The global lockdown and restrictions imposed by organizations to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, many shipping stakeholders as Thome Group are conducting remote audits with DNV GL in efforts to continue their operations.
Specifically, Thome Group collaborated with DNV GL, conducting an audit that was performed online using video conferencing software which enabled document sharing and discussions to take place to verify that all requirements had been met.
DNV GL in Singapore co-ordinated the audits with relevant Thome personnel and the Hong Kong, Liberia and Marshall Islands Flags also had representatives present to remotely witness the audit.
It is stated that this is currently the largest remote annual DOC audit performed by DNV GL´s Singapore office.
In the meantime, the Group decided to develop its own remote vessel internal audit procedures to ensure its managed vessels were not only compliant under ISM Ch.12.1 requirements, but also, to ensure that its management systems were verified to be effectively implemented, despite the COVID-19 restrictions.
The audit included teleconferencing, screen sharing to demonstrate usage of onboard systems and documents and sharing of photos and videos to verify the physical condition onboard.
In light of the audit, Claes Eek Thorstensen, Thome Group’s president and CCO commented that
I think that once lockdown restrictions are eased, we may see the continuation of remote audits and inspections as they are proving to be an efficient use of everyone’s time and energy which is advantageous for everyone concerned.