Class surveyors’ assistance to vessel. If a vessel has sustained damage to such an extent that her seaworthiness may be affected, the master will contact the surveyor of the classification society, in order to ascertain what repairs have to be carried out for the maintenance of class.
The surveyors are exclusively officers of the society and they are usually not permitted to engage in any other business or employment to avoid a conflict of interest. However, they can recommend certain repair firms depending on their experience and the quality of work of the firms.
It will entirely depend upon the nature of the damage and facilities available for repairs whether temporary or permanent repairs will be carried out at the port in question, or whether the vessel will be allowed, whilst retaining her class, to continue her voyage to a subsequent port or final destination, where permanent repairs can be effected, each case being considered on its merits.
