Elective Midterm Reviewer
Elective Midterm Reviewer
Elective Midterm Reviewer
Introduction
Ships, whether for transporting goods or people, are intricate machines requiring a sophisticated combination
of design, engineering, and construction. Understanding the various parts of a ship is crucial to ensuring
smooth navigation and safe transport.
The anatomy of a ship consists of multiple parts, each with its distinct purpose and function. These parts
include the hull, superstructure, propulsion system, navigation and communication equipment, cargo handling
equipment, safety equipment, electrical systems, and plumbing and sanitation systems. Knowing how each of
these components works is essential in comprehending the ship's anatomy, construction, and systems.
CRITICAL COMPONENTS IN A VESSEL
Hull
Deck structures
Propulsion system
Navigation and Communication Equipment
Cargo Handling Equipment
Safety Equipment
Electrical System
Plumbing and Sanitation Systems
Damage Assessment
Check for any physical damage caused by impacts, grounding, or collisions. This includes dents, punctures, and
deformations that could affect the hull's performance and safety.
Coating Condition
Check for Wear and Tear on Protective Coatings. Regularly inspect the coatings for signs of wear, such as
peeling, blistering, or cracking. Areas with damaged coatings are more prone to corrosion and should be
repaired promptly. Follow guidelines for maintaining and repairing protective coatings to ensure they remain
effective. This includes cleaning the hull, applying touch-up coatings, and conducting full recoating as
necessary.
DECK STRUCTURE
The deck structure of a vessel is a crucial component that provides stability, walking space, and a place for
equipment and machinery. A ship's superstructure is the upper part of the ship above the main deck, which
includes the bridge, deckhouse, and accommodations for the crew and passengers. It serves as the brain and
housing of the vessel, containing essential systems and equipment necessary for safe and efficient navigation.
Some Key Parts of a Ship's Deck structure:
MAIN DECK- This is the primary deck of the ship, providing the main working surface and structural
strength.
UPPER DECK- Located above the main deck, it often houses additional facilities and equipment.
FOREDECK - The forward part of the main deck, typically used for anchoring and mooring operations.
WEATHER DECK - An exposed deck that is open to the elements, often used for cargo handling and
other operations.
LOWER DECK - Below the main deck, it includes spaces for machinery, storage, and sometimes crew
accommodations.
BRIDGE - The command center of the ship, located on the upper deck, where navigation and control are
managed.
FUNNEL DECK - Houses the ship's funnel, which releases exhaust gases from the engine room.
Modern ships are equipped with a wide array of sophisticated navigation tools, including GPS systems,
radar, sonar, and electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS). These instruments provide
crucial data on the ship's position, surrounding vessels, and potential hazards.
Communication equipment on board typically includes radio systems, satellite communications, and
internal communication networks. These systems allow for distress signaling, weather updates, and
coordination with maritime authorities and other vessels.
Regular maintenance and updates of navigation and communication equipment are vital to ensure
their reliability and compliance with international maritime regulations. Proper functioning of these
systems is critical for the safety of the crew, passengers, and cargo, as well as for efficient maritime
operations.
Fire Suppression Systems o Fire Extinguishers, Fire Hoses and Hydrants, Sprinkler
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs):
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) a. Life Jackets, Immersion suits
Distress Flares and Signals (Pyrotechnics) a. Handheld Flares, Parachute Flares, Smoke Signals
Marine Radios a. VHF Radios, HF Radios
First Aid Kits
Navigational Lights and Radar Reflectors
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The electrical system on board a vessel is a complex network designed to generate, distribute, and manage
electrical power to ensure the smooth operation of all onboard systems and equipment.
Common Electrical System Inspected:
Generators - Ships typically use diesel generators to produce electricity. These generators convert
mechanical energy from the ship's engines into electrical energy.
Emergency Generators - These are backup generators that provide power in case the main generators
fail. They are crucial for maintaining essential systems during emergencies.
Main Switchboard - This is the central hub for distributing electrical power throughout the ship. It
controls the flow of electricity from the generators to various systems and equipment.
Distribution Panels - These panels distribute power to different sections of the ship, such as the engine
room, accommodation areas, and navigation systems.
Hybrid Systems
These combine diesel engines with electric propulsion, allowing for greater flexibility and efficiency.
Circuit Breakers and Fuses
These protect the electrical system from overloads and short circuits. They automatically disconnect the power
supply in case of a fault.
Grounding Systems
These ensure that any stray electrical currents are safely directed to the ground, preventing electrical shocks
and equipment damage.
Radar and GPS Systems
These rely on electrical power to function, providing critical information for safe navigation.
Communication Systems
Radios, satellite communication systems, and internal communication networks all depend on a reliable
electrical supply.
PLUMBING
& SANITATION SYSTEM
The plumbing and sanitation system on a vessel is essential for maintaining hygiene, ensuring the health and
well-being of the crew and passengers, and complying with environmental regulations.
