In a significant move to enhance maritime safety and operational standards, RightShip has announced a phased reduction in the vessel inspection age trigger for dry bulk and general cargo vessels. The current threshold of 14 years will be systematically lowered to 10 years through a four-phase implementation plan:
- Phase 1 (2025): Inspection age reduced to 13 years.
- Phase 2 (2026): Further reduction to 12 years.
- Phase 3 (2026): Lowered to 11 years.
- Phase 4 (2027): Final reduction to 10 years.
This decision reflects RightShip’s commitment to proactively addressing safety concerns associated with aging vessels, as data indicates a higher incident and detention ratio in vessels exceeding 10 years of age. The phased approach allows shipowners and operators ample time to adjust budgets, train crew, and plan for inspections.
In conjunction with the updated inspection age policy, RightShip has released version 3.1 of its Inspection Ship Questionnaire (RISQ). This revision incorporates clarifications and enhancements, including:
1. Operation and Maintenance Training: New Guidelines for Hatch Cover Operations
Proper maintenance and operation of hatch covers are critical to ensuring cargo integrity and vessel safety. RISQ v3.1 emphasizes the importance of incorporating emergency hatch cover operation procedures into the ship’s manual. This includes training crew members to handle scenarios where standard hydraulic systems may fail. The guidelines recommend the availability of portable electric or hydraulic pump units for emergency situations and stress regular drills to ensure crew proficiency in manual operations.
2. Welding and Gas Burning Equipment: Updated Protocols Aligning with Current Industry Standards
The updated questionnaire underscores the necessity for welding and gas burning equipment to be in good order and properly stored. This entails regular inspections, maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols to prevent accidents. Proper storage of such equipment is crucial to mitigate risks associated with gas leaks or accidental ignition.
3. Pilot Ladder Safety: Revised Guidelines Emphasizing Additional Safety Measures
Pilot transfer arrangements are vital for safe maritime operations. RISQ v3.1 provides comprehensive guidelines to ensure pilot ladders are correctly rigged and maintained. Key points include:
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Proper Securing: Ladders should be secured to designated strong points on the deck, avoiding the use of shackles or other devices that transfer weight to the steps instead of the side ropes.
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Equipment Integrity: Regular inspections should be conducted to identify and replace worn-out or damaged steps, spreaders, and side ropes.
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Storage Practices: Ladders must be stored away from direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions to prevent material degradation.
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Compliance with Standards: All pilot ladders should meet SOLAS requirements and IMO guidelines to ensure safety during pilot transfers.
These measures aim to reduce the high rate of non-conformities related to pilot ladders, which have been identified in over 16% of inspections.
By adhering to these updated guidelines, shipowners and operators can significantly enhance vessel safety, ensure compliance with international standards, and promote the well-being of their crew and pilots.
These updates aim to provide a comprehensive inspection standard for dry bulk shipping, assisting managers in strengthening safety performance and preparing vessels for inspection.
RightShip’s proactive measures underscore its dedication to elevating safety standards and promoting sustainable maritime operations. Shipowners and operators are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the revised inspection protocols and questionnaire to ensure compliance and uphold the highest standards of maritime safety.
