The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has urgently called for government action to protect seafarers amid rising dangers in the Persian Gulf and surrounding waters. ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton emphasized that immediate, practical measures are necessary to ensure the safety and dignity of seafarers facing attacks and severe conditions.
DNV has completed a study for EMSA on hydrogen safety as a marine fuel, recommending a design-based approach for hydrogen-fueled vessels. The report emphasizes the need for secondary enclosures and additional technical barriers due to hydrogen’s unique hazards, highlighting the importance of crew training and robust containment systems to mitigate risks.
Despite rising tensions in West Asia, around 23,000 Indian seafarers continue to work in the Gulf region, contributing to global maritime trade. The Directorate General of Shipping has implemented safety measures, including maritime security advisories and a 24/7 monitoring system, to protect these seafarers amid increasing violence.
The Indian government is closely monitoring the escalating Middle East situation, as stated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. He assured that measures are in place to protect seafarers amid rising tensions, particularly after the killing of Iran’s supreme leader. The government remains in constant communication with relevant agencies to ensure safety.
The MAIB reported a tragic incident on July 12, 2024, involving the fishing vessel Kingfisher. A deckhand died during creel fishing operations after becoming entangled in a leg rope. Despite quick recovery efforts, he could not be revived. Investigations revealed serious safety oversights, prompting urgent safety recommendations for fishing crews.
A recent Safetec survey reveals that efficiency demands threaten seafarer safety, with 26% of 30,000 respondents admitting to bypassing safety procedures due to company pressures. Additionally, 20% feel their adherence to safety goes unrecognized, highlighting a critical need for shipping companies to prioritize safety over efficiency to ensure a secure working environment.
As strong monsoon rains impact Vizhinjam International Seaport, officials have implemented safety measures for container and ship operations. Despite rough sea conditions, container activities continue, as cranes operate from a control room. However, the expansion of the breakwater faces delays due to high waves complicating construction efforts.
A fire on the towboat Johnny M was intensified by flammable air ducts, as reported by the NTSB. On January 30, 2024, smoke and alarms signaled a catastrophic engine failure. Despite attempts to extinguish the fire, it spread, leading the crew to abandon ship before firefighters arrived to control the blaze.
The Dutch Safety Board’s recommendations following a tragic accident at a repair yard call for stricter safety measures to prevent future incidents. The report underscores the importance of implementing better safety protocols and regulations in the maritime industry to protect workers. The changes aim to create a safer environment and prevent similar accidents from occurring.
Windward has partnered with INTERPOL to enhance maritime security by providing valuable intelligence and insights to identify, track, and prevent criminal activities such as illicit trafficking, human smuggling, and illegal fishing. This partnership will help INTERPOL advance investigations and disrupt illegal maritime activities, creating a safer maritime environment essential for global trade.
The first part of a study on the safety aspect of bunkering with biofuels has been published by EMSA. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of a pre-selection of biofuels in terms of safety aspects like flashpoint, toxicity, and cold-flow properties, among others.
