RMI issues first digital SRtP approval to LR-certified solution

The ‘ASSIST’ digital solution was developed by Fincantieri’s Genoa-based research and consultancy subsidiary CETENA. It substitutes printed Safe Return to Port (SRtP) documentation with a tablet-based app. This ensures version control on key safety manuals, as they can be centrally updated. This helps to reduce the potential for errors during emergency situations.

The approval of the solution by RMI Maritime Registry “was the first time such technology has been approved by a Flag State Administration for use onboard a ship”, according to Alessandro Bonvicini, CETENA, Head of Design for Safety.

The ASSIST – A shipboard operator Smart Assistant for Safe Return – solution was installed on the 55,000 gt Seven Seas Splendor, Regent Seven Sea Cruises’ latest newbuilding during the vessel’s construction. The vessel was built at Fincantieri’s Ancona Shipyard and entered service in February 2020.

Lloyd’s Register has certified the application and provided CETENA with technical support during the development of the solution along with representatives from Marshall Islands. This included areas such as improving onboard procedures and helping crew identify key risk factors. LR has extensive experience in the SRtP area, having first classified the use of SRtP onboard a passenger ship five years ago.

All vessels are required by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), Regulations II-1/21 and 22 to maintain a SRtP Operations Manual. This digital solution is the first tool to replace printed SRtP documents with digital versions.

The installation of ASSIST was undertaken in collaboration with the cruise ship’s flag, the Republic of the Marshall-Islands (RMI) Maritime Registry, the shipyard and the system manufacturer.