Survitec’s milestone in maritime safety

Survitec, a leading provider of Survival Technology solutions, has achieved the ISO 23678:2022 1-4 certification, positioning itself at the forefront of maritime safety.

This certification, introduced in 2022, sets a global standard for the training of personnel involved in lifeboat inspections, aligning with the requirements of resolution MSC.402(96).

Additionally, this achievement has played a crucial role in Survitec receiving renewed approval for the maintenance, inspection, and testing of lifeboats under Lloyd’s Register (LR) classification.

The impact on safety and training

Matt Macfarlane, Head of Service Operations at Survitec, highlighted the significance of this certification: “By adhering to the stringent principles incorporated into the ISO 23678 standard, we have significantly broadened our scope of certification, enabling qualified and certified technicians to inspect, maintain and test an increasingly extensive range of equipment supplied by an array of different manufacturers.

“Survitec’s achievement ensures customers receive a top-tier service backed by rigorous standards and a commitment to multi-brand service excellence with unmatched authorisations and accreditations from over 70 flag States.”

Advancements in technician competence and assurance

Survitec’s Marine Training Academy (MTA) has also successfully received certification to the new ISO training standard, further demonstrating the company’s commitment to enhancing maritime safety.

In tandem, Survitec developed a dynamic database tool to track technician competence, ensuring compliance with certification requirements and aligning with audit standards.

Paul Watkins, Survitec’s Regulatory & Compliance Manager, said: “We are delighted to have received this certification as ISO 23678 delivers greater assurance to classification surveyors and flag States and reinforces our commitment to delivering a high-quality service to all our customers.”

The call for wider adoption of ISO 23678

The certification not only marks a significant step for Survitec but also sets a precedent for the maritime industry.

Macfarlane emphasized the potential impact of widespread adoption: “The ISO standard has the potential to significantly improve maritime safety globally through the standardised certification of service technicians.

“As the largest company to achieve this standard, we see great benefit to the industry, and we call on regulators to adopt it to significantly enhance safety standards.”

IFSJ Comment

The achievement of ISO 23678 certification by Survitec demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of safety and training, serving as a benchmark for others in the sector.

This certification not only enhances Survitec’s ability to provide exceptional service across a broad range of equipment but also reinforces the importance of standardized training and certification in improving global maritime safety.

The call for broader adoption of the ISO 23678 standard underscores a collective responsibility towards enhancing safety practices, potentially transforming the landscape of maritime safety worldwide.