CHIEF ENGINEER Unit 12 Classification Q6 Answer

  1. Explain the procedures carried out by a Classification Society for a new vessel to be built to class rules, and the class certificate being issued.(10)

Procedures Carried Out by a Classification Society for a New Vessel to be Built to Class Rules

  1. Approval of Plans and Drawings
    • Before construction, the Classification Society reviews and approves all shipyard plans (hull structure, machinery, piping, electrical systems) to ensure compliance with their Rules and international conventions.
    • This is known as plan approval.
  2. Approval of Materials and Equipment
    • All steels, welding consumables, propulsion machinery, boilers, electrical equipment, lifesaving and fire-fighting systems are inspected and certified.
    • Only approved materials and equipment suppliers are accepted.
  3. Survey During Construction (Hull)
    • Classification surveyors attend the yard to monitor hull construction.
    • They check welding, hull dimensions, structural strength, and watertight integrity during the build.
  4. Survey During Construction (Machinery and Systems)
    • Machinery installation (main engine, auxiliary engines, boilers, pumps, steering gear, electrical systems) is inspected.
    • Tests are carried out on shafting, propeller, and essential piping systems.
  5. Surveys of Safety and Pollution Prevention Equipment
    • Fire detection, fixed fire-fighting systems, lifeboats, rescue boats, oil discharge monitoring, OWS, and pollution prevention devices are checked.
  6. Testing During Construction
    • Hydrostatic tests of tanks and piping systems are performed.
    • Electrical and control system tests are witnessed.
    • Surveys include alignment checks and insulation resistance tests.
  7. Dock Trials
    • Conducted in dock before launching.
    • Checks include operation of rudder, thrusters, bilge pumps, ballast systems, generators, and emergency equipment.
  8. Sea Trials
    • The vessel undergoes sea trials in the presence of surveyors.
    • Trials cover main propulsion performance, speed and manoeuvrability, steering, stopping distances, and endurance running of machinery.
    • Emergency systems (emergency steering, blackout recovery, emergency generator) are demonstrated.
  9. Verification of Statutory Compliance
    • Society ensures vessel also complies with international conventions (SOLAS, MARPOL, Load Line, ISM, ISPS, etc.) if authorised by the flag state.
    • Statutory certificates (e.g. Load Line Certificate, Safety Construction Certificate) may be issued at the same time.
  10. Issuance of Class Certificate
  • When all requirements are met and surveys are satisfactory, the vessel is formally entered into class.
  • The Class Certificate is issued confirming that the vessel is built and maintained in accordance with the Society’s rules.
  • The ship is then subject to annual, intermediate, docking and special surveys to maintain class.