Ministry of Health, issued circular Clarifyfing on about irs stand and process to be followed in case any vessel is in possesion of Electronic Ship Sanitation Certificates (SSCs) and Renewal Process in Accordance with IHR (2005)-
This is with reference to the observations made by various Port Health Officers, that certain vessels are presenting electronic or digitally generated Ship Sanitation Certificates (SSCs) in place of the prescribed format under the International Health Regulations (IHR), 2005.
The matter has been examined by this Directorate, Ministry of Health, and it is hereby clarified that electronic or digitally generated SSCs are not recognized as valid. Such certificates do not conform to the format specified in Annex 3 of IHR (2005).
All Port Health Officers are accordingly directed to ensure that every incoming vessel is in possession of a valid Ship Sanitation Control Exemption Certificate (SSCEC) or Ship Sanitation Control Certificate (SSCC), 1 month extension are issued from IHR-2005 Authorised ports, issued strictly in accordance with the prescribed format. SSC issued by pest control agency are not considered valid unless it’s issued by Port Health Authority or any other competent authority as declared by the country. Digitally generated or unauthorized electronic versions shall not be accepted for the purpose of granting health clearance. If any
clarification needed on SSC, it may be brought to the notice of Dte.GHS.
In instances where an expired or unauthorized SSC is submitted, a full inspection of the vessel must be carried out in accordance with the relevant provisions of IHR (2005), including but not limited to Annex 3, Articles 20, 25, 27, 28, 39, and 43.
All PHOs are further advised to carefully scrutinize the SSCs presented by vessels and ensure strict compliance with the procedures related to inspection, issuance, and renewal. Any deviation from the prescribed protocols must be reported to this Directorate along with proper justification and supporting
documentation.