Confirms the permit follows the vessel's SMS enclosed space entry procedure, itself built on IMO's recommendations for entry into enclosed spaces
Establishes that pre-entry atmosphere test results (O2, flammable, toxic) are recorded as numbers on the permit, not just ticked as safe
Checks the permit names a responsible officer, an attendant, and the entry team, with authorisation signed before entry begins
Verifies rescue equipment and the communication method with the attendant are specified on the permit itself, not assumed
MasterChief Officer2nd Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms a dedicated permit or checklist exists for working aloft and overside distinct from general cold work, addressing fall protection and man-overboard risk
Establishes controls such as harness/lanyard use, a second person standing by, and restrictions on ship's motion, weather, and nearby cargo operations
Checks that overside staging or a boatswain's chair is inspected before use and that a lifebuoy/rescue line is positioned at the work site
Verifies the permit is suspended or revalidated if conditions change
Chief OfficerBosunAble Seaman
What the Inspector Expects
Establishes a documented isolation/lock-out-tag-out procedure covering breaker racking-out, lock application, and tagging at the source
Confirms the permit records who applied the isolation, who proved the circuit dead, and who holds the key/lock during the job
Checks multiple-lock arrangements where more than one person or trade is exposed to the same isolation
Verifies re-energisation only happens after the permit is formally closed and all personnel are confirmed clear
Chief Engineer2nd EngineerETO
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms cold work is still permit-controlled where it carries meaningful risk
Establishes a permit coordination process, such as a master permit board or log, so simultaneous operations are visible to the officer in charge
Checks that a cold work permit is not used to disguise what is actually hot work or confined space entry to avoid the stricter controls
Verifies the responsible officer reviews all live permits together before authorising a new one
Chief OfficerBosunall deck officers
What the Inspector Expects
Establishes overall permit-to-work system discipline under ISM Code Section 7, completeness rather than mere existence of the paperwork
Confirms every permit shows issue time, expiry/validity time, and a closure signature confirming the area was left safe
Checks that permits are periodically reviewed by the Master or Safety Officer as part of internal audit or safety inspection, not only completed by the issuing officer
Verifies non-conformities from permit misuse found during internal audit are tracked to closure per ISM Code Section 9
MasterChief OfficerSafety Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the tested sequence follows recognised practice: oxygen first, then flammable gas, then toxic gases, testing at multiple levels of the space
Establishes that testing is done from outside the space through an opening before anyone crosses the coaming, per the vessel's enclosed space entry procedure
Checks that ventilation is run before and continues during testing, with results only accepted once readings stabilise
Verifies periodic re-testing continues throughout occupation, not only as a one-time pre-entry check
Chief Officer2nd OfficerBosun
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms a dedicated attendant remains at the entrance for the entire occupation, with no other competing duties per the SMS enclosed space procedure
Establishes the method of continuous communication with those inside and how loss of contact triggers an immediate response
Checks the entry/exit log accurately tracks every individual in and out in real time, not reconstructed afterward
Verifies the attendant has immediate access to rescue and communication equipment and knows the escalation procedure if contact is lost
Chief OfficerBosunAble Seaman
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms enclosed space rescue drills are held at the interval required by SOLAS III/19.3.5, at least once every two months
Establishes that the drill uses a realistic incapacitated-casualty scenario with actual retrieval using rescue equipment rather than a tabletop discussion
Checks that drill participation is rotated so different crew members practice the rescue role, not the same two or three each time
Verifies lessons from the drill, such as equipment shortfalls or timing issues, are recorded and acted on
MasterChief OfficerBosun
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms each portable multi-gas detector has a documented full calibration at the manufacturer-specified interval, traceable to a certified calibration gas
Establishes the vessel maintains calibration certificates naming the specific instrument serial number, not a generic company-wide statement
Checks that instruments due or overdue for calibration are withdrawn from service rather than continuing in use
Verifies sensors are within their expected working life and any sensor replacement is documented
Chief OfficerBosunETO
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms a bump test is performed before every use, not just at calibration intervals, per the SMS gas testing procedure
Establishes span/calibration gas of the correct composition is carried onboard with sufficient in-date stock to perform bump tests
Checks bump test results are logged with date, time and instrument ID, and instruments failing a bump test are taken out of service
Verifies crew understand the difference between a bump test and full calibration
Chief OfficerBosunall deck officers
