Classification of Russian Maritime Register of Shipping to cover sea coastal ships
The document enters into force on 1 May 2023
Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS) has developed requirements for sea coastal ships. Circular No 311-09-1920c to the Rules for the Classification and Construction of Sea-Going ships will enter into force on 1 May 2023, says RS.
The new requirements expand the classification range of sea coastal ships in restricted areas. They apply to sea coastal ships self-propelled and non-self-propelled ships intended for operation in coastal areas and voyages on inland waterways of the Russian Federation. Such ships are not normally engaged in international voyages. Accurate determination of the navigation area is possible for them as well as setting of specific requirements and restrictions to ensure safe operation depending on the technical characteristics of a vessel. That allows for a reduced freeboard height compared to conventional sea vessels, which consequently increase its carrying capacity and the economic effect of cargo transportation. The ability of a vessel to operate safely in specified conditions will be indicated by special signs in class notations - RN(SCI) or RN(SCII).
RS requirements will be applied when reviewing and approving the technical documentation for ships, shipbuilding or conversion contracts signed after the circular comes into force. The new provisions can also apply to coastal ships already in construction upon request of the parties concerned.
Established in 1913, Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS) is one of the leading classification societies working in all areas of the maritime industry. The RS main objectives are: improvement of standards of safety of life at sea; improvement of ship safe navigation standards; improvement of standards of safe carriage of goods by sea and in inland waters; development of measures and standards to prevent environmental pollution.
RS provides the following services: design technical appraisal, survey and issue of documents, certificates and reports to ships and offshore installations as well as to ship machinery, equipment, arrangements, products, outfit and materials, refrigerating plants, cargo handling gear, containers; tonnage measurement of ships and offshore installations; survey for compliance with the requirements of international conventions and issue of relevant certificates and other documents on behalf of maritime administrations of the states - parties to the international conventions; certification of industrial products and processes; certification of quality management, environmental management and health and safety management systems for compliance with the ISO International Standards; certification of safety management systems of shipping companies and ships for compliance with the International Management Code for the Safe Operation of Ships and for Pollution Prevention; analysis of data and submission of information at the request of shipowners, maritime administrations, underwriters and port authorities in case of ship’s class transfer; cooperation with maritime administrations and port authorities during the inspections of ships in ports.
The Circular Letter is available in Russian on IAA PortNews website >>>>
