MAGNETIC COMPASS PERFORMANCE

Failure to maintain. a magnetlc compass in good working condition or to monitor deviations may result Ιn a vessel being delayed or detained and pοtentially the vessel owner and/or master being prosecuted.

 AMSA advises that the performance of a magnetic compass should be monitoredcarefully during the early life of the ship, and adjustments
made if necessary. 

Το ensure a compass is ίη good working condition, it Ις important to check, performance of magnetic compasses particularly after:

If carrying cargoes which have magnetic properties;  using electromagnetic lifting appliances to load or discharge cargo;

 A vessel has been ίη a casualty where it has been subject to severe contact or electrical charges;

A vessel has been operating in short voyages for a long period of time then relocates, which results ίη a large change in magnetic latitude; or

A vessel has been laid up or has been lying idle. Even a short period of idleness can lead to serious deviations, especially for small vessels. 

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