Seaspan deploys remote-controlled cleaning system at Canadian shipyards

Seaspan has introduced a remote-controlled ultra-high pressure cleaning system designed to improve hull preparation efficiency and operator safety at its shiprepair facilities in Canada.
The new system, named Dockboy, will be deployed across Vancouver Drydock and Victoria Shipyards to support large vessel maintenance projects. The fully containerised unit can be transported between the two yards, allowing both facilities to use the equipment during scheduled repair and coating works.
The tool removes marine growth, anti-fouling coatings and paint layers in a single operation, leaving a prepared surface suitable for repainting. Seaspan said the system is intended to increase cleaning productivity compared with conventional blasting and crawler-based equipment.
Chris Welsford, senior safety manager at Vancouver Drydock, said the system improves working conditions for operators. “Dockboy is a great engineering control,” he said. “We’re creating space between the operator and the UHP source. We’re positioning our people more ergonomically, eliminating heavy strain, vibrations and kickback from UHP blasting that really wears on the body. It’s also a lot quieter, which is a win for our operators.”
Barry Kas, director of operations at Vancouver Drydock, added that the investment supports the company’s commercial shiprepair strategy. “The purchase of Dockboy marks a significant investment in the future of our commercial shiprepair business.”