CAS(Condition Assessment Scheme) is a mandatory statutory survey scheme that Category 2 and Category 3 (Non-double hull) oil tankers must satisfactorily complete (with no outstanding recommendations) by 15 years of age or by the first intermediate or renewal survey due after 5 April 2005, whichever occurs later, in order to trade to their respective phase out date as per MARPOL 13G, which was accelerated by resolution MEPC.111(50) which enters into force on 5 April 2005.
CAS is required to be conducted in conjunction with, the mandatory Enhanced Survey Program (ESP) and builds upon ESP by requiring additional thickness measurements and close-up surveys. Relative to ESP, CAS is unique in two respects:
- CAS contains very specific responsibilities and deadlines for planning the survey, which must begin 8 months in advance of the survey’s commencement; and
- The flag Administration must review/monitor the survey and reporting process and issue the five-year full term CAS Statement of Compliance).
The Condition Assessment Scheme (CAS) for oil tankers was adopted in 2001 and is applicable to certain oil tankers under the MARPOL convention.Although the CAS does not specify structural standards in excess of the provisions of other IMO conventions, codes and recommendations, its requirements stipulate more stringent and transparent verification of the reported structural condition of the ship and that documentary and survey procedures have been properly carried out and completed.
The requirements of the CAS include enhanced and transparent verification of the reported structural condition and of the ship and verification that the documentary and survey procedures have been properly carried out and completed. The Scheme requires that compliance with the CAS is assessed during the Enhanced Survey Programme of Inspections concurrent with intermediate or renewal surveys currently required by resolution A.744(18), as amended.
