The Safety of Life at Sea convention — fire protection, life-saving appliances, drills, GMDSS radio and navigation safety, focused on what matters day-to-day on board.
Ships must undergo periodic surveys — initial, renewal, intermediate and annual, depending on the certificate — carried out by the flag state or a recognized organization (classification society) acting on its behalf.
Key certificates include the Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate, Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate, Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate (or a combined Cargo Ship Safety Certificate), and the Load Line Certificate.
A ship in a foreign port may be inspected by Port State Control to verify that the ship and its equipment substantially comply with the certificates on board. Deficiencies can result in rectification requirements or, for serious cases, detention.
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