RightShip inspection checklist for the Master

31 questions in RISQ 3.2

• Inspectors usually start by comparing ship particulars and certificates, so a mismatch in the opening minutes sets the tone.
• Give the inspector a short ship briefing with a current crew list, particulars sheet and certificate folder ready on the table.
• Check that recent changes such as a new flag, name, owner or class are reflected in every document kept on board.

• Prepare a one-page ship particulars sheet that matches the certificates and class records
• Confirm every statutory certificate is valid, endorsed and filed in one folder for the inspector
• Nominate an officer to escort the inspector and brief the crew on the inspection timetable

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11 questions in RISQ 3.2

• The Master should know that every officer and rating holds the right certificate and endorsement for the post they fill.
• Rest hours are often compared with the deck and engine logs, so records must reflect the real working day, including port calls.
• Familiarisation of recent joiners is a common weak point; check it was done and signed within the time your SMS allows.

• Review crew certificates and flag endorsements against the minimum safe manning document
• Sign rest-hour records only after comparing them with log book and port call entries
• Confirm each new joiner's familiarisation form is complete and countersigned by the Master

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26 questions in RISQ 3.2

• The Master's signature on the passage plan should show real review, including under-keel clearance, no-go areas and contingencies.
• Standing orders and night orders should be specific to the voyage and read and signed by each watchkeeper.
• Bridge officers may be asked when the Master must be called; their answers should match the written orders.
• Keep evidence that the Master reviews navigation practice, such as bridge audits or checks of position fixing and logs.

• Approve and sign the full passage plan, pilot station to pilot station, before sailing and after every change
• Write night orders every night at sea and confirm each officer of the watch has signed them
• Hold a bridge team management review with the officers and record the points discussed

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41 questions in RISQ 3.2

• The SMS must be seen working on board, so manuals, forms and records should match what the crew actually do.
• The Master's review of the SMS is a chance to report problems to the office; an empty review suggests little real engagement.
• Non-conformities and near-misses should show a clear trail from report to root cause to corrective action and closure.
• Drills are more convincing when the debrief records what went wrong and what the crew will do differently next time.

• Complete the Master's review of the SMS at the interval set and keep the office reply on file
• Close open non-conformities or record the agreed target date and responsible person for each
• Lead at least one realistic drill before the inspection and record a debrief with lessons learnt

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7 questions in RISQ 3.2

• The ship security plan is a restricted document; know where it is kept and who may see which parts.
• The ship security officer should be named in writing and able to explain the security level and measures in force.
• Records of security level changes, drills and declarations of security should be complete for recent port calls.

• Keep the ship security plan in its controlled location with access limited as the plan requires
• Hold a written designation of the ship security officer signed by the Master
• Check that security level records and declarations of security for recent port calls are filed

Work through all 7 section 12 questions in RightShip Pro →

10 questions in RISQ 3.2

• Inspectors often walk through accommodation, galley and provision stores, so cleanliness and food storage matter on the day.
• Crew should know how to raise a complaint on board and ashore, and the procedure should be posted where everyone can see it.
• Medical stores, the hospital and drinking water records show how seriously the ship treats crew health.
• Access to rest, recreation and contact with home is a welfare topic crew may be asked about directly.

• Inspect galley, cold rooms and provision stores and record temperatures and cleanliness
• Post the onboard complaint procedure and shore contact details in the crew mess
• Check the medicine chest inventory and expiry dates against the ship's medical stores list

Work through all 10 section 15 questions in RightShip Pro →