The Ship‘s CSR-File

It has been brought to the attention that there are potential uncertainties relating to the Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR) – File.

The requirement for this Record came into force simultaneously with the ISPS Code. It shows the main details of a ship and its potential changes through the lifetime of same.

In general it consists of 3 Parts: CSR = Form 1

Amendment = Form 2

Index = Form 3

Sample 1: GMA – Gibraltar Maritime Administration The sample is from M/V Emma Janneke and showing CSR No. 5. The CSR file is complete when following documents are on board all together:

1. CSR No. 1 (Form 1) and Form 2 + 3 to CSR No. 1
2. CSR No. 2 (Form 1) plus respective Form 2 + 3 to CSR No. 2
3. CSR No. 3 (Form 1) plus respective Form 2 + 3 to CSR No. 3
4. CSR No. 4 (Form 1) plus respective Form 2 + 3 to CSR No. 4
5. CSR No. 5, no amendments forms yet available as there were no  changes.

The current CSR consists of 16 sections in total. It is always issued by the ap­plicable administration (Flagstate). The layout may slightly differ from adminis­tration to administration. In case there is a change in one of the 16 sections, a new CSR with form 2 and 3 must be applied for. It is NOT permitted to make any changes/amendments on the original document itself by hand respectively manually.

This includes also that there are no in­valid documents. The complete CSR file must be kept throughout the lifetime of the ship including the amendment forms.

Sample 2: Flagstate “Antigua and Barbuda” The sample below is from M/V BBC Asia which is currently holding CSR No. 3.

The file is complete when following is completely on board:

1. CSR No. 1 (Form 1) and Form 2 + 3 to CSR No. 1
2. CSR No. 2 (Form 1) plus respective Form 2 + 3 to CSR No. 2
3. CSR No. 3 (Form 1) On board it has to be kept in mind:

• The file must be complete; starting with CSR No 1 (form 1) followed by further documents sequential numbering.
• Amendment forms 2+3 must be available also in original on board, filed on top of the CSR to which the changes are applicable, as one finds immediately the reference.

Surely the last CSR has no amend­ment forms yet.

• CSRs generally do not expire.
• In case changes to ships details, as they are reflected in the CSR, changed, a new CSR needs to be applied for. Nevertheless all pre­vious CSRs must still be filed on board and kept available.
• Upon receipt of the original CSR, the Master MUST sign for its re­ceipt on the bottom of the page.

The document shall be considered as curriculum vitae of the vessel!