certificate (PSSC) shall be complete with a Form P and a List of Limitations, as required by SOLAS. In addition, the PSSC shall contain a note clearly stating: “This is to certify: That Equivalencies in conformance with the Malta Passenger Yacht Code (PYC), in accordance with SOLAS Reg.I-5, have been adopted and are detailed on the PYC Certificate”.

The Load Lines (LL) Certificate shall contain a note clearly stating that “This is to certify: That Equivalencies in conformance with the Malta Passenger Yacht Code (PYC), in line with ICLL Art.8, have been adopted and are detailed on the PYC Certificate”

An Appointed Surveyor or a Recognised Organisation shall carry out the necessary measurements and issue an International Tonnage Certificate.

ISM Code

Authorizations & instructions

Specific requirements

Reporting requirements for lost containers at sea

(Merchant Shipping Notice 199)

As from 1 January 2026, Masters are required to report both the loss and observation of drifting containers without delay, including communication with vessels in the vicinity, coastal States, and the flag State.

Shipowners, ship operators, and masters are requested to reflect these reporting obligations into the onboard Safety Management System (SMS) and ensure that all relevant crew are familiar and well trained with these procedures and reporting requirements. Furthermore, a system must be established to log and verify container loss data to enable accurate reporting.

Enhanced monitoring of Low/Very low performance companies

(Administration letter dated 02/07/2026)

ISM management Companies (DOC certificate holders) under Malta Flag which are classified as “low” or “very low” in THETIS are subject to enhanced monitoring by this Administration. Recognised Organisation (RO) is expected to continuously monitor the performance of all “low” or “very low” performance companies through the below public URL:

https://portal.emsa.europa.eu/web/thetis/company-performance

In view of the above, when submitting cases concerning such managers, Recognised Organisation (RO) is expected to include all supporting documentation which forms the basis of the request at the time of initial submission. This includes but is not limited to:

• Risk assessments with appropriate mitigation measures, reviewed by Recognised Organisation (RO)

• Procurement documentation (e.g. purchase orders, requisitions)

• Evidence of delays, including supplier correspondence and justifications

• Indication if deficiency is affecting Class or Statutory requirements, or both

• Corrective actions undertaken, including documented efforts to rectify deficiencies within the shortest possible time

• PMS records demonstrating maintenance history to identify failure scenarios (e.g. accidental failure vs. lack of maintenance)

• Justification for remote activities, where physical attendance is required but substituted

Submissions lacking adequate supporting documentation may not be processed until complete information is provided.

ISPS Code

Authorizations & instructions

Specific requirements

Cyber security procedures

With reference to IMO MSC 101/24:

• Aspects of cyber risk management, including physical security aspects of cyber security, should be addressed in Ship Security Plans under the ISPS Code; however, this should not be considered as requiring a company to establish a separate cyber security management system operating in parallel with the company SMS;

• IMO resolution MSC.428(98) on Maritime cyber risk management in Safety Management Systems set out the requirements for Administrations to ensure that cyber risks were appropriately addressed in existing SMS (as defined in the ISM Code), verified by an endorsed Document of Compliance and Safety Management Certificate, and that in the Ship Security Plan, reference should be made to cyber risk management procedures found in SMS.

(Technical Notice SLS.10 §10)

The Administration's policy is that while it is acceptable that cyber security is addressed via the SMS, there must be a cross reference in the SSP.

When cyber security procedures are not incorporated in the SMS manual, cyber security must be considered and addressed in the SSA/SSP in order to meet the provisions of Regulations (EC) No 725/2004 (ISPS Code Part B Para 8.3, consequent to article 3.5 of the regulation).

Maritime training institutes and courses (MTC & TC)

Authorizations & instructions

• Guidelines for Approval of MTC (TM MSD SCU 002) and Guidelines for Approval of TC (TM MSD SCU 003) (see in the attached files)

MLC, 2006

Scope of authorisation

Administration instructions

The Merchant Shipping Directorate of Transport Malta would like to inform all Recognized Organizations that the Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) Rules, 2013, have been published on 10^th May 2013. The Rules shall enter into force for Malta on 20^th August 2013.

