{"id":1485,"date":"2025-11-19T10:06:56","date_gmt":"2025-11-19T10:06:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/?p=1485"},"modified":"2026-04-01T12:58:04","modified_gmt":"2026-04-01T12:58:04","slug":"dgs-lsa-service-station-approval","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/","title":{"rendered":"DGS Approval of Life Saving Appliance (LSA) Service Station"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_87 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#DGS_LSA_service_station_approval\" >DGS LSA service station approval<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#Table_of_Contents\" >Table of Contents<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#What_is_a_DGS_Approved_LSA_Service_Station\" >What is a DGS Approved LSA Service Station?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#Who_Is_the_Directorate_General_of_Shipping_DGS\" >Who Is the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS)?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#Who_is_Eligible_to_Apply_for_DGS_LSA_service_station_approval\" >Who is Eligible to Apply for DGS LSA service station approval?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#What_Types_of_LSA_Service_Stations_Exist\" >What Types of LSA Service Stations Exist?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#How_is_the_DGS_LSA_service_station_approval_Process_Done\" >How is the DGS LSA service station approval Process Done?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#The_%E2%80%98Competent_Person_Certification_Part-2_of_Notice\" >The &#8216;Competent Person&#8217; Certification (Part-2 of Notice)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#How_to_Get_%E2%80%98Competent_Person_Approval\" >How to Get &#8216;Competent Person&#8217; Approval<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#Eligibility_Criteria_for_Competent_Persons\" >Eligibility Criteria for Competent Persons<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#Key_Operational_Compliance_Mandates\" >Key Operational &amp; Compliance Mandates<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#Why_Should_You_Get_DGS_LSA_service_station_approval\" >Why Should You Get DGS LSA service station approval?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#What_Documents_Are_Required_for_Approval\" >What Documents Are Required for Approval?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\/#FAQs_About_DGS_LSA_service_station_approval\" >FAQs About DGS LSA service station approval<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"DGS_LSA_service_station_approval\"><\/span><b>DGS LSA service station approval<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">In this guide, we cover the complete process for DGS LSA service station approval, as laid out in Merchant Shipping Notice 08 of 2025. This notice details the full path to DGS LSA service station approval.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Table_of_Contents\"><\/span>Table of Contents<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><nav><ul><li><a href=\"#dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\">DGS LSA service station approval<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#what-is-a-dgs-approved-lsa-service-station\">What is a DGS Approved LSA Service Station?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#who-is-the-directorate-general-of-shipping-dgs\">Who Is the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS)?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#who-is-eligible-to-apply-for-dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\">Who is Eligible to Apply for DGS LSA service station approval?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#what-types-of-lsa-service-stations-exist\">What Types of LSA Service Stations Exist?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#\ufffc\">\ufffc<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#how-is-the-dgs-lsa-service-station-approval-process-done\">How is the DGS LSA service station approval Process Done?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#the-competent-person-certification-part-2-of-notice\">The &#8216;Competent Person&#8217; Certification (Part-2 of Notice)<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#how-to-get-competent-person-approval\">How to Get &#8216;Competent Person&#8217; Approval<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#eligibility-criteria-for-competent-persons\">Eligibility Criteria for Competent Persons<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#key-operational-compliance-mandates\">Key Operational &amp; Compliance Mandates<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#why-should-you-get-dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\">Why Should You Get DGS LSA service station approval?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#what-documents-are-required-for-approval\">What Documents Are Required for Approval?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#fa-qs-about-dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\">FAQs About DGS LSA service station approval<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval1.png\" alt=\"DGS LSA Service Station Approval\" class=\"wp-image-1487 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval1.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval1-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval1-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval1-768x768.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/1024;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-is-a-dgs-approved-lsa-service-station\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_a_DGS_Approved_LSA_Service_Station\"><\/span><b>What is a DGS Approved LSA Service Station?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A DGS (Directorate General of Shipping) approved Life Saving Appliance (LSA) Service Station is an entity in India authorized to service inflatable LSAs, which include inflatable life rafts, inflatable rescue boats, inflatable life jackets, and immersion suits. This <\/span><b>DGS LSA service station approval<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> is mandatory under the Merchant Shipping Notice 08 of 2025, which aligns with international standards like the SOLAS Convention and IMO Assembly Resolution A.761 (18).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Only DGS-approved stations are permitted to carry out the periodical servicing of this equipment for any<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/age-restrictions-on-indian-flag-vessels\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Indian Flag Vessels<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> or foreign ship while in Indian waters. This process is a key part of India&#8217;s overall<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/mlc-2006-certification\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">maritime compliance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">framework.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval2.png\" alt=\"DGS LSA Service Station Approval\" class=\"wp-image-1488 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval2.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval2-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval2-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval2-768x768.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/1024;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"who-is-the-directorate-general-of-shipping-dgs\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_Is_the_Directorate_General_of_Shipping_DGS\"><\/span><b>Who Is the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS)?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dgshipping.gov.in\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Directorate General of Shipping<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> is India\u2019s apex maritime regulatory authority under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping &amp; Waterways.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Its responsibilities include:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Implementing international conventions like<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imo.org\/en\/about\/conventions\/pages\/international-convention-for-the-safety-of-life-at-sea-(solas),-1974.aspx\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Approving LSA service stations to ensure compliance with IMO standards. Achieving <\/span><b>DGS LSA service station approval<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> is a primary goal.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Certifying competent personnel and conducting inspections for operational safety.