An onboard inspection can only be successful if the tanker has been prepared for the inspection. Credit to: Kardasov Films / Shutterstock.com An onboard inspection can only be successful if the tanker has been prepared for the inspection. For this reason, some companies perform pre-vetting inspections by internal resources prior to the vetting inspections by the oil majors. These inspections normally take place during discharge. Most of the vetting inspectors are former seafarers with long experience from various types of tanker vessels. Most likely the first impression is formed already at the time the inspector arrives at the gangway and then continues all the way until the closing meeting have been completed. Inspectors will be looking for objective criteria by which to judge the tanker. Thus, the importance of the route from the ship side to the Master's office should not be underestimated. Remember that, as always, you do not get a second chance to make a first impression. Make sure that the inspection is scheduled at a convenient time for the vessel, so it does not conflict with other inspections. Apart from the required operation of the vessel the inspection should be given the highest priority. Make sure that each head of department has completed and signed off his own part of the vessel inspection questionnaire before arrival at port and that any deficiencies have been reported/corrected. This should be incorporated into the normal routine guidelines. Although it is the Master's overall responsibility to prepare for an inspection, this is a teamwork involving all crew members. Preparation Prior to the inspection a copy of the below documents should, as a minimum, be made ready for the inspector: Classification documents Certificate of registry Cargo ship safety construction certificate Cargo ship safety equipment certificate Safety radiotelegraphy certificate Load line certificate IMO certificate of fitness IOPP certificate & supplement Certificate of f