Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations.

 

1.             References

a)              Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024

b)              International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended (SOLAS)

c)              International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as amended (MARPOL)

d)              The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW)

e)              International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments (BWM Convention)

f)               Technical Code on Control of Emission of Nitrogen Oxides from Marine Diesel Engines (NOx Technical Code 2008)

g)              Resolution MEPC.372(80) Guidelines for the use of electronic record books under the BWM Convention.

h)              Resolution MEPC.312(74), Guidelines for the Use of Electronic Record Books under MARPOL, adopted 17 May 2019

i)                Resolution MEPC.314(74), Amendments to MARPOL Annexes I, II, and V (Electronic Record Books), adopted 17 May 2019

j)                Resolution MEPC.316(74), Amendments to MARPOL Annex VI Electronic Books and EEDI regulations for Ice-strengthened Ships, adopted 17 May 2019

k)              Resolution MEPC.317(74), Amendments to the NOx Technical Code 2008 (Electronic Record Books and Certification Requirements for SCR systems), adopted 17 May 2019

l)                MEPC.369(80) Amendments to the International Convention for the Control and Management for the Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004

m)            MEPC.383(81) Amendments to the International Convention for the Control and Management for the Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments, 2004

n)              Resolution A.916(22) Guidelines for the recording of events related to navigation

2.             Purpose

2.1           This Bulletin outlines the requirements for the use of electronic record keeping systems: MARPOL Electronic Record Books (MERBs), Ballast Water Electronic Record Book (BWERB), and Electronic Logbook Systems (ELSs).

3.             Application

3.1           This Bulletin applies to all Managers wishing to use Electronic Record Keeping Systems on Barbadian vessels.

4.             General

4.1           MERBs, BWERBs and ELSs are permitted to be used on Barbadian vessels subject to compliance with this Bulletin and approval by the BMSR as per Sec. 9 below.

4.2           When switching to electronic record keeping, vessels shall continue to preserve their existing hard copy books for at least three years after the last entry is made, unless otherwise required.

5.             General Requirements for Electronic Record Keeping Systems

5.1           This section details the minimum requirements for any Electronic Record Keeping System and takes into account Resolution A.813(19).

5.2           Arrangements for software replacement, update or upgrade should be effectively implemented under a documented system. The Managers are responsible for ensuring that electronic record keeping systems are maintained to the latest standards required by the BMSR or the relevant international Conventions.

5.3           Where the system can support a client/server installation, the server should be capable of recording client data using multiple workstations simultaneously.

5.4           Minimum Data Reporting & Exporting Requirements:

.1                        The system shall be capable of reproducing records in hard copy (i.e. print out);

.2                        The system shall be capable of producing reports in PDF format;

.3                        Where data export is provided, the system should allow the data to be exported to another system in XML or other internationally standardised format;

.4                        Nothing within the system, or the contractual arrangements between the Managers and equipment supplier, shall prohibit the provision of information to duly authorised officers of an Administration, inspectors, surveyors, auditors, investigators, etc. relating to the discharge of their duties.

5.5           Recording of Entries:

.1                        All users shall have a unique username and password for accessing the system, or another form of login that is unique for each user;

.2                        The identity of the user making entries into the system shall be clearly identified;

.3                        Where automated recording of navigational and machinery events is featured, the electronic deck or engine room logbook or data logger must be able to record relevant events, along with the necessary inputs, in real time.

.4                        All entries shall have a stamp or input with date and time (UTC and local time on board);

.5                        The system shall not allow the deletion of any entries. Any subsequent amendments or corrections to an entry must be clearly identifiable (e.g. by crossing through the original entry with a line) and show the identity of the user making the amendment or correction;

.6                        The system shall be capable of electronically registering the signature or endorsement of the Master and other responsible Officers on all relevant entries;

5.6           Back Up and Recovery of Entries:

.1                       The power supply to the system should be fed from both the main and emergency source of power;

.2                       The system should be capable of making secure copies or backups of the entries to ensure that the information will not be lost if the system fails. The system shall be able to recover data from the copies or backups.

.3                       The system should be able to export all entries to a standard removable storage device, such as a USB memory stick.

.4                       The system shall retain official records for at least the minimum period specified in the relevant legislation or international Conventions as per the guide to retention periods provided in Sec. 12 below.

