CESS, Committee for Expertise of Shipbuilding Specifics (formerly Committee for Elimination of Substandard Ships but changed its name and started its new activities since last year) held its annual meeting in Jeju, Korea on 7th September, 2006 where the members associations Japan, Europe, China, Korea and U.S.A. (so called the “JECKU”) gathered and discussed key issues surrounding the global shipbuilding industry.

Following the review of its first annual activities, the meeting concluded that CESS made a fair start and felt encouraged to continue its activities in the coming years, with further closer ties sought between the member associations by bringing resources together to pursue the objective of voicing the opinions of the member associations towards other related industries.

The meeting went on to discuss the key issues encompassing the current topics at IMO and IACS, exchanging views to seek cooperation. Common concern was shared with regard to the following items:

1) Performance Standards of Protective Coatings

In the course of making the necessary preparation to fulfil the requirements, it is perceived that the early application in the IACS common structural rules are likely to bring grave consequences to the shipyards, and that further efforts should be made to promote further understanding and to achieve acceptable solutions. Opinion was expressed that classification societies making their decisions not in line with the decision made by the ruling authorities should seek formal acceptance of harmonization of such decision backed with convincing explanation of fairness to all related parties.

2) IMO Goal Based Standards

In conjunction with the member associations showing support to the risk-based approach, it is necessary to proceed with the adoption of the rules at IMO with due respect on the objectives of Tier 3, and with due care not to unduly introduce prescriptive requirements that may impede technological innovation.

3) Performance Standards of Cargo Tank Coatings

It is necessary to recognise the difference of background characteristics between ballast tank coatings and cargo tank coatings, and the rules should open the way to introduce alternatives that meets the objective.

4) IACS Common Structural Rules

Software from the classification societies are still presenting problems, and it was felt that IACS should be more proactive in dealing with this matter.

The report on Port State Control activities both in Paris and Tokyo MOU were made, and it was noted that both regions were steadily carrying out their activities. It was again reconfirmed from the information gathered by member associations that failures and losses are largely dependent on management of the ship, and it will be necessary to emphasise the importance of carrying out proper repair and maintenance timely.

Finally, CESS members concluded that CESS activities should continue in the direction so far proceeded in the first year, and the Chairman was encouraged to report this to JECKU Top Executive Meeting and seek their support on the continuation of its activities.

Dave Iwamoto
CESS Chairman
C/o The Shipbuilders’ Association of Japan
1-15-16 Toranomon, Minato-ku
Tokyo 105-0001, Japan
munechika@sajn.or.jp