“K” LINE’s car carrier “CENTURY HIGHWAY GREEN” completed by Tadotsu Shipyard Co., Ltd., the Imabari Shipbuilding Group, became the world’s first newly-built vessel to obtain Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) notation certifying that the ship is adapted for remote surveys(*1).

A remote survey uses digital technology on vessel to remotely perform the inspection surveys of facilities within a vessel that has previously been performed by a class inspector on site.

Use of the remote surveys will enable “K” LINE to perform inspections without being constrained by location, and also enables surveys to be conducted while lowering the risk of infection of the crew during the COVID-19 pandemic because it is not necessary to visit the vessel. It is expected that safe operation will be enhanced through the appropriate and timely implementation of surveys.

In February 2021, ClassNK published guidelines for appropriate operation of remote surveys using information and communication technology (ICT). The “Guidelines for Remote Surveys” (Ver. 2.0) summarizes the judgment standards for ensuring reliability equivalent to conventional witness surveys with transparency in the application of remote surveys. The guidelines also include class notation requirements for the vessel with reliable telecommunications equipment and is adapted for remote surveys.

CENTURY HIGHWAY GREEN has significantly enhanced on-board and ship-to-shore telecommunications equipment compared to conventional vessels and obtained the remote survey class notation in recognition of this point.

Examples of Enhanced Telecommunications Equipment

• Expansion of on-board Wi-Fi: In addition to living quarters, efficiency of vessel operations has been improved by installing Wi-Fi on the cargo deck and in the engine room and LNG fuel-related equipment compartment.
• Introduction of wireless communication equipment supporting explosion-proof areas: Explosion-proof LCX wireless communications equipment has been introduced in explosion-proof areas to ensure communications.
• Introduction of 4G/LTE: The communication environment with relevant personnel and operational efficiency has been improved by utilizing high-speed broadband communication on a land cellular phone network while docked(*2).