Panama Maritime Authority approves the Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass) to conduct remote surveys, says an article on IRClass.
Remote inspection techiques
Leading flag administration, Panama Maritime Authority has authorized the Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass), an international ship classification society, to conduct specific surveys through remote inspection techniques.
As the maritime world continues to reel under the shadow of the pandemic-induced travel restrictions, IRClass ensured that ships continue to stay compliant with various IMO conventions and sail with valid certificates. Alternative means were adopted for evidence compliance by IRClass since 2020 when the travel restrictions were first introduced.
Remote Survey capability
IRClass has developed remote survey capability for specific types of inspections using an online remote survey application backed up by a dedicated team that can support vessels anywhere in the world. It has developed the necessary remote survey guidelines which were released earlier this year. A dedicated facility with the requisite IT infrastructure has been put in place at its head office in Mumbai.
In-water surveys now possible
Following this authorization, IRClass can now conduct Interim ISM/ ISPS & MLC audits occasional in-water surveys and radio surveys which have been attended by a radio firm for ships under Panama Flag. Any other remote surveys will be undertaken after receiving specific authorization from Panama Flag on a case-by-case basis. IRClass shall also be approaching other flags to be able to undertake such surveys.
Mr. Vijay Arora, Joint Managing Director of IRClass said:
“We are glad to receive the authorization from Panama flag for the conduct of remote surveys for Interim ISM/ ISPS & MLC audits occasional in-water surveys, and radio surveys. This authorization will help us provide our services during the continued pandemic condition till the situation normalizes to enable the conduct of physical surveys. Our customers can benefit from access to our surveyors from any location in the world, faster completion along documented evidence of survey completion. With the help of documentation, images, video (live-streaming and recordings), inputs provided by the Ship Manager and crew, IRClass provides the same level of assurance as an onboard survey.”
Did you subscribe to our daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: IRClass