.5                       Unofficial records shall be retained by the system for the period established by the Managers.

6.             Electronic Logbook Systems (ELSs)

6.1           The minimum requirements for ELS are those of Sec. 5 above and in conjunction with Resolution A.916(22).

6.2           For the purposes of this Bulletin, electronic records are categorised as:

.1                        “Official” records required by the Barbados Merchant Shipping Act or international Conventions and Codes;

.2                        “Unofficial” records that are not required by national legislation or international Conventions and Codes, but are commonly used.

6.3           The following official records may be maintained in an ELS:

.1                        Barbados Official Logbook Part I;

.2                        Barbados Official Logbook Part II (Passenger Ships only);

.3                        Articles of Agreement or Seafarer’s Employment Agreements;

.4                        Data relevant to all seafarers as per STCW Regulation I/14.1.4

.5                        GMDSS Radio Logbook Records required by SOLAS IV/Reg. 17;

.6                        Compass Error Book required by SOLAS V/Reg. 19;

.7                        Records of navigational activities and daily reporting required by SOLAS V/Reg. 28;

.8                        Security Records required by SOLAS  XI-2/Reg. 9.2.3;

.9                        Safety Records required by SOLAS  III/Reg. 19.5.

6.4           The following unofficial records may be maintained in an ELS:

.1                        Deck logbook (also known as Bridge Logbook);

.2                        Engine room logbook;

.3                        Biofouling Record Book

6.5           ELSs used to record official records must capture the information required to be recorded in paper logbooks by the relevant legislation or international Convention.

6.6           Official Logbook Part I & II:

.1                        The Barbados Merchant Shipping Act Sec. 1252 does not specify whether the Official Logbook has to be a hard (paper) copy, only that a logbook is kept and that specific entries are recorded.

.2                        Accordingly, information that is normally recorded in the Official Logbook Part I or Part II may be maintained in an ELS provided that all information required in the relevant sections of the hard copy Official Logbook Parts I & II is recorded.

6.7           Any information in a section of the Official Logbook Parts I & II that is not recorded in an ELS shall be maintained in a hard copy Official Logbook.

6.8           In cases where some information is in a hard copy Official Logbook and some is in an ELS, the hard copy Official Logbook shall contain a statement indicating where the electronically recorded data is stored.

6.9           All sections of the Official Logbook that are maintained electronically must be capable of being printed out in the same layout as the hard copy Official Logbook and exported in PDF format.

6.10       Printed pages must be signed by the Master as a true and complete copy of the corresponding entries in the ELS.

6.11       Articles of Agreement or Seafarer’s Employment Agreements

.1                        Where electronic management of crew articles is enabled, the system should be capable of recording information relevant to the crew list, including the following:

i)           Full name of the crew member;

ii)         Home address;

iii)        Age;

iv)        Place of Birth;

v)         Nationality;

vi)        Passport Number;

vii)      Next of Kin;

viii)     Position on board;

ix)        Certificate of Competency details;

x)         Place and date of embarkation;

xi)        Place and date of disembarkation.

7.             MARPOL Electronic Record Books (MERBs)

7.1           This section outlines the requirements for MERBs that are intended to replace paper MARPOL Record Books.

7.2           The minimum requirements for MERBs are those of Sec. 5 above and in conjunction with MEPC.312(74), MEPC.314(74), MEPC.316(74) and MEPC.317(74)

7.3           The following MARPOL Record Books may be maintained as MERBs:

.1                        MARPOL Annex I – Oil Record Book Part I;

.2                        MARPOL Annex I – Oil Record Book Part II;

.3                        MARPOL Annex II – Cargo Record Book for ships carrying noxious liquid substances in bulk;

.4                        MARPOL Annex V – Garbage Record Book Part I;

.5                        MARPOL annex V – Garbage Record Book Part II;

.6                        MARPOL Annex VI – Record Book for Fuel Oil and Ozone Depleting Substances;

.7                        MARPOL Annex VI – Record of the tier and on or off status of marine diesel engines;

.8                        MARPOL Annex VI – Record of Fuel Oil Changeover;

.9                        NOx Technical Code – Record Book of Engine Parameters;

.10                    EGCS record book (EGCS guidelines).

