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IN10 - Panama Canal – Operational Equipment Tests’ Requirements

The Panama Canal Authority's OP Notice N-10-2025 requires vessels to test operational equipment before transit, with any deficiencies reported to Canal officials. Failure to comply may result in delays or denied transit.

Loss Prevention

John Taylor

John (Capt.) Taylor

Published: January 19, 2025

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has issued OP Notice to Shipping N-10-2025, which informs all concerned parties of the procedures and requirements for testing operational equipment on vessels intending to transit the Panama Canal.

The notice is intended to support the safe transit of vessels through the Panama Canal by verifying the readiness of navigational and safety equipment prior to the commencement of transit. It addresses increasing concerns over equipment failures that could compromise the safety of the vessel as well as canal facilities and equipment, the consequences of which could cause delays and potentially result in significant claims for the Member and Club.

The ACP highlights the importance of a collaborative approach between the vessel's Master and Canal officials to test all equipment, ensuring the vessel is prepared for the manoeuvres required to secure safe transit through the canal, including compliance with the Panama Canal rules and regulations as referenced in the Vessel Requirements - the OP Notice to Shipping N-1-2025.

The OP Notice to Shipping N-10-2025 outlines steps that the Master must follow, including notification to the Cristobal or Flamenco Signal Station at least two hours before pilot boarding, and confirmed to the pilot prior to commencing transit, “that all equipment has been tested and is in operational condition and the vessel is ready to proceed.”

Any deficiencies, including equipment that does not perform as designed or required by standards shall immediately be notified to the Cristobal or Flamenco Signal Station. The Canal Port Captain on duty shall evaluate whether the vessel can proceed or will be delayed until such time as the equipment is repaired.

A “failure to perform the operational equipment test and/or report the vessel's condition may lead to transit delays until the Canal is satisfied that the vessel is safe to transit the Canal”.

Members should also note that OP Notice to Shipping N-10-2025 emphasises the importance that the ACP places upon there being a properly calibrated magnetic compass.

Members are encouraged to bring OP Notice to Shipping N-10-2025 to the attention of their staff and remind them of the necessity to comply with the ACP requirements.

Should the Member require any clarification and / or additional information regarding OP Notice to Shipping N-10-2025, they should seek such clarification from the ACP, through their local agents or through the Club’s local correspondents.
 

Supportive Information

For further information please contact the Loss Prevention Department, Steamship Insurance Management Services Ltd.
Tel: +44 20 7247 5490

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