The Isle of Man Ship Registry announced that is plotting a new course, with an overhaul of its ship inspection regime. Since its inception, the Registry has dispatched its own surveyors to conduct inspections on more than 400 vessels in the Manx-flagged fleet.
However, the fleet has grown in size and scope, and coverage in limited time windows has become more difficult. From 1 April, audits on safety management, ship security and maritime labour convention will be in the hands of the ship’s Classification Societies, known as Class. This is in addition to marine pollution, safety management and radio inspections that it already carries out on behalf of the Manx Registry.
The Isle of Man said that it will see the outsourcing of a crucial function to a specialist organisation with 200 offices worldwide. The Registry’s own surveyors will begin a new general inspection regime.
Director Dick Welsh has confirmed the Registry will still bear responsibility for the checks, and oversee the Classification Society’s work.
Source: Isle of Man