1.6.1 In the exercise of their functions, PSCOs should be guided by any certificates and
other documents issued by or on behalf of the flag State Administration. In such cases, the
PSCOs should limit the scope of inspection to the verification of compliance with those
certificates and documents.
1.6.2 To the extent a relevant instrument is not applicable to a ship below convention size,
the PSCO’s task should be to assess whether the ship is of an acceptable standard in regard
to safety and the environment. In making that assessment, the PSCO should take due account
of such factors as the length and nature of the intended voyage or service, the size and type
of the ship, the equipment provided and the nature of the cargo.