Refers to: Ship-owners, Operators, Masters and Managers of PHRS certified vessels

Action Date: 18/03/26

Dear All,

This Newsletter aims to inform all concerned parties about the Revision of Maritime Circular No. 31 issued by the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration. The purpose of this Maritime circular is to outline the procedure, scope and requirements for Flag Safety Inspections of Sierra Leonean vessels.

Application

The aim of Flag Safety Inspections (FSIs) is to enhance the safety standards of Sierra Leonean vessels and decrease the number of deficiencies that may result in the detention of the ship from Port State Control Authorities.

The Flag Safety Inspections (FSIs) apply to all vessels registered with the Sierra Leone Flag.

There are several types of Flag Safety Inspections as follows:

1. Pre-registration FSI: To be conducted prior to the provisional registration of a vessel under Sierra Leone Flag. This type of inspection is applicable when deemed necessary by the Administration.
2. Initial FSI: To be conducted within 3 months from the date of provisional registration.
3. Annual FSI: To be conducted within the 12-month period from the due date of Annual Taxes / Renewal of Registry.
4. Special FSI: To be carried out in special cases such as when the vessel has been detained by Port State Control or any other case as deemed necessary (ref. Maritime Circular No.9 & 11).
5. Periodic FSI: To be conducted at regular intervals, as deemed necessary by the Administration.
6. Follow-up FSI: To be conducted after the completion of a pre-registration, initial, annual, special, or periodic FSI, if deemed necessary by the Administration. During a follow-up FSI, the Flag Safety Inspector may conduct a full inspection in accordance with the Administration’s requirements and is not limited to verifying only the items identified during the previous FSI.

For the full text please follow the link below.

• Maritime Circular No.31

For any questions or further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at technical@phrs.gr or Sierra Leone Maritime Administration at info@slmarad.com.