Companies going bankrupt and workers losing their jobs is common in capitalist societies. However, abandoned ships present a different scenario. When a ship is left in a foreign port with no support, dwindling supplies, and services shutting down, it signifies a complex situation. Crewmembers are left in uncertainty, relying on welfare agencies.
Two maritime companies, Avin International and Kriti Ruby Special Maritime Enterprises, have been fined $3.375 million and ordered to make a charitable donation of $1.125 million for environmental violations. The companies admitted to pollution breaches during port calls in Florida and New Jersey, leading to a reminder of the importance of environmental compliance.
Research conducted by the Royal Lifesaving Society – Australia and AMSA reveals that drowning deaths from falling overboard on boats remain a significant issue. Shockingly, most victims are not wearing life jackets. AMSA’s National Operations Manager stresses the importance of wearing a life jacket to improve chances of survival in case of an accident.
The investigation into the ferry incident revealed inadequate evacuation procedures, with only six crew members responsible for over 900 passengers. Crew juggling multiple tasks made it difficult to evacuate effectively. Recommendations include a formal validation process for evacuation procedures and separate counting for children on board to ensure passenger safety in the future.
Hong Kong Salvage and Towage (HKST) has added two new tugs, the LNG Guardian I and LNG Guardian II, to their fleet. These custom-built vessels, designed by Robert Allan Ltd, are equipped with a Z-drive electric propulsion system for use at the Hong Kong LNG Terminal. They will assist in maintaining safety and supporting operations at the facility.
The Safer Seas Digest 2023 is accessible online, along with past editions, via the NTSB website. The annual publication, issued by the NTSB’s Office of Marine Safety since 2014, shares safety issues, recommendations, and lessons learned from marine surveys conducted in the previous year to enhance maritime safety.
