Coordination between Class Surveys and Statutory Surveys (RO)
Coordinating surveys means connecting the calendar, access and evidence with class and statutory requirements. The same organisation may act in different roles: identify the mandate, acceptance and records for each scope.
Operational Explanation
Class applies the society’s Rules and maintains class status; statutory certification evidences compliance with applicable international instruments on behalf of the flag Administration. A classification society may also act as a recognized organization (RO), but only within its delegation.
HSSC harmonizes statutory surveys and certificates. It does not govern the class cycle. One attendance may reduce duplication where windows and programme are compatible and competence/delegation cover the respective activities. Scopes may differ: the plan must cover both; conclusions, records and effects remain separate.
Regulatory Reference
SOLAS I/6; IMO RO Code — MSC.349(92)/MEPC.237(65); HSSC 2025 — A.1207(34). Class follows society Rules. Flag delegation must cover the specific function; the flag retains responsibility and oversight of the RO.
Scope of Application
Ships whose class surveys and statutory surveys fall in the same period. Coordination depends on the certificate, flag, authorized RO, Rules, windows and ship condition.
Procedure / How to Complete It
- Separate class and statutory requirements in the planning matrix.
- Verify flag delegation for each certificate and function.
- Compare windows, scope, tests, survey status and outstanding conditions.
- Agree attendance and hold points without assuming automatic credit.
- Close and record results, recommendations, conditions of class and certificates separately.
For shared evidence identify the class item and statutory requirement it supports, the method/result and limitations. The matrix retains two completion statuses: an available report may support both, but credit and records must be confirmed under the respective mandates.
Practical Example
If renewal of the Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate and the Special Survey both require an in-dock examination, the same organization may coordinate attendance when it is class and the authorized RO. Class and statutory decisions and documents remain separate.
A test report supports two programme items. The matrix records the evidence for both, but a statutory item remains open while the class item is accepted. The team follows the missing document and decision under the correct mandate: “class completed” does not automatically close the certificate row.
What Typically Goes Wrong
Common Mistakes Mistake Library
| Mistake | Consequence | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| HSSC used for class | Wrong window | Consult Rules and survey status separately |
| Delegation assumed | Certificate not validly handled | Verify flag authorization |
| Transfer “class completed” to the statutory row without evidence. | A statutory document or requirement may remain open. | Connect evidence with both items and verify separate credit, decision and records. |
What the PSCO Checks
Operational Tips
- For each task record its basis, window, responsible party, authorization and final document.
- Confirm in writing which shared activities will be credited in each system.
- Refer reserved decisions to the flag: appointment as RO does not authorize independent exemptions.
Preparation checklist
- Class survey status checked
- Statutory certificates and windows checked
- RO delegation confirmed for each certificate
- Scopes and hold points separated
- Final records kept distinct
FAQ
Related Topics
Certified substantive revision: 13 October 2026 · page fingerprint 55f1a382f5b7