Answer
For ESP inspection, as Chief Engineer I would prepare the vessel mainly for safe access, proper cleaning, thickness measurement and close-up survey.
- Review the approved ESP Survey Programme and previous survey reports, Condition Evaluation Report, thickness measurement reports, repair history, cargo/ballast history and structural drawings. These documents must be available to the surveyor.
- Identify the tanks/holds, suspect areas, substantial corrosion areas, previous repairs and locations requiring close-up survey or thickness measurement.
- Empty, clean and descale cargo holds, ballast tanks and other spaces. Remove loose rust scale, mud and deposits so plating and welds are clearly visible.
- Gas-free and ventilate all enclosed spaces; test atmosphere for oxygen and hazardous gases before entry.
- Provide safe access: staging, ladders, rafting arrangements or approved alternative means as applicable, together with adequate lighting and ventilation.
- Arrange an approved thickness-measurement company and confirm calibration/readiness of UT equipment. Current ESP requirements also address approval/certification and auditing of thickness-measurement firms.
- Prepare tank-testing arrangements, pumps, hoses, sounding arrangements and required ballast/fresh water for structural/tank testing.
- Ensure PPE, enclosed-space entry permits, rescue equipment, communication and standby team are ready.
- Keep ship staff available to operate valves, pumps, ventilation and lighting and to assist the Class surveyor.
- Any coating breakdown, crack, deformation or excessive corrosion found should be clearly identified and made ready for detailed examination/NDT.