7.4           MARPOL Annex I – Oil Record Book Parts I & II may be used as MERBs, provided that:

.1                        Entries cannot be deleted;

.2                        Any changes to existing entries are clearly shown, along with the identity or electronic signature of the person who made the change;

.3                        The system is auditable;

.4                        The system is capable of printing records in the Oil Record Book format specified in the Appendix to MARPOL Annex I.

7.5           Printed Pages are to be maintained onboard for the period(s) required by MARPOL Annex I as indicated in Sec. 12 below.

7.6           The MARPOL Annex II – Cargo Record Book for Ships Carrying Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk may be used as MERB, provided that it meets the following requirements:

.1                        The record follows the recording requirements of MARPOL Annex II;

.2                        Entries cannot be deleted;

.3                        Any changes to existing entries are clearly shown, along with the identity or electronic signature of the person who made the change;

.4                        The system is auditable;

.5                        The system is capable of printing records in the Cargo Record Book format specified in the Appendix to MARPOL Annex II.

7.7           The MARPOL Annex V – Garbage Record Book Part I & II may be used as MERBs, provided that they meet the following requirements:

.1                        The record follows the recording requirements of MARPOL Annex V;

.2                        Entries cannot be deleted;

.3                        Any changes to existing entries are clearly shown, along with the identity or electronic signature of the person who made the change;

.4                        The system is auditable;

.5                        The system is capable of printing records in the Garbage Record Book format specified in the Appendix to MARPOL Annex V.

7.8           The MARPOL Annex VI – Record Book for Fuel Oil and Ozone Depleting Substances may be kept as MERB, provided that it meets the minimum requirements specified in Sec. 5 above.

8.             Ballast Water Electronic Record Book (BWERB)

8.1           This section outlines the requirements for BWERBs that are intended to replace paper Ballast Water Record Books.

8.2           The minimum requirements for BWERBs are those of Sec. 5 above and in conjunction with Resolution MEPC.372(80).

8.3           Resolution MEPC.369(80) updated the Ballast Water Record Book (BWRB) format, with new amendments taking effect on the 1^st of February 2025. Therefore, new BWERBs shall be approved, considering the latest amendments, and all existing approved electronic record books are to be reviewed and appropriately updated to ensure relevant BWM Convention amendments are incorporated in the BWERBs book by the 1^st of October 2025, as per Resolution MEPC.383(81).

9.             BMSR Approval of Electronic Record Keeping Systems

9.1          When Managers select an electronic record keeping system for use on a Barbadian vessel, they shall apply to the BMSR for approval, submitting:

.1                        The Name and IMO Number of the vessel that will have the system installed;

.2                       The system Type Approval Certificate (TAC), or equivalent, issued by a Barbados RO.

.3                        A statement from the Company confirming the following:

i)      The installed system complies with the specific requirements set out in this Bulletin;

ii)     The crew has been appropriately trained in the management, use and operation of the system, in compliance with Regulation I/14.1.4 of the STCW Convention;

iii)   The routines and processes for the conservation and maintenance of the entries in the system comply with relevant requirements and guidance, and procedures for data entry, extraction and retention are incorporated in the Safety Management System;

.4                        A list of logbooks and record books that will have their entries captured in the electronic record keeping system;

9.2          The BMSR may require the Company or the electronic record keeping system vendor to demonstrate the features of the system to ensure that it complies with the requirements of this Bulletin. The BMSR will advise if this is required at the time of application.

9.3          On satisfactory review of the information in Sec.9.1 above and payment of the appropriate fee, the BMSR will issue a Letter of Approval (LoA) for the specific vessel, depending on the electronic record keeping system, including:

.1                        Letter of Approval of Electronic Logbook Systems (ELSs);

.2                        Letter of Approval of MARPOL Electronic Record Books (MERBs);

.3                        Letter of Approval of BWM Convention Electronic Record Book (BWERB).

9.4           Each LoA will list the official records permitted to be stored by the system and shall be kept on board of the vessel using the system, for presentation to duly authorised officials when requested.

9.5           Each LoA is valid for five (5) years from the date of issue and is subject to the vessel being managed by the Company noted on the approval document.

9.6           The Company shall notify the BMSR of any changes to the system or the procedures related to its use in the Safety Management System that affect the LoA.

