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ECDIS & Navigation

UKHO warns of dangers !

posed by counterfeit

ADMIRALTY products

T
he United Kingdom Hydrographic Ofice (UKHO) has The carriage of counterfeit charts and publications may
observed an increase in the number of counterfeit also fail to satisfy (and may be contrary to) the laws of Flag

versions of ADMIRALTY charts and publications in State Authorities and Port State Control and carriage of
circulation and is re-issuing a warning over the dangers they counterfeit documents is against the law in all countries that

pose to the safety of vessels, crew and cargo.have signed the Berne Convention.
These counterfeit items have not been assessed by UKHO To support mariners and reduce risks posed by counterfeit

experts, who cross check and quality assure ADMIRALTY ADMIRALTY products, the UKHO has taken a number of

Maritime Products & Services to ensure mariners receive up- preventative measures including a new watermark on paper
to-date and accurate information. Information contained within charts, which have been outlined in the ‘Guide to Identifying

counterfeit products has also not been issued oficially by orCounterfeit ADMIRALTY Products’.
on the authority of a Government, authorised Hydrographic Damian Bowler, Chief Commercial Oficer, UKHO, said:

Ofice or other relevant Government institution and does “The UKHO continues to urge all purchasers, users, inspectors
not satisfy the carriage requirements of the International and regulators to look out for counterfeit ADMIRALTY charts

Convention on the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). For these and publications.”
reasons, counterfeit charts and publications can signiicantly Anyone with suspicions over the authenticity of their

increase safety risks posed to vessels, crew and cargo when ADMIRALTY charts and publications should contact the UKHO
used for navigation.at customerservices@ukho.gov.uk. u

34 | The Ship Supplier | Issue 69 2016