Inflatable Rescue Boat – an Indispensable Companion for Ships

INFLATABLE RESCUE BOAT – AN INDISPENSABLE COMPANION FOR SHIPS

Seafarers have always been conscientious about safety measures when it comes to navigating the open seas. Rescue boats are an integral part of these safety measures and are used for a variety of applications across the world. Rescue boats can comprise of lifeboats as well as liferafts.

The importance of adequate rescue craft was realized after the disastrous voyage of the Titanic, where over 1500 people died due to lack of sufficient lifeboats. As a result, the SOLAS treaty was launched to prevent loss of life at sea. Over the years, there have been many significant amendments to the principal regulations for lifeboats and boats for rescue operations.

In addition, per the amendments to the SOLAS treaty in 1983, every ship is required to carry enough lifeboats so that every passenger and member of the crew aboard the ship is evacuated safely in case of an emergency. In addition, enough liferafts for an additional 25% of the passenger capacity are to be maintained aboard for all international voyages.

Liferafts are typically used for coastal applications as stringent safety norms prevent their use in deep seas. Offshore and ocean liferafts are designed to be sturdier and protect the occupants from rough weather, with survival kits for up to a maximum of 30 days. On the other hand, modern rescue lifeboats are deployed for deep-sea voyages and are equipped with emergency beacons and rescue transponders for safe navigation.

There are two types of rescue boats in common use today :

  • Inflatable Rescue Boat
  • Rigid Hull Rescue Boat

Inflatable Rescue Boat

As is evident from the name, inflatable rescue boats consist of tubes that can be pumped with air to float in water. They have an outboard motor at one end to traverse the waves.

Fig: Inflatable Rescue Boat

There are several advantages of inflatable rescue boats. Some of these include:

  • Quick Deployment, Swift Transport

Inflatable rescue boats can be deployed at lightning fast speeds, have greater maneuverability and have a long life.

  • Enhanced Stability

Inflatables have a flat bottom made of rigid material which keeps the boat stable and prevent it from capsizing.

  • Multiple Applications

Inflatable rescue boats are used in all cargo as well as passenger ships and have numerous applications ranging from emergency rescues, leisure travel, and open-sea fishing, to river-rafting, military, and more.

Rigid Hull Rescue Boat

Rigid hull rescue boats, by virtue of their solid hull have greater stability and easier operation. These boats have excellent performance in terms of speed, efficiency, and durability and are used in a number of applications such as patrolling, rescue, offshore interception, etc.

Specifications

Fig:Rigid Hull Rescue Boat

An Intermediate Solution

Shipping manufacturers have found a way to incorporate the best qualities of the two rescue boats by creating an intermediate solution; the rigid inflatable boat.

A rigid inflatable boat offers advanced stability and a smooth passage, with increased impact resistance. Rigid inflatable boats can be repaired without any trouble and have a high buoyancy, due to which they can support a greater number of people.

The current requirements for all rescue boats on ships include:

  • The length of the rescue boat should not be less than 3.8m or more than 8.5m
  • The boat should be able to seat a minimum of 5 people with an additional provision for a stretcher
  • Each rescue boat needs to be fitted with the appropriate mechanisms for towing and be capable of towing the liferafts on the ship in their full capacity at a minimum speed of 2 knots

Manufacturing Inflatable Rescue Boats

Definite standards have been specified for the manufacturing of lifeboats, with variable length depending on the number of people to be carried, mentioned as follows :

Leading shipping solution providers in India, like SHM Shipcare, have a slew of options to choose from. When it comes to inflatable rescue boats. SHM’s Rigid Inflatable Boat has a full load capacity of 18 pax and has been designed specially as per the requirements of the Indian Navy.

The Safin 420 Inflatable Rescue Boat is one of the company’s oldest and most reliable offerings and is designed to accommodate stretchers in case of medical emergencies as well.

Inflatable rescue boats are an indivisible part of sea travel and have undergone several modifications over the years to become indispensable companions for ships!

Specification :

Gemini Boats are India’s first which comply to the new Navy NCD specification ISO 6185-3:201, and approved by international classification society RIAN.

Specification :

Fig : Gemini Boats

Gemini’s are light weight, compact in size when stored, highly durable, and can be launched from all major types of vessels. Their capability of carrying heavy load and highly stable platform are what they are best known for.

The Role of Sustainability in Indian Shipping and Naval Defence

THE ROLE OF SUSTAINABILITY IN INDIAN SHIPPING AND NAVAL DEFENCE

India has maintained a strategic approach towards the development of naval defence in the last 10 years. Not only have we been increasing our military might in the Indian Ocean, we have also begun to take sustainability as a driving factor while building new-age boats and ships. Inspired by the global efforts towards creating a greener world of shipping, the Indian Navy has also taken up a string of green initiatives that are expected to promote environmental sustainability.

