SQE Marine has issued a circular informing the industry that RightShip has released a revised onboard inspection questionnaire, RISQ 3.2 (RightShip Inspection Ship Questionnaire). The updated version will apply to all RightShip inspections conducted from 1 February onwards. While the overall structure of the questionnaire remains familiar, RISQ 3.2 introduces important changes that require shipowners and managers to review and update their Safety Management Systems (SMS) and ensure crews are fully prepared for inspections.
Key Structural and Procedural Updates in RISQ 3.2
RISQ 3.2 retains the main chapter numbering from 1 to 17, but includes expanded guidance, increasing the document length from 210 to 235 pages (excluding annexes). Several notable updates have been introduced. A new subsection has been added in Chapter 8 (Cargo Operations) specifically addressing heavy lift vessels, reflecting a more tailored inspection approach for specialised ship types.
While Section 6 – Ship Structure remains unchanged, the questionnaire now includes 17 new items, mainly aimed at providing clearer guidance for inspectors. At the same time, 42 questions have been removed, though most of these have been integrated into other sections rather than eliminated entirely. These adjustments are intended to reduce repetition while improving clarity and consistency during inspections.
Stronger Focus on Operational Risk and Safety Culture
A major focus of RISQ 3.2 is the increased emphasis on high-risk operational areas, particularly enclosed spaces. Four pages of the questionnaire now address enclosed space safety, aligning inspections with IMO MSC 581 requirements. Another significant update is the mandatory inclusion of a Stop Work Authority Policy within the vessel’s SMS, reinforcing a safety-first culture onboard.
Inspection and management oversight requirements have also been tightened. Superintendent inspections must now be conducted every six months, not exceeding a seven-month interval, and senior management visits can no longer be counted as technical inspections. These changes reflect industry data showing recurring deficiencies in areas such as enclosed space entry, pilot transfer arrangements, mooring operations, machinery spaces, lifesaving appliances, and cargo handling systems. RISQ 3.2 aims to address these risks by setting clearer expectations for crew competence, vessel readiness, and continuous compliance.
RISQ 3.2 represents a shift from checklist-based inspections toward a more focused, risk-driven assessment model. With fewer but more targeted questions, reduced inspection time onboard, and stronger emphasis on operational readiness, preparation must now be an ongoing process rather than a last-minute exercise. By updating their SMS, strengthening safety culture, and ensuring crews understand the revised expectations, shipowners and managers can improve inspection outcomes, reduce incidents, and enhance overall vessel safety and efficiency.
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Source – SQE MARINE
