2023 Laws not yet authenticated through a Commencement Order

Revised Laws of Saint Lucia (2023)

Part B
Inspections

5.   Extension of Inspection

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    5.1     Inspections for certification are based on the information, specifications, drawings and calculations available to the Administration.

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    5.2     The initial or renewal inspection will cover the following items: hull, machinery, electrical equipment, lifesaving equipment, fire protection equipment, pressure vessels and boilers, steering systems, miscellaneous equipment and systems, sanitation and operational practices including the competence and composition of the crew.

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    5.3     In general the scope of an annual inspection is the same as for the inspection for issue of a certificate of inspection but in less detail.

6.   Notice of inspection deficiencies and requirements

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    During the inspection of a vessel, the marine surveyor will record any deficiencies. The surveyor will provide a copy of these to the owner and discuss arrangements for rectification.

7.   Unsafe practices

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    During the course of any inspection due regard shall be given to confirming that all unsafe practices identified on board have been corrected. Examples of this include fire hazards by virtue of oily residues, unguarded machinery and provision of any protective clothing or devices necessary for the safety of the crew

8.   Hull and Tailshaft Examinations

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    8.1     A thorough examination of the hull, tailshaft, rudders and propellers shall be carried out at the initial and renewal surveys, at the third annual survey and at the discretion of the Administration.

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    8.2     A passenger vessel certified for operation in exposed waters shall undergo a thorough examination of the hull and tailshaft annually.

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    8.3     Hull and tailshaft examinations shall include all fittings, fixtures and penetrations of the hull and strengthening arrangements.

9.   Repairs, Alterations and Modifications

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    9.1     Repairs or alterations to the hull, machinery or equipment, which affect the safety of the vessel shall not be made without the approval of the Administration, except in an emergency. Drawings or written specifications of proposed alterations should be submitted to the Administration which may require that an inspection and test be carried out.

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    9.2     Safe working practices shall be observed in the planning and execution of any alterations, repairs or other operations involving riveting, welding, burning or other fire producing actions aboard a vessel particularly where these take place adjacent to fuel tanks or apparatus connected to the fuel tanks.

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    9.3     Repairs, alterations and modifications of a major character and outfitting related thereto on existing vessels shall meet the requirements prescribed for a new vessel to such extent as the Administration deems reasonable and practicable. The owner shall inform the Administration of the proposed alterations and modifications before such alterations and modifications are carried out.

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    9.4     For the purpose of this Code, the following repairs, alterations and modifications shall be recognized as being of “major character”—

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      (a)     any changes that substantially alter the dimensions of the vessel;

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      (b)     any changes that substantially increase a vessel's service life; or

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      (c)     any conversions that alter the functional aspects of the vessel.

10   Additional tests and inspections

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    The Administration may make inspections or tests of the vessel in addition to those described above, as deemed necessary to determine that the vessel and its equipment are suitable for the service in which they are to be employed.

10A   Maintenance of conditions after inspection

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    10.A.1     The condition of the vessel and is equipment shall be maintained to conform with the provisions of this Code to ensure that the vessel in all respects will remain fit to proceed to sea without damage to the vessels or persons on board.

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    10.A.2     After any inspection of a vessel under I/12 has been completed, no change shall be made in the structural arrangements, machinery or other items covered by the survey without the approval of the Administration.

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    10.A.3     Whenever an accident occurs to a vessel or a deficit is discovered which affects the safety of the vessel or the efficiency or completeness of its life saving appliances or other equipment, the master or owner of the vessel shall report it at the earliest opportunity to the Administration, who shall determine if an inspection under I/12 is necessary.