Coordination between Flag State and PSC
A.1206(34), adopted on 3 December 2025, adds Appendix 20 on security and coordination with the existing DAO function under SOLAS XI-2/9; it neither creates the DAO nor has a convention-style entry-into-force date.
Operational Explanation
The Duly Authorized Officer function comes from SOLAS XI-2/9 and was addressed by earlier guidance. A.1206(34) adds Appendix 20, updates PSCO guidance on security aspects and governs coordination with the existing DAO.
Regulatory Reference
A.1206(34), adopted on 3 December 2025, adopts the 2025 PSC Procedures, invites Governments to implement them and revokes A.1185(33). It is not a Convention amendment entering into force on 1 January 2026. SOLAS XI-2/9 is the basis of the DAO function.
Scope of Application
Every ship and Company subject to PSC inspections, with the Company responsible for maintaining an effective communication channel with the flag Administration and the RO, especially in the event of a deficiency or detention.
Procedure / How to Complete It
- Establish whether the PSCO is also a DAO.
- If not, after clear grounds are established inform and coordinate with the DAO under Appendix 20.
- Keep Convention powers and procedural guidance distinct.
- Engage flag and RO within permitted roles without transferring the port-State decision.
Practical Example
Example: following a detention for a deficiency relating to a statutory certificate issued by an RO, the Company immediately notifies both the flag Administration and the RO itself, coordinating the request for reconsideration with the port State with the technical support of the RO that originally issued the certificate.
What Typically Goes Wrong
Common Mistakes Mistake Library
| Mistake | Consequence | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| Deficiency or detention found during a PSC inspection not promptly notified to the flag Administration or the competent RO | Delayed coordination in managing the consequences and any corrective action | Always promptly notify the flag Administration and the RO of every significant deficiency or detention |
| Validity of the SSO certificate not systematically checked before a security inspection | Clear ground under Appendix 20 of the 2025 PSC procedures: the Duly Authorized Officer is involved and decides the control measures, detention included | Systematically check the validity of the SSO certificate as an absolute priority in inspection preparation |
| Communication with the flag Administration limited to reactive management of individual incidents, without a structured periodic dialogue | A less effective relationship with the flag at critical moments, for lack of already-established communication channels | Maintain a structured periodic dialogue with the flag Administration, not only in response to negative events |
What the PSCO Checks
Operational Tips
- Don't underestimate the role of the Recognized Organization in managing the consequences of a detention: it is often a faster technical interlocutor than the direct flag Administration.
- Check the validity of the SSO certificate as an absolute priority: its absence leaves the PSCO no room for discretion under Appendix 20.
- Build a periodic dialogue with the flag Administration before a crisis arises, not only in response to a detention that has already occurred.
Preparation checklist
Educational checklist. This summary supports learning and preparation only. It does not replace the vessel’s approved procedures, manuals, statutory documents, company SMS, or applicable official requirements. Completing it demonstrates neither compliance nor readiness for an inspection: it shows that a list has been read, not that the ship is in order. Always verify the current documents carried on board.
- Communication channel with the flag Administration and RO kept active and up to date
- Deficiencies and detentions notified promptly to the competent authorities
- Validity of the SSO certificate systematically checked before security inspections
- Compliance with Appendix 20 (Res. A.1206(34)) verified for security inspections
- Structured periodic dialogue with the flag Administration maintained, not only reactive
FAQ
Related Topics
Last substantive revision of this page: 31 August 2026 · page fingerprint 61a572e06198