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval3.png\" alt=\"DGS LSA Service Station Approval\" class=\"wp-image-1489 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval3.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval3-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval3-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval3-768x768.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/1024;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"who-is-eligible-to-apply-for-dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_is_Eligible_to_Apply_for_DGS_LSA_service_station_approval\"><\/span><b>Who is Eligible to Apply for DGS LSA service station approval?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">To be eligible for <\/span><b>DGS LSA service station approval<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, an LSA service station must meet several key criteria:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Must meet IMO guidelines and maintain a quality standards system.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Must be registered with local statutory authorities.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Must have DGS-certified competent persons attached for servicing LSAs.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><b>Requirement<\/b><\/td><td><b>Details<\/b><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><b>Quality Standards<\/b><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Must comply with IMO guidelines and maintain a documented quality control system.<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><b>Legal Registration<\/b><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Must be registered with all statutory\/local authorities.<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><b>Competent Personnel<\/b><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">At least one DGS-certified competent person, a key part of the <\/span><b>DGS LSA service station approval<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, must be attached.<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><b>Equipment &amp; Facilities<\/b><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Must have proper testing\/calibration equipment and servicing facilities as per IMO guidelines.<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-types-of-lsa-service-stations-exist\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Types_of_LSA_Service_Stations_Exist\"><\/span><b>What Types of LSA Service Stations Exist?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Service stations are categorized based on their authorization from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). The type of authorization impacts your <\/span><b>DGS LSA service station approval<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> path.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><b>Type of Station<\/b><\/td><td><b>Key Features<\/b><\/td><td><b>Approval Authority<\/b><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><b>1. OEM Approved<\/b><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Direct authorization from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).<\/span>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u2022 Can issue a 12-month servicing certificate under a self-certification scheme.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">OEM + DGS<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><b>2. Non-OEM Approved<\/b><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Not authorized by the specific OEM, but approved by the DGS.<\/span>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u2022 CRITICAL: Can only service an LSA if an OEM station is not available in the port or an adjacent port.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u2022 Service must be witnessed by a local MMD Surveyor or a Surveyor from a Recognized Organization (IRS).<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">DGS<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"\ufffc\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-1490 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval4.png\" alt=\"DGS LSA Service Station Approval\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval4.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval4-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval4-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DGS-LSA-Service-Station-Approval4-768x768.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 700px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 700\/700;\" \/><\/figure><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-is-the-dgs-lsa-service-station-approval-process-done\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_is_the_DGS_LSA_service_station_approval_Process_Done\"><\/span><b>How is the DGS LSA service station approval Process Done?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The DGS LSA service station approval process involves several steps:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Application Submission:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The company must submit an application to the Nautical Wing of the DGS.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Verification Audit:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The jurisdictional<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dgshipping.gov.in\/Content\/Search.aspx?q=MMD&amp;cx=010016100726070405532%3asm8vsupxfvc&amp;cof=FORID%3a9\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Mercantile Marine Department (MMD)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> conducts an audit for initial, renewal, and intermediate approvals.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Certificate Issuance:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> If approved, the DGS issues a certificate valid for 5 years. This requires an intermediate verification between the 2nd and 3rd anniversaries.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Competent Person Assignment:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Each approved service station must have DGS-certified personnel attached, and their names will be on the certificate.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-competent-person-certification-part-2-of-notice\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_%E2%80%98Competent_Person_Certification_Part-2_of_Notice\"><\/span><b>The &#8216;Competent Person&#8217; Certification (Part-2 of Notice)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A valid DGS LSA service station approval is only possible if it has a DGS-certified &#8220;Competent Person&#8221; attached to it. The name of the Competent Person must be on the Service Station&#8217;s approval certificate, and they cannot work for more than one station.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-to-get-competent-person-approval\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Get_%E2%80%98Competent_Person_Approval\"><\/span><b>How to Get &#8216;Competent Person&#8217; Approval<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The approval procedure is managed by the jurisdictional<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dgshipping.gov.in\/Content\/Search.aspx?q=MMD&amp;cx=010016100726070405532%3asm8vsupxfvc&amp;cof=FORID%3a9\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Mercantile Marine Department (MMD)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> and involves:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Application:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The service station must apply on behalf of the candidate.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Written Exam:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> An online or offline exam with Multiple-Choice (MCQ) and subjective questions.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Practical Exam:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A hands-on demonstration of servicing skills at the service station.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/ChatGPT-Image-Nov-19-2025-12_52_10-PM.png\" alt=\"DGS LSA Service Station Approval\" class=\"wp-image-1491 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/ChatGPT-Image-Nov-19-2025-12_52_10-PM.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/ChatGPT-Image-Nov-19-2025-12_52_10-PM-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/ChatGPT-Image-Nov-19-2025-12_52_10-PM-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/ChatGPT-Image-Nov-19-2025-12_52_10-PM-768x768.