Guinea-Bissau – Guidelines for the implementation of MLC 2022 amendments

C25016 | 24 March 2025

Notice to: Ship Owners/ Managers/ Operators / Auditors

The International Ship Registry of Guinea-Bissau (GB ISR) has issued Marine Circular Nr 02/2025 which summarises the 2022 Amendments to the MLC 2006 and details compliance and implementation requirements for all vessels registered under GB ISR, and all persons employed or engaged or working in any capacity on board GB ISR vessels, to which the Convention applies.  These amendments took effect on 23 December 2024 and address a range of seafarer-related issues, including recruitment, repatriation, accommodation, recreational facilities, food, medical care, health and safety.

A copy of the Amendments can be found here.

Requirements for Guinea-Belize flagged ships:

Requirements for Vessels:

• Newly registered vessels must comply with the amended MLC standards, as per the day of issuance of the current Marine Circular.
• Existing vessels must ensure compliance by the first MLC certificate renewal after this date.
• Shipowners of existing vessels must submit a “Declaration of Compliance with MLC 2006 Amendments 2022” to GB ISR, reg1@gbi-lb.org. for approval. The approved declaration must be retained onboard for PSC inspections.

Requirements for Shipowners:

• Ensure recreational facilities include ship-to-shore communications and internet access.
• Provide nutritious meals and drinking water free of charge.
• Supply adequately sized PPE for occupational safety.

Responsibilities of Recognized Organizations (ROs):

• ROs must update inspection, audit, and certification procedures to incorporate the amendments.
• Verify vessels’ DMLC Part I & II updates during inspections.

Relevant Actions Required:

• Shipowners, Managers, and Operators must apply for an updated DMLC Part I before their next renewal inspection.
• Deputy Registrars, Flag State Inspectors, and ROs must ensure enforcement of the amendments.
• Relevant forms, including the Application for Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance Part I, can be obtained from GB ISR Operations Department.

Consequences of Non-Compliance:

• Non-compliance may result in registration suspension and additional disciplinary measures by GB ISR.

Act now

Ship Owners/ Managers/ Operators/ Auditors are to review and comply with the contents of Marine Circular Nr 02/2025 and ensure its provisions are enforced on vessels registered with GB ISR.