9.7           The availability of each LoA will be verified at Barbados flag inspections.

10.         Declaration for MERBs and BWERB after a survey

10.1       When installed onboard, a “Declaration of MERB” or “Declaration of BWERB”, as per the Appendices of MEPC.312(74) and Resolution MEPC.372(80), respectively,  shall be issued to the vessel by the RO upon physical attendance and installation survey.

10.2       The declaration serves as proof of meeting the requirements as installed and shall be kept onboard for regulatory surveys or inspections.

11.         Provision of Data to New Managers or Owners

11.1       The international Conventions require certain records to be retained by the ship for specified periods, as indicated in Sec. 12 below.

11.2       Accordingly, Companies using electronic record keeping systems must provide the relevant records to the new Company to cover the required minimum retention period.

11.3       The records may be provided as:

.1                        a PDF or XML file; or

.2                        printed out; or

.3                        in a data format that can be used by the new Company’s system.

11.4       In all cases, the ability to present the records to duly authorised officers upon request must be available on board the vessel.

12.         Minimum Retention Periods for Official Records

Record Type	Minimum Retention Period	Reference
Official Logbook Part I	7 years after entry made
Official Logbook Part II	7 years after entry made
Articles and Crew Agreements	7 years after expiry
Record of navigational activities under SOLAS V/28	1 year	Resolution A.916(22) para. 4.4
Radio records required by SOLAS IV/17	1 year
Ballast Water Electronic Record Book (BWERB)	2 years onboard 3 years by the Company	BWM Convention Regulation B-2.2
Oil Record Book Part I	3 years	MARPOL Annex I Reg.17.6
Oil Record Book Part II	3 years	MARPOL Annex I Reg.36.7
Noxious Liquid Substances Record Book	3 years	MARPOL Annex II Reg.15.5
Garbage Record Book Part I	2 years	MARPOL Annex V Reg.10.3.5
Garbage Record Book Part II	2 years	MARPOL Annex V Reg.10.3.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revision No	Description Of Revision
1.0	First issue.  Supersedes Bulletin 304 and 332

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations.

1.             References

a)              International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS)

b)              IMO Resolution A.959(23) Format and guidelines for the maintenance of the continuous synopsis record (CSR)

2.             Purpose

2.1           This Bulletin is issued by the Barbados Maritime Ship Registry (BMSR) to advise shipowners, managers and other interested third parties of the validity of certification issued by DNVGL AS on behalf of Barbados, following the change in name of the Society to DNV AS.

2.2           A copy of this Bulletin should be retained on board for presentation to interested parties, including Port State Control Authorities.

3.             Recognition of Statutory Certificates

3.1           DNVGL AS is a Barbadian Recognised Organisation (RO) and Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) and authorised to perform statutory services and issue statutory certificates on behalf of Barbados. The existing Agreement with DNVGL AS is considered as the current Agreement under which DNV AS will perform statutory services and issue statutory certificates on behalf of Barbados.

3.2           Existing certificates issued by DNVGL will remain valid, until their expiry date or until reissued.

3.3           The BMSR also recognises statutory certification now issued by DNV AS.

4.             Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR)  

4.1           The Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR), as per SOLAS XI-1 Reg.5 and Resolution A.959(23), requires the Classification Societies and issuing bodies for the Safety Management Certificate, Document of Compliance, and International Ship Security Certificate to be identified on the CSR, In order to reduce the administrative burden to owners and the BMSR, the BMSR does not require CSRs to be re-issued to reflect the change of name of DNVGL AS to DNV AS. The name changed to DNV AS will only be reflected on new CSRs issued due to a change of other mandatory information on the CSR document – i.e., change of name, change of owner/manager details, transfer of class, etc.

4.2           Existing CSR’s which identify DNV GL as the class society, RO or RSO should be treated as identifying DNV AS and will remain valid, until issuance of a new CSR is required, due to change of other required information.

 

Revision No	Description Of Revision
1.0	First Issue
1.1	Amended bulletin format
2.0	Major revision with new format

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations.

