Remote Inspection Techniques (RIT): Drone and ROV Inspections
Not just bulk carrier close-up surveys: remote inspection techniques using drones and ROVs are expanding into a broader survey ecosystem, with dedicated centres and formally approved service providers.
Operational Explanation
Remote Inspection Techniques (RIT) are an inspection methodology in which a qualified surveyor uses drone/UAV or ROV technology to examine confined spaces (ballast tanks, cargo holds) without needing direct physical access to potentially hazardous areas. Several Classification Societies have significantly expanded their network of certified RIT centres and surveyors: one has gone from five certified surveyors in early 2025 to over fifteen professionals across roughly seven locations worldwide, with a stated goal of reaching sixteen centres and over forty qualified surveyors by the end of 2026.
RIT can be used for close-up survey and ultrasonic thickness measurement (UTM) across various types of Class surveys: Annual, Intermediate, Renewal and In-Water Survey, not limited to the bulk carrier Enhanced Survey Programme alone. Where required by applicable Class rules, the company operating the RIT service must be approved by the Classification Society as a service supplier, according to dedicated service supplier approval procedures.
Regulatory Reference
RIT are governed by the rules and guidelines of individual Classification Societies (e.g. dedicated Guidance Notes); the RIT service operator must be approved as a service supplier according to the Society's applicable approval procedures, when required by Class rules.
Scope of Application
Every ship subject to Class survey intending to use RIT for inspecting confined spaces (ballast tanks, cargo holds) as part of an Annual, Intermediate, Renewal or In-Water Survey.
Procedure / How to Complete It
- Before planning a survey with RIT, verify that the service operator is formally approved as a service supplier by your Classification Society.
- Agree with the Classification Society which areas/types of survey are eligible for remote inspection, since not all conditions are suitable for RIT alone.
- Prepare confined spaces for remote inspection (cleaning, lighting, access for the drone/ROV) according to the RIT operator's instructions.
- Verify that documentation produced by the RIT (images, UTM measurements) complies with the standards required by the Classification Society for survey validity.
- Maintain the availability of a traditional survey as an alternative, in case the RIT reveals conditions requiring a more thorough direct examination.
Practical Example
Example: a Company plans the Intermediate Survey of a ship's ballast tanks using an RIT operator approved by its Classification Society, reducing physical access time to confined spaces and risk to personnel, while retaining the possibility of a direct inspection if the RIT reveals doubtful areas.
Real Cases
Common Mistakes Mistake Library
| Mistake | Consequence | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| Survey with RIT planned using an operator not verified as formally approved by your Classification Society | Risk that the survey is not recognized as valid for Class purposes | Always verify the RIT operator's formal approval as a service supplier before planning the survey |
| RIT used for areas/conditions not suitable for remote inspection, without prior consultation with the Classification Society | Survey not accepted or need to repeat the inspection with direct access | Always agree with the Classification Society which areas are suitable for RIT alone before excluding direct access |
PSC Observations
Operational Tips
- Always verify the RIT operator's formal approval as a service supplier before planning a survey using this method.
- Don't assume that every area/condition is suitable for remote inspection alone: agree the applicable scope case by case with the Classification Society.
- Always keep the possibility of a direct inspection as an alternative, if the RIT reveals doubtful conditions requiring more thorough examination.
Checklist
- RIT service operator verified as formally approved by the Classification Society
- Scope of RIT applicability (areas/survey types) agreed in advance with the Classification Society
- Confined spaces adequately prepared for remote inspection
- Documentation produced by the RIT verified as compliant with required standards
- Possibility of direct inspection maintained as an alternative in case of doubtful findings