Steering Gear Test Routines

Regular testing of ship’s steering gear is an international requirement and ICS encourages the effective implementation of routine tests. This card prompts the operator on the checks to be conducted so that nothing is overlooked. The card is divided into the following sections:

• Every watch/after prolonged use of autopilot
• before entering coastal or congested waters
• before departure (no more than 12 hours prior to departure)
• emergency steering drills
• checks and tests
• changeover procedures.

Every watch/after prolonged use of autopilot

Before entering coastal or congested waters

Before departure (no more than 12 hours prior to departure)

Emergency steering drills

Checks and tests

Changeover procedures.

ICS

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) is the principal international trade association for the shipping industry, representing shipowners and operators in all sectors and trades.

ICS membership comprises national shipowners' associations in Asia, Europe and the Americas whose member shipping companies operate over 80% of the world's merchant tonnage.

Established in 1921, ICS is concerned with all technical, legal, employment affairs and policy issues that may affect international shipping.

ICS represents shipowners with the various intergovernmental regulatory bodies that impact on shipping, including the International Maritime Organization.

ICS also develops best practices and guidance, including a wide range of publications and free resources that are used by ship operators globally.

https://www.ics-shipping.org/about-ics/about-ics