Cargo Hold Survey for Bulk Carriers (ESP)
Bulk-carrier survey extent follows the 2011 ESP Code and Z10.2/Z10.5; UR Z11 concerns notations and does not authorise drone surveys. RIT needs case-specific class acceptance and is not generally recognized by ESP since 2025.
Operational Explanation
Bulk-carrier survey extent follows the 2011 ESP Code and Z10.2/Z10.5; UR Z11 concerns notations and does not authorise drone surveys. RIT needs case-specific class acceptance and is not generally recognized by ESP since 2025.
Regulatory Reference
2011 ESP Code A.1049(27); applicable UR Z10.2/Z10.5; class Rules and UR Z17 for accepted RIT. UR Z11 Rev.7 is a future notation instrument, not the RIT source.
ClassNK’s MSC 111 report records adoption of ESP amendments for RIT, entering into force on 1 January 2028. Distinguish adoption in 2026 from draft approval in 2025 and applicability to the current survey; verify the final instrument, conditions and flag/RO acceptance before replacing the examination method. ClassNK: MSC 111 outcome, May 2026.
The IMO index identifies the ESP amendments as MSC.584(111). On 16 September 2026 its PDF still states “Resolution awaiting certification”; the detailed conditions of the adopted text have therefore not been verified here. IMO — MSC resolutions 2026–2027.
Prepare the survey programme using previous reports, measurements, repairs and suspect areas. Agree safe access, cleaning and lighting, close-up examination and thickness measurements before work; retain access needed to investigate findings. IACS UR Z10.2: survey preparation.
ESP amendments already in force include MSC.525(106), effective 1 July 2024. They address ballast-tank coating conditions and double-side skin void spaces of bulk carriers over 20 years old and 150 m or more in length. Apply the stated conditions and distinctions between spaces rather than reducing the trigger to POOR condition alone or applying it indiscriminately to every space. MSC.525(106), annex A.
Scope of Application
ESP applies by SOLAS ship-type/tonnage scope; age or renewal number changes extent, not initial programme applicability.
Procedure / How to Complete It
- Confirm bulk-carrier ESP scope and applicable Code part.
- Build close-up, TM, testing and coating extent from age/survey tables.
- Use RIT only after prior class acceptance and limitations.
- Keep direct examination where required.
- Do not cite UR Z11 or a 2025 ESP amendment as RIT authority.
Practical Example
A drone may support an accepted survey under class Rules, but does not automatically replace Code close-up extent or direct surveyor examination.
What Typically Goes Wrong
Attributing drone/coating/survey extent to UR Z11, saying formally recognized since 2025, or using generic age thresholds as ESP entry trigger.
Common Mistakes Mistake Library
| Mistake | Consequence | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| Attributing drone/coating/survey extent to UR Z11, saying formally recognized since 2025, or using generic age thresholds as ESP entry trigger. | Non-compliant decision or treatment | Follow the approved arrangement and applicable sources |
What the PSCO Checks
Operational Tips
- Separate current requirement, class/maker, SMS and voluntary guidance.
- Do not improvise tests, thresholds or intervals.
- Record deviations and corrective action.
Preparation checklist
- ESP ship/tonnage scope
- Correct Z10 part
- Age changes extent
- RIT prior acceptance
- Direct checks available
FAQ
Related Topics
Last substantive revision of this page: 16 September 2026 · page fingerprint 2e82a032b6ee