Arrange a Ship Sanitation Inspection

Which ships need to be inspected?

Ships on an international voyage require to have a valid ship sanitation certificate. Certificates are valid for 6 months from the date of issue.

Inspections will generally be carried out at the request of the ships agent, however, routine checks may be made by officers to ensure that ships arriving in Glasgow have a valid certificate.

How do I arrange an inspection?

Inspections can be carried out at several locations within the city boundary and may take place weekdays between the hours of 9am and 5pm subject to officer availability.

Should you require a ship sanitation inspection please contact us at least 24 hours prior to the proposed inspection time. The following information should be made available at the time of request:

Vessel Name, Gross Tonnage, IMO number, Location for inspection, Estimated Date and Time of Arrival, Estimated Date and Time of Departure, Agent contact details.

For inspections at Rothesay Dock please contact West Dunbartonshire Council.

How much does it cost?

There is a charge for Ship Sanitation Inspections and Certificates. This is a standard UK wide charging policy based on the Gross Tonnage of the vessel.

Microbiological and chemical water samples can be taken if requested in advance. There is an additional charge for this service.

For a list of current charges please see our  book of charges [469kb].

Payment is not required prior the inspection. Following completion of the inspection an invoice will be issued to the local agent acting on behalf of the vessel.

What does an inspection involve?

Officers will carry out an inspection in accordance with World Health Organization Guidelines to determine the extent of any public health risks on board and identify any necessary controls.

This will include an inspection of all areas of the vessel including accommodation, galley, medical facilities, engine room, holds and deck. An assessment will also be made of controls in place in relation to food safety, potable water, waste management and infection and vector control.

Following the inspection an officer will issue either a Ship Sanitation Control Exemption Certificate or a Ship Sanitation Control Certificate. Both certificates are valid for a period of 6 months.