 

1.             References

a)              1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)

b)              MSC.1/Circ.1334 Guidance to shipowners and ship operators, shipmasters and crews on preventing and suppressing acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships

c)              PPO01-F04: Memorandum of Agreement Part I

d)              PPO01-F09: Piracy and Armed Robbery Report

e)              Resolution A.917(22) Guidelines for the onboard operational use of shipborne Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) as amended by Resolution A.956(23)

f)               Resolution A.956(23) Amendments to the Guidelines for the onboard operational use of shipborne automatic identification systems (AIS) (res. A.917(22))

g)              BMP5 Best Management Practices to Deter Piracy and Enhance Maritime Security in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea

h)              Regional Guide 2 to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (2022)

i)                IMO Circular Letter No.3684

2.             Purpose

2.1           This Bulletin is to provide advice on the risks to vessels from piracy and armed robbery, and outlines the process for reporting attacks, both successful and unsuccessful, to the BMSR.

3.             Application

3.1           This Bulletin applies to all Barbadian vessels.

4.             Western Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden

4.1           Attention is drawn to BMP5 Best Management Practices to Deter Piracy and Enhance Maritime Security in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea.

4.2           The BMSR requires all Barbadian vessels to register with the MSCHOA at least four days prior to entry into the vessel registration area. Vessel operators and masters should note that reporting is still required even if the vessel does not intend to enter the HRA. The registration form can be found on the MSCHOA website at www.mschoa.org. Users will be required to register an account in order to submit vessel reports.

4.3           The UK Maritime Trade Operations Office (UKMTO) operate a Voluntary Reporting Area (VRA). Vessels must submit an initial report to UKMTO and subsequent daily position reports whilst in the VRA. Routine position reports should not be sent to MSCHOA.

4.4           Companies are reminded that following the BMP and ensuring their vessels are registered and reporting correctly will assist naval forces to manage their resources efficiently to offer the best protection against piracy and ensure an effective response should military intervention be required.

4.5           The BMSR and military forces in the area use Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) data to monitor compliance with the reporting schemes. However, the MSCHOA registration and UKMTO reporting schemes require more information about the vessel and crew than can be obtained through LRIT reporting. Therefore, companies and masters of Barbadian vessels must continue to report in line with MSCHOA and UKMTO procedures and not rely solely on LRIT transmissions.

5.             West Africa including the Gulf of Guinea

5.1           The Maritime Domain Awareness for Trade – Gulf of Guinea (MDAT-GoG) is a voluntary reporting mechanism that has been established to share information regarding piracy incidents in the area.

5.2           Full details of the scheme are provided in IMO Circular Letter No.3684.

5.3           Barbadian vessels should participate in the scheme by reporting their positions whilst inside the voluntary reporting area, indicated on chart Q6114.

5.4           Reports can be made by telephone (+33 (0)2 98 22 88 88) or by email (watchkeepers@mdat-gog.org).

6.             Southeast Asia and the South China Sea

6.1           Attention is drawn to the Regional Guide 2.

6.2           Piracy in the Asian region takes a different form to that of the African Regions. Rather than the violent kidnap and ransoming of crew, the perpetrators usually board to steal unsecured items, vessels stores and engine parts. However, the number of incidents in this region is still higher than in other parts of the world, and the dangers posed to the crew and vessel must not be ignored.

6.3           A Voluntary Community Reporting (VCR) scheme is in operation in the area, as depicted in charts Q6112 and Q6113. All Barbadian vessels operating within the VCR area are strongly encouraged to participate in the scheme. Further details can be found in Annex C of the Regional Guide 2.

7.             Automatic Identification System (AIS) Policy

a)              In accordance with PPO01-F04: Memorandum of Agreement Part I

b)              PPO01-F09: Piracy and Armed Robbery Report

7.2           Resolution A.917(22) as amended by Resolution A.956(23), if the master believes that the continual operation of AIS might compromise the safety or security of his/her vessel or where security incidents are imminent, the AIS may be switched off.

7.3           Unless it would further compromise the safety or security, if the vessel is operating in a mandatory vessel reporting system, the master should report this action and the reason for doing so to the competent authority.

7.4           When the AIS is switched off, this must always be recorded in the vessel’s logbook together with the reason for doing so, and the master should restart the AIS as soon as possible after the source of danger has disappeared. The vessel should routinely transmit its position to the shipping company at given intervals, thereby giving the shipping company a first notice that something is amiss if the transmissions are interrupted.

7.5           When an attack is expected, or suspicious activity is detected, the AIS should be switched on as soon as possible to enable security forces to locate the vessel.

8.             Long Range Identification & Tracking (LRIT) Policy

8.1           The LRIT equipment must not be switched off whilst the vessel is transiting or in the vicinity of a High-Risk Area.

