“If a person intentionally destroys or mutilates or renders illegible any entry in any statutory log book on ship, he will be liable for a fine or be arrested for destruction of official records”. How often have we come across such disclaimers onboard while maintaining the ships’ official records? Be it the Official Log Book, Oil Record Book or the Engine / Deck Log Books, all have to be maintained in manners that best represent the ship and the owners / managers.
Normally, record keeping is a separate topic discussed in the company’s SMS systems. Some require the vessel to maintain old official records for as long as up to