Established in response to ship operators’ need for expert technical support following ship casualties such as harm to or loss of life, assets, reputation, and earnings, Ship Emergency Response Service (SERS) gives you immediate and effective responses to solve complex scenarios.

The impact of a casualty can be extremely serious. Capabilities will be tested, and questions will need to be answered. Outcomes depend on your actions in the first critical hours.

With more than 2,500 responses over 40 years, SERS offers rapid, global, 24/7 access to expert teams of naval architects, ex-mariners, and specialists to collaborate closely with you to give independent, proactive technical support and advice. Typical spread costs can be as low as $3 per day.

LR’s expert teams have the expertise to give you confidence in making the right decisions, wherever you are, at any time.

SERS responses follow these principles:

  • Respond rapidly, reliably: Preparation is the core service. Support is a phone call away and calculations can begin within minutes. The size of LR’s team means responses can be continuous and for indefinite periods.
  • Quality-tested models ready to use: As a vital part of enrolment in the service, LR produces detailed, quality-assured computer models of each ship, allowing accurate calculations to begin immediately.
  • Improving your preparedness: Training for ship and shore teams, including exercises to rehearse casualty stages, test communications, and to familiarise staff.
  • Simulate and assess any casualty rapidly and correctly: Dedicated software and experienced operators enable quick, accurate analysis of any situation. Technical aspects assessed include:
    • Longitudinal strength
    • Flooding
    • Oil outflow
    • Stability and floatability
    • Grounding/refloating
    • Effects of time, tide, and environment
    • Drift Prediction

Effective communications: SERS uses the latest communications to collaborate closely with ship /shore.

  • Respond continuously: Two fully trained teams on standby 24/7, with backup for indefinite response periods.
  • Make confident, informed decisions: Whatever your situation, LR has supported clients in similar situations many times before. LR’s wide experience means you have the support you need to improve any situation and reduce risks by understanding your concerns and identifying relevant issues.

Why SERS?

  • Operational continuity and cost savings: Reduced downtime, costs, and financial exposure, sometimes avoiding salvage. Reduced readiness costs for staff, training, and equipment. Fleet-wide enrolment ensures best practices and cuts administrative workload.
  • Rapid 24/7 leading expert support: Immediate, proactive guidance to prevent delays and mistakes.
  • Confidence and peace of mind: Safely find the best course of action for the most demanding ship casualties in the quickest time. Minimise business impact and risks from early critical stages through to resolution.
  • Demonstrates commitment to safety and environment: Recognised by all authorities and supporting your contingency planning, SERS exceeds legislative requirements and guidelines.