The MCA must: carry out verifications in relation to the vessel, including checks of documentation and a check for the presence of a voyage data recorder;
carry out verifications in relation to the company operating the vessel, and the flag State of the vessel; carry out an initial specific survey before the vessel begins operating on a regular service to or from a UK port; carry out further surveys every year, or where the circumstances of the vessel change; issue reports of Prevention of Operation Notices preventing a vessel which does not meet the requirements of the Directive from operating, or reports of inspection or improvement notices requiring defects to be remedied; comply with certain administrative requirements; and operate a shore-based navigational guidance system.
