The Singapore Registry of Ships (SRS) experienced a total of 27 ships detained under Port State Control (PSC) regimes in the first three quarters of 2020, with about 50% of total detentions occurring in Australia (13 detentions). We have also experienced higher rates of detention by the following PSC authorities: United States (3 detentions), Belgium (3 detentions) and Russia (3 detentions).

Translating these numbers into percentages, the detention ratio of Singapore ships under the Tokyo MOU is 1.45%, which saw an increase compared with 1.15% for the same period in 2019. Under the Paris MoU regime, the detention ratio is 1.51%, down from 2.10% for the same period.

Whilst we observed that some detentions occurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in a rise of MLC-related deficiencies, a majority of the detentions still occur as a result of common PSC deficiencies. A detailed breakup of the deficiencies are shown below:

To stem the increase in PSC detention worldwide and uphold Singapore's quality flag status amidst the pandemic, SRS operators are urged to arrange for their vessels to be thoroughly inspected to ensure that they are well maintained in compliance with international rules and regulations, and to deal with any deficiencies promptly in accordance with the ISM Code. Serious deficiencies which cannot be rectified immediately shall be reported to the responsible company, MPA (shipping@mpa.gov.sg ) and the ROs as well as the competent authority of the Port State when the vessel is calling at a foreign port.

We have also sent out advisory emails including sharing of detainable deficiencies with the DPAs and ship managers of companies operating Singapore ships to draw attention to the increase in PSC detentions experienced by Singaporean ships in 2020. We urge all ship owners / managers to continue working and collaborate closely with the MPA, respective ROs and the Masters and crew in order to achieve our common objective.