Remote Survey (Class)

A classification survey conducted without a surveyor physically attending the ship, using live video, photographs, sensor data, and shared records to verify condition and confirm survey items. Class societies expanded remote and virtual surveys after 2020; IACS Recommendation No. 174 (2021) gives guidance for remote survey techniques, and IACS UR Z17 covers approval of service suppliers. Remote survey suits annual and intermediate scope items and documentation review; structural and tailshaft items needing direct gauging or close-up examination still require attendance.