RightShip has revealed a revised timeline for its vessel inspection age trigger, reducing the inspection threshold from 14 to 10 years.
The change will be implemented through a four-phased approach, allowing more time for vessel owners and operators to adapt to new requirements.
This decision follows valuable feedback from key stakeholders, including INTERCARGO, the International Chamber of Shipping and the Union of Greek Shipowners, who represent a significant portion of the global dry bulk and general cargo fleet.
“The revised approach is designed to strike an optimal balance, advancing the industry toward safer operations while giving vessel owners, operators and crew the necessary time to adapt effectively,” explained Steen Lund, chief executive of RightShip.
“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.”
The revised rollout plan responds to industry concerns, such as the need for additional time to negotiate budgets, train crews and manage inspections. The new timeline also addresses challenges like aligning inspections with the Second Special Survey Dry Dock and ensuring adequate inspector capacity.
Key updates include:
- A four-phase rollout, allowing at least 12 months’ notice before Safety Score impacts take effect.
- Alignment of inspections for vessels aged 10 years with the Second Special Survey Dry Dock, with a three-month buffer.
- Increased inspector capacity, with a goal of a 90% increase in accredited inspectors by October 2025.
- An early inspection incentive offering a $1,000 credit for inspections completed between January and June 2025.
Implementation window
The start date of the window signals the point at which a vessel will require a valid RightShip inspection to pass a RightShip vetting nomination. The end date of the window signals the point at which the vessel will require a valid RightShip inspection to maintain a safety score greater than or equal to 3/5.
- 13 years - 1 July – 1 October 2025
- 12 years - 1 January – 1 April 2026
- 11 years - 1 April – 1 July 2026
- 10 years - 1 October – 1 January 2027
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.
