Engine Room Water Mist System Warning
The Club advises of US PSC detentions of vessels where water mist systems have been found disabled or otherwise left in an inoperable condition. The detentions follow inspections by Port State Control (PSC) where the system water supply valve has been found in the “closed” position, deeming the system 'not readily available for immediate use' in the event of an Engine Room fire. This valve is often closed to prevent accidental operation during maintenance and not returned to the open position once maintenance is completed. It is advised that the regular checks of the Water Mist System are carried out to ensure proper valve alignment. In addition, it is advised that proper labeling and procedures are established to ensure that the valve is not overlooked and accidently left closed.
USCG Confirms RINA's Top PSC Status
Italian classification society RINA has completed another year with zero Port State Control (PSC) detentions in the United States. RINA has had only one U.S. PSC class-related detention in three years, giving it a detention ratio of 0.21 percent in respect of specific vessel arrivals in U.S. ports. It is in the top five best-performing class societies as measured by the Coast Guard, with a zero-rating. As a result of its record, RINA continues to be eligible for U.S. Coast Guard Qualship 21 assignment, which is designed to reward high-quality ships by reducing the frequency of Port State Control inspections in the U.S. Ugo Salerno, RINA CEO, says, "This excellent performance validates our quality strategy, which has seen PSC detention rates on an improving trend worldwide."
