Tag: ship inspections

The USCG initiated the Concentrated Inspection Campaign, that is running from 2 May 2018 – 1 May 2019, for all US-flag vessels fitted with open lifeboats. The purpose of the CIC is to ensure that these critical lifesaving appliances are maintained in working order and ready for immediate use. 

The US Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg has issued an initial Certificate of Inspection to the towing vessel 'Endeavor' of Marine Towing of Tampa. This marks the first COI to be issued in accordance with the Subchapter M towing vessel regulations, according to USCG Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance.

USCG released guidance for stakeholders when they are developing, implementing, and verifying SMSs, to ensure the ISM Code is effectively implemented on applicable vessels. This work instruction also includes specific provisions to assist in assessing risks and developing contingency plans for emergency shipboard situations.

China MSA will implement Special Safety Inspections for ships entering the Qingdao water areas, starting from 20 April until Mid-June 2018. The regulations will initially apply only to ships of Chinese nationality. Operators will need to submit a special information report to the MSA to apply for a special safety inspection.

AMSA issued its PSC report results for 2017, indicating a significant fall in the detention rate in Australian ports to 5.3%. This result is the lowest since 2006 - with a detention rate of 4.5%. This result is also reflected in the average number of deficiencies per inspection remaining at a low of 2.3%. This outcome was last recorded in 2004.

ClassNK has released its Guidelines for Use of Drones in Class Surveys, incorporating the applicable range and procedures for use of drones in class surveys, the technical considerations for safe operation and the requirements for drone service suppliers. As drone-related technologies are improving at an extremely rapid pace, application in diverse fields is increasingly expected. 

US Coast Guard Form CG-835, Vessel/Facility Inspection Requirements, has been used to document deficiencies on US Coast Guard inspected vessels and facilities. USCG new developed a new form, CG-835V: Vessel Inspection Requirements, which captures more detailed deficiency data. The CG-835V includes deficiency codes and vessel control actions similar to those found on the PSC Form B.

The Isle of Man Ship Registry issued its annual report for 2017, presenting data provided by the Registry's survey and inspection activity throughout the year. The report revealed that the number of non-conformance notices decreased, but the number of ship deficiencies remained at the same levels. Most deficiencies concerned fire safety and MLC-related issues. 

IMCA and OCIMF agreed to establish a joint committee to review, share and progress developments of the Offshore Vessel Inspection Database system, aiming to improve the efficiency of vessel assurance process, while at the same time maintaining the highest standards of vessel assurance and risk management.

The Republic of Marshall Islands informed there have been numerous heads found with missing, broken, and wasted parts. These issues have been found on vessels of varying ages ranging from new delivery to existing vessels in service. Owners and operators are urged to open and inspect these vent heads every three months.