Bulk Carrier Safety and Structural Inspection Checklist

This bulk carrier safety and structural inspection checklist ensures compliance with SOLAS Chapter XII (Additional Safety Measures for Bulk Carriers), IACS Enhanced Survey Programme (ESP) for bulk carriers, IACS UR S11 (Longitudinal Strength Standards), and IMO MSC/Circ.1152 bulk carrier structural inspection guidance. Bulk carriers are the most frequently lost vessel type in maritime history.

  • Industry: Maritime
  • Frequency: Monthly
  • Estimated Time: 2-4 hours
  • Role: Master / Chief Officer / Ship Inspector
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: SOLAS Chapter XII Bulk Carrier Safety Measures, IACS Enhanced Survey Programme (ESP) Bulk Carriers, IACS UR S11 Longitudinal Strength Standards, IMO MSC/Circ.1152 Structural Inspections, Classification Society Rules for Bulk Carriers

Hatch Covers and Coamings

Hatch cover condition and weathertightness.

  • Hatch covers free of visible structural damage, buckling, or deformation?
  • Hatch cover rubber packing seals in serviceable condition throughout?
  • Hatch coaming drain pipes unobstructed and functional?
  • Hatch cover cleats and dogs operational and correctly tightened?
  • Ultrasonic weathertightness test completed within required interval?

Structural Inspection

Hull frames and plating condition.

  • Transverse web frames and floors free of visible cracks?
  • Hopper side plating free of heavy corrosion pitting?
  • Lower strakes and bilge areas inspected?
  • Topside tanks inspected where accessible?
  • Hull thickness gauging current per ESP schedule?

Cargo Hold Condition

Cargo hold structural and equipment checks.

  • Hold coating in acceptable condition (less than 20% breakdown)?
  • Hold bilge suctions and strum boxes clear?
  • Hold ventilation closures operational?
  • Hold lighting operational for cargo inspection?
  • Atmosphere testing completed before any hold entry?

Flooding Detection (SOLAS XII)

Flooding detection requirements.

  • Cargo hold bilge high-level alarms tested and operational?
  • Hold bilge pumping system tested and operational?
  • Cargo hold sounding tubes open and functioning?
  • Emergency cargo hold pumping capacity meets SOLAS XII requirement?
  • Double bottom tanks sounded and no unexpected water ingress?

Enhanced Survey Programme

ESP and class survey compliance.

  • No outstanding ESP survey items overdue?
  • No outstanding class conditions restricting trading?
  • Close-up surveys of critical structural areas completed on schedule?
  • No areas requiring corrosion additions per class assessment?
  • Classification certificate current?

Bulk Carrier Records

Inspection documentation.

  • Structural inspection log maintained with dated entries?
  • Protective coating condition record updated?
  • Structural repair history documented and available?
  • Vetting inspection findings (if any) being addressed?
  • Bulk Carrier Inspection Notes

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Why Use This Bulk Carrier Safety and Structural Inspection Checklist?

This bulk carrier safety and structural inspection checklist helps maritime teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for master / chief officer / ship inspector professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: monthly.

Ensures compliance with SOLAS Chapter XII Bulk Carrier Safety Measures, IACS Enhanced Survey Programme (ESP) Bulk Carriers, IACS UR S11 Longitudinal Strength Standards, IMO MSC/Circ.1152 Structural Inspections, Classification Society Rules for Bulk Carriers. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Bulk Carrier Safety and Structural Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Hatch Covers and Coamings, Structural Inspection, Cargo Hold Condition, Flooding Detection (SOLAS XII), Enhanced Survey Programme, Bulk Carrier Records. It is designed for maritime operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed monthly. Each completion takes approximately 2-4 hours.

Who should use this Bulk Carrier Safety and Structural Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Master / Chief Officer / Ship Inspector 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.

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