In this article, we see what measures are being taken by the Indian Naval forces like the Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and the Border Security Force, to enhance sustainable shipping. We have already implemented several initiatives for increasing ship sustainability, with many other ideas under consideration. The ultimate aim, as mentioned by Admiral R. K. Dhowan, is to synergize India’s blue water capability with a green footprint.

Why is a Sustainable Approach Necessary?

Sustainable development is the need of the hour, across all verticals of progress. Shipping and naval defence are no exception either. At present, the idea is to develop our existing naval capabilities to meet the demands of the future. As the scarcity of non-renewable resources and the cost of energy increases, India may soon find itself in a position where all the conventional resources become useless or ridiculously expensive.

To avoid such a situation, maintaining a sustainable approach towards boat development and management becomes imperative. Building this capability to meet current and future requirements will be effective in ensuring operational readiness of the defence forces. Consequently, this push towards sustainability can make India an environmentally aware and energy-efficient force that meets the future head-on, instead of having to execute last-minute plans for sustainability compliance.

Sustainability in Indian Boat Design

Sustainability is an important aspect of boat building, right from the outset. Throughout the ship’s lifecycle, energy is consumed during the various stages of boat building including boat operation, boat maintenance, and dismantling. This energy can be classified as establishment energy, energy used in materials and transportation, during the actual construction, and any overheads that are incurred by the shipyard. Now, designing the boat so that this use of energy is reduced in the different stages leads to the creation of a ‘green’ or sustainable boat. It is hence evident that sustainable boat design begins right from the conceptual phase.

Some of the best measures that can be taken to reduce energy consumption in the boat and in boat building include:

  • Use of alternative materials, which are recyclable (like FRP) or biodegradable, can be used in building the boat hull. Minimum quantity of steel and other energy consuming materials by optimizing the procurement process is another solution.
  • Electricity consumption during the manufacturing processes can be reduced by reducing the machining involved as well as regular maintenance of the machines and equipment. Furthermore, rework can be eliminated by constant quality assurance and management which reduces energy consumption to a great extent.
  • In terms of boat design, an effective hydrodynamic structure to minimize water resistance and efficient propeller flow are necessary. These can be tested using CFD techniques and model testing.
  • Hull structure needs to be optimised for safety and reliability by reducing hull weight. Structural analysis using FEM techniques is of great importance here. Additionally, hull lubrication is necessary to reduce corrosion, frictional drag, and fouling. To maintain sustainability, environment-friendly paints should be employed as they are non-poisonous and non-polluting.
  • While dismantling the boat, hazardous materials need to be handled very carefully or they may cause heavy environmental damage.

Green Initiatives for Sustainable Naval Defence

The Indian Navy adopted the ‘Green Initiatives Programme’ on World Environment Day four years ago, June 5, 2014. Ever since then, it has designed and implemented several short-, medium-, and long-term goals to achieve energy efficiency. The principal aim of these initiatives is to reduce the use of equipment that can potentially damage the environment and align the goals of energy conservation in the defence sector with those of the Indian Government.

Consequently, there is a two-pronged approach according to which the initiatives are classified – one, minimising environmental impact, and two, increasing resource efficiency. A detailed plan of all the efforts this initiative will entail is included in the Indian Navy Environment Conservation Roadmap.

With respect to ship building and construction, the SEEMP (Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan) is proposed to ship owners and operators. Under this plan, they are expected to review operational practices on ships and consider options for improvement and technology upgrades. These measures will improve ship efficiency and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, thus optimising performance. Furthermore, all new ships under construction are expected to be MARPOL compliant. The Eastern and Western Naval Commands have conducted energy audits of the naval dockyards in Mumbai and Visakhapatnam, to ensure energy optimization.

The government has commissioned a port-to-ship power supply under the Green Ports Project, which is also a part of the sustainability initiative. This solution is to be implemented at the V. O. Chidambaranar Port and will allow ships to dock at the port and plug for power, instead of running on fossil fuels that pollute the environment. The Green Port initiative aims to reduce the carbon footprint of ports by making use of biodiesel and renewable sources of energy.

The Road Ahead

It is important to understand that sustainable growth is a process, not simply a one-step product. Priming people’s perspective towards sustainability is critical for achieving significant results.  Sustainability in shipping and naval defence ranges from energy conservation to environmental protection, and efficient operation through the entire lifecycle of the boat or ship.

The Indian naval defence and shipping efforts are currently implementing sustainable boat design as a major part of their growth strategy. The aim is to build a fleet that is ready for the future, not just for today. The naval growth is anchored on indigenisation and self-reliance. As the naval forces emphasize on building boats and ships instead of buying them, it is up to the Indian boat manufacturers to rise up to the challenge and create sustainable boat designs.

