In the PSC Safety Environmental Targeting matrix, how many points are assigned to a Bulk Freight Ship older than 20 years?

In the PSC Safety Environmental Targeting matrix, a Bulk Freight Ship older than 20 years is assigned 7 points due to the increased safety and environmental risks that older vessels typically present. Ships that have been in service for an extended period may often have outdated safety equipment, less efficient engines, and a higher likelihood of structural or mechanical issues. This creates a potential for greater environmental impacts in the event of an accident or malfunction.

Assigning 7 points reflects the heightened scrutiny that older vessels face during inspections. The points in the matrix serve as a risk assessment tool, guiding inspectors in identifying vessels that may need more thorough evaluation based on their age and associated risks. The higher the point total, the more attention and resources might be allocated during port state control inspections to ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.