Coronavirus prompts growth in remote surveys for shipping industry

Remote ship surveys and inspections are becoming increasingly popular in times of coronavirus, as the maritime industry adjusts to the constraints placed on people’s movements imposed by governments to limit the spread of the coronavirus

Classification societies have reported a surge in remote inspections, despite the fact that the industry has been relatively slow in the adoption of new digital technologies. It is anticipated that remote inspection devices could become commonplace in the future, replacing or assisting the attendance of surveyors.

The impact of the global COVID-19 crisis has prompted demand for DNV GL’s remote survey services. The classification society said it had undertaken some 15,000 surveys and inspections since the launch in October 2018.

Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO, DNV GL – Maritime, said: “The use of remote surveys has meant that we have been able to limit disruptions to customer operations resulting from travel bans or quarantines involving our surveyors. Ship operators are able to receive immediately updated and verified electronic certificates, which make their business dealing with class, authorities and vendors much more efficient.”

Alfonso Castillero, COO of LISCR, added: “The shipping industry is currently facing an unprecedented challenge and shoulders the responsibility of maintaining the flow of international trade during this crisis

“To ensure operational continuity, it is vital that we remain flexible and adjust our procedures in a way that protects personnel from exposure to the virus, while also increasing efficiency. RINA’s remote inspection technology … facilitates the normal operation of our fleet by making vessel inspection completely accessible during a time when surveyor travel is near impossible.”

According to ABS, access to remote surveys and audits allow for business continuity, particularly during challenging times that may create scheduling conflicts, personnel or logistical issues such as the current COVID-19 period.

For more information visit www.dnvgl.com

18th April 2020