​Insurance, Survey & Claims Department (ISCD)
Marine surveying involves inspecting and assessing ships, boats, and other marine vessels and structures to determine their condition, value, and compliance with industry regulations and standards. It is typically conducted by qualified marine surveyors with specialized knowledge and training in ship design, construction, and maintenance.
Overall, marine surveying is essential for ensuring the safety and reliability of marine vessels and structures and protecting the interests of owners, insurers, and other stakeholders in the marine industry."Marine surveying involves inspecting and assessing ships, boats, and other marine vessels and structures to determine their condition, value, and compliance with industry regulations and standards. This work is typically done by qualified marine surveyors with specialized knowledge and training in ship design, construction, and maintenance.
Marine surveying, a cornerstone of the marine industry, is crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of marine vessels and structures. It plays a significant role in protecting the interests of owners, insurers, and other stakeholders in the marine industry.
Marine Surveyors and Consultants
Network operating 24/7
ISCD - Insurance, Survey & Claims Department
Supports H&M underwriters, P&I clubs, and shipowners with independent technical damage assessments, root cause analysis, loss-of-hire verification, and casualty response.
The Green Shift Group is part of a global marine surveyor network comprising numerous independent marine surveyors that provide survey and inspection services to the maritime industry worldwide.
The network comprises experienced surveyors with expertise in a wide range of marine disciplines, including hull and machinery, cargo, marine engineering, and offshore operations.
The primary purpose of a global marine surveyor network is to provide reliable and professional marine surveying services to clients across different locations and regions around the world. Our clients include shipowners and operators, insurance companies, maritime law firms, and other organizations in the maritime industry.
Our global marine surveyor network operates on a decentralized basis, with each member operating as an independent surveyor. However, the network is using Green Shift Group to provide a central coordination and management function, allowing our clients to access surveyors' services in different locations around the world through a single point of contact.
(24-hour urgency response).
The service level of our global marine surveyor network is limited to surveyors who meet the GSG vetting criteria, including holding recognized qualifications and possessing extensive experience in their field of expertise. This ensures that the network maintains very high standards of quality and professionalism and that clients can be confident in the knowledge and capabilities of the surveyor services they engage.
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Green Shift Group offers its services globally to the following entities:
- Hull and Machinery Underwriters
- Loss of Hire Underwriters
- P&I Clubs
- Brokers
- Admiralty Law Offices and Maritime Courts
- Shipping Companies, Ship Managers, and Charterers
- Ship Owners and Yacht Owners
- Ship and Naval Newbuilding Yards and Ship Repair Yards
- Yacht Newbuilding Yards
- Stevedores, Port Facilities, and Terminals
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Draft Survey
Our draft surveys include, but are not limited to, an inspection of the following aspects:
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Audit Solutions
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Cleanliness pre-inspections of tanks/holds/equipment.
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Damage Surveys
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Guaranteed Business Solutions
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Loading and Discharge Supervision
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Logistic Support
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Sampling & Analysis
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Fumigation and Pest Management
Condition Survey
Our Marine Condition Surveys include, but are not limited to, an inspection of the following aspects:
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Extensive condition surveys to ensure that the vessel is safe, shipshape, and effective for its intended operations.
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Condition surveys provide an in-depth report enabling the vessel owners to be aware of potential areas onboard and inboard the vessel that requires immediate work and/or any repairs before they result in failure.
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Marine Condition Surveys can include an agreed repair work specification for any deficiency of equipment noted during the survey.
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Marine Condition Surveys provide vessel owners, charterers, and underwriters with an independent report on the vessel’s overall condition, operating procedures, crew training, and safety awareness.
Casualty Investigation
Marine casualty investigation is the process of investigating accidents and incidents that occur on or near marine vessels, such as ships, boats, and other types of watercrafts. The goal of marine casualty investigation is to determine the causes of the accident, as well as to identify any contributing factors that may have led to the incident.
