5 Reasons for Cancellation or Suspension of Seafarer’s Certificate of Competency (COC)
The certificate of competency (COC) is a form of licence every mariner is granted to work on ships. The certificate ensures that the concerned person has the sufficient knowledge and skills to sail on ocean going vessels.
However, COC is not something that once awarded cannot be taken back, cancelled, or suspended. Its validity is directly proportional to the conduct and performance of a seafarer.
If the concerned authority is not satisfied or receives complain about any kind of wrongdoing by a seafarer, his or her COC can be cancelled or suspended for an indefinite period.
It is therefore important that every seafarer should know all the important points related to cancellation or suspension of the certificate of competency (COC).
5 Reasons for cancellation or suspension of certificate of competency (COC)
1. Incompetency: A seafarer’s COC can be suspended if any action resulting from incompetency has lead to a shipping accident involving injury, death of a person, or damage to ship’s property.
2. Misconduct: If a seafarer is found guilty of acts of misconduct which has lead to any kind of damage to the ship (collision, stranding, or abandonment), the concerned person’s COC can be temporarily or permanently suspended until proper investigation is not carried out.
3. Providing Misleading Information: COC of a seafarer can also be suspended if the person is found of intentionally providing misleading information which has lead to a shipping casualty, injury, or death of a person.
4. Drunkenness: If a seafarer under the effect of alcohol has lead to a major shipping accident involving loss of life and property, his or her COC can be cancelled.
5. Tyranny/Misbehaviour: In case a seafarer is found guilty of actions involving violence, misbehavior with fellow seafarers, or physical harassment which has lead to serious injury, death of a person or damage to the ship, his or her COC may be suspended or permanently cancelled.
Important Points to Note
However, it is to note that cancellation or suspension of a seafarer’s COC will be done only after proper investigation and inquiry has been made by the concerned authority.
An order for cancellation of COC will be passed only after the guilty person has been given a reasonable opportunity to provide an explanation for his or her wrongdoing. This can be done through an appropriate show cause notice.
A seafarer, whose COC has been cancelled or suspended can appeal to the concerned authority against such an order. This has to be done only within a certain number of days after the order of suspension of COC has been given (for e.g. in India it is 30 days).
A mariner should always keep a check on his actions while on ship and ensure that no action of his is resulting harmful to the ship or its crew members.
Image Credit: incoships
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
About Author
Raunek Kantharia is a marine engineer turned maritime writer and entrepreneur. After a brief stint at the sea, he founded Marine Insight in 2010. Apart from managing Marine Insight, he also writes for a number of maritime magazines and websites.
Latest Maritime Law Articles
⚓️ Enhance Your Knowledge. Prevent Accidents. Stay Safe at Sea.
1. eBooks for Engine Department
Master machinery operations, troubleshooting, and safety procedures with expertly written guides tailored for marine engineers. Prevent costly breakdowns and onboard accidents through practical knowledge.
👉 Explore Engine Department eBooks
2. eBooks for Deck Department
Sharpen your seamanship, navigation, and cargo-handling skills with real-world case studies and practical insights designed for deck officers and cadets.
👉Discover Deck Department eBooks
3. eBooks on Electrical Fundamentals & Issues
Understand marine electrical systems, identify potential faults, and prevent onboard electrical failures with step-by-step explanations from industry experts.
4. Pocket Guides for Quick Reference
Compact, handy, and loaded with essential checklists—perfect for on-the-go reference during operations and emergencies at sea.
5. Combo Packs to Save Big
Access multiple expert eBooks at discounted prices. Ideal for professionals seeking complete safety and operational knowledge across various ship departments.
6. Digital Maritime Courses – Learn at Your Own Pace
Upgrade your competence with Marine Insight Academy’s online courses. Learn from industry professionals anytime, anywhere, and become a safer, smarter seafarer.
Subscribe To Our Daily Newsletter
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.
Your content is to the point and it is a very good thing. Keep up the good work!