Heralding the IMCA eCMID System Annual Report
The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) takes a deep dive into its latest annual report, highlighting ongoing problems concerning vessel inspections, confined spaces, cyber security, and life-saving appliances. Drawing from 1,539 analyzed reports, the IMCA aims to identify common issues to improve safety standards in the marine and offshore industry.
Technical Inspections and Cyber Security Issues
IMCA’s eCMID and eMISW annual report discloses statistics surrounding technical inspections and cyber security. Out of 761 eCMID inspections, 10% of vessels had not undergone a technical inspection by the operator, 9% failed to adequately control enclosed space entry, 13% lacked a formal cyber security incident response process, and 7% documented defects in life-saving appliances.
Smaller Vessels Share Similar Challenges
Similar issues were identified among smaller vessels. Of the 778 eMISW inspections, 7% did not address machinery space hazards, 6% lacked the required number and type of lifebuoys, and 6% neglected a planned maintenance program.
The Significance of eCMID and eMISW Systems
The eCMID and eMISW systems provide the marine and offshore industry with standardized inspection formats, offering a safety management system “health check.” These systems improve inspection quality and consistency while minimizing the frequency of individual vessel inspections, encouraging a widely recognized process.
IMCA’s Mission for Improved Safety Standards
Mark Ford, Marine & Quality Manager at IMCA, says the high number of non-conformances demonstrates the importance of eCMID and eMISW in determining unsafe practices. “This analysis will enable IMCA and its membership to focus efforts on reducing both the number of findings and highlighting areas where we can support by pointing to existing guidance or working with the industry to develop new standards,” Ford explains. By working together, he believes the industry can significantly decrease negative findings in the coming years.
Ford also hopes that independent Assured Vessel Inspectors can benefit from these findings. The insights can help reduce inconsistency in reporting and contribute to training enhancements and system improvements. Ensuring the continuous improvement of vessel inspections is vital in maintaining and enhancing safety standards throughout the marine and offshore industries.