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/1024;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"eligibility-criteria-for-competent-persons\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Eligibility_Criteria_for_Competent_Persons\"><\/span><b>Eligibility Criteria for Competent Persons<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Candidates must meet specific qualification and experience minimums:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">All candidates must have training and certification from at least three different OEMs from different countries. Note: Approval from two different OEMs from the same country is not accepted.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Educational &amp; Experience Requirements:<\/b>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Engineering Degree \/ Marine Officer (MEO Class 1, etc.):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Minimum 6 months of experience (servicing 50+ life rafts and 2 rescue boats).<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>B.Sc Degree \/ Diploma in Engineering:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Minimum 1 year of experience (servicing 100+ life rafts and 4 rescue boats).<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Graduate in Science \/ ITI Trade Certificate:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Minimum 3 years of experience (servicing 150+ life rafts and 6 rescue boats).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"key-operational-compliance-mandates\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Operational_Compliance_Mandates\"><\/span><b>Key Operational &amp; Compliance Mandates<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Beyond the initial DGS LSA service station approval, all DGS-approved stations must adhere to strict operational rules:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Mandatory CCTV Recording:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Service stations must have CCTV covering the entire servicing process. A copy of this recording must be given to the ship&#8217;s master, and the station must keep a copy for at least three years. Failure to maintain identifiable records can lead to suspension without notice.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Special Rule for Passenger Vessels:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> For any passenger vessel, the servicing of LSA <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">must<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> be witnessed by the local MMD surveyor, and the certificate must be endorsed by them.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Pyrotechnics &amp; Consumables:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> All expired pyrotechnics must be disposed of according to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/upload.indiacode.nic.in\/showfile?actid=AC_CEN_2_2_00036_A1944-01_1671705649438&amp;type=circular&amp;filename=circ1001-2015cx.pdf\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">NT Circular 01 of 2015<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">. Accurate records must also be kept for all consumables like food rations, drinking water, and first-aid kits.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why-should-you-get-dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Should_You_Get_DGS_LSA_service_station_approval\"><\/span><b>Why Should You Get DGS LSA service station approval?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Benefits of securing DGS LSA service station approval include:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Legally authorized to service LSAs in Indian waters.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Ensures compliance with SOLAS and IMO regulations.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Enhances trust with shipowners and increases business credibility.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Maintains your vessel&#8217;s overall<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/starting-a-maritime-training-institute\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> maritime compliance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> framework, working alongside certifications like the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/document-of-compliance-certification\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Document of Compliance (DOC)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-documents-are-required-for-approval\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Documents_Are_Required_for_Approval\"><\/span><b>What Documents Are Required for Approval?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Essential documents for the DGS LSA service station approval application include:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Application form (as per DGS format)<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Jurisdictional MMD verification reports<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Details of<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> competent personnel<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> attached<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">OEM authorization (if applicable)<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Quality standards system documentation<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Payment receipt (Bharatkosh) for relevant fees<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fa-qs-about-dgs-lsa-service-station-approval\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_About_DGS_LSA_service_station_approval\"><\/span><b>FAQs About DGS LSA service station approval<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Q1: Can a non-OEM station service LSAs?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A: Yes, but with strict conditions. A DGS-approved non-OEM station can only service an LSA if an OEM-approved station is not available in that port or an adjacent port. Critically, the service must be witnessed by a local MMD or IRS surveyor who must endorse the certificate.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Q2: How long is the certificate for DGS LSA service station approval valid?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A: 5 years, with intermediate verification between the 2nd and 3rd anniversary.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Q3: Who certifies competent persons?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A: DGS, based on the recommendation of the MMD after written and practical examinations.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Q4: Can a competent person work at multiple stations?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A: No. A Competent Person must be attached to a single service station. Their name will be officially listed on that station&#8217;s Certificate of Approval, and it cannot be on more than one.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Q5: What happens if guidelines are breached?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A: Service station and competent person approvals may be suspended, with penalties under the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indosearch.in\/learn\/indian-merchant-shipping-ms-rules-acts-2025\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Merchant Shipping Act 1958<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Navigating the <\/span><b>DGS LSA service station approval<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> process is essential for maritime compliance. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/contact-us\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Contact us<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> for expert guidance on applications, audits, and competent person certification.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>DGS LSA service station approval In this guide, we cover the complete process for DGS LSA service station approval, as laid out in Merchant Shipping Notice 08 of 2025. This notice details the full path to DGS LSA service station approval. What is a DGS Approved LSA Service Station? A DGS (Directorate General of Shipping) [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":1493,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[30],"tags":[49],"class_list":["post-1485","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-compliance","tag-dgs-lsa-service-station-approval"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1485","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1485"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1485\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2070,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1485\/revisions\/2070"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1493"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1485"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1485"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1485"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}