What are your thoughts on the way sustainability is impacting Indian boat design? Any insights you would like to share? Drop a comment to let us know!

Cover Image: Source

Fire Risk Assessment in Warehouses and Factories

FIRE RISK ASSESSMENT IN WAREHOUSES AND FACTORIES

Establishing a business is a task in itself, and as the years pass on, the challenges that an organization has to face only keep on increasing. Companies conduct hundreds of meetings to plan their long-term growth strategies, but how often do they reconsider their safety practices?

Ever since the end of 2019, the world has noticed a horrific pandemic that brought the world to a standstill. Companies suffered enormous losses as their supply chains were disrupted completely and the produced goods perished in their storage facilities.

Even though the production started again some time in mid-2020, it came with unprecedented restrictions and uncertainties. Manufacturers preferred overproduction fearing yet another lockdown, and stocked their storage facilities as much as possible, turning a blind eye towards the safety norms.

Desperate times require desperate measures, but that shouldn’t be at the cost of sacrificing safety. Storage facilities are always prone to fire hazards, and caution is necessary to avoid loss of property and life. Hence, it is crucial to incorporate Fire Risk Assessments periodically in warehouses and factories, to avoid possible fire hazards.

Fire Risk Assessment in Warehouses and Industries

A fire risk assessment is an organized and methodical examination of your premises, the activities carried on, and the odds of a fire starting and causing harm to property and life.

Step 1 – Identify and pinpoint fire hazards

Depending on the kind of products you manufacture and store, the fire hazards associated may vary. 

For instance, if your products contain flammable chemicals, you should be cautious while storing those chemicals. 

On 4th November 2020, a similar tragic incident occurred in a cotton warehouse located outside Ahmedabad, Gujarat, where 12 people lost their lives to an accidental fire. The cause of the fire was identified to be the stored chemicals needed for this cotton factory. If the potential risk was identified and tackled, this tragedy could have been avoided.

Step 2 – Identify potential sources of fire hazards

If we carefully observe our surroundings, we will find many items that can be a potential source of fires. The most common objects in a warehouse that can act as a source of fire are:

  1. Cigarettes and matches – Improperly disposed-off cigarette butts and matches can be a source of the fire. Employees must be educated of the risk a single match can impose on the entire facility.
  2. Extractor fans – The fans designed to dissipate heat may get clogged, resulting in poor performance. Over time, this can cause a fire. Preventative Maintenance must be carried out to avoid this problem. Items that obscure the ventilation of machines must be moved out of the way.
  3. Electricals – Faulty electrical wires can lead up to a fire. Due care must be taken while constructing the warehouse. The open wire must be fixed or replaced. 

A fire erupted in a warehouse owned by an E-Commerce company located in Delhi. The fire consumed 1/3rd of the storage facility and was reported to be due to an electrical short-circuiting. Although there were no casualties, the company suffered substantial financial loss.

  1. Lighting – Warehouses often have openings to allow in natural sunlight. If this light is reflected from a shiny surface and concentrated to a smaller area, it will generate a lot of heat, eventually leading to a fire.
  2. Stored goods – It isn’t a surprise that a warehouse will be packed with lots of goods. A fire could be a risk depending on factors like storage density, space between pallets, and the type of racks used.
  3. Packing – Packing materials like foam, paper, and wood immediately catch fire. Since storage boxes contain a great deal of packing material, these can flame the intensity of the fire very quickly.
  4. Flammable liquids – Many times, machined metal parts are dipped in oils before storing them, to avoid corrosion. Such factors are rarely considered and pose a potential threat for starting fire hazards.

Although these sources can be identified and nullified at an organizational level, it is better to get this done by a professional who can implement a proper Fire Risk Assessment.

Once you have successfully identified the hazards, the next step is to work on eliminating the fire-causing factors. In real-world scenarios, it can be impossible to eliminate some sources. In such cases, actions must be taken to reduce the risk as much as possible.

Step 3 – Identify which safety systems are best suited for your warehouse.

Depending on the type of warehouse and the item it stores, a well-functioning, highly responsive fire safety system must be incorporated.

The most commonly used safety system is the sprinkler system.

According to this report, between 2007-2011, wet pipe sprinklers have successfully put out 84% of the fires and as a result, controlled damage cost by over 60%

Apart from this, fire extinguishers must be placed in areas that are of apparent danger. 

Depending on the type of product /process, there is a variety of fire extinguishers available. The role of this system is crucial as it acts as the last resort to tackle this fire mishap. An efficient safety system warns everyone and quickly acts to contain the spread of the fire.

Fire Risk Assessment in Warehouses and Factories – Factors to Consider

The fire safety audit not only emphasizes preventive measures but also what actions must be taken after implementing those measures.

