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  FLASHLIGHT - May 2003           Edition No: 20

(Past editions can be viewed on http://www.asiaconference.biz)

Never be afraid to try something new. Remember: Amateurs built the ark. Professionals built the Titanic. (Anon)


CONTENTS (for full stories, select a headline)

At the Bow

FLASHLIGHT is a free monthly emailed newsletter for Marine Surveyors. It is circulated to anybody who wishes to receive a copy, eg, Marine Surveyors, P&I Clubs, their correspondents, Underwriters, Professional Institutes, Admiralty Lawyers, etc. Please pass it on to any of your contacts who you feel might be interested in receiving it. If you do not wish to be included in the circulation list, please contact the Editor at the email address below. Letters, opinions and articles relating to our profession are welcomed for the newsletter.

New readers this month:

Gilberto Vallarino, Safety Officer, SS Universe Explorer
Jim Wood, Marine Surveyor, SAMS Executive-VP, Morro Bay, CA, USA. Bob
McCulloch, Riverside, Tasmania. Marine Surveyor. Greg Weeter, Marine
Surveyor, Riverlands Marine Surveyors, USA P Sham, Wilson Surveyors and
Adjusters, Kandla, India. Paul Manning, Noble Denton, Singapore.

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Spindrift

Call for Papers

The 2003 Marine Surveying and Loss Prevention Forum, will be held in late October this year in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Interested parties should submit an abstract or summary of the proposed paper to Mr Mike Wall, email: mikewall@so-net.com.hk. A technical panel will be reviewing submissions.

IMO proposal rejected by IACS

GREECE and the Bahamas have called on the IMO to develop a new framework of "goal-based standards" that would govern the design and construction of ships. The controversial joint-submission to the IMO's Maritime Safety Committee yesterday was immediately opposed by the International Association of Classification Societies and a long and acrimonious debate is expected. The Bahamas delegate warned IMO member states that if the proposal were ignored it would result in severe consequences for shipping. IACS on its part branded the move as "emotive" and "opinion-based", and argued that the proposals did not furnish any data to support the contention that the current classification system is inadequate. The debate, which appears to have caused deep divisions within IMO, resumes today.

Majority back IMO class standards

PROPOSALS calling for the IMO to begin developing basic standards for the building of new ships have won support from the majority of delegations currently attending the IMO's Maritime Safety Committee. Despite strong opposition from the International Association of Classification Societies and several countries including the US, Panama and Liberia, the lengthy debate was concluded today with a recommendation to proceed with the development of new IMO-led standards. A report detailing the outcome of what several speakers described as an "historic debate" will now be put forward to the IMO's ruling council where the decision on how to proceed will be made. In his concluding summary, temporary MSC chairman Joe Angelo stressed that the roles of IACS and the IMO should continue to be seen as complimentary. While several speakers voiced concern that the IMO has neither resources nor technical expertise to take on such a role, a majority expressed the view that the IMO is the competent authority to begin setting out an overall design philosophy.

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Master blamed for Monarch grounding

A JOINT US Coast Guard and Norwegian maritime investigation into the 1998 grounding of Royal Caribbean passenger vessel Monarch of the Seas has concluded that the master and officer of the watch violated numerous safety management systems because of the master's disregard for bureaucracy and micromanagement. The ship was intentionally grounded on a sand bank off St Maarten in the Caribbean on December 15, soon after it hit Proselyte Reef and began to take on water. All 2,557 passengers were safely evacuated. The 62-page report into the circumstances of the grounding said the Norwegian master, Tore Myhra, was overconfident and ultimately inattentive and took short cuts supervising the team at the navigational watch, which was also described as ineffective. The ship had been diverted while en route to Martinique to disembark a critically ill passenger. The revised voyage had not been plotted on navigational charts and only verbally agreed by the master, who had left the bridge because he was ill two minutes before the ship grounded on the reef. The report praised the crew's response to the emergency and the master's decision to intentionally ground the ship on the sandbar after the casualty. Royal Caribbean had to cancel ten sailings while repairs were made. The report is at: http://www.uscg.mil/hq/g-m/moa/boards/monarch.pdf

Norway death toll is now six

THE death toll from the passenger ship Norway boiler room explosion has risen to six, after the death of another crew member. Winston Lewis, 53, a Jamaican steward who had worked with operator Norwegian Cruise Line for 31 years, died from injuries he suffered when the steam boiler exploded on May 25. Eleven crew now remain in hospital with extensive injuries, caused by the blast, which tore down walls and doors and spewed superheated steam and debris, according to a lawsuit filed by an injured crew member. It is the worst accident on a cruise ship in 20 years, according to National Transportation Safety Board records, local reports say. The Bahamas-registered, 42-year-old ship was up to date with all statutory certification, had a valid ISM certificate was in class, according to Bahamas Maritime Authority deputy director, Steve Clinch. He said main boiler number three, which had exploded, was last surveyed on July 21, 2002, which included internal checks of safety valves and overall condition. "If you look at the ship from a paper point of view, everything appeared to be in order," he said.

