RightShip Implements Revised Timeline for Vessel Inspection Age Trigger
RightShip, a digital maritime platform focusing on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, has announced a revised timeline for the implementation of its vessel inspection age trigger. This initiative aims to enhance safety standards within the maritime industry by reducing the inspection threshold from 14 to 10 years. The decision follows extensive industry engagement and feedback since the initial announcement in October 2024.
Collaboration with key stakeholders such as INTERCARGO, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), and the Union of Greek Shipowners has played a crucial role in refining the approach to align with operational realities. As a result, RightShip has introduced a four-phased approach to the rollout, providing vessel owners and operators with more time to prepare for inspections and adjust to the new requirements.
Phased Approach for Implementation
The revised timeline consists of four phases, extending the rollout period and giving vessels at least 12 months’ notice before Safety Score impacts come into effect. This extended timeline also allows RightShip to accredit additional inspectors, ensuring a smooth transition for all stakeholders involved.
Phase 4 of the implementation now aligns inspections for vessels aged 10 years with the Second Special Survey Dry Dock, with a three-month buffer post-completion before inspection requirements take effect. This adjustment aims to streamline the inspection process and reduce operational pressures on vessel owners and operators.
Incentives for Early Participation
To incentivize early participation, vessels built after October 1, 2011, that undergo inspections between January and June 2025 are eligible for a $1,000 inspection fee credit. This incentive encourages proactive engagement with the new requirements and helps to manage peak inspection volumes effectively.
Additionally, RightShip will now require vessels of less than 8,000 Deadweight Tonnage (DWT) to undergo similar inspections, ensuring a consistent safety standard across the global Dry Bulk and General Cargo fleet.
Enhanced Transparency and Stakeholder Engagement
Steen Lund, CEO of RightShip, emphasized the importance of industry collaboration in advancing safety standards: “Co-operation is essential for safety. While the decision to lower the inspection age remains unchanged, we have taken stakeholder feedback into account and adjusted our approach to strike a balance between safety and operational flexibility.”
Christopher Saunders, Chief Maritime Officer at RightShip, highlighted the commitment to transparency and ongoing dialogue with industry stakeholders: “Our goal is to support vessel owners, operators, and crews in adapting smoothly to the new requirements, without compromising safety standards. We will continue to engage with the industry to ensure clarity and effectiveness in our processes.”
RightShip’s revised timeline for the vessel inspection age trigger demonstrates a proactive approach to enhancing safety within the maritime industry. By prioritizing stakeholder engagement, transparency, and incentives for early participation, RightShip aims to drive sustainable and safe operations across the global fleet.