Evaluate the outcomes

To implement the best possible fire safety system, you should first evaluate high-risk areas and areas where smoke accumulates, through modeling.

Create an Evacuation Plan

Once you have identified potential fire and smoke areas, you can now devise an evacuation plan which ensures all the employees get out safely, as early as possible.

Increase Awareness about Fire Safety

If we consider a small company, the owner or the manager should shoulder the responsibility to take charge in situations of fire. For a large company, the senior manager should take control. However, every employee must be educated about fire hazards, their cause, and their prevention, and an overall atmosphere of taking fire hazards seriously must be developed.

Build Documentation

Every single event of a fire, even a near miss, and every modification in the system should be documented. This record helps you make sound decisions in the future and implement the right changes.

Endnote

Any warehouse, whether new or existing, which is about to begin or expand, should get a fire safety assessment done and install a robust fire safety system. 

Since this is a crucial aspect of safety, it is better to get in touch with experts who have been in this field for years. SHM Group is one such industry leader that specializes in manufacturing fire safety systems and fire extinguishers. We understand the importance of safety, and we believe in providing the best solutions to each client.

Warehouses are an indispensable and integral aspect of the logistics chain. It is hence, necessary to safeguard them properly, to avoid damage to goods and property. Whether for eCommerce storage or an automotive storehouse, it is necessary to implement preventive fire safety measures beforehand and conduct regular fire risk audits to ensure the health and safety of products and people!

The 7 Challenges of Autonomous Boats

THE 7 CHALLENGES OF AUTONOMOUS BOATS

The idea of automation in boats is fast turning into reality, with major players of the world taking an active interest in building fully-automated vessels. Given the high rate of adoption of technology in boats and ships, it won’t be long before we see ‘ghost’ ships sailing across the seas.

While this change in perspective is welcome, there is the proverbial another side of the coin to be considered as well. When we speak of autonomous boats or rather, automation in shipping, the reactions are inherently sceptical. Is it even necessary? Is it as useful as it is said to be? These are some of the questions which everybody asks.

Today, we discuss the various challenges of autonomous boats, ranging from a conservative perspective to the high capital investment required, and the possible solutions that can be used to overcome these hurdles.

The Challenges of Autonomous Boats

In the process of automation of boats, there are three factors that come into play; one, remote operation of the boat, two, the onboard controller, and three, reduced number of the members onboard the vessel. All of these play an important part in deciding the feasibility of the autonomous boat. Let us see the impact of these factors on the various aspects of the boat in detail.

Security Concerns

Autonomous boats will be entirely dependent on the technology they are equipped with, for safe navigation and transport. When tools like big data and IoT are used to drive autonomous vessels, cybersecurity is a major concern. Strong security to ensure that the control algorithms are not tampered with and the safety of the boat or the goods it carries is not compromised is important.

The chance of violation of international treaties leading to potential security conflicts is also an aspect to be considered. Unmanned stealth vessels or surface-vessels can fan political conflicts if misappropriated.

Communication and Control

Connectivity is a critical component of autonomous boats. Communication has to be two-way, accurate, and undivided at all times, to ensure that the boat does not move off-course. Although the networks for connectivity have strengthened over the years courtesy of the satellite system, there can be potential lack of connectivity due to bad weather or any other disruptions.

The major problem is that control is not independent of the current situation of the boat. For instance, while traveling close to the shore, if the boat has to avoid a sandbank or dock at the pier, communication should be fast and smooth enough to ensure that instructions are related with time in hand and the boat does not run aground. Achieving this speed of communication and control is not possible at the moment, which can lead to accidents and loss of life and property.

All-round Adoption of Technology Required

When it comes to automation, taking things halfway cannot be a solution. Using technology for assistance and creating a technology-dominant operational workflow are very different things. For instance, if boats are made autonomous, but ports remain manually operated, the point of automation is lost.

If autonomous boats are to be leveraged for maximum efficiency and high productivity, the adoption of technology must be all-encompassing. This naturally requires a huge amount of capital, which is not always possible for every country (that is the next hurdle we shall see).

There is an added problem of employment issues resulting if a majority of the port activities are automated, though that is an offshoot of boat automation.

High Capital Investment

High capital investment is one of the major reasons why autonomous boats are not yet brought into frequent use. The amount of capital to be raised to get the technology involved in boat and port automation is staggering. Even with international organizations funding the research for better and cheaper alternatives to boat technology, the capital cost is high enough to deter individual boat manufacturers in India from manufacturing automated boats.

Government Policies and Legislation

There are no international policies in place yet for autonomous boats, legalising unmanned international travel. Every boat is required to have an adequate crew onboard to attend to all the necessary operations as required. The Indian government does not permit the use of unmanned vessels and this scenario is unlikely to change in the near future.

