Classification societies are independent third-party bodies that develop rules and standards for the design, construction, and maintenance of vessels. They conduct surveys to verify compliance with these rules. A Class Certificate is issued to a newly built ship after the satisfactory completion of surveys and sea trials. This certificate attests that the vessel has been constructed according to the society's rules and standards.

The purpose of this certificate is to provide a standardized level of safety and quality. While it doesn't have legal status on its own, it is a crucial prerequisite for a ship to obtain insurance and employment. Without a valid Class Certificate from a reputable classification society, a vessel is essentially uninsurable and cannot trade internationally.

Yes, it is necessary to call a Class surveyor after any repair or alteration to a ship's structure. This is because any changes could compromise the vessel's structural integrity, stability, or watertightness. The surveyor's role is to inspect the work and confirm that the repairs or alterations have been carried out to the satisfaction of the classification society's rules and standards.

For major structural work, a surveyor should be involved throughout all stages of the process, not just at the end. They ensure that the work doesn't violate any rules and that the ship's watertight integrity remains intact. In some cases, major structural changes may even require a re-evaluation and verification of the ship's Load Line markings.

The International Load Line Certificate is issued by the administration or a classification society authorised to do so under the International Convention on Load Lines (1966). This certificate is valid for five years. The primary purpose of the certificate is to ensure that a ship maintains sufficient watertight integrity and stability, thereby preventing overloading and potential capsizing.

Initial and Periodical Surveys

• Initial Survey: Performed before a ship is put into service, it ensures that the hull, superstructure, fittings, and appliances are compliant with the Load Line Convention. It checks the watertightness of all openings on the deck.
• Periodical Surveys: Conducted every year, these surveys verify that the ship's condition is maintained in accordance with the certificate. Key checks include:
  • Hull condition assessment.
  • Inspection of all access openings and cargo hatches for watertightness and proper functioning of their closing devices (cleats, wedges, etc.).
  • Inspection of all machinery space openings, manholes, ventilation openings, and air pipe closing arrangements on the freeboard deck.
  • Verification that the Deck Line, Load Line marks, and draught marks are clearly and correctly marked.