It has already been informed by ClassNK Technical Information No. TEC-0513 of 1 April 2003 about monthly inspection of immersion suits / anti-exposure suits for Singapore flagged vessels, Hong Kong flagged vessels and Greek flagged vessels. In addition to the above, India Governments have notified ClassNK of the similar instructions.

In this connection, please be informed that the monthly inspection of immersion suits / anti-exposure suits are now required to the vessels flagged with Singapore, Hong Kong, Greece and India.

ClassNK Technical Information No. TEC-0513 has been superseded accordingly.

According to the notices, that IMO Circular MSC/Circ.1047 "Guidelines for monthly shipboard inspection of immersion suits and anti-exposure suits by ships' crews" should be incorporated into the checklist of instructions for on-board maintenance prescribed in SOLAS regulation III/36.1, and the monthly inspection of immersion suits / anti-exposure suits should be carried out in accordance with SOLAS regulation III/20.7.

Check items of the guidelines are as follows:

1. Check closures on storage bag as well as general condition of bag for ease of removal of suit.
Ensure donning instructions are legible. Confirm that suit is the type and size identified on the bag.

2. Lay the suit on a clean, flat surface. Make sure the suit is dry inside and out. Visually check for damage. Rips, tears or punctures should be repaired in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions by a suitable repair station (which is one authorized by the suit manufacturer and acceptable to the Administration).

3. Check the zipper by sliding it up and down to check for ease of operation. Using lubricant recommended by the manufacturer, lubricate the front and back of the zipper and the slide fastener. If the zipper is not functional, the suit should be removed from service and discarded or returned to the manufacturer or a suitable repair station.

(To be continued)