Year 2000 Problem (Y2K).
Circular No. 4/9916 February, 1999
To all Owners, Masters, Managers and Representatives of Ships under the Cyprus flag
The Y2K problem is the most serious issue of the last couple of years, arising from the potential failure of critical software, hardware and equipment to deal with certain dates prior to, on or after January 1, 2000.
The problem not only affects the computers but all the devices on a vessel with embedded microchips. These devices could be a GPS, a radar, a GMDSS console or the navigation equipment, the engine management, the ballast water monitoring etc.
Our Department would like to remind you that the Year 2000 is just 10 months away. Any delay of your side to identify the non-Y2K compliant equipment and fix them will lead to the malfunction of the vessel putting in danger the crew and the passengers and will increase the possibility of an accident or pollution.
You are urged to contact, if you have not done so yet, the Classification Society of your ship, the manufacturers of your ship equipment and of all automated/electronics systems to ensure compliance with Y2K.
For your assistance we enclose relevant IMO circulars regarding this problem.
We wish to believe that all of you understand the seriousness of the Y2K problem and that you will be ready to face the millenium challenge in time.
S. S. Serghiou
Director
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