ABS announced that in an industry first, it is able to conduct almost all classification annual surveys remotely on eligible vessels, after moving to further expand its remote offerings.
ABS launched ten remote survey options, with an overall of 28 surveys and audits able to be conducted remotely.
It is stated that the new remote services include Annual Hull Survey, Annual Machinery Survey, Annual Automation Survey, Annual Dynamic Positioning Survey, Annual Navigational Bridge Layout and Equipment/Systems Survey and Annual Load Line Inspection, when authorized by Flag Administration, for the first time.
In addition, eligible vessels include general cargo vessels, barges (other than tank barges), tugs, offshore support vessels and liquified natural gas carriers under 15 years of age, with a few qualifying criteria.
In the meantime, ABS informed that it has extended its remote survey and audit services to existing equipment manufacturing and external specialist clients enrolled in ABS programs.
Joe Riva, ABS Vice President and Chief Surveyor commented that
The industry is telling us they want our services delivered remotely, particularly in the current challenging environment, and I am proud that we are providing the most comprehensive remote services portfolio in the industry.
Overall, the COVID-19 crisis has led to shipping disruption in a variety of sectors, with additional classes using remote technology to conduct audits. Specifically, Bureau Veritas and DNV GL found the solution by using remote technology, while LR conducted remote audit to offshore company.
