1 Purpose
This Marine Notice describes the MLC 2006 Inspection service provided by Novaveritas Maritime Division (NVMD) on behalf of authorized flag state administrations. It explains the inspection scope, the Maritime Labour Certificate (MLC), and the Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance (DMLC).
2 Applicable Instrument
The Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC 2006), as amended, entered into force on 20 August 2013. It establishes minimum working and living standards for all seafarers working on ships engaged in international trade. Flag states that have ratified the MLC 2006 are required to ensure that ships flying their flag comply with its requirements and hold a valid Maritime Labour Certificate.
MLC 2006 applies to all ships of 500 GT or over engaged in international voyages, and to ships of 500 GT or over flying the flag of a member state operating from a port, or between ports, in another country.
3 NVMD's Role
Where delegated by the flag administration, NVMD carries out MLC 2006 inspections, issues or endorses Maritime Labour Certificates (MLC), and verifies the Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance (DMLC Part I and II).
4 Areas of Inspection
NVMD MLC inspections verify compliance with the following Titles of MLC 2006:
| Title | Subject Matter |
|---|---|
| Title 1 | Minimum age, medical certificates, seafarer employment agreements, recruitment |
| Title 2 | Hours of work and rest, manning levels, entitlement to leave, repatriation, compensation |
| Title 3 | Accommodation, recreational facilities, food and catering |
| Title 4 | Medical care, health protection, welfare, social security |
| Title 5 | Flag state compliance, port state inspection, labour-supplying responsibilities |
5 Certification
Upon satisfactory inspection, NVMD issues a Maritime Labour Certificate valid for five (5) years, subject to intermediate inspection between the second and third anniversary date. The Certificate is accompanied by a DMLC Part I (prepared by the flag administration) and DMLC Part II (prepared by the shipowner). Both documents must be posted on board in a prominent place accessible to seafarers.
6 Deficiencies & Non-Conformities
Deficiencies identified during the MLC inspection must be rectified within the timeframe specified by NVMD. Failure to correct major non-conformities will result in refusal to issue or withdrawal of the MLC Certificate, and notification to the flag administration.