8.2           Should it be necessary to switch off the LRIT equipment, the BMSR must be informed before doing so by email to registry@barbadosmaritime.com

9.             Reporting of Piracy or Armed Robbery Incidents

9.1           The BMSR considers it vital that all attacks, both successful and unsuccessful, are reported to the nearest RCC (or regional piracy focal point where applicable), to the BMSR, and to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre.

a)              The BMSR reports all piracy and armed robbery attacks on Barbadian vessels to the IMO for distribution in its monthly piracy reports. The form PPO01-F04: Memorandum of Agreement Part I

9.2           PPO01-F09: Piracy and Armed Robbery Report shall be completed by the master or company to ensure all necessary data is submitted.

9.3           All reports are to be made as soon as possible, to enable necessary action to be taken.

10.         Use of privately contracted armed security personnel

a)              Barbadian vessels can and should take measures to protect themselves from pirates and armed robbers and masters are encouraged to follow the recommendations in MSC.1/Circ.1334 Guidance to shipowners and ship operators, shipmasters and crews on preventing and suppressing acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships

10.2       For legal and safety reasons, firearms should not be carried or used by seafarers for personal protection or for the protection of a vessel. Seafarers are civilians, and the presence of firearms on board may encourage attackers to carry their own firearms or other weapons and escalate the situation further.

10.3       The BMSR permits the use of privately contracted armed security personnel, subject to approval by the BMSR Technical Department.

10.4       The BMSR has set five rules for engagement that must be followed by all armed security personnel on board Barbadian vessels.

.1                        Visual demonstration that the vessel is under security guard protection;

.2                        Audible warning to the sea going threat not to approach the vessel, inside 500m range;

.3                        Warning shot to deter any further approach towards the vessel from the sea going threat, inside 200m range;

.4                        Engage the vessel with minimal force to dissuade its continued approach, inside 100m range;

.5                        Use of deadly force is sanctioned only where armed insurgents have boarded the vessel and there is clear and immediate danger to those persons onboard and the vessel.

10.5       The requirements for the BMSR approval to carry armed guards are:

.1                        Form PPO01-F04: Memorandum of Agreement Part I has been signed as accepted by BMSR and returned to the operator;

.2                        The BMSR Rules of Engagement, detailed in paragraph 10.4, have been agreed to by the security company;

.3                        The boarding security personnel shall be under the command of a Team Leader;

.4                        The Team Leader will be under the command of the vessel’s Master;

.5                        All weapons boarded shall be under the control of the employees of the security company only, and that no unauthorised contact with the weapons will be allowed;

.6                        The security company will provide all clearances etc. required for embarking and disembarking armed personnel on and off the vessel by the respective port Authorities;

.7                        The security company shall sign their agreement to comply with the BMSR Rules of Engagement, as detailed in paragraph 10.4;

.8                        The Master shall follow all current practices for reducing the risk of unauthorised boarding, including the registering of the vessel and its transit with UKMTO and MSCHOA;

.9                        The Master will consider suggestions from the Team Leader for the further reduction of risk onboard his/her vessel.

11.         Further sources of advice and information

11.1       The Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa (MSCHOA)

.1                        Website: https://www.mschoa.org/

.2                        Telephone: 0033 (0) 298 220 220 / 0033 (0) 298 220 170

.3                        Fax: 0033 (0) 298 220 171

.4                        Email: postmaster@mschoa.org

11.2       ReCAAP Information Sharing Centre (ReCAAP ISC)

.1                        Website: https://www.recaap.org/

.2                        Telephone: +65 6376 3063

.3                        Fax: +65 6376 3066

11.3       United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UMKTO)

.1                        Website: https://www.ukmto.org/

.2                        Telephone: +44 (0) 2392 222060

.3                        Email: info@ukmto.org

11.4       Maritime Domain Awareness for Trade – Gulf of Guinea (MDAT-GoG)

.1                        Website: https://gog-mdat.org

.2                        Telephone: +33 2 98 22 88 88 (emergency)

.3                        Telephone: +33 2 98 22 13 02 (exercise)

.4                        Email: watchkeepers@mdat-gog.org

11.5       BMSR

.1                        Website: https://barbadosmaritime.org/

.2                        Telephone: +44 (0)207 636 5739

.3                        Emergency 24hr phone: +44 (0) 7494 116 754

.4                        Email: ops@barbadosmaritime.com

 

 

Revision No	Description Of Revision
1.0	First Issue
2.0	Major revision with new format

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notice to: Shipowners, Operators, Officers, Flag State Inspectors and Recognised Organisations.

