Since its creation, EMSA has been performing visits to EU Member States on behalf of the European Commission and inspections to EFTA Member States for the EFTA Surveillance Authority. This exercise is carried out to assess the effective implementation of Union law by EU Member States and EFTA Member States at national level.

On behalf of the Commission, EMSA also carries out inspections to verify if organisations recognised by the EU comply with the common rules and standards for ship inspection and survey organisations, and if third countries comply with the Convention on standards of training, certification and watchkeeping of seafarers. In addition, EMSA provides technical assistance to the Commission on inspections carried out in the field of maritime security.

This work helps to promote a harmonised approach across Europe and beyond and helps to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the measures in place.

So, for our second #EMSA20years video, we go inside a visit to Portugal, on the implementation of Directive 2001/96/EC — establishing harmonised requirements and procedures for the safe loading and unloading of bulk carriers.