3.7.1 The MCA is itself an active Certifying Authority.
However, other organisations which are so authorised by the MCA may
appoint persons for the purpose of examining vessels, and may issue
certificates.
3.7.2
Local Authorities appointed as Certifying
Authorities
-
3.7.2.1 The following paragraphs apply only in
respect of vessels certificated to operate in Area Categories 5 and
6:-
-
3.7.2.2 A UK local authority that has in place
a safety scheme which satisfies the requirements of the Code may apply
to be appointed as a Certifying Authority by the MCA for vessels which
are seeking to be certificated to operate under the Code from a nominated
departure point(s) within the local authority's area of the coast
for which it has responsibility.
-
3.7.2.3 Such MCA authorisation, by formal agreement,
permits local authorities, or organisations appointed by them, to
carry out examinations and issue Code certificates for vessels meeting
the requirements of the Code and which operate in Area Categories
5 and 6.
-
3.7.2.4 Local authorities so authorised, or organisations
appointed by them, may also issue Code certificates for a specified
radius of operation of less than 3 miles from a nominated departure
point to sea, based on a standard of safety judged by them to be equivalent
to that of the Code. Application for acceptance of equivalent standards
for a particular operating area as described in paragraph 3.2 must
be made formally by the local authority to the MCA and be based on
local knowledge of the conditions under which vessels will be permitted
to operate. The conditions under which a vessel is permitted to operate
must be stated on its certificate.
-
3.7.2.5 In coastal areas where the local authority
has declined an appointment as a Certifying Authority, the MCA has
appointed Certifying Authorities to carry out examinations of vessels,
and issue certificates to those vessels which comply with the Code.