FAQ

1. Initial Survey:

An Initial Survey is conducted when a vessel is first entered into AMSA’s survey system or when undergoing a significant alteration or modification. This survey focuses on verifying compliance with construction standards, safety equipment requirements, and operational systems.

The individual survey components required vary depending on the complexity of the vessel. To find out which surveys are required, vessel owners/operators need to fill in the AMSA 521 form ‘Application for a certificate of survey and/or load line certificate for a domestic commercial vessel’. Once submitted, AMSA will identify the survey components and send a letter to the vessel owner/operator with a list of surveys required. These can include any of the below:

• Commissioning Survey
• Initial Electric Survey
• Initial Engineering Survey
• Initial Fire Systems and Fitout Materials Survey
• Initial Fuel Tank Survey
• Initial Hull Structure Survey
• Initial Lightship Check or Inclining Survey
• Draft Mark Survey
• Watertight and Weathertight Integrity Survey
• Plan Approval Survey
• Stability Assessment

Once the vessel owner/operator receives the list of surveys required, they can book the Marine Surveyors and Naval Architects for the inspections and assessments. To streamline the process, a copy of the AMSA 521 application can be sent to us.

2. Renewal Survey:

A Renewal Survey is conducted periodically, typically every five years, to renew the vessel’s certificates of survey and operation. It involves a comprehensive inspection to ensure continued compliance with AMSA regulations and standards. You will need to fill in a new AMSA 521 application. Here are the individual survey components commonly included in a Renewal Survey:

• Hull Inspection (materials, welds, construction methods)
• Machinery and Equipment Inspection (propulsion systems, machinery, auxiliary equipment, engines, fuel systems, steering gear, and other mechanical components)
• Safety Equipment Check (presence, condition and functionality of safety equipment including life-saving appliances, firefighting equipment, distress signals and navigation lights)
• Electrical System Inspection (electrical installations, wiring, lighting systems, power distribution and emergency shutdown mechanisms)
• Navigation and Communication Systems Review (GPS, radar, AIS, VHF radios)
• Documentation Review (i.e. compliance reports, stability documentation, Safety Management System)
• Additional Inspections if applicable (based on the vessel’s unique characteristics)

3. Periodic Survey:

The Periodic Survey is conducted regularly as specified on your Certificate of Survey between renewal surveys depending on your risk category to monitor the vessel’s ongoing compliance and address any emerging issues. It includes inspections of safety equipment, operational systems, and structural integrity to maintain regulatory standards.

4. Special Purpose Surveys:

Other Special Purpose Surveys may be conducted for vessels engaged in specific operations or activities that require additional scrutiny or specialized assessments. Examples include surveys for vessels carrying dangerous goods or vessels operating in challenging environments.

5. Additional Surveys

Additional Surveys are conducted as needed in response to specific events, such as accidents, incidents, or changes in vessel ownership or configuration. Aimed at addressing specific concerns or ensuring compliance with AMSA regulations following significant events or alterations.

Each type of AMSA DCV survey is designed to fulfil distinct regulatory requirements and ensure the safety and integrity of commercial vessels operating in Australian waters. The frequency and scope of surveys may vary depending on factors such as vessel type, size, operational complexity, and intended use. Working closely with AMSA-accredited Marine Surveyors and Naval Architects and staying informed about regulatory updates is essential for maintaining compliance and operational readiness.

For more information or to book a survey for your vessel contact our friendly service team.