Extension of SEA service period due to the outbreak of Coronavirus

09 March 2020 |  C20011

A number of Flag Administrations wish to advise ShipOwners on the seafarers employment agreement service period due to the outbreak of Novel Coronavirus

NOTICE TO
Ship Owners/ Managers/ Operators | Surveyors / Auditors

In January 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared that the outbreak of novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) constituted a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

International efforts to stem the spread of the outbreak has led to an increasing number of countries and their port authorities placing immigration restrictions which may result in difficulties for ShipOwners to arrange change of crew when the SEAs of the crew expire.

In light of the above, a number of Flag Administrations have released official notices advising on the requirements of such situation on board and in which circumstances a Flag exemption could be granted for this purpose.

More specifically, Panama Maritime Authority has issued MMN-03/2020 and Maritime Cook Islands has issued MCI.224/2020.

Act now

Ship Owners/ Managers/ Operators of above mentioned flagged vessels are invited to note above important update, take necessary actions and contact the Flag Administrations, in order to arrange an exemption, when required and avoid any issues with Port State Control Officers and/or any recommendations.