The world’s largest container tonnage provider has become the latest vessel owner to benefit from classification society DNV GL’s remote audit capabilities, as the impact of the global COVID-19 crisis continues to spur the increased use of remote survey services globally.
Under a Hong Kong flag special authorization, DNV GL, together with representatives from Seaspan Corporation, carried out a remote Document of Compliance (DoC) audit of the company’s Safety Management System (SMS).
According to DNV GL, the Hong Kong flag administration gave the classification society the go-ahead to perform the Seaspan DoC audit on behalf of Hong Kong flag after having become familiar with its process and capabilities from a series of remote audits completed in recent months.
“With more than 18,000 remote surveys and inspections undertaken since launching the service in October 2018, our customers have benefited from greater flexibility and efficiency through the continued digitalization and integration of our class services,” said Antony DSouza, Executive Vice President and Regional Manager, DNV GL Maritime Americas. “Amidst the current reality, these services have become even more valuable and we are proud to do our part and help the industry navigate the new challenges.”
“We have been impressed with the digital journey advances that DNV GL has rolled out in recent years, including the Direct Access to Technical Experts service, electronic certificates, remote surveys, and the customer portal with smart survey booking capabilities,” said Torsten Pedersen, Chief Operating Officer of Seaspan Corporation. “DNV GL has successfully focused on how to add more value by simplifying their clients’ business operations. The preparation for this remote DOC audit and its seamless execution is the latest chapter in our longstanding relationship.”
In addition, Seaspan said DNV GL’s remote survey services enabled Seaspan Ship Management Ltd. Vancouver has gained ISO 14001:2015 certification for Ship Management Services for Container and Dry Cargo Ships (shore operations), in addition to its existing ISO 9001:2015 certification.
ISO 14001 is an international standard for environmental management systems. It provides a framework for organizations looking to identify and control their environmental impact.
Stage 1 began on April 14, and the final audit concluded on June 12, 2020, with no deficiencies or recommendations for improvement – but with seven observations of best practices.
“This result is confirmation of Seaspan’s operational excellence, and a testament to the strong cross-functional efforts from all parts of the organization, led by our Marine Standards department” Pedersen said. “The certification is an initial marker for our future ESG efforts at Seaspan.”
