PSC Inspection

Term from Ship Captain Roles industry explained for recruiters

Port State Control (PSC) Inspection is a check that ships must go through when they visit ports in different countries. Think of it like a vehicle inspection, but for large ships. Government officials visit the ship to make sure it's safe, following international rules, and protecting the environment. It's one of the most important safety checks in shipping, making sure vessels are seaworthy and crews are working properly. When you see this term in a resume, it means the person has experience with these important safety inspections, either preparing for them, handling them, or managing their outcomes.

Examples in Resumes

Successfully managed over 50 PSC Inspections with zero major deficiencies

Maintained vessel compliance resulting in successful Port State Control Inspections across multiple jurisdictions

Led crew preparation and documentation for PSC evaluations in European and Asian ports

Typical job title: "Ship Captains"

Also try searching for:

Ship Master Vessel Captain Maritime Officer Chief Officer Marine Superintendent Fleet Manager Vessel Manager

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you prepare a vessel and crew for a PSC inspection?

Expected Answer: A senior captain should explain their systematic approach to preparation, including documentation review, crew drills, equipment checks, and maintaining a pre-inspection checklist. They should mention past experiences and how they handle different regional inspection requirements.

Q: How do you handle a situation where PSC finds major deficiencies?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of immediate corrective actions, communication with company management, documentation of fixes, and prevention of future issues. Should also explain how to work with authorities and classification societies.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the most common areas PSC inspectors focus on?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list key inspection areas like safety equipment, living conditions, environmental compliance, crew certificates, and maintenance records, with examples of how to maintain compliance.

Q: How do you ensure continuous compliance between PSC inspections?

Expected Answer: Should explain routine maintenance schedules, regular internal audits, crew training programs, and documentation systems that keep the vessel inspection-ready at all times.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What documents are typically reviewed during a PSC inspection?

Expected Answer: Should list basic required certificates like safety management, crew competency, vessel registration, and environmental compliance documents.

Q: What is the purpose of Port State Control?

Expected Answer: Should explain that PSC ensures ships meet international safety, security, and environmental standards, protecting ports and waters from substandard vessels.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (1-3 years)

  • Basic knowledge of maritime regulations
  • Familiarity with ship certificates and documentation
  • Understanding of safety procedures
  • Basic inspection preparation skills

Mid (3-7 years)

  • Managing inspection processes
  • Handling communications with authorities
  • Implementing corrective actions
  • Crew training and preparation

Senior (7+ years)

  • Strategic inspection management
  • Multiple vessel compliance oversight
  • Risk assessment and mitigation
  • Building relationships with maritime authorities

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of current maritime regulations
  • Poor track record of PSC inspection results
  • Lack of emergency response experience
  • Unable to demonstrate crew management skills
  • No experience with documentation systems