LOAD LINE SURVEY

 SURVEYS

A ship will be subject to the following surveys:

• Initial survey before the ship is put into service;

• Renewal survey at interval not exceeding Five years;

• Annual survey within 3 months either way of the anniversary date of the load line survey. 

The survey will endorse the load line certificate on satisfactory completion of the annual survey. 

The period of validity of the load line certificate may be extended for a period not exceeding 3 months for the purpose of allowing the ship to complete it's voyage to the port in which it is to be surveyed. 

PREPARATION FOR A LOAD LINE SURVEY

The preparation for a load line survey must begin in ample time to take care of any shortcoming. 

1. Check all access openings at ends of enclosed structure are in good condition. All moveable parts (dogs, clamp, hinges) to be free and well-greased. All gaskets and water-tight seals should be checked for cracks and repaired accordingly. Rubber packing are integral in maintaining the water tight integrity of an enclosed structure. Ensure that the doors open from both sides. 

2. Check all cargo hatches and access to hold for weather tightness and ensure securing arrangements ( Ex. Hatch cleats, butterfly nuts etc.) for easy movement. 

3. Check the efficiency and securing of portable beams. 

4. If  portable wooden hatch covers are used check that they are in good condition. 

5. If  tarpaulins are used, at least 2 should be provided for each hatch and in good condition. 

6. Thoroughly inspect all machinery space openings on exposed decks and repair (lips, gasket etc.) As necessary. 

7. Check that any manholes, and flush scuttles are watertight. 

8. Check that all ventilator openings are provided with efficient watertight closing mechanisms. 

9. All Airpipes should be provided with satisfactory means for closing and openings. 

10. Insect any cargo ports below the freeboard deck and ensure that all of them are watertight. 

11. Ensure that non-return valves are checked for working efficiency with respect to overboard discharge. 

12. Side scuttles (portholes), openings below the freeboard deck must have efficient internal watertight deadlights free of crack and fissures. 

13. Check all freeing ports (scuppers) are in satisfactory condition. Inspect that shutters, hinges, pins are not corroding and are well lubricated and have free movement. 

14. All  guard rail & bulwarks should be in satisfactory condition. Any damaged sections shall be cut and faired. 

15. De-rust and paint the deck line, plimsoll mark, load lines and draught marks. Keep a ladder and staging rigged for inspection by the surveyor. 

16. The load line certificate and relevant records should be kept ready for inspection. The stability information should also be kept ready at hand for surveyor to examine.