Considering the sensitive nature of autonomous boats, the IMO is coming up with a legislative framework for unmanned vessels. There is a growing need to ships and boats to have the proper regulations in place as autonomous ships are already under construction in western countries and are in their final deployment phases.

Global Sharing of Information

Imagining a hypothetical scenario where autonomous boats are plying international waters, one major problem is identified immediately, i.e. that of trade routes. To ensure that accidents are to be avoided, vessels and shipping companies from across the world will have to coordinate and cooperate with each other by sharing information about their travel routes and times.

This will be important even if the boat is configured to avoid collisions, as a necessary security precaution. However, no country or company will be willing to disclose their travel routes or potential military operations due to the sensitive nature of these plans and the fierce business competition. The maritime industry works in harmony at present but this kind of autonomous shipping will require a sharing of information at an unforeseen level, which all countries and/or companies may not be open to.

Inadequacy of Technology as an Alternative for Human Foresight

Finally, although technology is an excellent alternative to human effort, it can never completely replace human acuity and judgment. AI systems have developed a lot over the past years and are being used in every sector of the world today, but shipping requires a level of experience and instinct that cannot be found in a machine.

As no machine can be programmed for every eventuality, there will always be a need for human guidance to control and direct ships in case of an unexpected emergency.

Final Thoughts

Autonomous boats are touted to be the future of shipping and they may well be so, but there are a number of obstacles to overcome before that level of efficiency and finesse in operation is achieved.

What are your thoughts on autonomous boats? Any other problems you foresee? Or perhaps a solution for those mentioned above? Drop a comment to let us know!

Cover Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

SHM Malaysia Procures Registration with MISC and Petronas

SHM Malaysia procures registration with MISC and Petronas

MISC

MISC Group is a world leading provider of international energy related maritime services. The principal businesses of the Group comprise energy shipping and its related activities, owning and operating offshore floating solutions, marine repair and conversion, engineering and construction works, port and terminal services as well as maritime education and training.

Petronas

Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) established in 1974, is Malaysia’s fully integrated oil and gas multinational ranked among the largest corporations on FORTUNE Global 500®.
petronas-certification-0004

SHM Spreads its Wings Globally – RIB Delivered to Royal Malaysian Navy

SHM Spreads its wings globally - RIB delivered to Royal Malaysian Navy

Having pioneered inflatable boat manufacturing in India, SHM is now ready to spread its wings globally. Congratulations to the entire Malaysian team!

It gives us immense pride in sharing with you that SHM delivered its first order of Rigid Inflatable Boat overseas to the Royal Malaysian Navy, at Labuan Shipyard.

This marks an important milestone for SHM group and we are certain that SHM boats will find their way to every prestigious client worldwide.

SHM Malaysia now an Approved Service Provider of Oriental Davits!

SHM Malaysia now an approved service provider of Oriental Davits!

SHM Group is a seasoned provider of repair, refurbishment, installation and maintenance services of rescue boats and Davit systems since over 25 years. All our services are carried out in accordance with rules prescribed by IMO.

We are happy to share that SHM Malaysia Pte Limited is now an approved service provider of the well known brand Oriental Davits. Oriental Inspection and Service Co. Ltd. provide and repair parts of lifeboat davits, cranes and deck machinery equipment for clients using Oriental products.

Our company SHM Shipcare Mumbai also holds the license to service Oriental Davits. Apart from this, SHM group has partnered with 27 OEM providers to bring to you, world class Davit systems and their smooth operability.

Our engineers have completed professional training with Oriental Inspection & Service Co. Ltd and now hold proficiency to carry out annual and 5-yearly services as per SOLAS and MSC Circulars of IMO.

Apart from servicing, we will also be supplying new equipment and spares for all models of Oriental Davits used with lifeboats and rescue boats, both for marine and offshore activities.

For any service request for Oriental Davits at SHM Malaysia, reach us at sales.mys@shmgroup.com or support@shmgroup.com

FRP Boat Maintenance – Key Things to Note

FRP BOAT MAINTENANCE – KEY THINGS TO NOTE

Regular boat maintenance is the key factor that affects the efficiency, functioning and durability of a boat. Over the last few years, FRP boats have become much preferred to other widely used boats. Due to their versatility, durability and ability to resist corrosion, they are more affordable for prolonged use. The government of India has encouraged using FRP boats due to their environment-friendly features like less fuel consumption. 

However, before you use these boats, it is essential to know their basics and maintenance. 

What are FRP boats?

Fibre Reinforced Plastic (FRP) is an alternative material for steel and other metals in boat building. It is a composite material of a polymer matrix, toughened with fibres like glass, carbon, aramid, or basalt. 

FRP is popular due to its mechanical strength and properties like temperature resistance, corrosion, chemical resistance, and thermal insulation. FRP is also lightweight, durable, fuel-efficient and relatively cost-effective compared to other boat-building materials. It is also highly customisable and can suit a variety of requirements. 

