Since the mid-fifties of the last century, Curaçao has followed the local law-stipulations "Veiligheids-besluit Ned.Antillen art.47-49" during vessel-repairs on the Island. The Curaçao Drydock Co and other repair-facilities required permits for hot and cold work, written by independent certified gastesters.
Since 1975, one of these gastesters was also internationally certified as Marine-Chemist by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), as CMC 601. ( Mr. G.J.Helmich) Since then and until now, all inspections are carried out according the NFPA-306 guideline "Standard for the control of Gas Hazards on Vessels".
All Curaçao Port Chemists are in service of G.J.Helmich Ass.N.V. as their employer, but individually recognized by the Curaçao Government as certified Gastester. They all are well-trained for many years by the mentioned Marine-Chemist, and all inspections and written certificates are following NFPA standard 306, as guideline.