Contractor Agreements & Specifications
A principal cannot contract out of his or her responsibilities when engaging a contractor to undertake the work. The amount of information and the degree of detail required will vary considerably depending on the type and complexity of the work involved. These contracts may range from engine repair, hull maintenance, to highly technical long-term new-build contracts.
The principal needs to provide information to the contractor relating to the work the contractor is engaged to do. The contractor should be informed of any potential hazards that the principal is aware of, together with details of, for example, chemicals or other materials used, security, access to particular areas, work permits and emergency procedures.
It is important that arrangements are made for the introduction of contractor's staff to the vessel and that any potential hazards are highlighted – this includes joint physical examination of the vessel / worksite as appropriate. All contract documentation with contractors should clearly specify the safe working procedures to be adopted and include a provision whereby inspections of the work in progress are carried out at regular intervals by a representative of the Skipper / Owner and the contractor to ensure compliance with the standards.
A pre-contract questionnaire completed by the prospective contractor will assist greatly in sorting out problems and responsibilities before the job commences.
