Class inspection using ROVs
The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) oversees over 90% of the world's cargo-carrying ships. These ships need regular surveys to meet the required standards and stay in the class. The surveys are done in the water by certified people to check the ships and ensure they are safe and following the rules.
Many believe the ROV used for surveys needs certification, but this is false. It is the person doing the survey who needs to be certified. However, the person who controls the ROV (the pilot) must have enough training and know how to use it.
Faculty of Maritime Studies in Rijeka approved for in-water surveys
The latest approval for in-water surveys among our customers are the Faculty of Maritime Studies in Rijeka who has achieved a significant milestone by gaining approval from Bureau Veritas to carry out in-water surveys using ROVs for non-propelled and offshore units. The journey to attain this accreditation began in March 2022 by preparing essential documentation and developing procedures that met the BV's requirements. In October, the team successfully conducted an underwater inspection demonstration at the Dalmont shipyard, which a BV inspector and representatives observed.
Their hard work and dedication paid off, and on January 12th, 2023, the Faculty of Maritime Studies in Rijeka was authorized for In-Water Surveys (IWS). This achievement is a remarkable feat and underscores the faculty's commitment to excellence and quality service.
The Blueye ROV is used in all our main areas of activity: scientific research, education and training, and collaboration with our business partners. We are very proud to be one of the leading institutions in Croatia in promoting and applying this new technology in the field of the maritime industry.
- Lovro Maglić, Associate Professor, Faculty of Maritime Studies in Rijeka
First ROV only class inspection using Blueye ROVs scheduled for April
In 2021, Stein Maritime Consulting became the first ROV company in Germany to receive certification from Lloyds Register and Bureau Veritas (BV). This means these two class societies authorize Stein Maritime Consulting to conduct surveys using Blueye ROVs.
Recent developments are that, leveraging their expertise and certification, Stein Maritime Consulting will be conducting first ROV only class inspection in April using Blueye ROVs.
Your professional ROV equipment
Blueye delivers professional ROV equipment with live-streaming capability. This means the inspection can be live-streamed to external stakeholders and key decision-makers in real time as the inspection takes place. And documentation of findings through the Blueye reporting tool. The software allows the inspectors to generate and distribute inspection reports within minutes after the inspection is completed.
In conclusion, while it may be too soon to claim a significant shift in the norms of class inspections, it is evident that new technology can challenge traditional methods. With the approval of organizations such as the Faculty of Maritime Studies in Rijeka, it is clear that the Blueye ROVs have the potential to enhance class inspections. As we continue to develop tools that benefit inspectors, we look forward to the future of class inspections and ROVs' role in this field.
