SURVEY SHOCKERS: THIS IS NO TRICK AND CERTAINLY NO TREAT

Survey and inspections are carried out to ensure that vessels are safe to set sail. Any structural defect, issue with communications or lifesaving equipment on board could mean the difference between life and death on the water.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) surveyors that carry out these inspections are trained to spot any issues, and are on hand to offer advice. 

In the most serious of cases, the MCA can detain vessels to stop them from sailing, until the necessary improvements are made.
SHOCKER 1: Sickening Sink


So what happens when a surveyor boards a vessel? Well, they take time to look around and thoroughly inspect the state of it. This can include crew living accommodation.

This ship was detained due to a number of safety, health and welfare issues, including deficiencies in the crew accommodation with a lack of hot water and heating. As you can see, the cleaning regime leaves a lot to be desired.

But that's only the start of it.
SHOCKER 2: Crazy Cargo
In 2013, surveyors detained 61 ships in UK ports. You'd hope this would send out a clear message to ship operators that sub-standard conditions will not be tolerated. 
But perhaps that message isn't get through...

This loading process here is rather scary. Not sure the cargo will remain in place once out on the open sea. Strong winds and choppy seas could see these topple off, lost forever leaving the ship operator with one unhappy owner.

Simon Graves is a Surveyor based at the Southampton Marine Office. He says:

"The majority of owners and operators of passenger boats, cargo ships and pleasure vessels are responsible. They work closely with us to ensure their vessels are in good working order. But some are not so conscientious.
SHOCKER 3: Mushroom Madness

"This was a picture taken of an engine hatch. As you can see there is no cover, some time, and is a little damp. Not what we would expect from a ship shape vessel."

This one below was also a big concern for one of our surveyors. This was supposed to be a safe access point to gain access to the cargo ship. However, there is a little issue with debris blocking your path on to and off the vessel. 
SHOCKER 4: Access Denied


Alan Thomson, MCA's Surveyor in Charge at the Tyne Marine Office, said:

"We carry out thorough inspections on ships visiting our ports. If we are in any doubt about safety, crew health and welfare, then we take action.

"Detention notices are a last resort, but if they are issued against a ship, we make sure they remain in place until we're satisfied that all the necessary improvements have been carried out to an acceptable standard."


SHOCKER 5: Lousy Laundry

SHOCKER 6: Shocking Shower

SHOCKER 7: Deflated Dinghy






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