IMO amendments to the ESP Code: Certification for hull inspection firms

Eda Zenic -

The International Maritime Organization has issued resolution MSC.553(108) with amendments to the 2011 ESP Code.

The amendments will come into force on January 1, 2026.

These changes specifically focus on the approval and certification processes for firms that conduct thickness measurements of hull structures. Hull thickness measurements are essential for determining the structural integrity of ships and ensuring their safe operation. The amendments apply to different types of bulk carriers and oil tankers, and aim to ensure that the firms responsible for these inspections are properly certified and audited.

1. Amendments to the ESP Code for Bulk Carriers:

The changes are divided into two sections based on the type of bulk carrier:

  • Part A covers bulk carriers with single-side skin construction.
  • Part B deals with bulk carriers with double-side skin construction.

Both sections update Annex 5, which outlines the "Procedures for Approval and Certification of a Firm Engaged in Thickness Measurement of Hull Structures."

The key change is in Paragraph 2.2, which now specifies the process for auditing firms:

  • After a firm submits documents (such as qualifications, procedures, and resources) to the maritime authority, these documents are reviewed.
  • If the documents are approved, the firm is audited by the maritime authority to ensure it is:
    • Properly organized and managed, as reflected in the submitted documentation.
    • Capable of conducting accurate hull thickness measurements for bulk carriers.

These updates ensure a consistent and standardized process for certifying firms that inspect hulls, enhancing the safety and reliability of bulk carrier inspections.

2. Amendments to the ESP Code for Oil Tankers:

Similar to bulk carriers, the amendments for oil tankers are divided into two sections:

  • Part A covers oil tankers with double-hull construction.
  • Part B addresses oil tankers with other types of hull configurations.

The amendments modify Annex 8 (Part A) and Annex 7 (Part B), which also detail the procedures for approving and certifying firms involved in thickness measurements for oil tanker hulls.

Two key changes were made:

  • Submission of Documents:
    • Paragraph 2.1 was updated to clarify the types of documents firms must submit for approval. These documents generally include details about the firm’s organizational structure, technical abilities, and personnel qualifications.
  • Auditing of Firms:
    • Paragraph 2.2 was replaced to match the changes made for bulk carriers. After a firm’s documents are reviewed and approved, the firm is audited by the maritime authority to verify:
      • The firm is properly organized and managed according to its submitted documents.
      • The firm has the capability to conduct hull thickness measurements on oil tankers.

Purpose and Impact of the Amendments:

The purpose of these amendments is to:

  • Standardize the approval and certification process for firms across different ship types (bulk carriers and oil tankers) and hull configurations (single-side, double-side, and double-hull).
  • Strengthen oversight of firms to ensure they are qualified and capable of performing critical hull inspections.
  • Enhance maritime safety by ensuring reliable thickness measurements, which are vital for evaluating the structural integrity of aging ships and preventing accidents.