Marine casualty investigations are typically conducted by trained investigators, often working in conjunction with local or national authorities. Some of the key steps involved in marine casualty investigation can include:
Conducting a site investigation: This involves visiting the location of the accident and gathering physical evidence and other data related to the incident.
Reviewing records and documentation: This involves reviewing relevant documentation related to the vessel and the incident, such as maintenance records, safety inspections, and other relevant documents.
Interviewing witnesses and personnel: This involves interviewing individuals who may have witnessed the incident, as well as crew members or other personnel who were on board the vessel at the time of the incident.
Analyzing data and information: This involves analyzing data related to the incident, such as weather data, navigational data, and other relevant information.
Identifying contributing factors: This involves identifying any factors that may have contributed to the incident, such as equipment failures, human error, or other hazards.
The results of a marine casualty investigation can be used to improve safety measures and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. In many cases, marine casualty investigations may also be used to identify any parties that may be liable for damages resulting from the incident.
Hull & Machinery
Our Hull & Machinery surveys include, but are not limited to, an inspection of the following aspects:
Our surveyors bring an in-depth, extensive, and exclusive technical understanding of:
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Main Engines
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Generator sets
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Electrical power distribution
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Fuel and Lube treatment plants
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Boilers
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Turbochargers
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Propellers
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Rudders
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Shafting
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Stern tubes
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Cargo equipment/gear.
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Green Shift Group performs Hull and Machinery surveys on behalf of the Insurer not limited but included to Loss of hire surveys:
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Damage investigation.
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Root cause analysis conclusion of causalities extent.
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Conclusion to the cause of the incident & the circumstances that led to it as part of a Loss prevention program.
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Assess the quality of repair and present the vessel repair on behalf of the Insured or the Insurers.
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Provide impartial advice to underwriters ad hoc.
P&I Survey
Our P&I surveys include, but are not limited to, an inspection of the following aspects:
When transporting cargo, ships can encounter many challenges. If a vessel suffers any damage at sea, whether it be equipment damage, cargo damage, or other minor incidents, it immediately risks the environment and lives of seafarers.
P&I surveys minimize:
Minimize risk at sea and prevent potential accidents.​
Protect the lives of seafarers onboard and the ecosystem.
Minimize risk at sea and prevent potential accidents.​
Protect the lives of seafarers onboard and the ecosystem.
Shipowners today must maintain compliance and offer protection to seafarers. Our marine P&I surveyor performs inspections onboard to identify a ship's seaworthiness, and safety, and provides recommendations based on findings and facts to make shipping safer and more efficient for the Shipowner. A routine P&I survey ensures peace of mind and promotes a culture of trust and safety onboard.
Therefore, P&I surveys have proven to be indispensable to the shipping industry. With the GSG P&I surveys, we help our clients minimize risks, maximize operational efficiency, and improve the environment and safety of those on board.
Loading and Outturn
FFOs
Crew Injury
Cargo Damage
Pollution
Project Cargo
Hull and Machinery
Stowaways
Cargo Theft and Fraud
Bunker Dispute/Shortages
Provision of Security, Port Entry
Container and Equipment Damage
Pre-Attachment and All Types of Condition Surveys
Wreck Removal and Scrap Proceeds accordingly to P&I insurer
Casualty Damage, Investigation, Costs, and Negotiation with third parties
On/Off Hire Surveys, Bunker Surveys, Draft Surveys
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24 hour Service
JH143 Risk Assessment Survey - conducting risk assessments in shipyards
The JH143 Risk Assessment Survey is a set of guidelines for conducting risk assessments in shipyards.
The JH143 guidelines were developed by the UK's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Shipbuilders and Ship Repairers Association (SSA) and LMA Joint Hull Committee to help improve health and safety in shipyards.
The JH143 Risk Assessment Survey involves a systematic evaluation of potential hazards associated with shipyard operations and activities. It is designed to help shipyard operators identify potential hazards and assess the level of risk associated with each hazard. This assessment includes factors such as the likelihood of an incident occurring and the severity of the consequences.
