In today's industry, Classification Societies such as ABS, DNV, BV, Lloyd’s Register, etc., allow for the use of rope access technicians to access structures, carry out thickness measurements and report findings to the Class Surveyor. With over 60 years of combined experience in the planning and execution of Class Surveys, including project management, the OIM team can ensure that all Class Surveys are performed according to the respective Class Society requirements.

For Class Surveys, it is a requirement for owners of vessels to carry out an overall examination and perform thickness measurements of various hull structures according to the specific class requirements. Additionally, there is a requirement to carry out a close-up survey in conjunction with the thickness gauging survey.

All classification societies have rules and regulations that specify the details of the survey for the type of vessel under survey. Planning and preparation for Survey, Thickness Measurement plan and Close-up Survey are important aspects of the survey process. The requirements for Thickness Measurement and Close-up Survey of ships at Special Survey are specified by the Class.

The extent of the Survey scope varies considerably depending on the ship type and age and those specifics are defined during the Survey opening meeting held between all the concerned parties. The process for controlling the thickness gauging survey and for completing the report are also clearly defined. Reporting of the measurement results are to be carried out according to the requirements of the individual class societies. Guidelines for performing the survey from planning to completion are also specified by the respective class society.

At OIM, we are proud to offer specialised teams that know and understand this process and can deliver reliable, repeatable results.