CHIEF ENGINEER Unit 13 Surveys Q2 Answer

  1. With reference to vessel’s survey requirements:
    (a) describe FIVE ways in which Government Surveyors will act in maintaining the statutory requirements of a vessel;(5)
    (b) list FIVE ways in which Classification Surveyors can act to maintain the class and statutory requirements of the vessel.(5)

(a) Government Surveyors – maintaining statutory requirements (5 marks)

Government Surveyors (e.g. Flag State surveyors) ensure that vessels comply with national and international legislation:

  1. Conduct statutory safety surveys – e.g. Load Line, Safety Construction, Safety Equipment, Safety Radio surveys.
  2. Issue and endorse statutory certificates – confirming compliance with SOLAS, MARPOL, ISM, ISPS, and Load Line Conventions.
  3. Inspect crew certification and safe manning – ensuring the vessel complies with STCW and flag state manning regulations.
  4. Port State Control (PSC) inspections – checking for deficiencies and detaining vessels that fail to meet international standards.
  5. Investigate accidents and incidents – to determine causes and ensure corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

(b) Classification Surveyors – maintaining class and statutory requirements (5 marks)

Classification Societies act on behalf of both the owner and sometimes the Flag State:

  1. Conduct class surveys – including annual, intermediate, docking, and special surveys of hull, machinery, and equipment.
  2. Verify construction and repair work – ensuring new builds, modifications, and repairs meet Class Rules.
  3. Supervise continuous machinery and hull surveys – spreading inspection over the service period to maintain “in class” status.
  4. Issue and maintain class certificates – required by insurers and charterers, confirming structural and machinery integrity.
  5. Carry out statutory surveys on behalf of Flag States – e.g. MARPOL, SOLAS, ISM, and Load Line certification, when authorised.