General Condition of Vessel
A well-maintained vessel is a safe vessel. All equipment must be installed correctly, and kept in good condition.
The vessel must be maintained in a good condition at all times. Regular checks are necessary here.
A well-found and maintained vessel is better able to take all that the seas and weather can throw at it. Consider the following:
- Is the hull in good condition? Check for hull damage. General paint in good condition?
- Is there anything to suggest that the vessel is not structurally sound? Any obvious problems /damage?
- Check inside for indications of water leakage? Any rust streaks, obvious signs of water leakage? Is the bilge pump running often / continuously?
- Check that all hull & accommodation openings seal properly. Are the fire flaps, door seals, deck, and hold closures in good working condition?
- Can the crew safely access all areas of the vessel? What is the condition of ladders, railings, walkways? Excessive rust seen?
- There needs to be adequate space on deck to work safely – is this the case? Check that the addition of new equipment hasn’t seriously impacted on safe working space.
- General housekeeping standards good?
