Underwater Hull Inspection and Fouling Assessment Checklist
This underwater hull inspection and fouling assessment checklist ensures compliance with IACS hull inspection requirements, classification society in-water survey procedures (as alternative to dry-docking under AMS/PMS programs), IMO Biofouling Guidelines (MEPC.207(62)), and port authority biosecurity requirements for biofouling management. Hull fouling increases fuel consumption by 5-40% and introduces invasive species risk.
- Industry: Maritime
- Frequency: Per Event
- Estimated Time: 2-4 hours
- Role: Master / Chief Officer / Marine Superintendent
- Total Items: 30
- Compliance: IACS Unified Requirements Hull Inspection, IMO MEPC.207(62) Biofouling Guidelines, Classification Society In-Water Survey Requirements, Australia DAWE Biofouling Management Requirements, New Zealand MPI Craft Risk Management Standard
Pre-Inspection Preparation
Before inspection commences.
- Vessel Biofouling Management Plan available and current?
- Antifouling coating type, application date, and service life records available?
- Last drydock date and cleaning records available for comparison?
- Port/biosecurity authority notification made if required?
- Diver safety measures in place - vessel secured, traffic controlled?
Hull Coating Condition
Antifouling coating assessment.
- Antifouling coating generally intact - no large bare areas?
- Sacrificial anodes in place and not more than 50% depleted?
- ICCP (Impressed Current Cathodic Protection) electrodes and reference cells intact?
- No structural damage, indentations, or areas of concern noted?
- Areas of coating breakdown mapped and photographed for maintenance planning?
Biofouling Assessment
Marine growth evaluation.
- Fouling rating assessed using IMO scale or class rating system?
- Niche areas inspected - sea chests, prop shaft, rudder, bow thruster?
- Propeller and propeller shaft fouling assessed?
- Evidence of non-indigenous species assessed and reported if found?
- Cleaning requirement assessed based on fouling rating?
Underwater Fittings
Sea valves and appendages.
- Sea chest gratings intact and free of excessive blockage?
- Stern tube seal area inspected - no evidence of oil leakage?
- Rudder pintles and gudgeons inspected - no cracks or damage?
- Bow/stern thruster tunnels and blades inspected?
- Keel coolers or box coolers inspected and free of blockage?
Classification Survey Requirements
Class in-water survey.
- Class surveyor present or inspection conducted per class-approved AMS?
- Ultrasonic thickness measurements taken at required locations?
- Close-up survey requirements per class annual/special survey program completed?
- Class in-water survey certificate issued upon successful completion?
- All class recommendations from inspection formally recorded?
Inspection Records
Hull inspection documentation.
- Inspection report with photographs prepared and filed?
- Superintendent informed of inspection findings and maintenance requirements?
- Biofouling Management Plan record updated with inspection results?
- Biosecurity report filed with port authority if non-indigenous species found?
- Hull Inspection Notes
Related Maritime Checklists
- Vessel Refit and Dry Dock Entry Safety Checklist
- Planned Maintenance System (PMS) Audit Checklist
- Marine Insurance Pre-Survey Condition Assessment Checklist
- Ship-Shore Interface and Tanker Terminal Safety Checklist
- Enclosed Space Rescue and Emergency Response Checklist
- Fishing Vessel Safety and Torremolinos Protocol Checklist
- Ship Recycling Hong Kong Convention Compliance Checklist
Related Vessel Maintenance Checklists
- Vessel Refit and Dry Dock Entry Safety Checklist - FREE Download
- Planned Maintenance System (PMS) Audit Checklist - FREE Download
- Marine Insurance Pre-Survey Condition Assessment Checklist - FREE Download
Why Use This Underwater Hull Inspection and Fouling Assessment Checklist?
This underwater hull inspection and fouling assessment checklist helps maritime teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for master / chief officer / marine superintendent professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.
Ensures compliance with IACS Unified Requirements Hull Inspection, IMO MEPC.207(62) Biofouling Guidelines, Classification Society In-Water Survey Requirements, Australia DAWE Biofouling Management Requirements, New Zealand MPI Craft Risk Management Standard. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Underwater Hull Inspection and Fouling Assessment Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Pre-Inspection Preparation, Hull Coating Condition, Biofouling Assessment, Underwater Fittings, Classification Survey Requirements, Inspection Records. It is designed for maritime operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 2-4 hours.
Who should use this Underwater Hull Inspection and Fouling Assessment Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Master / Chief Officer / Marine Superintendent professionals in the maritime industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.