With significant delays in newbuilding deliveries due to the coronavirus pandemic, the IMO has suggested flag states may provide a waiver for the Goal-based Standards (GBS).
In a circular letter published this month, the United Nations body acknowledged newbuilding delays in member states due to difficulties faced by shipbuilders, equipment suppliers, shipowners, surveyors and service engineers.
As a potential solution, the IMO cited a resolution dated 2013 that said flag administrations can allow exemptions to International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (Solas) when newbuilding deliveries are delayed “due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the shipbuilder and the owner”.