What the Inspector Expects
Establishes that instrument selection is risk-based: cargo tanks/void spaces adjacent to cargo need hydrocarbon and toxic sensors, not just an O2/LEL meter
Confirms crew understand cross-sensitivity and interference limitations of the specific instrument model carried
Checks that toxic gas sensors relevant to the cargoes actually carried are fitted or available
Verifies the risk assessment for each space type specifies which gases must be tested, referenced by the permit
Chief OfficerPumpmanChief Engineer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms fixed gas detection sensors are tested/functionally checked at the interval set by the manufacturer or class, with results logged in the planned maintenance system
Establishes that alarm setpoints match the required thresholds for the space and trigger both local and bridge/ECR indication
Checks crew can describe the actual response procedure triggered by a gas alarm rather than just acknowledging it
Verifies any sensor found faulted or in alarm bypass is logged and rectified promptly, not left disabled
Chief Engineer2nd EngineerETO
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms a structured library of task-based risk assessments exists onboard covering the vessel's routine and foreseeable non-routine operations per ISM Code Section 7
Establishes risk assessments are reviewed and re-issued periodically, and specifically after an incident, near-miss, or change in equipment/procedure
Checks that risk assessments are ship-specific, naming actual equipment, spaces, and hazards, rather than an unedited generic company template
Verifies crew involved in the task can explain the key controls from the relevant risk assessment, evidencing it was actually used
MasterChief OfficerSafety Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms a formal management-of-change procedure exists in the SMS for significant changes to equipment, procedures, or manning that could introduce new hazards
Establishes management of change covers both temporary and permanent changes
Checks the record shows a risk assessment of the change itself, sign-off by an appropriately senior person, and communication to affected crew
Verifies the change is reviewed after implementation to confirm the intended controls are actually working
MasterChief EngineerChief Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms a documented PPE matrix or task-based requirement exists, going beyond generic deck PPE to task-specific items such as chemical suits, face shields, hearing and respiratory protection
Establishes the matrix reflects the vessel's actual cargoes and operations
Checks crew observed performing tasks are wearing PPE consistent with what the matrix requires for that job
Verifies the matrix is reviewed when new cargoes, equipment, or chemicals are introduced
Chief OfficerPumpmanBosun
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms adequate stock levels of PPE sized for the actual crew complement, not a token supply
Establishes a periodic inspection process for PPE condition with defective items withdrawn and disposed of
Checks expiry-dated items are tracked and replaced before expiry
Verifies PPE issued to crew is replaced promptly on request rather than crew continuing to use visibly worn items
Chief OfficerBosunSafety Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms on-load release hook mechanisms have been serviced, overhauled, and tested per the manufacturer's instructions and the enhanced inspection regime introduced after MSC.1/Circ.1206/Rev.1
Establishes that davits, winches, wire falls, and brakes are visually inspected and lubricated per the planned maintenance schedule
Checks that any modification or replacement of hook components used only manufacturer-approved parts, given past fatal accidents linked to unauthorised modifications
Verifies the periodic thorough examination and overhaul of the hook mechanism, where applicable, are current and documented by a competent person
Chief OfficerBosunall deck officers
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms lifeboat engines are started and run in ahead/astern gear at least weekly per SOLAS III/20 and the LSA Code, not merely turned over
Establishes falls are renewed at intervals set by the Administration or manufacturer, or end-for-ended partway through that interval to even out wear
Checks records identify the actual installation/renewal date of the falls currently rigged, not just a generic maintenance note
Verifies any starting or engine defect found during weekly checks is logged and rectified, not carried indefinitely as a known issue
Chief OfficerBosun2nd Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms every liferaft has a valid service certificate from an approved service station within the required interval
Establishes the hydrostatic release unit attached to each raft is within its own separate expiry, typically shorter than the raft's service interval
Checks the raft's securing arrangement allows free-float release in an emergency and hasn't been over-secured
Verifies raft capacity markings match the number of persons the vessel needs to accommodate, with margin per the muster list
Chief OfficerBosunall deck officers
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the rescue boat and its launching arrangement are maintained and tested per SOLAS III/19 and III/20
Establishes that crew assigned to the rescue boat on the muster list have practiced launching, engine start, and recovery, not just observed it
Checks the boat's equipment inventory is complete and in date
Verifies embarkation and recovery can realistically be achieved within a timeframe suitable for a real man-overboard response
