RightShip has revised its timeline for implementing its vessel inspection age trigger. It will now reduce the inspection threshold from 14 to 10 years through a four-phased approach.
In a release issued on December 11, RightShip said that it had constructive dialogue with its customers and industry associations including INTERCARGO, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), and the Union of Greek Shipowners whose membership represents a substantial portion of the global dry bulk and general cargo fleet.
The aim, as it says, is to give vessel owners and operators more time to adjust budgets, train crew, and plan for inspections. All vessels now have at least 12 months’ notice from the initial announcement before Safety Score impacts take effect. This phased approach also allows RightShip to accredit additional inspectors.
For Phase 4, inspections for vessels aged 10 years will now align with the second special survey dry dock, with a three-month buffer post-completion before inspection requirements take effect.
Moreover, vessels built after 1 October 2011 that complete inspections between January and June 2025 are eligible for a $1,000 inspection fee credit, encouraging early participation and reducing peak inspection volumes, it said.
RightShip will require vessels of less than 8,000 dwt to undergo similar inspection making the safety standard more consistent across the global dry bulk and general cargo fleet.
“Industry stakeholders have through this dialogue concluded a shared understanding that co-operation is essential for safety. While the decision to lower the inspection age from 14 to 10 years remains unchanged, we have carefully considered stakeholder feedback and adjusted the rollout timeline,” said Steen Lund, CEO of RightShip.
