A marine inspection is a formal assessment of the condition of a ship. The surveyor from marine inspection services notifies the vessel’s condition, flag state, and classification organization, and the report may include repair suggestions or a clean bill of health. It may also detail various defects that must be corrected within a certain period. Those who perform this inspection are the most important people on board. But how do you choose the right marine surveyor?
Qualified marine surveyors
There are several different types of marine inspections. Whether you need a commercial, recreational, or fishing vessel inspected, trained marine surveyors can perform these services. Some of these marine inspectors are members of the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS), while others do not belong to the organization. Members of the SAMS have at least five years of experience in marine surveying and must have a passing score on the SAMS Yachts and Small Craft Examination.
A qualified marine surveyor will look for the boat’s hull identification number and federal, or state registration marks. Then, they will perform a series of checks to determine whether the hull and accessible structures are in good condition. Inspections will also include checks on delamination and blistering, and stringers and bulkheads will be examined for structural integrity. Electrical systems and plumbing systems will also be checked. Additionally, the surveyor will look over the floorboards and the fuel system, including any structural bolts. They will also test any electronics and make sure they function correctly.
Routine marine inspections
To be seaworthy, the operation of a vessel must meet strict standards. Therefore, the OCMI will assign a marine inspector to the vessel at a mutually agreed-upon time and location. If the vessel is owned, managed, or operated by a representative, a marine inspector will perform the inspection on the vessel. This inspection will ensure that the vessel meets these standards. In addition, the inspector may perform other tests as needed.
Routine marine inspections require a certified inspector or an AMSA-employed surveyor to attend the vessel. The inspector is required to ensure that visual systems are in working order. If necessary, the inspection may require the vessel to suspend operations while repairs are made. These inspections take place annually, with additional emphasis during the three and five-year time frames. If a vessel fails an inspection, a marine safety inspector will issue a Report of Violation, which will detail why it has to be corrected.
Insurance and warranty surveyors
Marine warranties are designed to reduce the risk of loss. Underwriters specify the appointment of a marine warranty surveyor to ensure that a project’s work meets acceptable standards. Typically, the insured appoints the MWS, which can sometimes conflict with the insurer’s interests.
While insurance and warranty surveyors are responsible for reviewing documentation, they also provide independent calculations. However, since their advice is considered a warranty, they should make sure that it applies to the intended operation. These surveys will follow widely accepted industry practices in most cases, so their opinions may be unbiased. Nonetheless, there may be times when a marine warranty surveyor is accused of playing it safe and erring on the side of caution.
Proactive marine surveyors
Professional marine surveyors can be divided into two types: proactive and reactive. Proactive marine surveyors take steps to prevent problems before they occur, whereas reactive surveyors are called in only after an incident occurs. Typically, proactive surveyors perform routine checks and assessments. The most common types of surveys are vessel inspections and stability assessments. The survey aims to determine whether a vessel is seaworthy and meets its regulations.
A proactive marine survey will inspect a vessel before embarkation, before it’s engaged in any activity, such as a voyage. It will help ensure that it meets all relevant requirements, international conventions, and standards. In contrast, a reactive survey will be carried out only after an incident occurs or after a vessel has sunk. Typically, proactive surveys are carried out by marine surveyors, while reactive surveys involve the opinion of a marine consultant.