Chief OfficerBosunAble Seaman
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms lifebuoys are positioned per SOLAS III/7 with self-igniting lights and self-activating smoke signals where required, and quick-release arrangements at the bridge wings
Establishes lifejackets are stocked in excess of crew numbers, correctly sized, and stowed at cabins/muster stations per the muster list
Checks immersion suits, where carried, are the correct number, sized for the crew, and inspected for material degradation or damaged zippers
Verifies periodic visual inspection of all personal LSA is logged, distinct from the wider monthly LSA inspection
Chief OfficerBosunall deck officers
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the EPIRB undergoes the required periodic self-test and is included in the annual radio survey/inspection
Establishes battery expiry and HRU expiry are tracked separately, as they typically run on different intervals
Checks the EPIRB is correctly registered to the current vessel details, not left showing a previous vessel name or IMO number
Verifies the float-free bracket is properly mounted and unobstructed, not lashed down in a way that would prevent automatic release
MasterChief Officer2nd Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the search-and-rescue transponder is tested regularly using its self-test function, with results logged
Establishes battery expiry is tracked and the unit is replaced or serviced before expiry, not run past the marked date
Checks the unit's stowage location is accessible for quick transfer to the survival craft in an emergency
Verifies crew responsible for the bridge can correctly identify and operate the device's test and activation functions
MasterChief Officer2nd Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the fire main is maintained at required pressure with isolation valves allowing the system to be sectioned per SOLAS II-2 Reg 10, so damage in one area doesn't disable the whole system
Establishes crew can locate and operate isolating valves without hesitation, particularly the section separating the cargo area from accommodation/engine room
Checks the fire main is free of corrosion, leaks, and unauthorised branch connections that could reduce available pressure at the hydrants
Verifies a pressure test or flow demonstration at a remote hydrant confirms the system delivers adequate pressure to the most distant point
Chief OfficerChief EngineerBosun
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the vessel carries the required number of fire pumps, with the emergency pump located and powered independently of the main engine room per SOLAS II-2 Reg 10
Establishes the emergency fire pump can achieve self-priming/suction under all anticipated conditions of trim, list, and draft, not only when the vessel is fully loaded and upright
Checks that starting arrangements work without needing main engine room power
Verifies discharge pressure and simultaneous multi-jet capability at the required hydrants is demonstrated, not just pump start-up
Chief Engineer2nd EngineerChief Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms hydrant coverage and hose length allow any part of the vessel to be reached by jets of water from separate hydrants per SOLAS II-2 Reg 10
Establishes hoses are pressure-tested/inspected periodically, coupled correctly, and nozzles have functioning jet/spray selection
Checks the international shore connection matches the SOLAS-standard dimensions, is stowed accessibly with matching bolts/gasket, and can be connected quickly
Verifies hoses are not left permanently coupled in a way that hides wear, and spare hoses/nozzles are available
Chief OfficerBosunall deck officers
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the fixed CO2 system has current servicing/weighing certification for the cylinder bank per FSS Code Chapter 5 and manufacturer requirements
Establishes the crew member responsible for release can correctly describe the sequence of evacuation, muster confirmation, ventilation/damper closure, then release
Checks warning alarms are tested and understood as a mandatory delay before release, not bypassed
Verifies release station signage and instructions, and any lock/seal on the release mechanism, are intact and match the as-fitted system
MasterChief Engineer2nd Engineer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms foam concentrate is sampled/tested periodically for degradation and that stock quantity meets the system design requirement
Establishes foam monitors and applicators are functionally tested, with expected throw distance and expansion ratio periodically verified
Checks foam concentrate compatibility with the cargoes actually carried, particularly relevant for cargoes needing alcohol-resistant foam
Verifies the foam system's dedicated pump and piping are free of blockage and pressure-tested
Chief OfficerPumpmanChief Engineer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms portable extinguishers are serviced/pressure-tested at the interval required by class/flag, with the correct extinguishing agent for the location's fire risk
Establishes EEBDs are positioned per SOLAS II-2 Reg 13 at machinery spaces and accommodation escape routes, sealed and within their cylinder pressure/service life
Checks extinguisher weight/pressure gauge readings are checked periodically, not just visually present
Verifies used or discharged extinguishers are promptly recharged or replaced, and EEBDs used in a drill are replaced immediately
Chief OfficerBosunChief Engineer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms remote ventilation stops and fire dampers for machinery spaces, cargo pump rooms, and accommodation can be operated from outside the protected space per SOLAS II-2 Reg 9
