The condition of a gas carrier and its equipment shall be maintained so as to conform to the provisions of the IGC Code.

After any survey of the ship under regulation 4 has been completed, no change shall be made in the structure, equipment, fittings, arrangements and materials covered by the survey, without the sanction of the Secretary of State, except by direct replacement.

Whenever an accident occurs to a ship or a defect is discovered, either of which affects the safety of the ship or crew, the master or owner of the ship shall report at the earliest opportunity to the Secretary of State, who shall determine whether an additional survey is necessary. If the ship is in a port of another State, the master or owner shall also report immediately to the appropriate authority of the government of the State in which the port is situated.