Fire Safety is a key area of concern during PSC inspections. It is widely known that fire is one of the worst case scenarios for an on board emergency. PSC data analysis from the last five years shows that there is a lot of concern for onboard fire safety while ships have still several issues to address in this area.
The use of an Exhaust Gas Cleaning System (EGCS) is permitted in Australian waters as an option to comply with the low sulphur fuel requirements of MARPOL Annex VI, provided it is approved by the vessel’s Flag State Administration, or a recognised organisation (RO) appointed by the Flag State. The EGCS must also be operated in accordance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) requirements, including the 2021 Guidelines for Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (resolution MEPC.340(77)).
The Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) has confirmed its updated Ship Inspection Report Programme (SIRE 2.0) will be delivered to industry in a ‘phased approach’ comprising four stages, rather than a single ‘go-live’ switch between the current SIRE (VIQ7) and new SIRE 2.0.
ION M was en route from Jamaica to Houston when a white boat was spotted signaling for assistance