Controlled drugs are medications that carry a higher risk of abuse, dependence, or harm, and their possession, storage, and administration are subject to strict legal oversight. Onboard vessels, these drugs are typically included in the ship’s medical chest and are managed by the Ship’s Medical Officer or a trained, designated crew member.

The types of controlled drugs permitted at sea are regulated by the flag state under which the vessel is registered. Below is a list of the most common controlled substances found on ships, especially those used for pain management, anxiety, sleep disorders, and emergency medical situations. If you would like a full list of controlled drugs on ships as a pdf to use onboard, use the links provided in our Ship’s Controlled Drug Register article.

Common Controlled Drugs on Ships

These medications are typically authorized for emergency medical use onboard and must be stored securely and recorded in a Controlled Drugs Register.

1. Opioid Analgesics (Pain Relief)

Used to manage moderate to severe pain, especially in trauma or post-surgical scenarios.

2. Benzodiazepines (Sedatives & Anxiolytics)

Useful for acute anxiety, seizures, and as pre-medication before certain procedures.

3. Hypnotics (Sleep Aids)

Used short-term for insomnia, particularly in situations where sleep is critical.

4. Controlled Stimulants (Rare on Ships)

Occasionally included for conditions like narcolepsy or severe fatigue, but generally limited.

5. Emergency or Special Use Drugs

Important Notes:

• All controlled drugs must be stored in a locked and secured cabinet, with restricted access.
• Each administration must be recorded in the Controlled Drugs Register, including dosage, reason, and signature of the person administering.
• Disposal of expired or unused controlled substances must follow flag state and port authority regulations.

Introduction: A Complete Guide for Maritime Compliance

In the maritime industry, safety and compliance are paramount. One crucial area that requires strict regulation is the management of controlled drugs on ships. To ensure proper handling, documentation, and accountability, a Ship’s Controlled Drugs Register is mandatory under international maritime laws. This article covers everything you need to know about this vital document—what it is, why it’s important, and how to maintain it correctly.

What Is a Ship’s Controlled Drugs Register?

A Ship’s Controlled Drugs Register is a formal log used on board vessels to record the receipt, use, and disposal of controlled drugs, such as morphine or other opioid analgesics, which may be carried in the ship’s medical chest. These medications are often required for emergency treatment during long voyages where medical facilities are not immediately accessible. You can download a sample of a generic register here:

Why Is the Register Necessary?

Controlled substances have the potential for misuse, theft, or unintentional harm. Maritime regulations such as those enforced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and local flag state authorities require ships to:

• Maintain proper records of all controlled drugs onboard.
• Track quantities dispensed, administered, or disposed.
• Ensure accountability and reduce the risk of diversion or abuse.

This applies to a list of controlled drugs on ships, including morphine, oxycodone, amphetamines and some sleeping aids. Failure to comply can result in severe legal consequences, fines, and vessel detention during port inspections.

Key Components of the Register

The flag state is legally responsible for prescribing exactly what the register must contain and how it should be maintained. However, in general, a compliant Controlled Drugs Register should include:

1. Date of entry
2. Name and strength of the drug
3. Quantity received or issued
4. Balance remaining
5. Name and signature of the person issuing/administering the drug
6. Name of the patient (if applicable)
7. Reason for administration
8. Witness signature (where required)

If you would like a flag state-compliant register just click on the individual link to download:

• Panama – Panama Maritime Authority (Autoridad Marítima de Panamá – AMP) compliant Ship’s Controlled Drugs Register
• Liberia – Liberian Maritime Authority (LiMA) compliant Ship’s Controlled Drugs Register
• Marshall Islands – Marshall Islands Maritime and Corporate Administrators (MIMCA) compliant Ship’s Controlled Drugs Register
• Bahamas – Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) compliant Ship’s Controlled Drugs Register
• Malta – Transport Malta – Merchant Shipping Directorate compliant Ship’s Controlled Drugs Register
• Bermuda (UK Territory) – Bermuda Shipping and Maritime Authority (BSMA) compliant Ship’s Controlled Drugs Register
• Cyprus – Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry (SDM) compliant Ship’s Controlled Drugs Register
• Italy – Italian Coast Guard (Guardia Costiera) under the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, compliant Ship’s Controlled Drugs Register
• Singapore – Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) compliant Ship’s Controlled Drugs Register

Who Can Administer Controlled Drugs on Ships?

Controlled drugs must be administered by a qualified Ship’s Medical Officer or an authorized crew member trained in medical care. Administration should always be justified and documented, with another crew member acting as a witness when possible.

Storage and Security

Controlled drugs must be:

• Stored in a locked, secure cabinet
• Accessible only to authorized personnel
• Inspected regularly to ensure there are no discrepancies

The register should also be kept in a secure location and retained onboard for a specified period—usually two years, depending on the flag state’s regulations.

Best Practices for Maintaining the Register

• Use permanent ink for all entries
• Make entries immediately after drug administration
• Never leave blank lines or use correction fluid
• If a mistake is made, cross it out with a single line and initial it
• Reconcile the register during regular audits

Digital Registers: Are They Accepted?

While some modern vessels are transitioning to digital controlled drug registers, their acceptance and legal standing still depend on the regulations of the vessel’s flag state. Regardless of digital adoption, it remains best practice to maintain a physical, hard-copy register, as international pharmaceutical and maritime laws continue to uphold the standards established before the digital era.

Legal and Regulatory References

• SOLAS Convention
• Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006
• WHO International Medical Guide for Ships
• Local laws (e.g., UK Misuse of Drugs Regulations, US CFR Title 21)

Conclusion

Maintaining a Ship’s Controlled Drugs Register is not only a legal requirement but a crucial safety protocol that protects the health of crew members and ensures compliance with international and flag state regulations. Ship operators, captains, and medical officers must stay informed and diligent in keeping accurate, up-to-date records. By doing so, they promote a safer, more accountable maritime environment.