Key components of the Plumbing and Sanitation System:
Marine Toilets (Heads)
Holding Tanks
Plumbing Systems
Freshwater Systems
Sewage Treatment System
SUMMARY
A vessel is a complex structure composed of numerous critical components, each essential for its functionality,
safety, and efficiency.
Critical components include:
Hull
Deck structures
Propulsion system
Navigation and Communication Equipment
Cargo Handling Equipment
Safety Equipment
Electrical System
Plumbing and Sanitation Systems
TOPIC 5
International Conventions governing surveys and the Classification Societies
BWM Convention
International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments (BWM
Convention)
This convention aims to prevent the spread of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens through ships' ballast
water.
Ship surveys under the BWM Convention ensure that ships comply with the regulations. These surveys involve
inspecting and certifying that the ballast water management systems on board are functioning correctly and
meet the required standards.
Ships over 400 GT (gross tonnage) are subject to these international surveys and certifications, while smaller
ships may follow national regulations
Certificates Issued by Conventions
Types of Certificates:
Certificates issued by these conventions include (some depend on the type of ship):
• International Tonnage Certificate
• International Load Line Certificate
• Passenger Ship Safety Certificate
• Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate
• Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate
• Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate
• Cargo Ship Safety Certificate
• Safety Management Certificate
• International Ship Security Certificate
• Stability Information
• Damage Control Information
• Cargo Securing Manual
• Minimum safe manning document
• Certificates for masters, officers or ratings
• International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate
• International Certificate for the Carriage of Noxious Liquid Substances
• International Sewage Pollution Prevention Certificate
• International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate
• International Anti-fouling System Certificate
• Oil Record Book
• Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan
• Garbage Management Plan
• Garbage Record Book
Issuance and Inspection
The certificates and documents are issued by the officers of flag State Administrations or their
ROs/RSOs/nominated surveyors authorized for the purpose and are subject to inspection by port State control
officers (PSCOs).
Guidelines and Standards by Classification Societies
Classification societies are organizations which develop and apply TECHNICAL STANDARDS for the design,
construction and survey of ships and which carry out surveys and inspections on board ships. Flag states can
authorize classification societies to act on their behalf to carry out statutory survey and certification work of
their ships. Worldwide there are more than 50 classification societies
Members of IACS
ABS- American Bureau of Shipping (USA)
BV- Bureau Veritas (France)
CCS- China Classification Society (China)
CRS- Croatian Register of Shipping (Croatia)
DNV GL- Det Norske Veritas Germanischer Lloyd (Germany)
IRS- Indian Register of Shipping (India)
KR- Korean Register of Shipping (South Korea)
LR- Lloyd's Register (UK)
PRS- Polish Register of Shipping (Poland)
RINA- Registro Italiano Navale (Italy)
RS- Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (Russia)
ClassNK- Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (Japan)
Initial Survey
Conducted during the construction of the ship to verify compliance with design specifications and relevant
standards.
Annual Survey
Yearly inspections to ensure ongoing compliance with safety and environmental standards.
Intermediate Survey
Conducted midway between two periodic surveys to verify the condition of the ship and its equipment.
Special Survey
Detailed inspections conducted every five years to evaluate the structural integrity and overall condition of the
ship.
Bottom/Docking Survey
Involves inspecting the ship's hull and related components, usually when the ship is dry-docked.
Survey Guidelines
Hull and Machinery Surveys
Inspect the structural integrity and mechanical systems of the ship to ensure they meet safety and operational
standards.
Load Line Surveys
Verify that the ship's load line marks are correctly placed and maintained, ensuring the vessel's stability and
seaworthiness.
Safety Equipment Surveys
Check the presence and functionality of life-saving appliances, fire-fighting equipment, and other safety-
related installations.
Environmental Surveys
Assess compliance with environmental regulations, such as ballast water management, sewage treatment, and
air pollution controls.
Radio Surveys
Ensure the ship's radio equipment is operational and meets international communication standards.
Quality Management Systems (QMS): Classification societies implement QMS to maintain high
standards of survey and certification processes.
Survey Process
These guidelines and standards are essential for maintaining maritime safety, environmental protection, and
operational efficiency. They provide a framework for systematic and consistent inspections, ensuring that ships
are seaworthy and compliant with international regulations.
Maritime Authorities
Guidelines and Standards
National Maritime Authorities are governmental bodies responsible for regulating and overseeing maritime
activities within their jurisdiction. They enforce international maritime conventions and national regulations to
ensure the safety, security, and environmental protection of vessels.
These authorities enforce compliance with international regulations such as SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea),
MARPOL (Prevention of Pollution from Ships), STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping
for Seafarers), and other international and national regulation.
Regulatory framework is largely based on the conventions set by the International Maritime Organization
(IMO).