Sinking heightens Bosphorus concern

GREEK flag tanker 'Polyxeni I' ran into four small vessels serving as floating restaurants on the European side of Istanbul late on Tuesday, sinking one and damaging the other three. The accident happened while the 25,228-DWT ship was transiting the Bosporus carrying 23,300 tonnes of fuel oil destined for Mombasa, Kenya. A spokesman of the ship’s Piraeus-based manager, Aegean Shipping Management, blamed the accident on the strong currents and said there were no injuries among the ship’s crews or the restaurant customers or staff. Turkish authorities have detained the 30-year old tanker to investigate the accident, which is certain to give rise to a serious claim bill. The accident occurred as Turkey is enhancing the Bosporus Vessel Traffic Control Management system by laying an underwater sensor system that will guide vessels transiting the Straits.

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Singapore cancels bunker licence

SINGAPORE’S Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) has cancelled the licence of major bunker supplier Hai Soon Diesel and Trading. The action was taken after company director Lim Kim Huat pleaded guilty in a local court to bribing a ship’s chief engineer to overlook a deliberate under-supply of bunker fuel, according to Singapore’s Shipping Times. The charge was filed by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau, which has carried out a prolonged investigation into bunker malpractices. Hai Soon’s licences were cancelled on May 16, the MPA confirmed to Fairplay today, following an incident that took place in May 2001.

QE2 is not for sale

CUNARD Line says it has no plans to either sell or scrap the ageing Queen Elizabeth 2 as part of its fleet modernisation. Cunard, part of Miami-based Carnival Corporation, this week sold the 30-year-old Caronia for an undisclosed price to UK-based Saga Cruises. The 668-passenger Caronia, the last passenger ship built on Britain's River Tyne, will leave Cunard in November, 2004, four months before the scheduled arrival of the 1,968-passenger Queen Victoria. By that time, the QE2 will be in its 36th year of service and imposing high maintenance costs on Cunard, which is already struggling against a growing list of competitors in the premium luxury cruise sector. A Cunard representative told Fairplay the company has "indefinite" plans for the QE2 and "there's nothing I know about to suggest we may get rid of it." Some cruise analysts have warned that expensive-to-maintain, ageing tonnage owned by publicly-traded cruise companies may dampen financial results over what is expected to be a tight period for the rest of the decade. Cunard's latest new build, the $780M Queen Mary 2, is scheduled to debut in January, 2004.

Operator fined in US over dumping

THE OPERATOR of a St Vincent and Grenadines-registered cargo ship will pay fines of $275,000 and be placed on probation to settle a US criminal investigation into illegal ocean pollution. Grid Odessa will plead guilty to lying to US Coast Guard officials about the oil record book 30,027-DWT Grumant, the US Coast Guard announced. USCG officials inspected the ship at the port of Portland on April 28 when it arrived to load soda and potash. They discovered anomalies between the 1984-built ship's oil record book and the oil water separator, which had its sensor disabled and a bypass pipe to directly dump sludge and oily waste overboard. The ship's owner is listed as Solombala and it is managed by Malta Ship Management, according to LR-Fairplay records, which do not show Grid Odessa as the operator. The settlement reflects a growing crackdown by US authorities, especially on the west coast, into the dumping of oily waste of seas, using the offence of lying to Coastguard officials by falsifying oil record books to hide the activity.

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Decade to be proud of: O'Neil

A DECADE of improvements to its safety and environmental record has produced an industry to be proud of, according to the outgoing IMO secretary general Bill O'Neil. Addressing the IMO’s Safety Committee for the final time in his 14-year term, O'Neil told delegates that not a single opportunity should be missed to emphasise the positive developments in the industry. Improvements to the bulk carrier safety record and a dramatic decline in the number of ships lost each year were "very encouraging indeed". Referring to statistics recently released by Lloyd's Underwriters Marine Intelligence Unit, he pointed out that the number of ships over 500 GT lost each year had fallen from over 180 units in 1991 to less than 80. O’Neil was, however, keen to point out that there are still improvements to be made. "I would readily admit that we have not reached the end of the voyage and that more needs to be done if we are to create a safer, more secure and environmentally friendlier maritime world," he said.

(Courtesy of Fairplay Daily News: news@fairplay.co.uk)

UK Detains 19 Foreign Ships

A total of 19 foreign flagged ships were detained in UK ports during March 2003 after failing port state control inspections, four of which were unable to launch lifeboats and five with defective fire flaps and corroded vent trunkings.

The Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) said one Cyprus flagged ship had 24 deficiencies, including a 'complete breakdown' of its ISM safety management system.

