The Ship Sanitation Certificate (SSC) is one of the most important statutory certificates carried on board ships. It is directly linked with the prevention of the spread of diseases across international borders and is required under the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Every ship engaged in international voyages must carry a valid SSC to demonstrate that the vessel is free from conditions that could pose a public health risk.
What is a Ship Sanitation Certificate?
A Ship Sanitation Certificate (SSC) is an official document issued after a ship undergoes a detailed inspection by authorized port health authorities. The purpose of the certificate is to ensure that the vessel does not present a risk of spreading infectious diseases through pests, rodents, or unsanitary conditions.
It replaced the older Deratting Certificate and Deratting Exemption Certificate.
Types of Ship Sanitation Certificates
There are two types of SSCs issued depending on the inspection results:
- Ship Sanitation Control Exemption Certificate (SSCEC)
Issued when the ship is inspected and found free of any public health risks such as rodents, vectors, contaminated water, or unhygienic conditions.
This is the most preferred certificate as it confirms the ship’s hygiene standards are satisfactory.
- Ship Sanitation Control Certificate (SSCC)
Issued when evidence of public health risks (such as rodents, insects, contaminated food, or water) is found on board.
In this case, control measures (fumigation, pest control, cleaning, disinfection) are carried out under the supervision of the port health authorities before the certificate is granted.
Validity of the SSC
Both SSCEC and SSCC are valid for a maximum of six months.
If a ship is in an area where inspection is not possible, a one-month extension can be granted to allow the vessel to reach the next port where inspection facilities are available.
When is a Ship Sanitation Certificate Required?
A valid SSC is required for:
Entry into most international ports.
Clearance during Port State Control inspections.
Compliance with charter party agreements and trade requirements.
Ensuring crew welfare and preventing disease outbreaks on board.
Without a valid SSC, a ship may be delayed, quarantined, or denied entry to port.
Inspection Areas Covered for SSC
During inspection, port health officers check:
Potable water systems (storage tanks, pipelines, supply arrangements).
Food storage and galley hygiene.
Crew accommodation and sanitation.
Waste disposal systems (garbage, sewage management).
Rodent and pest control measures.
Medical locker and hospital hygiene.
Ballast water tanks (sometimes included if related to vector breeding).
Responsibility of the Ship
To ensure smooth issuance of SSC, the Master and crew must:
Maintain strict hygiene in accommodation, galley, and storage areas.
Conduct regular pest control and deratting checks.
Keep potable water tanks clean and chlorinated.
Properly record garbage and sewage management as per MARPOL requirements.
Ensure medical and sanitary facilities are well maintained.
Key Points for Seafarers and Shipowners
Certificate Name: Ship Sanitation Certificate (SSC).
Types: SSCEC (Exemption), SSCC (Control).
Validity: 6 months (with possible 1-month extension).
Issued by: Port Health Authorities.
Legal Basis: International Health Regulations (IHR 2005).
Consequence of Non-Compliance: Fines, delays, or denial of port entry.
Conclusion
The Ship Sanitation Certificate is a critical health and statutory document ensuring that ships remain safe, hygienic, and compliant with international health standards. Carrying a valid SSC not only protects global public health but also prevents costly delays, detentions, or disruptions in trade.
