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Certification of Offshore vessels, accommodation barges, etc under the provisions Special Purpose Ships Code (SPS Code) while operating in Indian wate
Applicable to:
All vessels carrying more than 12 persons in excess of the Master and crew operating in Indian waters
Effective Date:
05 September 2013
Superseded Circulars:
SD Circular No. 3 of 2008, 2 of 2006, and 1 of 2007 (as amended)
Key Changes and Requirements
1. Vessel Classification and Compliance
Vessels must be certified as a passenger vessel or a Special Purpose Ship (SPS) and comply with the SPS Code or MODU Code, depending on their construction date.
- Vessels constructed after 13th May 2008: Must fully comply with the SPS Code, 2008 (IMO Resolution MSC.266(84)).
- Vessels constructed before 13th May 2008: Must fully comply with the SPS Code (IMO Res. A.534(13)).
- Exceptions: Compliance with the above is not necessary if the vessel fully meets the requirements of the MODU Code 1979, 1989, or 2009.
2. Compliance Certificates and Exemptions
Vessels must have a separate compliance certificate with the SPS Code or MODU Code. Exemptions may apply for non-self-propelled vessels and Indian vessels below 200GT carrying less than 50 personnel.
- Non-self-propelled vessels: Compliance with Chapter 2 of the SPS Code, 2008 is not required; relevant provisions of the MODU Code are acceptable.
- Indian vessels built before 13 May 2008: Exemptions may be considered for fixed fire-fighting systems, sprinkler systems, and other requirements if impractical to comply and suitable alternate arrangements are provided.
II/4 Certificate format: As given in the SPS Code, 2008 or MODU Code.
Important Note
Non-Indian vessels must possess a valid SPS Safety Certificate or MODU Safety Certificate issued by a Recognized Organization of the Government of India to operate in Indian waters.
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