A 1,242 GRT cargo ship stopped with 47 deficiencies switched name and flag while under detention in Seaham and had to be released, reinspected and detained again!

MAIB warning over Fast Craft Dangers

Accident investigators have raised concerns over a non-existent unwritten rule that high speed craft will always keep out of the way of other vessels.

A MAIB report on a collision in January 2002 between a catamaran and a ro-pax ferry reports that the two vessels collided in foggy conditions some five miles off Dover as the catamaran headed towards the port at 29 knots with 148 passengers and crew. As the two vessels closed the bridge team on the catamaran assumed a green/green situation and maintained course and speed.

On board the ferry, the bridge team fully expected the catamaran to keep clear because of a perceived unwritten rule that high speed craft will keep clear of all other vessels in all scenarios. However, as the distance between the vessels decreased the ferry realised this might not be the case and altered course. The catamaran's master, assuming the danger to be on his starboard side, altered course to port and the two vessels collided. The catamaran suffered substantial bow and starboard side damage while the ro-ro suffered slight damage to her port side shell plating with no injuries on either vessel.

The MAIB said the incident raised three important issues:

1. The perceived unwritten rule.
2. How to determine a safe speed and close-quarter situation in restricted visibility. 3. The extent to which radar can be relied on for detection in restricted visibility.

Whilst there was an argument suggesting that the colregs should be amended to reflect the uniqueness of high speed craft, the MAIB said its research showed that most operators are opposed to any changes.

(Courtesy of NUMAST Shipping Telegraph)

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Contributions

- FLASHLIGHT <-

So why call this publication FLASHLIGHT? When first mooted we wanted to use a name which all Marine Surveyors would identify with, ie, something which is used all the time. We considered the name of 'Surveyor's Notebook', but then it was realised that the Surveyor's Notebook is a legal document and confidential to the surveyor and clients, hardly a name which would conjure up the freedom and exchange of ideas. Most Marine Surveyors carry a flashlight which can expose interesting things during a survey. Thus the name of FLASHLIGHT has been adopted. Accordingly, we hope FLASHLIGHT will come to mean many things to Marine Surveyors.

So let's take a look at the many types of the flashlight used by marine surveyors. How often do you see those big black aluminium flashlights made in the USA using three or four 'D' size batteries? Now there is a phallic symbol for you! There are also those short boxy type flashlights, eg, Dolphin Marine, Big Jim Lanterns, with a handle on top using very large box shaped batteries. Marine engineers tend to use the yellow and black 'Brightstar' (later orange and black) using two 'D' cell batteries and may continue to do so when they become marine surveyors.

Techological developments brought us rechargeable flashlights and halogen lamps. The only problem with the rechargeable was that the power ran out very quickly and due to the nature of the batteries you had little or no warning that you were going to be without light. Most alkaline batteries behave in this manner. At least the normal battery powered flashlights give some warning that power is running out.

Some flashlights are so large and heavy that they have to have a shoulder strap to carry them. Those which will fit in your boiler suit leg pocket don't.

With the amount of equipment that a marine surveyor has to carry around these days, its no surprise to see hunch backed surveyors carrying heavy shoulder bags or backpacks. Its a wonder that we are still using these types of flashlight when there are other, smaller, more compact models on the market. Philips have a very small, light but powerful SBC2001 flashlight on the market, the dimensions being 4.25" long x 2.125" wide x 0.875" thick. This operates on three pencil type AA batteries which last for more hours than a survey takes. The front cover slides down to reveal a flat lens giving a very powerful parallel beam. Its weight, with batteries is 126 grams. It has a thin cord fitted allowing it to be carried around the neck, sitting about 3" above the navel and thus facing forwards in the direction you are walking. Unfortunately, for those more portly than others, the light tends to point to the ceiling!

Mike Wall

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Scuttlebut

Anne Rutherford's contribution on 'Where are the Marine Surveyors of the future to come from?' raised a lot of interest from our readers. Of course, Australia has its own systems and ways of doing things, but the main thrust is the same the world over, ie, it would appear that the age profile for marine surveyors is getting older with fewer new surveyors coming in to replace the older members when they retire (if they ever do, 'cause they usually die in their boots!).

Whilst the problems would appear to be the same the world over, we really need to carry out research to confirm our suspicions. As we have continuously pointed out, we operate in a fragmented industry with little or no international or national representation on relevant bodies. Armed with the relevant information, our professional institutions should be able to make the case for special consideration on training allowances, etc, with IMO and Governmental organisations.

It is our intention to compile a questionnaire to be circulated to our readers which we hope will collect the necessary information which can by analysed and circulated to those who represent us.

Please let us know your views on the matter.

