VDR annual performance test
The annual performance test of voyage data recorders under SOLAS V/18.8, the MSC.1/Circ.1222/Rev.1 guidelines and the IACS UI SC279 survey window for testing.
The VDR annual performance test is the yearly check that SOLAS regulation V/18.8 requires for every voyage data recorder and simplified voyage data recorder, including all sensors. It is carried out by an approved testing or servicing facility, which issues a certificate of compliance that stays on board.
IMO guidance is in MSC.1/Circ.1222/Rev.1 of 14 June 2019, which lists the examination items, sets the 45-day report period and the 15-month and 18-month maximum intervals for passenger and cargo ships. IACS Unified Interpretation SC279 ties the test to the survey window under the Harmonized System of Survey and Certification. The voyage data recorder article summarizes both.
The full article will cover the examination item by item, the reserve-power and acoustic beacon checks, approval of testing facilities by flag states, the model test report, and common deficiencies found at survey and port state control.