Lucion Services has successfully renewed its American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) certification as a Recognised Service Supplier for Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) surveys.
Our recent successful ABS audit maintains our position as the only company in the United Kingdom to hold this recognition. This renewal, valid from March 2025 to 2028, comes at a crucial time as the maritime industry prepares for the Hong Kong Convention’s entry into force in June 2025.
The certification renewal follows a rigorous audit process by ABS, demonstrating our continued excellence in delivering IHM surveys and hazardous materials management services to the maritime shipping sector. This achievement, combined with our existing Lloyd’s Register approval, establishes Lucion as the UK’s sole provider holding both prestigious certifications.
Comprehensive IHM Survey
Our IHM survey services deliver a systematic approach to hazardous materials management through three key phases:
Phase 1: Development of Visual Sampling Check Plans (VSCP)
The foundation of every successful IHM survey begins with meticulous planning. Our expert team conducts detailed assessments of vessel documentation and drawings, creating strategic sampling plans that ensure comprehensive coverage. This initial phase includes:
- Analysis of vessel construction and modification history
- Identification of potential hazardous material locations
- Development of risk-based sampling strategies
- Creation of survey-specific safety protocols
Phase 2: Onboard Survey and Sampling
During phase 2 our certified surveyors execute the VSCP with precision and expertise, utilising:
- State-of-the-art sampling equipment and techniques
- Real-time digital documentation systems
- Non-destructive testing methods where appropriate
- Advanced sample analysis through our ISO 17025 UKAS accredited laboratories
Phase 3: IHM Report Development
The final phase transforms collected data into actionable intelligence:
- Comprehensive analysis of laboratory results
- Detailed mapping of hazardous materials locations
- Development of Classification Society compliant documentation
- Strategic recommendations for hazardous materials management
The UK’s Trusted Supplier
“As the only UK company holding both ABS and Lloyd’s Register approvals for IHM services, we’re uniquely positioned to support vessel owners through the significant regulatory transition ahead with the Hong Kong Convention’s implementation in June 2025.”
– Kevan O’Neill, Principal Consultant – Marine & Offshore, Lucion.
The maritime industry faces unprecedented challenges as environmental regulations become increasingly stringent. The Hong Kong Convention’s entry into force in June 2025 marks a significant milestone in global ship recycling standards, requiring vessels to maintain comprehensive inventories of hazardous materials throughout their operational lives.
Larne Fuller, Area Director at Lucion, emphasises: “As we approach the Hong Kong Convention’s implementation, our continued ABS recognition reinforces our ability to help shipping companies meet and exceed forthcoming regulatory requirements. Our two decades of experience in marine services positions us perfectly to guide clients through these evolving compliance challenges.”
Preparing for June 2025: Avoiding the Compliance Bottleneck
The Hong Kong Convention’s entry into force in June 2025 represents a critical deadline for the maritime industry. With thousands of vessels requiring IHM certification, there is a growing concern about potential bottlenecks in service delivery as the deadline approaches. Industry experts predict that leaving IHM surveys until the last minute could result in significant operational disruptions, potential non-compliance penalties, and increased costs.
IHM Survey Timeline
The process of obtaining IHM certification involves several crucial steps:
- Initial documentation review and planning
- Onboard survey and sampling
- Laboratory analysis
- Report compilation and certification
- Classification Society review and approval
With limited qualified suppliers globally, vessel owners who delay their IHM surveys risk facing extended waiting times and potential operational disruptions. Early adoption not only ensures compliance but also provides cost-effective solutions and minimal interference with vessel operations.
Our comprehensive IHM service offering supports clients through:
- Initial IHM surveys
- Regular updates and maintenance of IHM documentation
- Support during vessel modifications or repairs
- Guidance on hazardous materials management
- Preparation for port state control inspections
- End-of-life planning and ship recycling documentation
With over twenty years of experience serving the maritime industry, we have built an impressive portfolio of successful IHM surveys across diverse vessel types, including; commercial cargo vessels, passenger ships and ferries, offshore support vessels, floating production units, specialised marine equipment.
Our global network of certified surveyors, combined with local expertise and accredited laboratory facilities, ensures consistent, high-quality service delivery worldwide. This international presence allows us to respond quickly to client needs whilst maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance.
Comprehensive Radiation Protection Maritime Safety Solutions
Beyond our ABS-certified IHM services, Lucion provides specialist radiation protection services for the maritime sector through our dedicated Radiation Protection team.
While separate from our IHM certification, this complementary service ensures comprehensive safety management for vessels that may encounter:
- NORM (Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material) in cargo holds and tanks
- Fixed radiation sources in safety equipment
- Radiation detection equipment
- Transport of radioactive materials
- Radiation emergency preparedness and response
Lead by Radiation Protection Services Director Matt Brodie, our radiation protection advisers work alongside our IHM teams when needed, providing vessel owners with integrated solutions for managing both hazardous materials and radiation risks.
Speak to Kevan O’Neill to discuss how our certified services can support your fleet’s compliance needs ahead of the June 2025 Hong Kong Convention deadline.
