To ensure the seaworthiness and safety of a vessel, periodic surveys and inspections of vessels are crucial. Maritime laws are becoming stricter as we speak and with each passing year, and with that the series of inspections for sea-going vessels is increasing to meet the minimum requirement for continued sailing. For a ship to continue sailing, the classification society has made periodic surveys and certifications mandatory in order to ensure compliance to international regulations. In this article, we are going to discuss some of the common inspections and periodical surveys that have been led out by the classification society on behalf of flag states.
Dry Dock Surveys
Also known as intermediate surveys or inspections, these are an extensive form of an annual survey in which several operational, functional and maintenance aspects of the equipment of shipboard are verified.
Safety Construction Survey
This is focussed on the structural strength of the vessel. If there is any kind of excessive corrosion on deck or hull, it is assessed under this survey. In addition to that, the ship inspectors in Vietnam also check the condition of the watertight doors, drainage systems and bilge pumping. Fire protection equipment and portable fire fighting equipment is also assessed in this survey.
Cargo Safety Equipment Inspection
To check the condition and management of the safety system, this inspection is carried out. Lifejacket donning, survival craft launch instructions, muster stations, muster lists etc. should be updated and posted in respective locations. Portable fire extinguishers, international shore connections, fixed firefighting equipment are also checked for their operational readiness.
Terminal Safety Surveys
Gas and tanker industries having the hazardous nature of cargoes that they handle are subjected to these inspections. The ship inspectors in China who act as terminal safety manager visit the ship and determine the safe operations as per the requirements. This inspection is restricted to the readiness of the safety & navigation equipment of the ship.
Internal and External Safety Audit
Internal audit is carried out by the ship managers, operators, bare boat charterers, and third-party ship inspectors in Vietnam who are authorized to carry out such audits. This audit is done to verify the safety and pollution prevention activities and whether they comply with the existing safety management system. The External Safety audit is carried out on a quite similar pattern as internal audit. During this audit, the designated crew members are questioned about the familiarization with the respective shipboard equipment and ISM code policies.
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