Their focus includes regulatory compliance, safety, and environmental protection.
Issue such certificates as required under international conventions like SOLAS and MARPOL.
These standards and guidelines are critical for maintaining maritime safety, protecting the marine
environment, and ensuring efficient ship operations. They create a systematic framework for conducting
thorough and consistent inspections, ensuring ships are fit for service and compliant with international and
national regulations.
Designed to assist inspectors to assess whether a ship complies with the relevant international regulations and codes of
practice prepared by industry and in respect of responsible management of the ship, safe operational practices and
environmental protection.
Each item in the checklist is identified with a category number in the first column of the list. Most of the items have a
letter at the end of the number which will indicate the importance of the item:
S= Statutory
R= Required
D= Desirable
Where relevant, checklist items have been referenced to the relevant regulation and industry recommendations for
analytical reasons.
During the inspection of the ship, it is recommended that the inspector be accompanied at all times by a responsible
person(s) nominated by the Master.
The inspector should be an observer only and should not interfere or become involved in the operation of the ship or be
a party in any discussion between the ship and terminal, port authorities etc.
On completion of the inspection, the inspector will report to the Master and discuss with him the findings of his
inspection. This will give the opportunity to clarify questions, which may have arisen in the course of the inspection (e.g.
compliance with Flag Regulations) before he leaves the ship. Whenever possible
The Inspection Report has been prepared in the form of checklists applicable to the different Sections covered by the
inspection.
Not all items will be applicable to the ship inspected and should therefore be so indicated. When further clarification or
additional information is needed to better clarify the inspector's findings, further explanation should be provided under
"Remarks "at end of each section.
The "Inspection Summary "should reflect the findings shown in the relevant sections.
If the vessel is taken in on "short time" hire, maximum of 2 to 3 weeks, the inspector may restrict the inspection
to ship and crew certificates.
There must not be any outstanding issues from port authority or class. Lifeboat and fire-drill are
mandatory.
If however, based upon above inspection/observations, things are found to be unclear, a more
thorough inspection may be initiated.
Any recommendations given should be discussed with the vessel contractor for further actions.
If the vessel is into a charter for more than one-year, annual periodic in-service inspection should be
carried out with a full checklist inspection.
1. INTRODUCTION
2. ABBREVIATIONS
3. EXPLANATION OF KEY TERMS USED
4. LIST OF OBSERVATIONS
5. MAIN CERTIFICATES
General
Check list for certificates
Safety Equipment
1. ENGINE DEPARTMENT
Administration
Operation
Machinery
Machinery Spaces
Energy Conservation
2. OPERATIONAL SAFETY
Additional Sections in the Checklist
• POLLUTION PREVENTION
• HOUSE KEEPING
• INTERNAL COMMUNICATION
• SECURITY
• HULL AND SUPERSTRUCTURE
• HELICOPTER OPERATION
• SEISMIC VESSELS SPECIFIC
• SUPPLY VESSELS / ANCHOR HANDLING VESSELS SPECIFIC
• STAND BY VESSEL SPECIFIC
SPECIALIZED VESSEL
Offshore Supply Vessel (OSV) Inspection Checklist- Focuses on the specific needs of OSVs, including
cargo handling and safety equipment.
Platform Supply Vessel (PSV) Inspection Checklist- Ensures compliance with regulations for PSVs,
including cargo handling and pollution prevention.
SUMMARY
This topic addresses the international regulatory framework and standards governing ship surveys,
particularly focusing on key conventions and the role of classification societies. The main conventions
include SOLAR, MARPOL 73/78, STCW 78, etc.
These conventions require flag states or their recognized organizations (ROs) to carry out surveys to
ensure compliance and issue certificates like the International Tonnage Certificate, Load Line
Certificate, and Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate. Port State Control also inspects vessels to verify
these standards.
Classification Societies play a crucial role by developing technical standards for ship design,
construction, and operation. They are authorized to conduct statutory surveys on behalf of flag states.
Key societies include ABS, BV, DNV GL, LR, and others under the International Association of
Classification Societies (IACS).
These societies ensure compliance through various surveys such as initial, annual, intermediate, and
special surveys covering hull integrity, machinery, safety equipment, and environmental regulations.
The survey process involves careful planning, execution, and documentation, ensuring ships meet
international and national standards.
Maritime Authorities like the IMO, USCG, MCA, and MARINA set additional guidelines for surveys. They
provide documents such as Safety Management Certificates and Load Line Certificates that confirm
compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards.
CONCLUSION
The international conventions and classification societies establish a comprehensive framework for ensuring
the safety, environmental compliance, and operational efficiency of ships. Through systematic surveys and
adherence to detailed standards, these conventions and societies promote the safety of life at sea,
environmental protection, and global uniformity in ship design and operation. The meticulous survey
process, combined with effective certification, ensures that vessels are seaworthy and capable of safe
operations in diverse marine environments.