Portuguese Flag Approves Remote Surveys

The Portuguese Maritime Administration has issued Circular 76, establishing the policy on remote surveys for Recognized Organizations (RO) and Recognized Security Organizations (RSO).

This policy outlines the scenarios where remote surveys are permitted, subject to case-by-case approval by the Administration.

The Portuguese Maritime Administration has issued Circular 76, establishing the policy on remote surveys for Recognized Organizations (RO) and Recognized Security Organizations (RSO). This policy outlines the scenarios where remote surveys are permitted, subject to case-by-case approval by the Administration.

The Portuguese flag accepts remote surveys for the following purposes:

Verification of specific equipment conditions, including the rectification or postponement of deficiencies required for issuing conditional statutory certificates.

Radio surveys conducted by a technician subcontracted by the RO or an exclusive radio surveyor.

In-water bottom surveys.

Additional ISM/ISPS/MLC audits to address non-conformities or pending remarks (excluding cases linked to PSC detentions).

In all cases, the RO or classification society must seek authorization for every remote survey from the flag administration. The request should demonstrate that attendance from faraway provides the same level of assurance as an onboard survey, specifying the remote technologies planned for use.

The Portuguese flag may also consider remote surveys for occasional minor hull damage, though critical equipment, such as emergency generators, lifeboat engines, and fire pumps, must be inspected in person. In exceptional circumstances, remote surveys for structural assessments may be allowed following detailed evaluation by the flag administration.
Source: Portuguese Maritime Administration