*Update 18 March 2020*
Applicability: All.
The recent outbreak of Covid-19 is presenting operational challenges for all of us in the maritime industry. Protecting the health of our people and our clients is a priority for LR. We are actively monitoring the situation closely and are following government and health authority advice.
How the current situation may affect surveys
To contain the spread of the virus, LR has introduced additional protocols designed to assess the risks of specific jobs before we conduct any work. This may impact vessels scheduled for routine or emergency drydocking, or repairs in affected areas. Currently:
- All survey requests are being reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
- We are considering alternative options, including rescheduling inspections outside affected regions.
- We are assessing where surveys can be undertaken remotely.
- We are working with our clients to postpone non-critical work where appropriate.
Working with you
LR has “force majeure” provisions applicable when survey work cannot be undertaken. The LR Classification Executive Committee will consider Force Majeure in the following circumstances:
When surveyors cannot attend a vessel because:
- The ship is quarantined.
- Travel or quarantine restrictions prevent the surveyor attending.
In cases where the owner cannot:
- Mobilise superintendents, essential technicians/service teams and any specialised equipment; or
- have essential spares delivered.
LR will generally accept the current COVID-19 situation as the justification for postponement of Class Surveys for up to 3 months beyond the due date in accordance with Class Rules.
Where Class Rules do not permit a postponement of the survey, LR will consider an application for postponement based on Force Majeure. In all cases the basis for Force Majeure is to submitted.
Considering force majeure for statutory surveys is also subject to flag agreement being received for the duration of postponement/ delay in survey completion and LR will liaise with the Flag where we are authorised.
How we can help
As always, your first point of contact should be your local Lloyd’s Register office. Each case will be different and will need careful consideration. Supplying information about your ship, its location and survey plan, as well as documents showing force majeure, will assist this process. We will endeavour to get back to you as quickly as possible but will respond to all requests within 48 hours.
These are challenging times for everyone, as the Covid-19 outbreak is constantly evolving. LR is actively monitoring the global situation and is committed to working with you to support your business needs.
If you need clarification in respect of any of the above, please do not hesitate to contact your local LR Office.