Overview

James Fisher Maritime, part of James Fishers & Sons PLC was asked to support Heerema Marine who required two remote operated vehicle (ROV) audits to be conducted on their vessel as part of the client assurance process. The audits were essential for verifying compliance within IMCA R006 DESIGN standards, necessary for subsea operations. As the ROVs were based in Taiwan and the client project manager in the Netherlands—a remote auditing solution was required.

The Challenge

The challenge facing the James Fisher Maritime team was that Heerema Marine’s ROVs and ancillary equipment was based on a remote location and finding a way to ensure that the ROV’s and ancillary equipment was compliant with IMCA R006 DESIGN standards. This compliance is essential for supporting subsea operations. A traditional onsite audit was not feasible due to logistical constraints during the global pandemic. Therefore, a remote audit method was required to overcome geographical challenges and meet assurance needs efficiently.

Solution

The team were challenged to come up with a remote auditing approach using an adapted IMCA DESIGN R006 template. Working closely with the customer the process commenced with the secure transfer of data, including images and relevant documentation, for preliminary review. A James Fisher Maritime auditor based in Singapore coordinated with Heerema Marine technicians to obtain supporting documentation and certification as required, ensuring regular dialogue and access to the project management system (PMS). With all required information collected, a detailed summary report in line with the IMCA DESIGN R006 guidelines was developed for submission to the client.

Our Impact

Identifying quickly the use of remote technology to help facilitate effective communication allowed for thorough audits that were in full compliance with industry standards to be conducted. The remote audit process, worked effectively to enable a smooth client assurance process and meet the customers highly important requirements.