Port State Control Resources

Time and again the same deficiencies are reported in MOU and classification society Port State Control (PSC) annual reports on the findings of inspections.

The reports provide a detailed breakdown of inspection results including detention rates per ship type, most frequent detainable deficiencies and a breakdown of deficiencies by main category. The reports, which are publicly available, should be regularly reviewed by ship operators who can use them to ensure that their ships do not fall foul of these common deficiencies. Adopting this approach can reduce the risk of detention.

In order to assist vessels in preparing for PSC inspections, North has produced a hot-spot poster and a checklist on Port State Control.

• Hot-Spots
• Checklist

A number of the classification societies also produce publications aimed at assisting vessels in preparing for inspection details which can be found on their websites.

Strict Down Under?

Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) inspections are rigorous and it is therefore sensible to ensure that the vessel is well prepared for inspection prior to arrival at an Australian port.

AMSA has produced a helpful video explaining their approach to PSC which can be accessed via YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=iiFaH-bip14

ECDIS

In order to ensure that vessels are suitably prepared prior to arrival at Australian ports, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has produced guidance on their inspection criteria relating to ECDIS installations. This includes the maintenance, setting and operation of equipment and the competence of navigating officers in its use. Vessels arriving in Australia should expect to be inspected for compliance with the notice. A copy of the AMSA notice is available online at: https://apps.amsa.gov.au/MOReview/MarineNoticeExternal.html

AMSA has also issued recent guidance in relation to the expected actions of bridge teams in Australian pilotage waters:

https://apps.amsa.gov.au/MOReview/MarineNoticeExternal.html

PSC inspections are both disruptive and costly. Use the resources available to assist in preparing your vessel for inspection.