Answer
Ans:
What was there before RO code:
1.SOLAS 74/88 Reg I/6
2.MARPOL annex I Reg 6, Annex II Reg 8, Annex IV Reg 4, Annex VI Reg 5
3.Loadlne Convention 1966/88 Article 13
4.Tonnage Convention 1969 Art 7
5.AFS 2001 Annex 4 Reg 1
6.BWM Convention
7.Resolution A.739(18) entitled Guidelines for the authorization of organizations acting on behalf of the Administration, as amended by resolution MSC.208(81), and
Resolution A.789(19) entitled Specifications on the survey and certifictn functions of recognized organizations acting on behalf of the Administration, which became mandatory under chapter XI-1 of the SOLAS 1974, under chapter I of annex I to annex B of the 1988 Loadlines Protocol, and under Annex I and Annex II of the MARPOL Convention
Need for RO code:
IMO recognizing the need to update the above resolution in a single IMO mandatory instrument and to assist in achieving harmonized and consistent global implementation of IMO instruments, RO code was brought via MEPC 237 (65) & MSC 349(92) which entered into force on 1 Jan 2015.
Code for Recognized Organizations (RO Cod)
To assist in achieving harmonized and consistent global implementation of requirements established by IMO instruments for the assessment，authorization and Oversight of recognized organizations (ROs), IMO adopted the Code for Recognized Organizations (RO Cod).
The RO Cod serves as the international standard and consolidated instrument containing minimum criteria against which organizations are assessed towards recognition and authorization and the guidelines for the Oversight by Flag states.
The RO Cod:
1.provides Flag states with a standard that will assist in achieving harmonized and consistent global implementation of requirements established by the instrument of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the assessment and authorization of recognized organizations (ROs);
- 2.provides Flag states with harmonized, transparent and independent mechanisms, which can assist in the consistent Oversight of ROs in an efficient and effective manner; and
3.clarifies the responsibilities of organizations authorized as ROs for a Flag state and overall scope of authorization.
Amendments in MARPOL anx I & II, SOLAS 74, Loadline 1988 Protocol to make the RO code mandatory.