What is the recent change in RightShip's vessel inspection age criteria?
On 10th October a phased reduction in the age at which Dry Bulk and General Cargo vessels are required to undergo inspections was announced. Starting on 31 March 2025, vessels will be required to undergo inspections earlier than previously mandated to improve safety standards.
Implementation | Safety Score & Vetting Rule | Resolution Options |
Phase 1 (2025) | Vessel over 12 years and without a satisfactory annual RightShip inspection (excluding tankers) | RightShip Inspection must be completed |
Phase 2 (2026) | Vessel over 10 years and without a satisfactory annual RightShip inspection (excluding tankers) | RightShip Inspection must be completed |
2. Why is RightShip lowering the age trigger for vessel inspections?
This change from the previous age inspection trigger of 14 years reflects the changing market conditions of the Dry Bulk fleet, and has been done with consideration of the following:
The dry Bulk industry continues to lag others in terms of Incident, Injury and Fatality rates as well as Port State Control inspection performance highlighting the need for additional safety interventions.
The average age of the world dry fleet is steadily increasing, currently 14.7 years, with the market waiting to see what emerges in new technologies and green fuels before replacing tonnage.
The ageing fleet and large influx of new builds in the 2010’s will make utilisation of increasingly older tonnage in the coming years vital to meet demand.
Bringing vessels into an annual inspection regime at an earlier age, after their second special survey, is intended to increase the availability of safely managed older tonnage in the years to come.
Observations from inspectors feed into the vetting process, providing critical control to improve safety and informs vetting and chartering decision making.
3. Does this policy apply to all vessel sizes?
Yes, in addition to our standards change to reduce the inspection age criteria for vessels above 8,000 DWT, RightShip is removing the current criteria for vessels at 8,000 DWT and below, that requires an inspection from 25 years. From March 2025, the standard is now consistent across the global Dry Bulk and General Cargo fleet.
4. Why is this change significant for the Dry Bulk and General Cargo sector?
RightShip data shows the Dry Bulk sector has the highest incident ratio (1.49%) and a Port State Control detention ratio of 4.69%, which is four times higher than that of tankers. The ageing Dry Bulk fleet, averaging 14.7 years, presents significant safety risks that RightShip aims to mitigate through earlier and more frequent inspections.
5. How will the Safety Score be impacted by these changes?
The current Safety Score hybrid rule related to vessel age which currently triggers at 14 years of age will be updated to reflect the new age requirements as shown below.
Phase 1 (2025)
SS2-5 | Vessel over 12 years without a satisfactory RightShip inspection in the last 12 months (excl tankers) | RightShip Inspection must be completed |
Phase 2 (2026):
SS2-5 | Vessel over 10 years without a satisfactory RightShip inspection in the last 12 months (excl tankers) | RightShip Inspection must be completed |
6. How is RightShip going to service the increase in the number of Inspections?
RightShip’s accredited inspection network currently comprises over 150 accredited inspectors positioned across the globe, having conducted inspections in more than 95 countries and 950 ports, as illustrated in the graphic below. We are already well underway in expanding that inspector network in key locations to accommodate anticipated changes in volume.
7. How can operators prepare for this change?
To minimise the impact, operators are encouraged to adopt a proactive and strategic approach to planning. Just as careful thought goes into maintenance schedules, crew changes, and parts provision, inspection planning should receive the same level of attention. Mature managers already follow this approach, and by booking early and integrating inspections into their operational planning, they ensure the process remains seamless. Book early, plan thoroughly, and treat inspection preparation as an integral part of operational excellence.
8. How can owners and managers proactively prepare for an inspection and be aware of inspections trends?
Owners and managers can access a wide range of resources to help them prepare for inspections through the RightSTORE. It offers comprehensive information and tools, including: