IRClass (Indian Register of Shipping) has conducted an executive workshop, in coordination with India’s Directorate General of Shipping and the Indian National Shipowners’ Association (INSA), on Port State Control (PSC) inspections.
The workshop, inaugurated by the Director General of Shipping, Mr. Deepak Shetty, saw presentations highlighting reasons which can be attributed to PSC detentions, analysing root causes, and suggesting preventative actions.
The responsibilities of ship staff/ship owners/managers, classification societies and Flag were deliberated, plus vital steps to be taken prior to vessels entering ports. Speakers identified key reasons for detentions including emergency response equipment, navigation equipment, engine room hygiene, radio communication equipment, and ISM/ ISPS/ MLC-related matters.
IRClass officials pointed to the Concentrated Inspection Campaign (CIC) on crew familiarisation and enclosed-space entry, to be conducted 1st September – 30th November 2015, a series of inspections for which owners must be prepared.
There followed an open house discussion. Capt. L.K. Panda, Nautical Adviser to the Government of India, and Mr. V. Arora, Chief Surveyor at IRClass, responded to issues raised by emphasising proactive methods such as pre-arrival checklists, early annual inspections, and heightened vessel monitoring.
In follow-up, IRClass will schedule regular meets with shipowners to work together in achieving this common goal.
