Step 6. Get Flag State Certification

It is essential to understand your Flag State's requirements for certification. Under existing regulations you will need to obtain a certificate of equivalency to allow ECDIS to be used to fulfil the SOLAS chart carriage requirement.

The certificate is proof that the vessel has a type approved ECDIS, fitted in accordance with IMO requirements and an approved back-up system. You should check that your Flag State will accept the type-approval certification for the ECDIS equipment you wish to fit.

Where ECDIS has been fitted this should be indicated on the record of equipment attached to the vessel's safety equipment certificate; this will also give details of the backup that is to be used.

You should also talk to your classification society and insurance / P&I club to see if they have any further specific requirements.

Flag State requirements may change following the adoption of carriage requirements for ECDIS, so it will be important to remain in close contact with them.

Pull together the paperwork
  • Obtain Letter of Equivalency from your Flag State
  • Ensure the ECDIS Type-Approval Certificate is accepted
  • Talk to your Class Society, Insurance and P&I clubs. They may have further specific requirements
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