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The JH143 guidelines provide shipyard operators with a framework for conducting risk assessments that includes the following steps:
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Identify the hazards associated with the shipyard operations and activities.
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Determine the level of risk associated with each hazard.
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Develop control measures to eliminate or reduce the risk associated with each hazard.
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Review and update the risk assessment on a regular basis to ensure that it remains relevant and effective.
The JH143 Risk Assessment Survey is intended to help shipyard operators improve the health and safety of their workers and create a safer working environment. It is often required by regulatory bodies and insurance companies as part of the shipyard's safety management system.
Average Survey
Our Average survey includes, but is not limited to, an inspection of the following aspects:
Average survey assessment with 24/7 estimate of the extent of damage with a first cost estimate of repairs or loss resulting from an incident. Our surveyor will provide recommendations for the repairs required (Temporary or permanent repairs) and can be commissioned to supervise these repairs.
Average surveys on behalf of the Insurer or the Insured consist of a minimum of full Identification of the cause of the accident with root cause analysis.
Repair specification with tenders from repairers, and shipyard quotations.
Assistance with vessel operation to repair facilities i.e., discharge of cargo prior commencing repairs.
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Where needed we provide salvage with approved salvor quotations for the salvage assignment to the BIMCO contract agreement.
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Commissioning and back delivery to the Owner of the vessel at the completion of damage repairs.
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Final repair invoice negotiation with repairer, and shipyard.
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Technical perusal of damage costs for the Insured and/or the Insurer.
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24 hour Service
Marine Warranty
Our Marine Warranty surveys include, but are not limited to, an inspection of the following aspects:
A Marine Warranty Survey is the verification, by a marine warranty surveyor, of the requirements of an insurer specified in a Warranty Clause covering a marine operation to ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to avoid loss.
A survey typically includes reviewing all relevant documents, condition surveys of vessels and equipment, and approval of marine operations to ensure that best marine/cargo industry practices and correct procedures are followed and undertaken safely, reliably, and in compliance with regulations.
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Towing approval
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Heavy lift transport
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Project cargo
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Managing the risk of incidents
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Quayside Operations:
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Loadout, Lifting, Float out.
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Review of Engineering, including Sea fastening/Securing
The MWS' scope of work
As the quote which headed this article sets out, the prime objective of the MWS is to assess whether the risks associated with the relevant onshore and offshore marine construction operations are reduced to an acceptable level in accordance with best industry practice. If the MWS is content that this is the case, they will issue a Certificate of Approval (CoA), which identifies the operation, the vessels and equipment to be used and states whether the CoA is subject to compliance with recommendations or requirements.
In order to achieve this, the MWS' role is not limited to surveys, but will also include desktop activities such as reviewing the design basis and criteria, the engineering and the procedures. Following that, and once the MWS is satisfied with the quality and risk level of these documents, a warranty review letter will be issued.
The MWS' scope of work includes a review of the relevant project documentation, including all calculations, voyage plans and the like. These documents must be reviewed and approved by the MWS. As part of the review process the MWS will also take part in, amongst other things, HAZIDs (Hazard Identification studies), HAZOPs (Hazard and Operability studies) and project meetings to ensure that risks are identified and dealt with in an acceptable way.
There will also be a physical verification, during which the MWS will inspect the actual equipment to be used, looking at not just its condition, but also the certification and documentation, manning levels and experience, and the requirements of the project.
For some projects, the MWS will also attend the actual operations to witness that they are performed in accordance with approved procedures.
On what type of projects will we ask for an MWS to be appointed?
Offshore activities are always evolving, as are the ways more traditional operations are carried out. This means that it is not possible to have a definitive list of activities where the appointment of an MWS will be required, and this is something which can be required at our discretion. However, as a general rule, the following activities are examples where we will ask for an MWS to be engaged:
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Transportation of heavy objects on deck – project cargo, vessels, MOUs, etc.
