Coast Guard Seeks Comment on Implementation of Maritime Labour Convention

On February 11, 2013, the U.S. Coast Guard issued a notice seeking public comment on a draft Navigation and Inspection Circular (NVIC) providing voluntary guidance on the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006. Although the United States has not ratified the Convention, U.S.-flag vessels engaged on international voyages should consider obtaining evidence of compliance with the Convention, as provided in the NVIC, when making port calls in signatory countries. The NVIC governs the process by which recognized classification societies will issue "Statements of Voluntary Compliance, Maritime Labour Convention" on behalf the U.S. Coast Guard. Vessels without such compliance evidence, even if from non-signatory countries, risk port detention. The Convention, which enters into force on August 20, 2013, sets and seeks to enforce hours of work/rest, accommodations, recreational facility, food, safety and similar standards for seafarers. Comments on the draft NVIC are due by March 13, 2013.