MPA conducts flag State control inspections to ensure that Singapore-registered ships are well maintained and safely operated, and monitors the work performed by recognised organisations and nominated surveyors acting on its behalf.
Introduction
MPA surveyors may inspect and audit a Singapore-registered ship and the safety management system of its company under the authority of:
- Section 206 of the Merchant Shipping Act; and
- Section 22 of the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea Act
Objectives of flag State inspections
Flag State control inspections:
- Support the quality shipping objectives of MPA.
- Enforce high standard of compliance with international and national rules and standards for Singapore-registered ships.
- Verify the actual condition of Singapore-registered ships conform to the certificates they carry. The scope of the verification includes:
- Hull, equipment and manning;
- Safety management; and
- Security systems
- Ensure that the ship’s crew can effectively:
- Co-ordinate their activities in an emergency situation;
- Perform functions vital to safety; and
- Prevent or mitigate pollution
- Monitor the work performed by recognised organisations and nominated surveyors that act on behalf of the MPA.
Inspection process
- Qualified surveyors from MPA conduct flag State control inspections
- The master receives an inspection report upon the completion of an inspection
- The master is required to rectify any deficiencies in accordance with the conditions stated in the inspection report
Detention of ships
The Director of Marine may detain a Singapore-registered ship if it is unsafe or has violated any requirements or regulations under:
- Section 113 of the Merchant Shipping Act; and
- Section 23 of the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea Act
Appeal
The shipowner or company may appeal against a detention within 30 days from the date of notification. The appeal should not cause the detention to be suspended. A shipowner or company that wishes to appeal should state the reasons and provide supporting evidence in writing to the Director of Marine.
Contact details
- Flag State Control Department
- Shipping Division
- Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
- 460 Alexandra Road #21-00 PSA Building
- Singapore 119963
- Tel: (65) 63751929
- Fax: (65) 6375 6231
- Email: shipping@mpa.gov.sg