Establishes fire doors are self-closing, properly latching, and not chocked open in normal service in a way that defeats their function
Checks damper indicator positions at the remote control station are accurate and match the physical damper position
Verifies periodic testing of dampers and vent stops is logged, with any found seized or slow to close rectified
Chief OfficerChief EngineerBosun
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the vessel carries the required number of complete fireman's outfits, including protective clothing, boots, gloves, helmet, self-contained breathing apparatus, safety lamp, and fireproof line, per SOLAS II-2 Reg 10
Establishes SCBA cylinders are within hydrostatic test date, charged to full pressure, and at least one spare cylinder is available per set carried
Checks the compressor used to fill SCBA cylinders has its breathing air quality tested periodically against a recognised standard
Verifies crew assigned to use SCBA have undergone face-fit testing/checks appropriate to their own face and any facial hair policy is enforced
Chief OfficerBosunChief Engineer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the drill programme covers the full range of scenarios expected of a well-run vessel, not narrowing to the two statutory minimums of fire and abandon ship
Establishes steering gear failure and blackout/emergency generator start-up drills are scheduled and actually exercise the emergency procedure, not merely discussed
Checks man overboard drills include actual manoeuvring and recovery method appropriate to the vessel
Verifies that where the vessel operates in an area with helicopter transfer, the designated area/marking is set up and briefed as part of a realistic helicopter operations exercise
MasterChief OfficerChief Engineer
What the Inspector Expects
Establishes drills are varied in scenario, simulated location, and simulated casualties/absentees so crew are tested against realistic uncertainty, not a fixed script
Confirms drill records capture start/finish times, participants, equipment used, and any deficiencies found, not just a tick that the drill occurred
Checks deficiencies identified during drills are logged as non-conformities or defects and tracked to closure per the SMS
Verifies debriefs are held after drills to discuss what went well and what needs improvement, with outcomes documented
MasterChief OfficerSafety Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the muster list is amended immediately on any crew change, not batched or updated only when convenient, per SOLAS III/8 and III/37
Establishes each individual's emergency duty, boat/liferaft assignment, and signal responsibilities are specific to their name, not just their rank
Checks the muster list posted at accommodation, bridge, and engine control room all match each other and the current crew list
Verifies new joiners are added and briefed on their muster station before their familiarisation is considered complete
MasterChief Officerall crew
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the emergency generator starts automatically, or manually within the required time, on loss of main power and is periodically load-tested per SOLAS II-1
Establishes weekly/monthly testing intervals are followed and logged, including a full black-out test at appropriate intervals
Checks emergency lighting throughout escape routes, muster/embarkation stations, and machinery spaces functions correctly on test, with battery-backed units holding charge for the required duration
Verifies transitional/low-location lighting where fitted is also included in the testing regime
Chief Engineer2nd EngineerETO
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms fire control plans are posted at the main control stations and a duplicate is stored in a weatherproof container outside the accommodation for shore fire-brigade use, per SOLAS II-2 Reg 15
Establishes the plans use standard IMO graphical symbols and accurately reflect the current layout of fire dampers, extinguishers, hydrants, and fire doors
Checks any equipment changes have been reflected in an updated plan, not left showing only the as-built configuration
Verifies general emergency signage is legible and consistent with the plan
MasterChief OfficerSafety Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms a shipboard safety committee meets at the required frequency with representation from officers and ratings, per the SMS and ISM Code framework
Establishes meeting minutes record specific issues raised, actions assigned with owners and due dates, and follow-up on prior actions' status
Checks rating-level crew actually participate and raise items, rather than the meeting being an officers-only formality
Verifies safety committee outputs feed into the vessel's broader risk assessment and near-miss systems
MasterChief OfficerSafety Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the SMS defines a clear, blame-free process for reporting incidents and near-misses under ISM Code Section 9, encouraging voluntary reporting from all ranks
Establishes investigations identify root cause, not just the immediate cause, and result in documented corrective and preventive actions
Checks that lessons from incidents/near-misses on this vessel or elsewhere in the fleet are actually circulated back to the crew
Verifies the volume and nature of near-miss reports suggest an active reporting culture rather than reports being suppressed to avoid scrutiny
MasterChief OfficerSafety Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms a Safety Officer is formally appointed per the SMS, typically the Chief Officer or another suitably experienced officer, distinct from but working with the Master