Mike Wall

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Insurance News

A huge increase in the number of insurance claims arising from industrial action and port delays around the world has been reported by the Strike Club. Gross claims related to delays caused by onshore labour or trade disruption made during the 2002/03 policy year totalled US$6.6 million against US$2.6 million for the previous year. The Club also reported a significant increase in claims related to delays resulting from onboard incidents such as officer or crew strikes.

(Courtesy of NUMAST Shipping Telegraph)

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Wig & Gown

Diligence in selecting seafarers

The UK P&I Club is warning its members that a Singapore High Court case demonstrates that it is not enough to employ officers and crew who have all of the necessary certificates and that they also need to ensure that they have the necessary experience and familiarity with the ships on which they serve. The case involved the grounding of the cargo ship Patraikos II in which resulting cargo claims against the shipowners succeeded because the owner cold not prove it had shown due diligence in hiring its crew. The Club also warns Owners that it is not sufficient for them simply to rely on manning agents to discharge their obligations in this area.

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Education and Training

Liverpool John Moores University is offering opportunities for deck and engineer officers to obtain a degree. Senior officers (Master, Chief Officer, Chief Engineer, Second Engineer) with Class 1 certificates of competency can enrol directly on an Master of Science (MSc) course in Maritime Operations and engineers may enrol on an MSc in Marine & Offshore Engineering.

The MSc course consist of a 9 month taught programme focusing on the maritime business area which leads to a post graduate Diploma in Maritime Operations. Students then complete a project of their personal choice (usually having returned to employment) which can be submitted four or ten months later, depending on their preference. Successful completion of the project leads to the award of Master of Science.

Junior deck officers with a good HND have the opportunity to complete a BSc (Hons) in Nautical Science in a straight nine months. This time period includes completion of a personal project which counts for 30% of the marks. Prospective students for this course also need to have completed a distance learning course before entry, to prepare their project.

Engineer Officers with a good HND have the opportunity to enter directly into the second year of a B.Eng (Hons) degree in either Mechanical or Mechanical & Marine Engineering.

(Courtesy of NUMAST Shipping Telegraph)

Ed: For those who wish particularly to become marine surveyors, the Diploma in Marine Surveying, a distance learning course, may be undertaken. The combination of a senior certificate of competency, a degree (whether BSc or MSc) and the Diploma in Marine Surveying should make them a very attractive prospect to some of the more reputable marine surveying and consultancy firms around the world.

Merchant Navy Undergraduate Officer Trainee Sponsorships Scheme.

The Maritime Training Trust offers sponsorship to new entrants to apply for a scholarship to undertake an appropriate degree in Marine Operations leading to qualification as a seagoing deck officer in commercial shipping.

Contact: recruitment@sstg.org

Chinese Training

Hong Kong based Anglo-Eastern Ship Management has signed an agreement to train more than 500 China Shipping Group officers to international standards.

(Courtesy of NUMAST Shipping Telegraph)

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Epistles

None this month.

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People

John Wilson, formerly with Andrew Moore & Associates has moved to Clyde & Co, Hong Kong , to carry out casualty investigations on their behalf. Good luck in your new post John.

We hear that David Taylor, author of 'Merchant Ship Construction' and former lecturer at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, was recently admitted to hospital and diagnosed with a brain tumour. We believe he is currently undergoing treatment in Hong Kong. Our best wishes for a speedy recovery.


Paul Manning, lawyer, formerly with Holman Fenwick & Wilan and other law firms in Hong Kong has joined Noble Denton in Singapore.

Dr Detlef Nielson, currently Assistant Professor in the Department of Shipping Transport and Logistics, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, will be taking up a new post at the World Maritime University, Malmo, Sweden, in September 2003. His work in seafarer injuries and deaths is enerally recognised as being the most authoritative in our industry. Good luck in your new post Detlef.

When you are next travelling overseas on a job, why not contact Seafacs and let your clients know where you are to increase your chances of obtaining more work and cutting the clients expenses.

SIR ? Seafacs Information & Research PO Box 317, Welwyn Garden City, Herts AL8 6DP telephone: 01707 33419
fax: 01707 324615
email: seafacs@sir.co.uk
web: www.sir.co.uk

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Books

The North of England P&I Association has recently published 'Cargo Stowage & Securing - A guide to good practice' written by Charles Bliault, Extra Master Mariner, which may be obtained from: loss.prevention@nepia.com.

This A5 sized paperback covers the basics of cargo stowage leading through to specific cargoes. Whilst it might be primarily intended for deck officers, it is also a useful training tool for new marine surveyors who may have some gaps in their cargo stowage knowledge. Regular reference to international conventions and regulations, complemented with colour illustrations, coupled with the regular use of bullet points means that it should be more understandable for those whose first language is not English.

