Governments all over the world, who are parties to the SOLAS Convention, are required to guarantee that all vessels are appropriately and professionally equipped. One of the main subjects dealt with is that of the radio equipment vessels have on board. Thus, according to the SOLAS Convention, vessels of 300GT and over need to be surveyed to ascertain that they are compliant before having a Cargo Ship Safety Radio License issued on their behalf.
Such Ship Safety Radio Surveys are to be conducted not only when a vessel is initially applying for a radio License, but also at the license renewal stage.
Nevertheless, it has been communicated by Transport Malta, that as of the 1st of July 2015, a copy of the Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate accompanied by the respective Record of Equipment (Form R) are no longer mandatory when renewing such radio certification.
On the other hand, with respect to the issuance of a new permanent radio station license and in cases whereby the Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate in Transport Malta's records has expired and is not available online, the Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate accompanied by the respective Record of Equipment (Form R) will still be required.
Transport Malta, has introduced this measure, as a way to decrease and simplify the procedures and documents required when submitting a request for the renewal of the relevant vessel radio licenses.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
