DNV: Port State Control – Q1 2026 Detention review and other updates in International Shipping News 05/05/2026 E ffectiveness of safety management systems and fire safety readiness are still in focus for Port State Control (PSC) authorities. Our Q1 2026 review highlights key detention concerns, upcoming inspection campaigns, new procedures for PSC, and what ship operators should be addressing to reduce risk. Introduction PSC activity in the first quarter of 2026 confirms that enforcement remains firmly on the fundamentals: Effective safety management system Sound maintenance practices Crew familiarity with critical systems Detention statistics and newly announced inspection campaigns indicate that shortcomings in ISM implementation and fire safety remain the most significant compliance challenges for operators. Early awareness and targeted preparation are therefore essential to sustaining strong PSC performance amid an increasingly dynamic regulatory and geopolitical environment. Q1 2026 review A total of 64 detentions were recorded for DNV vessels in Q1 2026, compared to 52 detentions in the same period in 2025. Container, bulk carrier and general cargo vessels made up 83% of the detentions, with about 84% of the detentions being recorded in the Paris and Tokyo MoUs. Detainable deficiencies in Q1 2026 continue to be dominated by shortcomings in ISM implementation. The most frequently cited subcategories were “15150 – ISM” and “15109 – Maintenance of ship and equipment” , with the latter used only by the Tokyo MoU and the U.S. Coast Guard. In addition to these findings, the following detainable deficiency subcategories were most frequently observed: 07106 – Fire detection Example of deficiency: “In engine room workshop found one smoke detector damaged and repaired with rubber tape.” Why it matters: Compromised fire detection delays early warning in highrisk areas. 07105 – Fire doors / openings in fire-resisting divisions Example of deficiency: “Self-closing fire doo