Barbados: maritime exemptions & equivalences bulletin

The Barbados Maritime Ship Registry has issued a revised bulletin with guidelines for obtaining maritime exemptions and equivalences.

The bulletin was published on 1 February 2024.

Purpose:

This bulletin outlines the process for applying for temporary and permanent exemptions from international maritime conventions, extension of statutory survey periods, and equivalences to convention requirements. It covers situations where vessels fail to comply due to equipment failure, damage, or detainable deficiencies.

Application:

Applicable to all Barbadian vessels.

Introduction:

Defines terms such as "exemptions", "relaxations", "dispensations", and "waivers". Explains the definitions of permits, exemptions, and equivalences.

Application Process:

Temporary Permit: Application submitted to BMSR directly or via Recognised Organizations (ROs) with reason, justification, temporary measures, corrective action plan, and supporting documentation.
Permanent Exemption and Equivalence: Application submitted to ROs, then reviewed by BMSR, including the rule under which exemption is sought and mitigating measures.

BMSR Documents of Approval:

Various certificates issued by BMSR, including Single Voyage Permit, Temporary Permission, SOLAS Exemption Certificate, Load Line Exemption Certificate, Permanent Exemption, and Permanent Equivalence.

Validity:

Explains validity periods for Temporary Permissions and Single Voyage Permits.

Communication and Interpretation:

Exemptions and Equivalences are communicated to IMO through GISIS. Port State authorities interpret the issuance of permits, exemptions, or equivalences as compliance with convention provisions.