Singapore implements dispensations for equipment malfunctions in registered ships

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) published Shipping Circular No. 6 of 2024 to announce the issuance of dispensation by Recognised Organisations (ROs).

This circular was published on 10 June 2024.

Recognised Organisations (ROs), since 16 June 2024, have been issuing dispensations to Singapore-registered ships for malfunctioning equipment listed in specific annexes of the circular. Dispensations allow ships to continue operating temporarily despite equipment malfunctions, provided certain risk control measures are in place.

Key Points:

Dispensation Definition: Dispensation refers to temporary approval granted by ROs to allow Singapore-registered ships to operate despite malfunctioning equipment. This is granted with a limited validity period and requires risk control measures for safety.

Application Process: Shipowners, shipmanagers, operators, and masters of Singapore-registered ships must apply for dispensations through their ship’s classification society (Class). Applications must include relevant supporting documents.

Annexes:

1. Annex 1: Malfunction of equipment under Safety of Navigation
2. Annex 2: Malfunction of equipment under Radio Communications
3. Annex 3: Malfunction of equipment under MARPOL Annex I
4. Annex 4: Malfunction of equipment under MARPOL Annex IV
5. Annex 5: Malfunction of equipment under MARPOL Annex VI
6. Annex 6: Malfunction of equipment under Ballast Water Convention
7. Annex 7: Malfunction of equipment under Emergency Systems
8. Annex 8: Malfunction of other Shipboard equipment

Application Requirements: Companies must submit applications to Class, which is authorized to issue short-term certificates or statutory conditions valid for up to two months. Extensions beyond two months require consultation with the Administration.

Port State Control: Short-term certificates or statutory conditions will not be issued for deficiencies identified by port State control.

Reporting: Class must inform the Administration if a Singapore-registered ship receives two or more dispensations for malfunctioning equipment within the same period.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):

Issuance of Dispensation by Recognised Organisations (ROs)