FRP Boats vs Other Boats – What is the Difference?

Need for FRP Boat Maintenance

Even though FRP boats are low maintenance, they can only remain in good shape if appropriately maintained. FRP boats should be regularly cleaned, polished, and waxed to protect the gel coat on the surface vessels and make the hulls look brighter. Painting its surface layer can also keep its appearance and durability intact.

IMO and SOLAS standards

The IMO issued amendments in January 2020 for the maintenance of lifeboats through regular examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair, and launching appliances and release gear. These provisions aim to prevent accidents and ensure the equipment’s maintenance and safety standards.

SOLAS Amendments for Lifeboats

Requirement for Examination

The equipment requirements include lifeboats (including free-fall lifeboats), fast rescue boats, davit-launched life rafts, launching appliances, and on-load and off-load release gear for lifeboats.

Operational Testing, Repairs, and Overhauling

It is essential to carry out weekly and monthly inspections, routine maintenance, thorough annual examinations, and operational tests. You must also conduct a five-year thorough examination, overhauling, overload operation tests, and equipment repairs. All testing and examination are to be done by certified personnel of the manufacturer or authorised service provider under the direction of the ship’s senior officer.

Approved Bright Orange Colour and Designs

The lifeboats must also sport an internationally approved bright orange, with the ship’s call sign printed.

Survival Equipment Inside the Boat

It is also essential to carry survival equipment, including freshwater, compass, distress signalling equipment, food and ration in a lifeboat. The lifeboats and liferafts should accommodate at least 125% of the number of passengers and crew on board.

Authorisation by Certified Personnel

The flag administration must authorise the service providers following Sections 3 and 7 of Resolution MSC.402(96). Every authorised service provider must issue a certification for their personnel for the make and type of equipment to work on and the specific activities.

Preventive Maintenance Services

Preventative maintenance services ensure that the boat’s engine runs longer. Every manufacturer has specific recommendations regarding boat maintenance. It is advisable to take a look at those recommendations before performing maintenance.

Periodic Inspections of Propeller and Engine

Check for loose belts, cracked hoses, and corrosion on the engine and replace or repair it immediately if found. As the propeller plays a vital role in determining fuel consumption and performance, ensure that the propeller nut is tight and look for any damage that can lead to fuel burning. Grease the shaft by removing the propeller and ensure that there is nothing wrapped or stuck around it.

Oil Changing

Change the oil regularly to ensure that the mechanical parts slide smoothly and perfectly against each other. If not changed regularly, it can solidify or become acidic and cause severe damage to the internal components of the engine. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for an oil change and set a fixed schedule for oil changing.

Hull Fittings

Check the hull fittings for cracks, blisters, leakage, and corrosion. Ensure that the drain plugs are in place, that the valves are operational, and can be easily opened or closed. Replace or repair them immediately if required.

Belts or Hoses

Continuous exposure to vibrations, high heat, and hard knocks can loosen the belts and hoses and lead to equipment failure. Check the belts and hoses, and repair them whenever necessary to ensure optimum engine performance.

Leak checks

Always check for oil and water leaks before leaving the dock. Check the fuel lines for any cracks and soft spots. Watch out for any stains or smells of fuel around the fittings. Undetected and unsupervised leaks can lead to the failure of vital components. Ensure that these leaks are detected and repaired immediately. 

Impellers and Pumps

Inspect the impellers and pumps to detect any failure. Failure in the impeller leads to the dysfunction of the water pump. As a result, its ability to pull water reduces and the engine overheats. Ensure that the impellers never run dry and that the pumps move at a sufficient speed.

Corrosion control

Clean the boat’s engine with fresh water after operating it in salt water. The freshwater helps in removing salt residue and protects the finish. Salt deposition on the metal components of the boat or ship can lead to corrosion, especially on the lower units.

Corrective Maintenance Services

Corrective maintenance measures target the causes of the problems by implementing necessary remedies and solutions required to ensure the proper functioning of the boats. Corrective maintenance helps identify and rectify the problems. The process of corrective maintenance is time-consuming compared to preventative maintenance as it involves extensive inspection of the components by an authorised professional. 

Refurbishments

Refurbishments can make the existing vessels more efficient and cost-effective, and can improve the towing power. It also helps comply with new legislation and regulations. Recently, SHM Shipcare refurbished Taklift 7, a Davit suspended FRP rescue boat manufactured in 1977. The boat had multiple cracks and extensive damage. The boat was refurbished to its original form by performing the desired fitness tests as per the SOLAS guidelines and was then declared sea-worthy within 3 weeks.