1. References

a) Barbados Merchant Shipping Act, 2024
b) S.I. 2025 No. 33 MERCHANT SHIPPING (MARITIME ACCIDENT AND INCIDENT INVESTIGATION) REGULATIONS, 2025
c) IMO Resolution MSC.255(84) Code of the International Standards and Recommended practices for a safety investigation into a Marine Casualty or Marine Incident (Casualty Investigation Code)
d) The International Safety Management Code (ISM Code)
e) Bulletin 035 – Piracy and Armed Robbery
f) Bulletin 010 – Barbados Reporting Requirements
g) IMO Resolution A.1056(27) Guidelines on Fair Treatment of Seafarers
h) PPI01-F01 Accident Report Form

2. Purpose

2.1 This Bulletin provides information on BMSR’s reporting requirements for reporting Marine Accidents and Marine Safety Investigations.
2.2 This Bulletin does not cover reporting of Piracy incidents, which are addressed in Bulletin 035.
2.3 This Bulletin does not cover the reporting of Piracy incidents, which are addressed in Bulletin 035.

3. BMSR Contact Details

3.1 In case of emergency the BMSR contact details are as per below:
.1 Email: accidents@barbadosmaritime.com
.2 Emergency 24-hour phone: +44 (0) 7494 116 754

4. Application

This Bulletin applies to all Barbadian vessels engaged in international voyages.

5. Definitions

For the purposes of Section 229 of the CAP 296, “marine accident” refers to both a marine casualty and a marine incident as defined in this section.
5.1 For the purposes of Section 2(1) of the S.I. 2025 No. 33, “marine accident” refers to both a marine casualty and a marine incident as defined in this section.
.1 The death of, or serious injury to a person. In this context, a serious injury renders the person unable to perform their usual duties for >72 hours and includes occupational accidents;
.2 The loss of a person from a vessel;
.3 The loss, presumed loss, or abandonment of a vessel;
.4 Material damage to a vessel or marine infrastructure. In this context, material damage means the structural integrity, performance or operational characteristics of the vessel or infrastructure are significantly affected and require major repair or replacement of a major component or components.
.5 The vessel is unfit to proceed or requires flag state approval or a condition of class before it is allowed to proceed.
.6 At sea, a breakdown of the vessel, required towage.
.7 The stranding or disabling of a vessel, or the involvement of a vessel in a collision.
.8 Damage to marine infrastructure external of a vessel that could seriously endanger the safety of the vessel, another vessel or any individual.
.9 Pollution, caused by damage to a vessel or vessels.
5.2 A very serious marine casualty means a marine casualty involving the total loss of the vessel or the death of a person or severe damage to the environment.
5.3 A marine incident, is an event or sequence of events, which has occurred directly in connection with the operation of a vessel that does not meet the criteria to be classified as a marine casualty (as in Section 5.1 above) but that endangered or, if not corrected would endanger, the safety of the vessel, its occupants or any other person or the environment.
5.4 A marine incident or marine casualty does not include a deliberate act or omission, with the intention to cause harm to the safety of a vessel, an individual or the environment.

6. Marine Accident Reporting

6.1 The Master or senior surviving officer of a Barbadian vessel must notify the BMSR of any marine accident, regardless of location.
6.2 The vessel’s owner or manager must notify the BMSR of any marine accident unless they are satisfied that the Master or senior surviving officer has made the report.
6.3 All notifications are treated confidentially, and a reporter’s identity will not be released.
6.4 Any notification of a marine accident made to the BMSR does not remove any obligation to notify other Organisations, such as Coastal and Port State authorities.
6.5 The BMSR should be informed immediately if a port or coastal State initiates an investigation or takes any other action in relation to an accident.
6.6 An Initial Report of any accident must be sent to the BMSR within 24 hours of the occurrence, via telephone or email. The Initial Report should provide brief details of the incident, such as:
.1 vessel’s name and IMO number;
.2 the nature of the accident, date, and time;
.3 vessel’s location, and next port of call if at sea;
.4 confirmation that port or coastal State authorities have been notified; and,
6.7 Notification must not be delayed until the completion of an internal company investigation.
6.8 And follow up to the initial report, PPI01-F01 Accident Report Form must be submitted within 24 hours.

