Under the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 (‘MLC’):
- Each flag state must have an inspection system to ensure that its ships meet the requirements of the MLC.
- After a successful inspection the ship will be given a Maritime Labour Certificate and a Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance which lists the way in which the country’s laws comply with the MLC and sets out how the ship complies with those laws.
- The following areas need to be inspected by the flag state:
- Minimum age;
- Medical certification;
- Qualification of seafarers;
- Use of private recruitment agencies;
- Work and rest hours;
- Manning levels;
- Accommodation;
- Recreational facilities;
- Food and catering;
- Health and safety;
- Medical care;
- Complaints procedures; and
- Payment of wages.
- A current valid certificate must be posted on board a ship for the seafarer to read.
- If a complaint is received about a ship, it must be investigated by the flag state.
- If a flag inspector finds a serious breach of the MLC, he may stop the ship leaving port.