FRP Lamination and Build-up

FRP laminates have multi-layered sheets that have a single or a two-directional resistance. They are bonded together to concrete or steel surfaces using FRP epoxy resin systems. It offers resistance to corrosion and ease of handling. Installing these laminates makes it easy to clean the build-up.

Gelcoat Repair and Rebuffing

Regular use of the boat can cause damage to the gel coat. The gel coat maintains the finish and the lustre of the vessel in good condition. Gel coat repair and rebuffing can help eliminate the scratches, oxidation, chips, minor cracks, and small patches on the surface. 

Anti-fouling and Painting

Anti-fouling paints prevent sea life, such as algae, from attaching itself to the hull, which causes the slowing down of the engine and increases fuel consumption. The paints protect the bottom of the boat. SHM also offers marine paints and accessories which include epoxy, polyurethane and thinners, underwater and anti-fouling coats, airless spray machines and sprays and much more. 

Monsoon Dry Docking Services and Storage

Dry docking of boats is beneficial in saving the boat hull and drives, especially during monsoons. It also gives easier access to boarding, fueling, and maintenance. Dry docking helps avoid scrapes and bruises caused by excessive bouncing when tied to a wet dock.

Furniture Repair and Carpentry Work

The interiors and exteriors of a boat must be able to withstand severe weather conditions such as harsh winds, humidity, and saltwater. Furniture repair and carpentry work in boats need a skilled marine carpenter who can use the proper techniques and tools to give the desired result. Hiring a marine carpenter who can offer sturdy and resilient repairs is essential. 

The Taklift 7 showcased extensive damage including multiple cracks and abrasion making it unfit for usage. The services rendered included OEMs, painting, boat metrology and overall maintenance.

Engine, Water Jet Service, and Overhauling

It requires trained engineers to carry out the servicing of engines and water jets. The machines must be handled with ease during such overhauls. It includes oil changes, filter renewals, essential engine health checkups, repairing impellers, hydraulic actuator adjustments, and much more.

Deck Fitting and Upholstery Work

These services include the repair work and the maintenance of the basic design and construction of the boat. It requires a skilled and experienced professional who ensures the fittings and repairs are done correctly and efficiently without causing any new damage.

Stainless Steel Fabrication

Marine-grade stainless steel offers the highest level of corrosion resistance and toughness. It is resistant to the effects of salt water and other harsh elements, which cause rusting and corrosion.

Electrical and Mechanical Repairs

Electrical repairs include checking wire and cable fittings, repairing blown fuses, and checking motors and blowers. Mechanical repairs include installation, maintenance, and up-gradation of motor work and equipment fixes. 

Trailer/Cradle Manufacture and Repairs

Trailers and cradles are vital in towing, storing, or upholding boats. They need to be sturdy to ensure the proper functioning and hence require professional intervention for manufacturing, maintenance and repairing. 

Design and Mould Making

The design and mouldings play a vital role in boat building. It requires skilled personnel, high-quality materials, and sufficient labour to create designs for the interiors and the systems based on the requirements. 

Lab Tests of FRP Laminate Panels

The FRP laminate panel can get damaged after long-term and extensive usage. Laboratory testing helps identify the materials’ defects or the panels’ manufacturing. These defects can further get repaired to maintain the quality.

Endnote

There is a substantial growth in the use and manufacturing of FRP boats. They are cost-effective, fuel-efficient, and low maintenance, causing their advantages to outweigh the disadvantages. SHM Shipcare specialises in repairing, maintaining, and dry-docking FRP boats, tanks, storage cabinets, and hatches. 

As mentioned earlier, SHM Shipcare can provide all of the maintenance services with the highest quality of materials and expertise. 

Get in touch or send an enquiry to know more about our FRP boat repair and dry-docking services. 

Safety Management Systems on Ships to Avoid Accidents

SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS ON SHIPS TO AVOID ACCIDENTS

Working on ships constitutes a significant risk as they are subject to the whims of nature more than most modes of transport and are prone to accidents and mishaps when out in the ocean. Every commercial vessel and its crew are equipped to handle such incidents. However, there is still the need for a proper guidance system that prevents such accidents from potentially occurring. Safety Management Systems, or SMSs, play a crucial role in ensuring that all ships follow a strict procedure to minimize the occurrence of mishaps. 

Here is a brief overview of a Safety Management System, the different types an SMS, its role in avoiding accidents, and a brief look at its sections.

What is a Safety Management System?

All vessels that venture out to sea require a Safety Management System (SMS). It is an organized system planned and implemented by shipping companies to ensure the safety of the vessel and its surroundings. A safety management system is a vital aspect of the International Safety Management (ISM) code, as it details all essential policies, practices, and procedures that are to be followed on board ships to ensure that they function safely. 

