Answer
The full name for ESP in maritime regulations is the Enhanced Survey Programme.
Formally, it is governed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) under the ESP Code, whose full official title is the International Code on the Enhanced Programme of Inspections During Surveys of Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers.
Core Overview
Statutory Framework: Mandated under SOLAS Chapter XI-1 (Special Measures to Enhance Maritime Safety), Regulation 2.
Applicability: It applies strictly to Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers (both single and double-hull structures) due to their high vulnerability to structural stresses, corrosion, and fatigue.
Purpose: It is not a separate survey, but rather a rigid, intensive set of guidelines integrated into the vessel's standard statutory surveys (Annual, Intermediate, and Renewal/Special Surveys). It focuses heavily on close-up inspections, extensive thickness measurements (ultrasonic gauging), and assessing the structural integrity of cargo holds, piping systems, and ballast tanks.
Key Exam Update (IMO Resolution MSC.525(106) / IACS UR Z10 Series): Keep in mind that for surveys, the ballast tank coating condition criteria for bulk carriers have been aligned with oil tankers. A rating of "less than GOOD" (i.e., FAIR or POOR) now triggers mandatory annual internal examinations during subsequent surveys until restored. Additionally, oil tankers carrying oil in independent tanks not integrated into the hull (e.g., asphalt carriers) are explicitly excluded from the ESP Code framework.