We have just received a copy of 'Where to Build & Where to Repair, 2003' published by Selvig Publishing AS, PO Box 384, 1301 Sandvika, Norway,
Tel: +47-6780-8026, F: +47-6756-4762, Web Page www.selvig.no

This book is extremely useful for marine surveyors who are travelling regularly to shipyards around the world as it gives full information on shipyard facilities worldwide.

(Ed: My only other comment is that it does not give any indication of quality or speed of service. This you must find out for yourself or by word of mouth from an experienced surveyor.)

Marine Society offer savings on books

The Marine Society has launched a seafarers' book service to give minimum 10% discounts to seafarers on everything from best-sellers to technical and legal textbooks and vocational software. This scheme complements the existing book hire scheme offered by the Society which has been very popular with many merchant navy officers who do not wish to purchase expensive books which they may use for only a short period.

To order books or software through the new service, log on to
www.marine-society.org
or call Mr Brian Thomas at +44-20-7261 9535.

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Web Sites

If your (marine surveying) company has a web site, let us know and we will try to mention it. Below are some web pages we believe might be useful to marine surveyors.

www.sfias.com
Web page for Sea Fortune (Tianjin) Inspection and Services Co., Ltd., PRC.

www.friendsreunited.co.uk
Here you can register some personal information, together with your school/college and the year you left to go on to greater things. You can also enter your nickname in school, which class you were in, your mates' names and what you've done since leaving. You may be one day surprised to receive a message out of the blue from an old school chum.

www.marine-society.org
The Marine Society is a worthy marine charity offering many services to mariners.

www.imo.org
International Maritime Organisation web page. Keep up to date with new conventions.

www.lrfairplay.com
Scroll down the home page until you see the heading 'Free Access' appear on the left hand side. Clicking on the words 'shipping sites' takes you to a search function. You can then search either by company name or by category (there is a 'consultants and surveyors' category, for example) or by country. Or by a combination - so you could search for consultants/surveyors in Australia beginning with the letter 'D', for example.

That pulls up a list; if you then click on the word 'free' in the right hand column you are linked through to the relevant website.

If your readers know of any companies with sites that we do not list (or that we have an out-of-date address for) we would like to have details to update the database.

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Conference Reports

The International Institute of Marine Surveyors AGM was held on Monday 7 April 2003 at HQS Wellington, Temple Stairs, Victoria Embankment, London. This was followed on Tuesday 8 April 2003 by a Marine Surveying Forum and Annual Dinner.

We are obliged to the IIMS Secretariat for contributing the following report on the conference and annual dinner:

Marine Surveyors Forum - Review.

Very pleased to report that the marine surveyors forum is back on the circuit. They are always well attended and this year was no exception, attracting a wide selection of maritime sector professionals.

Support and sponsorship was as good as ever with Cygnus Instruments, Witherby & Co, Dolphin Maritime, Lloyds Agencies and the Maritime Publications International group all helping towards the success of the day. We thank them all.

Cygnus instruments gave a good demonstration of their equipment. The Wellington was well surveyed on the day.

The Chairman for the day was Capt Andrew Cross Inspector of agencies at Lloyds Agency Network.

Capt Cross was his usual ebullient self and controlled the day with impeccable timing.

Computing for Surveyors ? How to Save Time & money.

The forum opened with Capt Mike Harrison of Dolphin instruments. Dolphin have been around for some time now and been involved in writing many surveyor/surveying software programs. The majority of us will have used their software at some time even unconsciously. Capt Harrison took us through the basics to slowly us introduce into the world of computing. He emphasised the need for maintenance of your PC. Saving time and money was obviously what we wanted to know about He produced a list of possible ways to do this including producing quicker and better reports, storage and retrieval of a mass of information including photographs. Sending and receiving large amounts of information. Using the world wide web to access information and materials. Running your company, accounts, invoicing efficiently and promptly.

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Advertising was a major point for the use of the computer and the internet. Even the sole operators can have their own web ? site at very little cost.

Setting up your computer base will depend on your requirements and of course your level of funding. The emphasis being to get the best you can afford. But take the time and expense to get some training. You will definitely benefit in the long run. You will also recoup any costs through your increased efficiency and abilities. Portable computing now plays a big part in the surveyors working equipment. We were then introduced into some new (ish) areas. WiFi (Wireless Fidelity) it allows you to access your e-mails and the Internet very easily. Although the security aspect of WiFi has to be considered to prevent “war-chalking” XML (extensible Markup Language) is receiving a lot of publicity as the “perfect “ data exchange format. It sorts out your decimal point problems when sending decimal data to say Belgium from the USA. No doubt if used properly computers will save time and money for the surveyor.

Temperature Recorders in Reefer containers and Trailers. ? Richard Lawton of CRT.

This centered around the ability to accurately control temperatures in a road vehicle or container. The emphasis being to be able to prove that the temperatures have been satisfactorily maintained. We were given a run through of the basics. This included knowing and understanding the temperature you have actually recorded. Coil, delivery, return, space, pulp and USDA.

