6. Classification Societies Flashcards
Term
Definition
Classification Society
Organizations that establish and administer standards for the construction and classification of ships and offshore structures.
Class Certificate
A certificate issued by a classification society that indicates a ship is in compliance with the standards of that society.
Survey
An inspection carried out by surveyors from classification societies to verify that the construction of the ship complies with the rules.
Hull Classification
A specific classification related to the structural integrity and condition of the ship’s hull.
Machinery Classification
A classification that pertains to the mechanical components and systems of a ship, ensuring they meet required standards.
Notation
Additional classification symbols on a class certificate that indicate a vessel is suitable for certain types of service or has certain extra features.
Annual Survey
A yearly inspection required to maintain class certification, ensuring ongoing compliance with safety standards.
Enhanced Survey
A more detailed inspection regime applied to certain types of ships, such as oil tankers and bulk carriers, due to the higher risks associated with their operation.
Dry-Docking Survey
A type of survey that is conducted while a ship is in dry dock, focusing on parts of the ship that are submerged and difficult to inspect when afloat.
Intermediate Survey
A survey carried out at approximately half the interval of the period of class certification to verify the condition of the ship and its equipment.
Special Survey
A thorough inspection of a ship, carried out periodically, that assesses the ship’s condition in greater detail than annual or intermediate surveys.
Load Line Assignment
The determination of the maximum depth to which a ship can be safely loaded, marked by a line on the hull.
Condition Assessment Program (CAP)
A program by some classification societies that assesses older ships in more detail than the regular survey cycles.
International Safety Management (ISM) Code
A standard for the safe management and operation of ships and for pollution prevention.
International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code
A set of measures to enhance the security of ships and port facilities.
Statutory Certification
Certification that a ship complies with required international conventions, carried out on behalf of flag states by classification societies.
Flag State Implementation
The enforcement of international and national regulations by the country under whose flag the ship is registered.
Recognized Organization (RO)
An organization recognized by the flag state to carry out inspections and certifications on its behalf.
Technical File
A file maintained for each ship, containing all technical data and documentation related to classification and surveys.
Fitness for Service Assessment
An evaluation to determine if a ship is fit to continue operation based on its physical condition and operational parameters.
Casualty Investigation
Investigations conducted by classification societies into marine accidents involving vessels under their class.
Plan Approval
The process by which classification societies review and approve the designs and plans for new ships or major modifications.
Ice Class
A notation given to a ship indicating its structural strength and capability to navigate through ice-covered waters.
