- Vessels Linked to Russian Trade May Face Deregistration.
- Shipowners Urged to Conduct Due Diligence Before Entering Russian Ports.
- Seafarers with Expired Certificates Advised to Contact BMA.
The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) has put out an important alert, warning that sanctions from the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union could have a direct impact on vessels owned, operated, financed, or insured by Russian entities, as well as those involved in trade with Russia. Bahamian ships or companies engaged in these activities are strongly encouraged to assess the potential fallout, which includes legal, operational, and regulatory risks, reports Safety4Sea.
Call for Legal Due Diligence and Risk Assessment
The BMA is urging shipowners, managers, and charterers to consult with independent legal experts about the implications of these sanctions. Before heading into Russian ports or participating in trade related to Russia, it’s crucial to conduct thorough due diligence to uncover any connections to sanctioned entities or prohibited activities.
The alert highlights that vessels operating in or near Russian ports, especially in the Black Sea, are facing serious risks due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. These risks include direct attacks, collateral damage, and the presence of sea mines.
Potential De-Flagging of Sanctioned Bahamian Vessels
Any Bahamian-flagged ship that falls under sanctions from the U.S., EU, UK, or even the Bahamas itself could be at risk of deregistration. The BMA has cautioned that such situations may result in removal from the Bahamian ship registry.
Guidance for Russian and Ukrainian Seafarers
This alert also highlights important issues for Russian and Ukrainian seafarers working on Bahamian ships. Suppose their Certificates of Competency (CoCs) or any other necessary certificates happen to expire while they’re out at sea. In that case, companies should reach out to the BMA Seafarers and Manning Department right away to find a solution.
Ongoing Monitoring and Reporting Requirements
The BMA is keeping a close eye on the movements and activities of all Bahamian-flagged vessels operating in Ukrainian and Russian waters.
Ships must ensure that their AIS (Automatic Identification System) and LRIT (Long-Range Identification and Tracking) systems are functioning properly at all times, in line with SOLAS Chapter V regulations. Any issues with these systems need to be reported to the BMA immediately.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Safety4Sea