We were then introduced to monitoring in containers. The pros and cons of the four different manufacturers were discussed with good photographs and graphics. The use of downloading facilities was now becoming the norm. The use of a standard laptop allows a mass of information to be available and hard copy charts easily printed out. This allows the surveyor to determine exactly what the machinery has actually been doing. The container ship and remote monitoring gave an insight of what is and can be done. Road trailers have gone that extra mile with satellite tracking and information transfer. Thermokings WINTRAC system was discussed at length. along with the Trimex satellite system. The talk concluded with an example of fraud. Falsifying temperature records still exist even in the electronic data age. We were shown an example of a WINTRAC download At first glance there did not appear to be a problem. Richard soon pointed out the obvious. A fascinating insight to the way developments have taken place over the last few years. CRT are the world leaders in the field we certainly learnt from them.

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Flow Moisture Points ? Vic Hunter of A.H.Knight

Vic started by making use aware of the source of the problem and took us through them with the use of simple graphics. For those who are not familiar with this subject it was very well executed and he made it very interesting. The assessment of these points are determined under IMO Code of Practice or ISO 12742:2000 the latter being very closely based on the IMO code.

We were then taken through the different types of cargoes that may liquefy leading on to the different tests This included taking samples, which can be an art in its own right. The test procedures are infact quite unscientific. It is almost trial and error to obtain figures of two successive “puddings” which show “no flow “ and “flow”. The apparatus for this type of test seems almost archaic.

We were then shown the assessment of variability this being in measurement and sampling. The other tests available, Tap or Bucket, Floating Balls, Penetration test and Saturation test were graphically demonstrated their pros and cons were summarised. The conclusion was in fact a statement that this number is NOT a magic figure.

When H20 approximately = TML. USE CAUTION.

Stowage Factor and Angle of Repose were briefly discussed as time was running out. The measurement of the angle of repose was again not an exact science. When you consider what these figures TML, AoR are used for it makes you wonder. An excellent delivery of what is a difficult subject to address. We had all heard about it now we know what it is and how it’s done.

Health & Safety for the Marine Surveyor. Linda & David Green.

The opening statistics were certainly shock treatment to the lonely marine surveyor in his work place. Some of the incidents related should never have happened. But as explained accidents do happen. However with some thought and preparation the risks can be reduced quite significantly. We were then given some detailed examples of areas where accidents with potential serious results had occurred. These included broken ladders, flying scrap, swinging steel plate, asphyxiation all areas that most surveyors would have had experience of in their working life. This then led on to more detailed awareness of the dangerous environments we all work in. with particular reference to docks and harbours. The various authorities involved in enforcement i.e. in the UK the H7SE and the MCS were singled out for discussion. Their roles were discussed and the level of authority to enforce leading to prosecution were detailed.

The individuals own duties and responsibilities were highlighted. If you employ anyone then your level of responsibilities rises dramatically. You have to make sure your work force are competent, fit and properly trained for the work they are asked to do. And that is just for starters. This prompted the definition of hazards and risk.

The stages of risk assessment and risk management formed the background to the concluding part of the talk. There was no doubt that all surveyors need to be more aware of the risks involved in their daily work environment. This may be on a ship, in a port or around the marina. Surveying is a hazardous occupation. This talk highlighted that with a little time, thought and risk assessment we can all reduce the risks to others and ourselves.

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Mastering the Recreational Craft Directive. (RCD) ? Tim Rowe CE Proof

If ever there was a subject to send everyone to sleep this was going to be it. But we were all pleasantly surprised by the way Tim was able to keep our attention. The RCD has been around for some time and it has always been difficult to interpret in many areas.

Tim took use through the history and development of the directive. The main emphasis was to get over the point of the status of the directive. It was important to understand what type of directive it was and its raison d’etre. The directive is not a manufacturers quality code.

Tim was able to give us an insight into how to apply the directive.
This was done with various practical examples.

One of the major issues raised were the contradictions that appeared with other legislation, one example being within areas of the UK MCA vessel coding system. There was lively debate at the end of this session. There were obvious problems with the interpretation in other European countries. Tim certainly knows his stuff and put us all right. If you were in the yacht and small craft sector this brought you up to date.

Advising Clients on Vessel Repair Contracts. ? Dr Kenneth Fisher USA

This is an area that may surveyors will at some stage in their career become involved in. Many of us have at some stage been involved in dry-dockings, repairs and had dealings albeit at some distance with shipyards and ship repair yard personnel.

If some basic rules are followed then the surveyor can prove to be a vital link in the vessel repair contract. Done properly this can lead to more instructions from clients. This talk took us through the steps that a surveyor can advise his client to fulfill the repair contract to its most expedient conclusion. Many of the steps seemed readily obvious but with a client with little knowledge you have to consider all aspects. These include location, facilities, reputation, cost, schedule to name as few. There then follows the obvious questions to ask the client. Has he the ability to manage such a contract with a ship/boat yard.