Establishes routine safety inspections cover accommodation, machinery spaces, deck, and safety equipment, with findings documented
Checks that inspection findings generate follow-up actions that are tracked, not just filed
Verifies the Safety Officer's inspections are independent enough to identify issues the department heads themselves might overlook
MasterChief OfficerSafety Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the SMS grants every crew member, regardless of rank, explicit authority to stop any operation perceived as unsafe, and that this is actively reinforced, not just written policy
Establishes ratings genuinely understand and believe they can exercise stop-work authority without fear of reprisal
Checks the vessel has real examples where a job was actually stopped by a junior crew member, evidencing the policy works in practice
Verifies stop-work events are followed by a review of the concern raised, not dismissed once work resumes
all crewMasterChief Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms galley deep-fat fryers are fitted with a means of automatic or manual fire extinguishing appropriate to a cooking-oil fire, with clear operating instructions posted
Establishes galley exhaust ductwork and filters are cleaned at a defined interval to prevent grease build-up, a recognised fire risk in galley spaces
Checks fixed fire detection in the galley functions correctly and fire blankets/portable extinguishers rated for cooking fires are positioned appropriately
Verifies galley staff can describe the correct response to a fryer fire, including not using water on burning oil
Chief Officerall crew
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms designated smoking areas are clearly defined in the SMS, positioned away from cargo, bunkering, and hazardous-area zones, and enforced consistently across ranks
Establishes a documented policy exists for charging personal electronic devices with lithium-ion batteries, given the fire risk of thermal runaway, including any restrictions on unattended charging
Checks compliance is actually observed during the walk-round, with no smoking evidence in prohibited spaces and no chargers left running unattended against policy
Verifies the policy addresses damaged or swollen batteries and how crew are expected to report and dispose of them
all crewMasterChief Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the vessel carries the pyrotechnic quantities required by SOLAS III for the bridge and each survival craft
Establishes all pyrotechnics are within their manufacturer expiry and expired stock has been landed/disposed of, not retained onboard alongside current stock
Checks stowage is in a dedicated, secure, weatherproof locker with restricted access, positioned for quick access from the bridge and survival craft
Verifies crew can correctly describe how to use each pyrotechnic type in an emergency
MasterChief Officer2nd Officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the hospital/sick bay is equipped and maintained per flag State medical requirements and MLC 2006 provisions for medical care onboard
Establishes medical oxygen cylinders are within hydrostatic test date, adequately charged, and clearly distinguished from any industrial oxygen supply
Checks the stretcher, including any type suited to confined space extraction, is accessible and crew are familiar with its use
Verifies medical equipment inventory is checked periodically against the vessel's medical guide requirements, with expired medications/supplies replaced
MasterChief Officerdesignated medical officer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms physical fall-protection equipment is available, inspected, and in serviceable condition, distinct from the permit process itself
Establishes a specific rescue plan exists for retrieving a suspended or fallen person promptly, since prolonged harness suspension carries its own medical risk
Checks staging, boatswain's chairs, and associated rigging are inspected before each use and tagged/colour-coded to show current inspection status
Verifies crew performing aloft/overside work have received practical training in the equipment, not just a briefing
Chief OfficerBosunAble Seaman
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms all lifting appliances and associated loose gear such as shackles, slings, and wire strops are registered with current thorough examination certificates
Establishes a colour-coding system indicates at-a-glance which items are within their current inspection period, updated at each periodic examination
Checks any personnel transfer basket or similar arrangement used for transferring crew between vessels/shore is itself a certified lifting appliance with its own SWL marking and inspection record, used only with a dedicated risk assessment
Verifies items found damaged, overloaded, or out of test are withdrawn from service and physically segregated, not left mixed in with serviceable gear
Chief OfficerBosunChief Engineer
What the Inspector Expects
Confirms the gangway or accommodation ladder is rigged at a safe angle, properly secured, and fitted with an intact safety net spanning its full length per standard port practice
Establishes a dedicated gangway watchman is posted whenever the ladder is rigged, with duties including access control and monitoring the ladder's condition as tide/draft changes
Checks lighting at the gangway is adequate for night use and a lifebuoy with line/light is positioned at the gangway platform
Verifies the watchman's log records who boards and leaves the vessel, supporting both security and safety accounting