Overview
A checklist cannot replace judgement, but it can prevent basic evidence gaps. This practical sequence is designed to keep the survey tied to the instruction from the moment it is received until the report is issued.
For maritime professionals, the useful question is not only “what does the term mean?” but “what evidence would show that the work was performed properly?” This guide therefore focuses on the practical link between the governing framework, onboard or cargo-side activity, and the records a competent professional would expect to see.
Key Points to Understand
IMT conceptual illustration for learning purposes; not an official regulatory flowchart.
Practical Process
The exact method must always be adapted to the vessel, cargo, company procedures, local rules and the scope of the assignment. A disciplined sequence helps keep evidence complete and prevents the work from drifting away from its objective.
- Instruction and scope confirmed.
- Cargo, vessel, location and parties identified.
- Applicable cargo references identified.
- Inspection plan and equipment prepared.
- Observations, photographs and measurements recorded.
- Exceptions and limitations logged.
- Calculations checked.
- Report reviewed against instruction before issue.
Common Mistakes
Most weak inspections, surveys and audits do not fail because the professional forgot a complicated formula. They fail because scope, evidence or follow-up became unclear. Watch especially for:
- Using the checklist as a substitute for cargo-specific knowledge.
- Leaving photo indexing until later.
- Failing to record what could not be inspected.
Practical Checklist
This is an IMT working checklist, not a substitute for the applicable convention, code, flag requirement, port rule, company procedure or contractual instruction.
- Written scope
- Identification
- Safety/access
- Documents
- Photos
- Measurements
- Samples if relevant
- Limitations
- Report QA
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View the Training Programme →Frequently Asked Questions
Is this an official IMO checklist?
No. It is an IMT practical checklist. IMO requirements and guidance vary according to the cargo and operation.
Can the same checklist be used for bunker surveys?
Only as a high-level evidence framework. Bunker surveying has specialist quantity, sampling and documentation requirements and is treated separately.
When should the checklist be completed?
Throughout the assignment, not just at the end, so missing evidence can be identified while the surveyor is still on site.
Authoritative Sources
Regulatory statements in this guide are grounded in the following primary or official sources. Operational recommendations are presented as IMT practical guidance.
International Maritime Training (IMT) is an independent training provider. This educational guide is not issued by, affiliated with, or endorsed by IMO, ILO, MPA Singapore, or any other authority referenced above.