Ship sanitation certificates and exemptions

The London Port Health Authority is designated by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to issue of ship sanitation certificates at all ports, berths and terminals within its district.

A foreign going merchant vessel is required to be inspected at six monthly intervals under the International Health Regulations 2005. The vessel is issued either with a Ship Sanitation Control Certificate or a Ship Sanitation Control Exemption Certificate which records the inspection of the vessel and either the control measures applied or the exemption from the controls.

To arrange an inspection for a certificate contact our London Gateway Office on 0207 332 1101 providing as much notice as possible or email the Port Health Team.

Inspections

Inspections are carried out during normal operating hours:

• Monday to Friday, 7am-7pm
• Saturday and Sunday, 8am-2pm

Inspections are subject to staff availability and the fees are set out on the charges page.

An extended service is provided for inspections outside normal operating hours. This includes extra costs and the following times and rates apply.