IACS: Annual and Intermediate Survey requirements per IMO A.1186(33)

Eda Zenic -

The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has published an amended Unified Requirement Z1 detailing the requirements for Annual and Intermediate Classification Surveys, aligning with the IMO Resolution A.1186(33).

The UR was issued in September 2024.

These surveys are part of the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Harmonized System of Survey and Certification (HSSC), which standardizes survey and certification procedures across different types of ships to ensure consistent safety and regulatory compliance.

1. Annual Survey Requirements

The annual survey focuses on specific ship components and systems that are crucial for the safety and seaworthiness of the vessel, as outlined in various paragraphs of the IMO Resolution A.1186(33).

  • Loadline Items: Annex 2 Paragraphs 1.2.2.1 through 1.2.2.15 address items related to the ship’s loadline, ensuring the vessel complies with regulations that prevent overloading, which is critical for stability and safety.
  • Hull Items: These include structural components of the ship, described in Annex 1 Paragraphs 2.2.2.1 through 2.2.2.9.1, and 2.2.2.33 through 2.2.2.40, ensuring the integrity of the hull, but excluding certain specific paragraphs (e.g., 2.2.2.34, 2.2.2.38, 2.2.2.39).
  • Machinery and Electrical Systems: Annex 1 Paragraphs 2.2.2.10 through 2.2.2.32 cover key systems such as propulsion, power generation, and auxiliary systems. Specific exclusions are noted (e.g., 2.2.2.20 and 2.2.2.31).
  • Firefighting Equipment: This ensures compliance with fire safety standards as per Annex 1 Paragraphs 1.2.2.1 through 1.2.2.17. However, certain firefighting protection equipment (like 1.2.2.16) has specific applicability.
  • Oil Tanker Items: Additional checks for oil tankers include deck foam systems, inert gas systems, and essential equipment like steering gear. These requirements are outlined in Annex 1 Paragraphs 1.2.3.1 through 1.2.3.9 and 2.2.3.1 through 2.2.3.18.
  • Chemical Tankers: Similar to oil tankers, chemical tankers have additional structural and equipment requirements, found in Annex 1 Paragraph 2.2.4.1 and Annex 5 Paragraphs 1.2.2.1 through 1.2.2.22.
  • Gas Carriers: Gas carriers have distinct requirements for steering gear, structures, and firefighting equipment as noted in Annex 1 and 5, with some specific exclusions like fireman’s outfits (e.g., 2.2.2.27).

2. Intermediate Survey Requirements

The Intermediate Survey builds upon the Annual Survey, incorporating all of its requirements but with additional checks. These are primarily focused on the ship’s cargo and ballast tanks, as well as systems specific to oil, chemical, and gas tankers.

  • Ballast Tanks and Cargo Spaces: Inspections ensure the integrity of ballast tanks and cargo spaces, which are critical for vessel stability and environmental protection, as per Annex 1 Paragraphs 2.3.2.2 through 2.3.2.4.
  • Oil Tanker Additional Items: Piping systems, cargo tanks, and electrical circuits in dangerous zones are scrutinized under Annex 1 Paragraphs 2.3.3.2 through 2.3.3.3.
  • Chemical Tanker Additional Items: Specific checks on the steering gear, structures, equipment, and materials for chemical tankers are outlined in Annex 5 Paragraphs 1.3.2.2 through 1.3.2.4.
  • Gas Carrier Additional Items: Gas carriers also undergo additional inspections focused on similar components, as described in Annex 5 Paragraphs 2.3.2.2 through 2.3.2.5.