Elements and Performance Criteria
- Plan and prepare stability testing
- Applicable stability criteria for class of vessel and its operations are identified and confirmed against regulatory requirements
- Differences between Uniform Shipping Laws (USL) and National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV) standards for assessing stability are identified and applied to survey plan as required
- Information and data is used to establish and verify stability characteristics required for safe operation
- Types of stability related hazards that may occur during all types of operations are identified
- Range of intended and/or likely vessel loading conditions are accurately identified and their impact on stability is assessed
- Calculate vessel trim and stability
- Simplified stability calculations are performed to assess compliance with applicable stability criteria
- Stability assessment methods for equivalent solutions are applied as necessary according to regulatory requirements
- Trim, draughts and freeboard are measured accurately to safely and efficiently allow assessment of compliance with criteria
- Effects of weight distribution that may compromise vessel safety are included in stability assessment
- Computer-based stability programs are used as appropriate to assist with assessing compliance
- Results are recorded and verified to confirm compliance
- Appropriate methods are used to ensure vessel is not put at risk during assessment
- Apply tests, assessments and theories to confirm compliance
- Tests and assessments that could assist to confirm stability compliance are verified and carried out according to safety instructions
- Small angle stability theories are used to establish metacentric height (GM) through transverse movement of weights across vessel deck
- Causes of inaccuracies and limitations of assumptions in tests, assessments and theories are interpreted accurately and considered in stability assessment report
- Identify other impacts on stability calculations
- Types and effects of damage on vessel stability are identified and considered according to regulatory requirements
- Damage stability considerations are accurately identified and effect of damage is correctly quantified
- Operational impact on stability is identified and considered in compliance assessment
- Vessel safety management plan is reviewed to ensure known or likely impacts on stability are included
- Document and report findings