The BMA has made some significant enhancements to its digital platform, the Bahamas Online Registration Information System (BORIS), underlining its commitment to remain at the forefront of reviewing and implementing appropriate new technology tools.
These developments mean that companies registering for this service will be able to digitally access many of the services offered by The BMA. These services include check and reserve a vessel name, complete registration application and certificate verification. This capability will complement the existing online seafarer services that provide the ability to pay an invoice, download system-generated documents, monitor progress and track seafarer applications.
As a result of these enhancements, The BMA has been able to implement a move to full electronic certification, fulfilling the requirements of IMO FAL.5/Circ.39/Rev.2 guidelines for the use of electronic certificates. This is good for The BMA’s clients and good for the environment. Certificates can now be obtained instantly; records are available online 24/7 and verified on demand through the verification systems. And, of course, the environment benefits as there is less paper waste and a reduced carbon footprint as courier systems are no longer needed. However, where there is a requirement for a hard copy of a certificate, this can be supplied on request.
A major benefit to users is that the enhanced system avoids the need to repeatedly enter ship data when completing registration forms as vessel details only need to be entered once. This, combined with an improved user interface, will represent increased business efficiency and significant time and cost savings for clients during the registration process. New users can get started easily by registering for an account in the ‘What would you like to do?’ section of BORIS.
The launch of the new enhancements to BORIS is a significant and progressive step for The BMA. The registration process has been simplified and, with the user-friendly design of the system, we believe clients will welcome this innovative online service.
John Adams, Chairman of the Bahamas Shipowners Association (BSA), whose members made valuable contributions to the process, said: “The BSA is pleased to see the launch of the new online registration tool from The BMA, which several of our members were able to review during its development.”
To register for BORIS Online Services visit public.bahamasmaritime.com/account