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The towing of vessels, barges, MOUs and other floating structures
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Offshore installation of jack-up units, jackets, topsides, foundations, FPSOs, etc.
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Heavy Lifting of all modules and structures
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Sub Sea Operations such as the installation of subsea infrastructure, pipe/cable laying
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Decommissioning operations
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Salvage which is subject to a salvage plan
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In addition, and as noted above, an MWS condition survey is required if the entered vessel is not IACS classed or has conditions of class.
The benefits of an MWS for the assured and the insurer
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There is a perception that the MWS is a representative of the insurer sent in to audit the assured. That is not the case, as the independence of the MWS is one of the most important factors in their engagement. The MWS is able to bring a number of benefits to both the assured and the insurer, beyond the obvious advantage of reducing the risk of a casualty or other marine incident.
While most operational teams will be focusing on only one project over a lengthy period of time, MWS companies will, by contrast, be instructed in a number of projects at the same time. This allows them to bring a significant level of operational experience, helping to improve the procedures, avoid previously made mistakes based on lessons learned from earlier projects, and contributing generally to improving the industry standards.
In addition to the operational experience, MWS companies will also have marine and engineering experience, providing expertise and advice to a project, if necessary. All the experience, and - in particular - the combined engineering and marine knowledge, should give the assured a benefit where its operations are less likely to result in incidents, delays, and downtime.
From the insurers' perspective, the appointment of an MWS provides an additional layer of quality assurance and risk management, which serves to reduce the number of claims and related costs for non-routine operations.
The use of MWS is likely to reduce claims, improve the involved organizations and make for better, more efficient operations.
(Source: Skuld)
Damage Survey
Green Shift Group delivers independent marine damage surveys in support of Hull & Machinery and P&I insurance claims worldwide.
Our experienced marine surveyors attend vessels following casualties, machinery failures, or operational incidents to assess the cause, nature, and extent of damage. We provide unbiased root-cause analysis, condition assessments, and clear repair scopes with cost-relevant recommendations.
Our reports include detailed photographic evidence and factual findings aligned with class and industry standards, enabling insurers, underwriters, loss adjusters, and claims handlers to make informed decisions throughout the claims, recovery, and settlement process.
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On-Hire Survey
Our on-hire surveys include, but are not limited to, an inspection of the following aspects:
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Inspection of all cargo holds weather decks in cargo handling areas, cargo cranes/gear.
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ROB and sounding of all bunker fuel tanks, including heavy fuel and marine diesel oil.
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Bunker report is signed and certified by the surveyor, vessel's chief engineer, and master.
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Inventory of securing cargo gear.
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Full report detailing vessel condition, including photographs and bunker figures.
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General condition assessment.
Damage & Incident Survey
Our Incident & Damage surveys include but are not limited to, an inspection of the below aspects.
We carry out investigations into the "root cause" of major failures to prevent re-occurrence as frequent damage occurrence.
We regularly carry out statement interviews and collect the statements of parties involved in damage investigations with our solicitors.
We arrange and manage salvage operations, sometimes on board the casualty and throughout the operation, closely collaborating with our salvage master or appointed salvage master ensuring safe and successful results.
We assist in the tendering and repair process, being involved with negotiations and settlement of the repair costs, having gained deep knowledge of shipyards' practices.
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Machinery damage repair specification supporting the extent of the damage.
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Material or design faults analysis conclusions with third-party Laboratory e.g., FORCE technology.
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Collision and Groundings
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Flooding and Sinking
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Fire and Explosions
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Mast and Rig Failure
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Sail and Canvas Damage
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Heavy Weather Damages
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Machinery Failures
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Theft, Loss, Embezzlement
Towage Approval Surveys & Towage certificates of approval (CoA)
A towage approval survey is an inspection conducted by a marine surveyor to assess the suitability and safety of a vessel for towing operations. The survey typically includes an examination of the vessel's towing equipment, such as towing wires, winches, and towing hooks, as well as the vessel's structural integrity, stability, and maneuverability.
