The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries is set to simplify inspections for vessels under 10 tons, including propeller shafts and outboard motors, as part of amendments to the Vessel Safety Act regulations.
According to the ministry, the previous requirement to detach the propeller shaft connected to the vessel's engine for inspection will be streamlined. This change is expected to reduce the inspection time from the usual 3 to 5 days and lower costs, which previously ranged from 2 million to 3 million won, a significant burden for small business owners.
Under the new regulations, inspections for vessels under 10 tons will only require a visual check of the propeller shaft bearing condition if it is deemed satisfactory. Additionally, for outboard motor vessels, if the motor is functioning well, the propeller shaft discharge inspection and main engine opening inspection will be waived. Approximately 670 vessels under 10 tons and 780 outboard motor vessels are expected to benefit from these changes.
The ministry also anticipates a smoother supply of specialized personnel for handling and managing hazardous materials. Individuals holding qualifications as hazardous material industry technicians or higher will now be eligible to become hazardous material inspectors.
Jung Do-hyun, director of the Maritime Safety Bureau at the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, stated, "We expect this amendment will significantly alleviate the management burden for small businesses operating in the shipping and port sectors. We will continue to develop reasonable regulatory relief measures while prioritizing safety."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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