7. What not to Report

7.1 There is no requirement to report:
.1 Defects to equipment and vessel detentions unless they are related to a marine casualty or marine incident.
.2 Injuries to passengers that did not result from activities connected with the operation of the vessel. For example: a passenger suffering a fall on board a vessel, where the vessel’s movement, design, or acts or omissions by crew were not contributing factors.
.3 Damage or injuries occurring ashore, which do not involve the vessel’s equipment.
7.2 Notwithstanding the list of serious marine casualties contained in Section 6.1, Owners and the Master are encouraged to report to the BMSR any accident which may fall within the scope of their ISM Code reporting requirements.

8. Evidence

8.1 Following a marine accident, the BMSR may require access to additional information and evidence. Therefore, all charts, logbooks, recorded data (hard copy or electronic) relating to the period prior to, during and after the marine accident, and all other documents, records and equipment which may be pertinent to the marine casualty or marine incident must be preserved.
8.2 Where a vessel is fitted with a Voyage Data Recorder, the data recorded by it must be saved immediately and steps taken to prevent the data becoming overwritten. Preservation is mandatory for marine casualties.

9. Accident follow up and Marine Safety Investigation

9.1 Following a preliminary review of the facts provided in the initial reporting and PPI01-F01 Accident Report Form (when applicable), the BMSR may seek to obtain such information as it considers necessary concerning the marine accident and any remedial action taken. A description of actions taken and/or recommendations made to prevent recurrence may be requested. In some cases, the Company’s investigation report will be sufficient, but the BMSR may seek further details if required.
9.2 A Marine Safety Investigation (MSI) will be conducted for all the very serious marine casualties, as defined in Sec. 5.2 above.
9.3 A marine safety investigation might be conducted into marine casualties (other than very serious marine casualties) and marine incidents if it is considered likely that an MSI will provide information that can be used to prevent marine accidents in the future.
9.4 The purpose of an MSI is to help prevent further avoidable accidents from recurring, it does not seek to apportion blame or establish liability. Instead, it works alongside shipowners to help ensure that lessons learned from a casualty are implemented and the likelihood of recurrence is reduced.
9.5 When an MSI is carried out, the BMSR publishes the MSI report that includes safety recommendations and safety learning to improve safety at sea.

10. Offences

10.1 Under Section 19(1) of the S.I. 2025 No. 33 it is an offence not to report a marine accident or provide information required without reasonable cause. This may result in the suspension of the certificate of registry (COR) of the vessel until the contravention is rectified, or in the deletion of the vessel from the register.
10.2 A person who commits an offence as per Section 19(1) of the S.I. 2025 No. 33 is liable on summary conviction to a fine of USD 25,000. A person who fails without reasonable cause to comply with Section 19(1) of the S.I. 2025 No. 33 commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of USD 12,500 or, on conviction on indictment, to a fine of USD 37,500.

11. Rights and Fair Treatment during MSIs

11.1 MSIs are conducted in accordance with Resolution A.1056(27) and witnesses have the right to:
.1 nominate a person to be present during interviews (with BMSR approval);
.2 receive legal advice if there’s risk of self-incrimination;
.3 and access their own written statements upon request.
11.2 BMSR may exclude accompanying persons if their presence hinders the investigation.

12. MSI Draft Reports and Comments

12.1 Substantially interested States or parties are given the opportunity to comment on a draft report prior to final publication. BMSR will:
.1 allow 30 days for comments;
.2 address significant objections in the final report; and
.3 require assurance that drafts will not be circulated or disclosed.
12.2 This process supports transparency and ensures factual accuracy before public release.

13. Confidentiality and Independence

13.1 All investigation materials—including VDR data, medical info, and witness statements—are confidential. These are not disclosed for purposes other than the MSI unless ordered by a court or otherwise authorised by BMSR.
13.2 Statements remain the property of the individual and may only be shared with their explicit consent.
13.3 BMSR ensures that MSIs are conducted independently, without external influence. Investigators operate free from commercial, political, or legal pressures. The process is impartial and confidential.