Deployment of technicians repair teams etc., on board Indian flag merchant ships/dredgers etc., plying in the India Coast-issues related to possession of continuous discharge certificates [CDCs] clarification - reg.

Applicable to: Indian flag merchant ships/dredgers plying in Indian coast

Effective Date: 16.09.14

Superseded Circulars: None

Key Changes and Requirements

1. Clarification on Continuous Discharge Certificates (CDCs) — for technicians, repair teams, and supernumeraries

Indian flag dredgers and ships engaging expert personnel for specialized jobs and repair works are not required to possess CDCs, as they are not covered by Section 99 of the Merchant Shipping Act.

Immigration authorities: Do not insist on CDCs for such personnel embarking/disembarking at Indian ports.
Inland vessels: Crew sailing on the river-sea belt are exempt from possessing CDCs, provided they have photo-identity documents issued by a Central or State Government authority.

II/4 DGS Circular 5 of 2009

2. Guidelines for placement of supernumeraries

Owners can place supernumeraries on board Indian flag vessels without DGS prior permission, following these guidelines:

Training: Supernumeraries must have valid certificates for Personal Survival Techniques, Fire Prevention & Fighting, Elementary First Aid, and Personal Safety & Social Responsibility.
Safety: Masters must ensure supernumeraries follow safety practices specified in the ship's safety manual.
Numbers: Total individuals on board (including supernumeraries) should not exceed LSA capacity and certified accommodation of the vessel.
Insurance: Shipowners must obtain appropriate insurance cover for supernumeraries.
Repatriation: Shipowners must ensure contracts with supernumeraries include provisions for repatriation.
Duration: Placement of supernumeraries should be for the minimum duration necessary, not exceeding 4 months.

Important Note

Carriage of supernumeraries in violation of these guidelines may result in vessel detention and suspension of the company's General Trading License.

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