C5.2.3.k. When can an Interim Maritime Labour Certificate be issued?

A flag State need not issue interim certificates, but if it chooses to do so, Standard A5.1.3, paragraphs 5 to 7, sets out the situations when this would be allowed, namely:

(a) to new ships on delivery;

(b) when a ship changes flag; or

(c) when a shipowner assumes responsibility for the operation of a ship which is new to that shipowner.

An Interim Maritime Labour Certificate may be issued once to a ship [see C5.2.3.m.] for a period not exceeding six months by the competent authority or a recognized organization duly authorized for this purpose. A model form for an Interim Maritime Labour

Certificate is contained in Appendix A5-II to the MLC, 2006. An interim Maritime Labour Certificate may only be issued following verification that:

(a) the ship has been inspected, as far as reasonable and practicable, in the 16 areas [see C5.2.3.b.];

(b) the shipowner has demonstrated to the competent authority or RO that the ship has adequate procedures to comply with the Convention;

(c) the master is familiar with the requirements of the Convention and the responsibilities for implementation; and

(d) relevant information has been submitted to the competent authority or RO to produce a Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance.

Flag State responsibilities