Vanuatu – PSC Focus on MARPOL VI

C25020 | 27 March 2025

Notice to: Ship Owners / Managers/ Operators / Surveyors / Auditors :

The Vanuatu Maritime Administration (VLAS) has published Fleet Safety Letter 122324.GEN advising that Port State Control (PSC) is intensifying inspections on NOx compliance, focusing on NOx Technical Files, Engine Parameter Records, and spare parts.

The Fleet Safety Letter (FSL) notes that the EIAPP certification of engines and the maintenance of records have already resulted in several PSC detentions.

VLAS recommends:

• Ensuring all original NOx Technical Files and EIAPP certificates are on board and Record Books are accurately maintained and readily available for inspection.
• Record Books of Engine Parameters should be diligently updated to reflect all changes and replacements, while spare parts should be checked to ensure their IMO IDs match the Technical Files.
• Missing or incorrect IMO identification numbers must be addressed promptly, including consulting engine manufacturers for amendments.
• Immediate corrective measures should be taken for any non-compliance, and proactive steps must be adopted to minimize risks during inspections.

The FSL also includes as an Annex ‘Guidelines for Port State Control under MARPOL Annex VI’ (A 33/Res.1185), which provides guidance on the conduct of Port State Control (PSC) inspections for compliance with MARPOL Annex VI.

For assistance or further guidance, contact VLAS directly.

Act now

Ship Owners/ Managers/ Operators/ Surveyors/ Auditors should take note of the Fleet Safety Letter together with the Guidelines, and be guided accordingly.