3.1.1 An inclining test should be required for
the first unit of a design, when the unit is as near to completion
as possible, to determine accurately the light ship data (weight and
position of centre of gravity).
3.1.2 For successive units which are identical
by design, the light ship data of the first unit of the series may
be accepted by the Administration in lieu of an inclining test, provided
the difference in light ship displacement or position of centre of
gravity due to weight changes for minor differences in machinery,
outfitting or equipment, confirmed by the results of a deadweight
survey, are less than 1% of the values of the light ship displacement
and principal horizontal dimensions as determined for the first of
the series. Extra care should be given to the detailed weight calculation
and comparison with the original unit of a series of column-stabilized,
semisubmersible types as these, even though identical by design, are
recognized as being unlikely to attain an acceptable similarity of
weight or centre of gravity to warrant a waiver of the inclining test.
3.1.3 The results of the inclining test, or deadweight
survey and inclining experiment adjusted for weight differences, should
be indicated in the operating manual.
3.1.4 A record of all changes to machinery, structure,
outfitting and equipment that affect the light ship data, should be
maintained in the operating manual or in a light ship data alterations
log and be taken into account in daily operations.
3.1.5 For column-stabilized units, a deadweight
survey should be conducted at intervals not exceeding 5 years. Where
the deadweight survey indicates a change from the calculated light
ship displacement in excess of 1% of the operating displacement, an
inclining test should be conducted.
3.1.6 The inclining test or deadweight survey
should be carried out in the presence of an officer of the Administration,
or a duly authorized person or representative of an approved organization.