Just two years after completing the first PSPC (Performance Standard for Protective Coatings) gap analysis in a Chinese shipyard, Lloyd's Register and International Paint announced the completion of the 100th analysis in STX France Cruise SA, Saint-Nazaire.

Conducted over a two day period by personnel from Lloyd's Register, International Paint and STX France, the PSPC gap analysis assessed current shipyard coating practices against PSPC requirements.

Lloyd's Register and International Paint then jointly deliver a presentation to shipyard senior management and departmental managers.

The presentation to all functions is a key aspect of the analysis and is specifically designed to help the shipyard understand that in order to meet the requirements of the PSPC and maximise shipbuilding efficiency, all departments e.g. design, procurement, quality, steelwork, outfitting and production need to be involved, not just the paint department.

Mrs Liberette Foubert, system engineer, Painting Industrial Department of STX France said, "We're very pleased to have been part of this significant milestone. For us, this gap analysis has been very useful and has helped structure our current works practices and improve inter departmental communication. We're confident that proven compliance with the requirements of the IMO PSPC will improve our business capabilities, competitiveness and future opportunities".

Mr Bill Cramman, senior coatings specialist for Lloyd's Register said, "The Gap Analysis Surveys that Lloyds Register and International Paint have delivered for newbuilding shipyards in China and in 55 shipyards in Europe have contributed significantly to the future success of our clients' businesses, an improvement in shipping safety worldwide and in meeting our own, Lloyd's Register, objectives of leadership in developing robust services that reflect our service culture".

By the time of the follow-up visit to STX France on June 17th 2009, the shipyard, clearly demonstrating their commitment to the IMO PSPC, had already implemented the changes recommended in the gap analysis presentation.

And the shipbuilder was awarded a Lloyd's Register and International Paint PSPC Certificate to commemorate the 100th gap analysis.

Mr Mike Hindmarsh, business development manager, International Paint said, "We're particularly pleased to present this certificate as we believe it both confirms STX as a world class facility and demonstrates, through our activities with Lloyd's Register, that working together and learning from each other can have a positive impact on shipbuilding efficiency, quality and safety".

With gap analyses completed in China and Europe, plans are now developing to begin work in the Americas.