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ABS offers remote Inventory Hazardous Materials Surveys

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Classification society ABS has added Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) Survey remotely to obtain compliance ahead of a December 2020 deadline.

From 31 December 2020, there will be an introduction of mandatory IHM for all vessels sailing under an EU member states’ flag or any vessel calling at a European port.

“In this challenging, time-pressured environment, ABS IHM remote survey is the simplest route to compliance without the inconvenience of arranging for a surveyor to be physically present on board,” said John McDonlad, ABS senior vice president, global business development.

An IHM initial survey for existing vessels verifies the location of the hazardous materials on board that are listed in the inventory.

Additionally, next week ABS will expand Underwater Inspections In-Lieu of Drydocking (UWILD) to marine vessels.

Joe Riva, ABS vice president and chief surveyor, said: “Remote survey is the new normal for ABS and our clients are feeling the difference in terms of operational flexibility, while we continue to advance the cause of safety at sea and deliver on the ABS mission.”

ABS said these new options are the latest step in its expansion of remote survey capability. ABS is now able to conduct almost all classification annual surveys remotely on eligible vessels and has made its remote survey and audit services available to equipment and materials manufacturing clients all over the globe.