We were then taken down the road of actual experiences and problem areas you may be confronted with. In particular the area of costing and the right words to use. Final thoughts. Regardless of whether the client is a marine professional give him all information needed to get his repair contract stared off “tight, staunch and strong”. It was obvious that the slant in this talk was very much form over the pond. But many of the principles still apply no matter where you are in the world. I am sure we all took away some ideas on how to approach this type of work.

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Business Management for the Marine Surveyor. Ian Biles. Past President
IIMS

We all run our businesses in different ways. However some basic principles apply them all. This talk took us through these basic but very important areas. It started with outlining the key points to consider. Terms and Conditions and what they mean were a major talking point. Having the right terms and conditions with the appropriate clauses is paramount to satisfy your legal obligations.

Definitions, scope, work, payment terms, obligations and responsibilities, liability and indemnity all, play a major part in your terms and conditions. Insurance, ie, professional indemnity is a very topical subject at the moment. The role of the insurance company and the state of the current market were highlighted. The talk highlighted simple ways to help you avoid the potential of litigation, ie, develop “defence “ mechanisms, taking clear instructions, keep all contemporaneous notes, use T&C, keep up to date, and be thorough. Gaining the support of the broker/underwriter plays an important part. You have to show them how good you are.

The final point was Continuing Professional Development (CPD) a mute point with surveyors. We ALL know what we are doing and do not need to know anymore. That is exactly what is wrong with marine surveyors. An example of how most surveyors work today and the better solution were visually highlighted with great effect.

CPD = Learn more = Be better = Give better value = charge more = do
less = more time = CPD easy.

I am sure we all benefited from this talk. It is not rocket science but simply implementing basic rules.

Damage Limitation & The Role of Surveyors. ? Jonathan Hadley - Piggin

Surveyors are becoming the popular choice to provide assistance to the shipping industry in respect of damage limitation before and after the occurrence of casualities. This talk certainly explained the role of the surveyor.

The introduction took us through what damage limitation is all about. It applies to all claims, not only personal injury, it applies before and after a casualty and it requires Proactive and Reactive responses from the parties involved.

Post casualty at sea can be damaging to vessels, installations, the environment, crew, third parties and WALLETS. The complexity of post casualty can be extensive. The reasons to use a surveyor were explained in detail and provoked great interest from the floor. In the respect that this is an area that many experienced surveyors could develop.

Pre- casualty damage limitation followed. This can take many forms with risk assessments, feasibility studies, and recommendations on emergency procedures and advice on ISM compliance a number of areas highlighted. The conclusion to this was that surveyors can be utilised more proactively before casualties occur.

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Summary

All in all an excellent days forum. The question and answer sessions as always are never long enough. This I think is a measure of the excellent speakers and the interesting subjects on offer.

Capt Cross summed up the success of the day in his usual expressive
manner.

The new President Capt Chris Spencer thanked all for attending and closed the day. Plans now start for next year . Any suggestions from the members for next year subjects, venue, speakers to the office please.

Annual Dinner.

Very pleased that this splendid evening has returned after a two year break. The numbers larger than on previous occasions. This I think realising the popularity of the event. The varied company, food and drink are always terrific and we have to thank the caterers for a superb job. To see members and friends from all corners of the globe is always very encouraging.

The informality of the evening lends itself to a great mix and match affair. This throws people together from all areas of the maritime sector on an international arena. The after dinner speaker Mr James Davies proved to be an excellent purveyor of his craft. His vast experiences in the maritime world coupled with a mind full of literary skills made for an amazing half an hour with a demand for more and more at the end. The port was duly passed and a resounding “here’s to next year” concluded the evening.

(ED: My only comment here is that we didn't hear about this important happening until after the event and, like many others, would have liked to attend. A need for better marketing?)

FYI:

Originally a sloop HMS WELLINGTON was of 950 tons and 2000 hp, which gave her a speed of 15.5 knots. Now HQS WELLINGTON, she is the unique Livery Hall of the Honourable Company of Master Mariners. She was purchased by the Honourable Company of Master Mariners on 25 June 1947 and converted to the Company's Headquarters Ship at Chatham Dockyard - a fitting conclusion in honourable retirement for a ship that had spent so long guarding the safety of the Merchant Navy. She arrived at her berth at Temple Stairs on 9 December 1948. Since that time she has left the berth on three occasions for dry-docking, most recently in 1991. Following the major refit carried out at that time, the Honourable Company is confident that she is fit for service well in to the 21st century.