The Malta Legal Notice 390 of 2016 amends the Malta Merchant Shipping (MLC) Rules 2013 by introducing Merchant Shipping (MLC) (Amendment) Rules 2016 on 18 January 2017 (in attached file “MS Rules 2016 - MLC Amendment”).

1. New ships and change of flag or shipowner:

   In accordance with paragraph 7 of Standard A5.1.3 an inspection shall be carried out on a new ship upon delivery as well as upon a ship’s change of flag. Verification that adequate procedures are in place to secure compliance with the Convention shall be carried out in cases where a shipowner has assumed responsibility of the operation of a ship which is new to the shipowner.

   Similarly to the change of flag surveys carried out for the purpose of certification under the provisions of IMO conventions and codes, all Recognized Organizations are requested to provide at the earliest opportunity this Directorate with details of any deviation that is identified during the inspections and verification.

2. Format of the Interim / Maritime Labour Certificate:

   In accordance with Standard A5.1.3.9 of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, the Interim Maritime Labour Certificate and the Maritime Labour Certificate shall be drawn up in the form corresponding to the models provided in Appendix A5-II to the convention.

   Recognized Organizations are notified that certification issued to Maltese ships under the provisions of either the Merchant Shipping (Crew Accommodation) Regulations, 2004 (Legal Notice 31 of 2004) or under the provisions of the ILO Convention 92 and 133 shall be accepted for the purposes of compliance with the relevant requirements of the draft Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) Rules, 2013.

   In the case of Maltese ships that are not able to present documented evidence of compliance, the Recognized Organization shall undertake a review of the ship’s drawings to evaluate the degree of compliance with any one of the aforementioned standards or alternatively, and subject to agreement by the owner of the ship, the status of compliance with the draft Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) Rules, 2013.

   Any deviations identified during the review and / or inspections shall be notified to the Administration in view of the fact that these have to be recorded in the DMLC I.

3. Reminder created by: “Alden John at Transport” <john.alden@transport.gov.mt> on the 24/09/2013:

   All Recognized Organizations are hereby reminded that the Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) Rules, 2013 (Ref. L.N. 145 of 2013) have revoked the existing Merchant Shipping (Crew Accommodation) Regulations, 2004 (Ref. L.N. 31 of 2004) as of 20 August 2013.

   Consequently, this office requests that the recording of any deviations identified during the inspection on board ships constructed before 20 August 2013 (including any exemptions related thereto) shall reference the respective sections of Appendix I or Appendix II to the Third Schedule of L.N. 145 of 2013 as applicable.

4. Any deviations identified during inspections on board Malta Registered Ships and Commercial Yachts are to be notified to the Administration in the form corresponding to the model attached herewith.

   Kindly also note that:

   1. the NOD forms to used are in attached files: - “MLC NOD Transport Malta Form“ amended in Rev.1 - “MLC NOD CYC Transport Malta Form“ to be used specifically for Commercial Yachts

   2. the RO is to complete the form providing details and convention reference of each specific deviation identified

   3. use of the column titled for official use only is restricted for the Administration

   4. the RO will be notified by e-mail of the exemptions and any conditions related thereto that are acceptable to the Administration as well as deviations that need to be satisfactorily addressed by the shipowner

   5. the Administration will reflect the exemptions granted in the ship’s DMLC Part I upon new application submitted by the shipowner

   6. the RO can proceed with the issue of the Maritime Labour Certificate once the DMLC Part I reflecting the exemption has been issued by this office.

Specific flag requirements

Extracts from Merchant Shipping Notice 105 rev 2

Exemption/Equivalencies

Certificates issued in accordance with the Merchant Shipping (Crew Accommodation) Regulations (L.N. 31 of 2004) are no longer required. Exemptions/Equivalencies issued under these Regulations should be reflected on the DMLC Part I.

Such exemptions / equivalencies / deviations from the requirements of the MLC are to be included in the DMLC Part 1, following an application of the DMLC by the owner to the Administration.

