Inspections on a vessel

PSC (Port State Control)

PSC inspections are conducted by port authorities to ensure compliance with international conventions (SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW, etc.). Inspectors check:

• Certificates and documentation
• Hull condition, machinery, and safety systems
• Lifesaving appliances and firefighting equipment
• Crew competency and working/rest hours compliance
• Logbooks (Oil Record Book, Garbage Record Book, etc.)

⚠️ If serious deficiencies are found, the vessel may be detained.

Flag State Control (FSC)

Flag State inspections are carried out by the classification society or flag administration inspectors. They ensure compliance with:

• International regulations (SOLAS, MARPOL, MLC, etc.)
• National flag requirements
• Proper documentation and record-keeping

The flag state may conduct regular (annual, intermediate, renewal) and unscheduled inspections.

Classification Society (Class Survey)

Class surveys are required to maintain the vessel’s classification. They include:

• Annual, intermediate, and five-year surveys
• Hull, ballast tank, machinery, and propulsion system inspections
• Electrical equipment, navigation, and radio system checks
• MARPOL compliance and Safety Management System (ISM) inspections

If the vessel does not meet class requirements, it may lose its classification certificate.

☑️ Additionally, there may be inspections by P&I clubs, insurance companies, SIRE/CDI inspections (for tankers), ISPS security audits, etc.

Articles on ship inspections. Checking different systems and mechanisms:

• Boiler safety devices. A quick check for the surveyor
• Incinerator protections. A quick check for the inspector
• Checking protections of the main air compressors
• Steering gear protections on the vessel. Quick check for the inspector