Recognized Organizations

RWISR
MARINE CIRCULAR

Circular No: RWISR-MC-02-2026
Status: Active
Subject: Recognized Organizations
Title: Framework for Delegation, Authorization and Cooperation with Recognized Organizations under RWISR
Date: 23 / June / 2025
Applicable to: Shipowners, Operators, Managers, Recognized Organizations (ROs)

1. PURPOSE

This Marine Circular provides guidance on the role, authorization, and oversight of Recognized Organizations (ROs) acting on behalf of the RWISR.

It establishes the general framework for delegation of statutory functions, cooperation with classification societies, and administrative interaction between RWISR, ROs, and stakeholders.

2. APPLICATION

This Circular applies to:

  • All Recognized Organizations authorized or seeking authorization by RWISR
  • Shipowners and managers utilizing ROs for statutory certification
  • All vessels registered or intended to be registered under RWISR

It covers:

  • Delegation of statutory survey and certification functions
  • Authorization principles
  • Scope of RO activities
  • Monitoring and oversight
  • Administrative coordination

3. GENERAL PRINCIPLES

RWISR may delegate statutory survey and certification functions to Recognized Organizations in accordance with applicable international conventions and established administrative practices.

Such delegation shall be:

  • Clearly defined
  • Controlled and monitored
  • Limited to the scope of authorization granted

The ultimate responsibility for compliance with international conventions remains with the Flag Administration.

4. ACCEPTANCE OF RECOGNIZED ORGANIZATIONS

RWISR recognizes classification societies based on their technical capability, international standing, and compliance with relevant standards.

In this context:

  • Classification societies that are active members of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) are considered acceptable for statutory delegation under RWISR.
  • Classification societies that are not members of IACS may be considered on a case-by-case basis, subject to evaluation of their technical competence, experience, performance history, and compliance framework.

RWISR reserves the right to accept, restrict, or refuse any organization at its sole discretion.

5. SCOPE OF AUTHORIZATION

Authorized Recognized Organizations may be permitted to carry out, within the limits of their authorization:

  • Statutory surveys and inspections
  • Audits under ISM, ISPS, and MLC
  • Issuance and endorsement of statutory certificates on behalf of RWISR
  • Verification of compliance with applicable international conventions

The scope of authorization may vary depending on the RO and may be subject to specific conditions or limitations.

6. CLASSIFICATION SOCIETY ROLE

The vessel’s classification society is responsible for:

  • Conducting class surveys
  • Issuing class certificates
  • Monitoring class status and conditions of class

Maintenance of valid class with an acceptable classification society is a condition for registration under RWISR, where applicable.

7. OBLIGATIONS OF RECOGNIZED ORGANIZATIONS

Recognized Organizations acting on behalf of RWISR shall:

  • Perform all delegated functions in accordance with applicable international conventions and RWISR requirements
  • Ensure that surveys, audits, and verifications are carried out by qualified personnel
  • Issue or endorse certificates only upon satisfactory compliance
  • Maintain proper records of all activities performed
  • Notify RWISR without delay of:
    • Suspension or withdrawal of class
    • Major deficiencies
    • Serious non-conformities
    • Any condition affecting certification validity

8. MONITORING AND OVERSIGHT

RWISR may monitor the performance of Recognized Organizations through:

  • Review of certification activities
  • Audit reports and records
  • Performance indicators
  • Feedback from inspections and port state control (PSC)

RWISR reserves the right to:

  • Review or limit the scope of authorization
  • Suspend or withdraw authorization
  • Require corrective actions

9. ADMINISTRATIVE INTERACTION

Recognized Organizations shall maintain effective communication with RWISR and relevant stakeholders.

This includes:

  • Submission of reports and certification data where required
  • Cooperation in verification and audit processes
  • Timely response to registry inquiries

Shipowners and managers shall coordinate with the authorized RO and RWISR to ensure compliance with all applicable requirements.

10. LIMITATION OF AUTHORITY

Recognized Organizations shall act strictly within the scope of their authorization.

Any activity outside the delegated authority shall require prior approval from RWISR.

RWISR retains full authority over:

  • Registration decisions
  • Acceptance of vessels
  • Final certification oversight

11. ENTRY INTO FORCE

This Circular enters into force on:
23 / June / 2025

12. CONTACT

RWISR
Email: info@rwisr.com
Website: www.rwisr.com
Verification: www.rwisr.com/verify