South Africa has commenced security audits on its commercial fishing fleet in response to recent fatal incidents. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (Samsa) announced that the audits are a proactive measure following the deaths of 18 fishermen last year. These audits aim to enhance safety standards in the fishing sector and have begun in Port Elizabeth, with plans to cover all major fishing ports in the next four months. The focus is on vessels involved in significant maritime incidents and those built or registered before 1998.
The audits play a crucial role in developing a comprehensive plan to improve fishing vessel safety and prevent future maritime accidents, according to Malenhalen Golding, the CEO of Samsa. The increase in maritime accidents in 2024, especially in the commercial fishing sector, has raised concerns about safety standards. One tragic incident involved the sinking of the FV Lepanto, resulting in the loss of 11 crew members. Subsequently, the sister ship, FV Armani, caught fire and sank off Cape Town, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures.
Reports from Samsa revealed deficiencies in crew training and basic life-saving equipment on vessels like the Lepanto, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations and enforcement within the South African fishing fleet. The audits aim to address these gaps and ensure that industry standards are met to prevent future tragedies. The maritime community awaits the outcomes of these inspections and hopes for enhanced safety measures to protect fishermen and prevent further loss of life at sea.
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