Common U.S. Coast Guard Port State Control Findings

Key deficiencies identified during USCG PSC inspections and how to reduce the risk of detention.

Vessels calling U.S. ports should be prepared for expanded examinations, especially if risk factors such as vessel age, flag performance, or previous deficiencies are present. Understanding the most common USCG PSC findings is essential for avoiding detentions, delays, and costly follow‑up inspections.

Main USCG PSC findings:

1. Fire Safety

Deficiencies related to fire doors and dampers, fire detection systems, fixed and portable firefighting equipment, fire pumps, emergency shut‑downs, fire control plans, and accessibility of CO₂ and foam systems.

2. Life Saving Appliances

Findings involving lifeboats, rescue boats, liferafts, davits, release mechanisms, pyrotechnics, lifejackets, lifebuoys, and operational readiness demonstrated through testing and drills.

3. Safety Management System (ISM Code)

Deficiencies arising from improper implementation of the Safety Management System, including poor maintenance control, ineffective internal audits, inadequate emergency preparedness, weak reporting of non‑conformities, and lack of crew familiarity with SMS procedures.

4. Safety of Navigation

Findings involving charts and publications, passage planning, ECDIS and radar operation, GMDSS equipment, compasses, BNWAS, voyage documentation, and bridge team competence during questioning and demonstrations.

5. Emergency System and Emergency Source of Power

Issues with emergency generators, emergency lighting, transitional power sources, emergency fire pumps, steering gear emergency operation, and crew ability to demonstrate emergency response procedures.

6. Propulsion and Auxiliary Machinery

Operational condition of main engines, auxiliary engines, gauges, alarms, emergency control stations, and quick‑closing valves. Visible leaks, inoperative alarms, or inability to demonstrate emergency operation

7. Ship Security (ISPS Code)

Deficiencies involving Ship Security Plans, access control, gangway watch, security equipment, drills, records of security activities, and crew awareness of security levels and responsibilities.

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By combining hands‑on survey experience with regulatory expertise, Consult Maritime assists operators in strengthening compliance, improving onboard standards, and reducing PSC findings before they lead to delays or detention.