During the towage approval survey, the marine surveyor will also evaluate the crew's training and experience in towing operations and ensure that the vessel complies with all relevant international and local regulations and standards.
The towage approval survey aims to ensure that the vessel is fit for towing and can safely and efficiently perform towing operations without endangering the crew, cargo, or the environment. The survey is often required before a vessel is allowed to participate in towage activities or before a contract is signed for towing services.
GSG offers Towage Approval Surveys and issues towage certificates of approval (CoA)
Salvage
Marine salvage services are the recovery and salvage of vessels, cargo, or other property that has been damaged or lost at sea. These services are provided by specialized companies that have the equipment, expertise, and personnel necessary to perform salvage operations.
Marine salvage services include a wide range of activities, depending on the nature of the incident and the extent of the damage. Some of the key activities involved in marine salvage services can include:
Emergency response: This involves the rapid deployment of salvage teams and equipment to the site of the incident in order to assess the situation and prevent further damage or loss.
Stabilization: This involves stabilizing the vessel or cargo in order to prevent further damage, and to ensure the safety of personnel involved in the salvage operation.
Removal of cargo or hazardous materials: This involves the safe removal of cargo or hazardous materials from the vessel or the marine environment, in order to prevent environmental damage or pollution.
Salvage and recovery: This involves the use of specialized equipment, such as cranes, winches, and underwater cutting and welding tools, to recover the vessel or cargo from the water.
Repairs and refloating: This involves making repairs to the vessel in order to refloat it and tow it to a port or repair facility.
Overall, marine salvage services are critical in mitigating the environmental and economic impact of marine accidents and are typically carried out by specialized salvage companies working in collaboration with government agencies, shipping companies, and other stakeholders.
Marine Suitability Survey
A Marine Suitability Survey is a comprehensive assessment conducted to determine the suitability of a specific location or area for marine-related activities or development. It involves a thorough examination of various factors and considerations that may impact the success and sustainability of marine operations.
The survey typically involves the evaluation of physical, environmental, and logistical aspects of the proposed marine activity. It may be carried out by government agencies, environmental consultants, or marine engineering firms, depending on the specific requirements and regulations of the region.
During a Marine Suitability Survey, the following aspects are commonly assessed:
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Physical Characteristics
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Environmental Considerations
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Infrastructure and Logistical Assessment
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Regulatory and Legal Compliance
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Socio-economic Factors
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The findings of a Marine Suitability Survey are used to inform decision-making processes, such as project planning, permit applications, and environmental impact assessments.
Fire & Investigation
Marine fire investigation is the process of investigating the causes of fires that occur on or near marine vessels. This can include fires that occur on board ships, as well as fires that occur in ports or on other marine structures.
The goal of marine fire investigation is to determine the cause of the fire, as well as to identify any contributing factors that may have led to the fire. This information can then be used to improve fire safety measures and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Marine fire investigations are typically conducted by trained investigators, often working in conjunction with local or national authorities. Some of the key steps involved in marine fire investigation can include:
Identifying the cause of the fire: This involves conducting a thorough examination of the site of the fire, as well as any physical evidence that may have been left behind.
Interviewing witnesses and personnel: This involves interviewing individuals who may have witnessed the fire, as well as crew members or other personnel who were on board the vessel at the time of the fire.
Analyzing data and records: This involves reviewing data and records related to the vessel, including maintenance records, safety inspections, and other relevant documentation.
Identifying contributing factors: This involves identifying any factors that may have contributed to the fire, such as equipment failures, fuel leaks, or other hazards.
Overall, marine fire investigation is an important process for ensuring the safety and reliability of marine vessels and is essential for preventing the occurrence of similar incidents in the future.