Korean Register Introduces Remote Survey Service for Ocean-Going Ships

The Korean Register (KR) has launched a new remote survey service for any of the classification society’s vessels engaged in international, ocean-going voyages.

As explained, the scope of KR’s remote survey service is limited to classification surveys.

“As part of the industrial revolution 4.0, we are constantly reviewing our technologies to see what we can streamline and with improved internet connectivity around the world, this is will be a clear benefit to our customers without compromising standards in any way,” Jeong-kie Lee, CEO and Chairman of Korean Register, commented.

A remote survey is a method to conduct a survey through bi-directional communication with a vessel, by sharing photographs, video contents and digital images from the ship. As a result, the KR Remote Survey can be conducted anywhere in the world – without requiring a surveyor’s attendance on board.

Using this method, KR plans to offer several types of the remote survey —  a Continuous Machinery Survey (CMS), a 3-month extension to a propeller shaft and stern tube shaft survey, a 3-month extension for boiler survey, a minor damage survey, and a Condition of Class (COC) survey.

However, there may be restrictions, according to the classification society. For instance, statutory surveys conducted on behalf of flag administrations are excluded from the scope of the remote survey. Passenger ships, submersibles, nuclear ships, hydrofoils, air cushion vessels or high-speed crafts cannot apply for a remote survey, these vessels will still be assessed by a surveyor attending in person.

Established in 1960, KR currently classes an international fleet of 3,050 vessels totaling 68 million GT. It is authorized to perform statutory and certification services in 80 countries.