The SMS outlines safe operating parameters and ensures that every ship complies with the mandatory safety rules and regulations, follows the necessary codes, guidelines, and standards recommended by the IMO, enables the protection of the marine environment, and prevents maritime accidents. 

Marine SMS is a legal requirement that all commercial vessels must follow. It refers to a comprehensive document that details the procedure, rules, policies, and practices for the crew to follow and ensure safety at sea.

What is ISM Code?

The ISM code known as the International Safety Management Code provides a set of regulations to facilitate improvement and increased safety in the maritime industry. Additionally, it also emphasizes environmental protection and rules to curb marine pollution. The ISM code was established in 1994 as part of the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention. Therefore, a safety management system is a vital part of a ship’s SOLAS ISM Code

Types of SMS – SOLAS and Non-SOLAS

All commercial vessels are divided into two types of Safety Management Systems – SOLAS and Non-SOLAS. 

As per the Maritime Rules, a SOLAS ship is any ship for which the International Convention for the SOLAS 1974 is applicable. Any passenger ship engaged on an international voyage or a non-passenger ship of 500 tons gross tonnage or more embarking on an international voyage is a SOLAS ship. The ISM Code provides a safety management system for such ships. 

On the other hand, non-SOLAS ships are those commercial vessels that do not fit under the description of a SOLAS ship, barring a few exceptions. Non-SOLAS ships have four different categories of SMSs, namely – Maritime Operator Safety System, Safe Operational Plans, Safety Case, and Specified Limits Permit.

SMS Sections & What They Include

The safety management system for every vessel is different and is written based on the type of the vessel, its size, cargo, and location. Additional factors like potential weather conditions that the ship may encounter on its route need to be considered. 

Various ISM Code elements are essential for every ship operator to know. According to these, every safety management system is divided into different sections for easy reference according to careful consideration. It usually details all the basic functional requirements and the operational method for the vessel to follow daily. 

In addition to emergency response guidelines, here are all the essentials that to be included in a ship’s safety management system –

1. Procedure and guideline

The SMS outlines basic procedures and safety guidelines that the crew should adhere to at all times to minimize the chance of an accident at their end. It also includes details about the expected response during an emergency.

2. General Information

This document covers all information about the vessel, the owner company, or an individual owner, and all details of its operations. It also includes details of the designated person in charge of overseeing the maintenance of SMS.

3. Safety and environmental protection policies

These guidelines ensure safe operations of ships and their adherence to the marine laws and protection of the marine environment. It describes in detail the information about how the owner aims to create a safe workplace and their measures to protect the marine environment

4. Vessel details

This document requires all details of a vessel like its capacity, weight, cargo, maintenance, and technical details that are highlighted for easy reference of the crew and the person in charge.

5. Resources and personnel

The document provides the details of people in the organization, their qualifications, and their training. It also includes the assessment results to ensure that the people on board are qualified.

6. Operational procedures

Specific emphasis is operational procedures as the crew must conform to the basic everyday operations to ensure that the ship stays up-to-date and adheres to the SMS rules. It also contains the SMS elements, inspections, risk reductions, safety procedures, and other information for the crew

7. Emergency procedures

The crew response during operational procedures is different from its response during a crisis. To minimize chaos, and promote a streamlined effort, the SMS details the emergency procedures to follow in case of an accident or mishap. It can minimize the impact of the event, curb damages to the ship and cargo, and save lives.

8. Documentation

Documentation refers to careful storage of all relevant papers and thoroughly recording the regular events on the ship.

9. Safety Management System Review

Since the crew is in charge of overseeing and planning maintenance, it is essential their plans are outlined, properly scheduled on paper, and reported on completion. The SMS review should also detail the review procedure for the SMS, the method of assessment, and the updates in it to ensure that it stays relevant and effective for the long term.

10. Master’s responsibilities and company’s responsibilities

Since the ISM code focuses on the company, it highlights the role and responsibilities of the company in enforcing policies on the ship. The master’s responsibilities refer to the roles of the master or the designated person in implementing safety policies, motivating the crew, and issuing clear orders and instructions to them on the ship.

Role of Marine SMS in preventing accidents

Since the ocean is unpredictable and poses risk to the well-being of ships, every vessel needs to be up-to-date on all safety measures and adhere to the necessary safety standards. It can be achieved by regularly reviewing and updating marine SMS. As SMS detail and highlight all the essential elements of a vessel, it is easier to analyze them and conduct audits to predict and fix any malfunctions. 

Safety Management Systems ensure that every vessel is safe, people are uninjured and the environment and property stay undamaged. SMS can be reviewed on an annual basis if the documents for vessels are updated as often as possible to eliminate potential risks and hazards. 

SMSs play a vital role in risk management and help companies create a proper plan of action to encounter potential emergencies and accidents. They also ensure that your vessel is environmentally friendly, safe, and stays out of harm’s way.