Extracts from Merchant Shipping Notice 107

The Merchant Shipping Directorate would like to draw the attention of all concerned to the new medical certificate for seafarers issued in accordance with the IMO / ILO Guidelines on the medical examination of seafarers. The new medical form meets the standards enshrined in the international convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for seafarers, as amended, the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006, the provisions of the Merchant Shipping Act, the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations and the Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) Rules.

Part A of the medical form is to be completed by the applicant and signed in the presence of a duly qualified medical practitioner who is to complete part B, including the medical certificate for service at sea.

Medical certificates issued prior to 1 October 2013 shall remain valid until their expiry date.

A copy of the medical certificate may be downloaded from: www.transport.gov.mt/admin/uploads/media-library/files/Notice%20107%20-%20New%20Medical%20Form.doc

Extracts from Merchant Shipping Notice 108 Rev.2 – Minimum basic wage

The Directorate would like to draw the attention of all concerned that in accordance with Rule 51 of the Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) Rules, the minimum basic wage for a calendar month of service for an able seaman shall not be less than 618 USD on the 1 July 2019.

As of the 1 January 2020 it shall not be less than USD 625 and as of 1 January 2021, it shall not be less than USD 641 or the equivalent thereof in the specific currency stated in the agreement with the crew.

Extracts from Merchant Shipping Notice No 132 - Amendments to the MLC, 2006

The Merchant Shipping Directorate draws the attention of all concerned to the entry into force of the 2014 amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, on 18 January 2017.

The amendments deal with more stringent financial security requirements in respect of crew repatriation and for compensation for death and disability. Maltese ships will therefore need to carry certification to show that the appropriate cover is in place. There is no need for Malta to issue additional certification.

One is to note that the Declarations of Maritime Labour Compliance Parts I and II (DMLC) and the Maritime Labour Certificates (MLC) issued in accordance with the Convention prior to 18 January 2017, will continue to be recognised, until the first renewal inspection following entry into force of the amendments.

The recognised organisations authorised by Malta should include in the MLC checklist the two financial securities and verify these requirements during the initial, intermediate and renewal inspections. Consequently, the new amendments to the DMLC and MLC will be reflected from the first renewal inspection after the 18 January 2017.

In order to ensure the uninterrupted operation of Maltese ships, it is important that a copy of the relevant certificate or other documentary evidence of financial security issued by the respective P&l Club or insurer, is posted in a conspicuous place on board where it is available to the seafarers. Where more than one financial security provides cover, the document provided by each provider shall be carried on board.

Extracts from Technical Notice SLS.32 - Labelling of Medical Stores

The Merchant Shipping Directorate draws the attention of all those concerned to the interpretation of rule 101 (1) (a) of the Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) Rules.

The said rule provides that:

“Without prejudice to any other law, any container of medical stores required by rule 98 to be kept on board a ship shall have in English on a label the particulars specified in sub-rule (3).”

The Directorate considers on a case by case basis and upon request, equivalent arrangements on the use of other languages other than the English language provided that such language is understood by both the medical professional administering the medicine and the patient receiving it.

On ships having persons of multiple nationalities, it is always recommended that the use of the English language is retained to avoid confusion.

Hospital Ventilation - Revised Interpretation of Rule 92(11) of the Malta Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) Rules 2013

(Administration email dated 26/07/2018)

Rule 92(11) of the Malta Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) Rules 2013 requires that:

“Every permanent hospital, even if served by an air conditioning system or a mechanical ventilation system, shall be provided with a natural system of inlet and exhaust ventilation to the open air independent of any ventilators provided for other parts of the ship.”

This Rule was always interpreted to require all types of hospital ventilation (including forced ventilation and air conditioning systems) independent and totally separate from other ventilation systems onboard the vessel in order to limit the spread of any airborne infectious disease.

Further to feedback received from stakeholders, classification societies and interested parties and also in line with the requirements of the MLC 2006, this Directorate has revised this interpretation as follows:

“A permanent hospital’s natural system of inlet and exhaust ventilation to the open air, shall be totally separate and independent of any other ventilation systems onboard. In case of any airborne infectious disease the hospital can be isolated from the accommodation common ventilation system (forced ventilation and/or air conditioning system), leaving the hospital with its independent natural system of inlet and exhaust ventilation.”

