The amendments, which apply from 18 January 2017, relate to the financial security of seafarers in cases of abandonment (Reg 2.5), and contractual claims for compensation in the event of a seafarer's death or long-term disability due to an occupational injury, illness or hazard (Reg 4.2). A copy of the 2014 MLC amendments is available on the ILO's website.
As of 18 January 2017, all ships must have on board a certificate or other documentation confirming that such financial security is in place. Information regarding reqquirements for the contents of the certificate or other documentation can be obtained from the new annexes A2-1 and A4-1 of the 2014 amendments.
The amendments involve the addition of two new points to DMLC Part I and DMLC Part II; No. 15 and 16.
However, it is not necessary to apply for a new DMLC Part I before the due date for renewing the MLC certificate. The MLC certificate and associated declarations (DMLC Part I and Part II) issued before 18 January 2017 will be valid until the MLC certificate expires.
In connection with inspections on board carried out after 18 January 2017 and up until expiry the MLC certificate, the only requirement is that a certificate or other documentation confirming that financial security is in place, can be presented upon request.
When the MLC certificate is to be renewed:
- Send a request for renewal of the MLC certificate to the organisation responsbible for issuing the certificate.
- Send an application for a new DMLC part I to the Norwegian Maritime Authority.
KS-0207-4E Application for DMLC - Part I - Prepare a new DMLC Part II, which must be signed by the inspector after the renewal inspection.
KS-0207-3E Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance - Part II - A new MLC certificate will be issued after the inspection.
If the company nevertheless applies for a new DMLC Part I before the MLC certificate expires, the following will take place:
- A new DMLC Part II must be drawn up and signed by the organisation having issued the MLC certificate. A certificate or other documentation confirming that financial security is in place must be presented upon request.
- The MLC certificate must be endorsed or reissued with the new date for DMLC Part II. Conformity between the content of the DMLC Part I, DMLC Part II and MLC certificate is required.
- The MLC certificate may keet the original expiry date.
- It is not necessary to carry out a new MLC inspection before an ordinary intermediate or renewal inspection is due.