Hong Kong’s Marine Department held the Navigational Safety Seminar 2019 on January 16, to enhance the awareness of navigational safety among members of the industry. The Deputy Director of Marine, Mr Wong Sai-fat, reminded coxswains and persons-in-charge of vessels that they have the responsibility to uphold safety at sea and fully comply with the marine legislation.
Specifically, during the seminar Mr Wong addressed that coxswains and crew members should take specific and adequate safety precautions and prepare contingency arrangements before setting sail. Vessels should have sufficient life-saving and fire-fighting equipment.
Also, seafarers should make sure that vessels, engines and equipment are efficiently maintained and are suitable for navigation.
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Additionally, all seafarers should be informed of the contact numbers of the port traffic control unit and units that provide emergency services, and be fully aware of the latest weather conditions and related MD Notices.
He also focused on accidents that are caused by fatigue. He stated that owners and operators of vessels ought to make sure that the duty rosters of crew members, including coxswains, have sufficient rest periods to avoid fatigue at work.
Seafarers are to voyage at safe speed and follow the regulations in order to avoid and prevent any collisions at sea, during navigation in restricted visibility.
Because of the Super Typhoon Mangkhut and the damages it caused last year, coxswains and crew members were reminded to adopt appropriate safety enhancement measures before and during the passage of tropical cyclones.
In conclusion, Hong Kong Marine Department launched ‘eSeaGo’ application to display chart information on Hong Kong waters. The information are provided by the Hydrographic Office.