Amendments of 2016 to the MLC, 2006

(MS Notice 148)

Further to the entry into force on 8 January 2019 of the 2016 Amendments to the MLC 2006, Shipowners and ship managers are advised to review their management systems to ensure they include procedures for the elimination of harassment and bullying on board ships.

For further information, refer to attached file “MS-Notice-148”.

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

Agreement

See the attached files:

• “Agreement_RO_Malta_17052017”.

• “Amendment_RO_Malta_RO SA_01102020.pdf”

Appendix — Annex 1 to the Agreement

Applicable instruments and degree of authorization

See the attached file “Annex1_RO_Malta_1092017”.

Appendix — Annex 2 to the Agreement

Reporting to the competent Authority

See the attached file “Annex2_RO_Malta”.

Appendix — Annex 3 to the Agreement

Instruction to the RO

See the attached file “Annex3_RO_Malta”.

Appendix — Notification to the Administration upon completion of the initial statutory surveys

Untitled

See the attached file “notification to the administration”.

Appendix — Recognition of non-Maltese certificates of competence for service on Maltese ships

Untitled

MSD Notice No. 43 is revoked.

Appendix — Mandatory requirements for further training and qualifications

Untitled

See the attached file “merchant shipping regulations - training and certification”.

Appendix — Check lists ILO - Annual survey ISM

Appendix 1 - Check sheet for survey of ILO item

See the attached file “Check-sheet for survey of ILO Items”.

Appendix 2 - Annual survey ISM checklist

See the attached file “Annual Survey ISM Check-list”.

Appendix — ISM code “Declaration of Company”

Untitled

See the attached file “declaration_of_company”.

Appendix — Specific Administration Requirements

Technical notices

Refer to attached file “Technical Notices - Consolidated Version 2018”.

And to the following link:

https://www.transport.gov.mt/maritime/merchant-shipping-notices/technical-notices-2344

Merchant Shipping Notices (MSN)

Refer to attached file “MS Notices Consolidated Version 2024”.

And to the following link:

https://www.transport.gov.mt/maritime/merchant-shipping-notices-92

CAS - Merchant Shipping Notice No. 68 and CAS Instruction to RO

The Instruction to ROs from Malta Maritime Authority, Merchant Shipping Directorate, received on 3 June 2005 are in the attached file “Malta_CAS Instructions to RO”.

These Instructions address the following points:

1. Authorization of ROs

2. Survey Planning Requirements

3. Issuance of Interim Statement of Compliance

4. Reports to the Admnistration

5. Verification of the CAS by the Administration

With regard to the instructions, the following units are concerned:

1. Marine Operational Centres: Paragraphs 2.2, 2.6, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4

2. Connecting Districts: Paragraphs 2.4, 2.5, 2.6

3. Survey Centres: Paragraphs 2.6, 2.9, 3

4. C&R_STAT: Paragraphs 2.7, 2.8

They shall be adhered to when conducting the CAS to a Maltese registered oil tanker.

Refer also to Merchant Shipping Notice No 68 (Posted in the base on 10 May 2005 and in the attached file “MMA_MSD_ 68”).

By memo received on 23/05/2006, MMA informs that the Thickness Measurement Reports should only be submitted when specifically requested the Malta Administration.

Commercial Yacht Code (CYC)

1. 2015 Edition:

   See the attached files “CommercialYachtCode2015” and “SynopsisOfAmendmentsOfTheCYC2015”

2. 2020 Edition:

   See the attached files “CYC 2020” and “Synopsis of amendments of the CYC 2020 Rev.1”

3. 2025 Edition:

   See the attached file “CYC 2025”

Small Commercial Yacht Code (sCYC)

See the attached file “sCYC 2024 Rev.1.pdf”

Passenger Yacht Code (PYC)

See the attached file “Passenger Yacht Code (PYC).pdf”

Appendix — Specific Certificates: National and bilingual International certificates

List of National certificates

- Freeboard Assignment Certificate (NCV Code)

- Passenger Yacht Certificate (PYC Certificate)