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Future Events

Some maritime conference web sites for you to keep up to date:

http://www.cconnection.org/
http://www.reedexpo.com/
http://www.grc.uri.edu/
http://www.wholelife.com/
http://www.ship-technology.com/exhibitions/
http://www.apmaritime.com/
http://www.lloydslistevents.com/
http://www.marineexpo.com/
http://www.seaworkexhibition.com
http://www.toc-events.com/

3-6 June 2003, NORSHIPPING, Norway Trade Fairs, Lillestrom, Norway.
www.nor-ship.com

27-29 August 2003, Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore
INTERNATIONAL CHEMICAL AND OIL POLLUTION CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION 2003 (ICOPCE)
Organised by Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Managed by IBC Asia ...
www.ibc-asia.com/ICOPCE.htm

28-30 September 2003, NAMS 35th Annual National Conference West. The Westin Bayshore Inn, Vancouver, Canada.
Contact Conference Chairman Mr Roger Robinson email rrobinson@mclarenstoplis.ca

15-18 October 2003, The Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS ) will hold their Annual Meeting & Educational Symposia, at the Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel, Norfolk VA. Call 1 800 344-9077 for registration or a copy of their membership roster.or contact Jim Wood at email: Marsurvey@aol.com

20 & 21 November 2003, 'ISM Yesterday ... ISM & ISPS Today' organised by the Events Department, IMarEST and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, UK. City Conference Centre, 80 Coleman Street, London, UK.Contact:
Yyda Moot at eyda.moot@imarest.org
or see www.imarest.org.

TBA Passenger Ship Safety, London, United Kingdom.
Organisers: Royal Institute of Naval Architects (RINA)
Tel: +44 20 7235 4622, Fax: +44 20 7259 5912
E-mail: hq@rina.org.uk
URL: www.rina.org.uk

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From the Poop Deck

Tips for our marketing efforts?

Marketing, Telecommunications etc...

The buzz word in today's business world is MARKETING.However, people often ask for a simple explanation of "Marketing." Well, here it is:

You're a woman and you see a handsome guy at a party. You go up to him and say, "I'm fantastic in bed,"

That's Direct Marketing.

You're at a party with a bunch of friends and see a handsome guy. One of your friends goes up to him and pointing at you says, "She's fantastic in bed,"

That's Advertising.

You see a handsome guy at a party. You go up to him and get his telephone number. The next day you call and say, "Hi, I'm fantastic in bed,"

That's Telemarketing.

You see a guy at a party, you straighten your dress. You walk up to him and pour him a drink. You say, "May I," and reach up to straighten his tie, brushing your breast lightly against his arm, and then say, "By the way, I'm fantastic in bed."

That's Public Relations.

You're at a party and see a handsome guy. He walks up to you and says, "I hear you're fantastic in bed,"

That's Brand Recognition.

You're at a party and see a handsome guy. He fancies you, but you talk him into going home with your friend. That's a Sales Rep. Your friend can't satisfy him so he calls you.

That's Tech Support.

You're on your way to a party when you realise that there could be handsome men in all these houses you're passing. So you climb onto the roof of one situated towards the centre and shout at the top of your lungs, "I'm fantastic in bed!"

That's Junk Mail.

A good pun is its own reword!

* A man's home is his castle, in a manor of speaking.
* Dijon vu - the same mustard as before.
* Shotgun wedding: A case of wife or death.
* Sea captains don't like crew cuts.
* Does the name Pavlov ring a bell?
* Reading while sunbathing makes you well-red.
* When two egotists meet, it's an I for an I.
* A bicycle can't stand on its own because it is two-tired.
* What's the definition of a will? (Come on, it's a dead giveaway!)
* Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.
* A backward poet writes in re-verse.
* In democracy your vote counts. In feudalism your count votes.
* A chicken crossing the road is poultry in motion.
* You feel stuck with your debt if you can't budge it.
* Every calendar's days are numbered.
* A lot of money is tainted. It taint yours and it taint mine.
* A boiled egg in the morning is hard to beat.
* He had a photographic memory that was never developed.
* A plateau is a high form of flattery.
* Once you've seen one shopping center, you've seen a mall.
* When an actress saw her first strands of gray hair, she thought she'd dye.
* Bakers trade bread recipes on a knead-to-know basis.
* Acupuncture is a jab well done

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Disclaimer: Articles and reports reflect the views of the individuals who prepared them, and, unless indicated expressly in the text, do not necessarily represent the views of the editor. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this publication is accurate, the editor makes no representation or warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness or correctness of such information. The editor accepts no responsibility whatsoever for any loss, damage or other liability arising from any use of this publication or the information which it contains. The contents of the publication are the responsibility of the editor alone.

News, views, enquiries, suggestions, articles and letters for inclusion in
future editions of FLASHLIGHT may be sent to:

Mike Wall
Tel:  +852 2259 3150
Fax: +852 2259 3151
Email: mikewall@so-net.com.hk

 
     
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