Ship sanitation inspections

If requested, we inspect international ships - according to World Health Organisation (WHO) guidance (opens new window) - to find public health risks and to identify any necessary measures.

We inspect all areas and assess things like food safety, potable water, waste management and infection control. If we find no risks, we issue a sanitation exemption certificate. If we identify a risk, we issue a ship sanitation control certificate. This outlines the details and timescales of any actions you need to take.

Exemption certificates are valid for six months. Once that period is up, you should request a new inspection. We will then issue a new ship sanitation exemption certificate or ship sanitation control certificate.