Refers to: Ship Owners / Managers / Operators of Sierra Leone flagged vessels, PHRS Surveyors / Representatives     

Action Date: 28 Feb. 2022

The purpose of subject newsletter is to advise all interested parties to avoid any operations in the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) of Ukraine and/or Russia within the Black Sea.

Ship Security level for all vessels operating within the EEZ of Ukraine and/or Russia within the Black Sea is set to Security Level 3. Vessels which are currently at Ukrainian ports are advised to depart as soon as safely possible.

All Ukrainian ports have been closed by the Ukrainian military forces. In addition, Kerch strait has been closed by the Russian military forces and access to Azov Sea is currently prohibited.

All Sierra Leonean vessels trading on the EEZ of Ukraine and/or Russia within the Black Sea shall comply with the below requirements:

a. Threat risk assessment to be conducted prior entering the EEZ. Master and CSO shall review and take appropriate measures as per the Ship Security Plan.

b. Closely monitor for deviations and failures of navigation and communication data due to disturbances.

c. Always report their position through AIS and LRIT. In case of a failure of AIS and/or LRIT equipment the Administration shall be informed immediately.

d. VHF channel 16 must be monitored on a continuous basis.

e. Ensure that the fire-fighting equipment are in order and ready for use.

f. Access onboard is strict, controlled and limited to a single point.

In case of an incident, vessel must inform the Administration immediately and activate the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS).

The Maritime Circular n.46 can be found here.

 Do not hesitate to contact us for more information you may need on the above.

March 11th, 2022 - PHRS Head Office