K Line implements digital checklist for unattended machinery spaces

Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line) has adopted an electronic system for checking normally unattended machinery spaces (UMS) on vessels as it reduces crewing levels.

K Line developed its electronic UMS checking module for the vessels it operates to collect and manage data from checks to reduce crew workload and increase safety.

This full-fleet implementation will start in July 2026 and follows multiple operational trials conducted on vessels between 2024 and 2026.

UMS checks are inspection and verification procedures are conducted before leaving machinery spaces, such as enginerooms, unattended when navigating at night or while at berth.

These checks include around 1,000 individual inspection items, which are currently recorded manually on paper by engineers in these machinery areas where freedom of movement is limited.

With the electronic UMS module, inspection data is recorded using smart mobile devices and a dedicated application, easing the workload for crew and enabling them to access machinery spaces more safely.

Electronic data can be centrally collected and stored long-term, while equipment can be continuously monitored from the bridge.

K Line said this helps to prevent the overlooking of abnormalities and enables their early detection.