Tag: MOL

Violated numerous provisions of the Shipping Act The Federal Maritime Commission announced a compromise agreement under which Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. has paid $1,200,000 in civil penalties.Known as MOL throughout the ocean carrier industry, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines is a vessel-operating common carrier headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, that operates in the U.S.-foreign trades and globally.Federal Maritime Commission Chairman Richard A. Lidinsky, Jr. stated: "These penalties should serve as a reminder that the Commissions hard-working Area Representatives and Bureau of Enforcement remain vigilant on the shipping publics behalf. If youre violating the law, sooner or later, we will find you, and the consequences can be serious."The compromise agreement resolved allegations that MOL violated numerous provisions of the Shipping Act through activities that included: (1) misdescription of commodities; (2) unlawful equipment substitution; (3) providing transportation services to and entering into service contracts with unlicensed, untariffed, and unbonded ocean transportation intermediaries; (4) permitting use of service contracts by persons who were not parties to those contracts; and (5) providing transportation that was not in accordance with the rates and charges set forth in MOLs published tariffs. Commission staff alleged that these practices persisted over a period of several years and involved numerous service contracts.Under ...

Launch of a safety campaign Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. today announced the launch of a safety campaign involving all MOL-operated vessels from April 1, 2011.MOL would like to have a frank exchange of ideas and opinions between management and seafarers and other front-line personnel about the prevention of accidents resulting in injury or death, which is one of the targeted "four zeroes" concept (Never allow (1) marine incidents, (2) oil pollution, (3) fatal accidents, or (4) cargo damage ) in the midterm management plan "GEAR UP! MOL" that began in April 2010.1. Campaign periodOne and a half months from April 1 to May 15, 20112. Theme 1. Increase safety awareness by intensive visits of executives and employees including top management, aiming at achievement of the "four zeroes."2. Develop an environment that allows seafarers to concentrate on safe vessel operation and safe cargo transport, by directly explaining effects of the Tohoku - Pacific Ocean Earthquake, responses to the quake aftermath, and proper information on radiation.3. Exchange ideas, advice, and opinions between onboard personnel and land-based personnel about "not allowing minor issues to develop into serious problems," based on lessons from resent accidents resulting in injury. Further enhance the safe operation structure ...

Coating may save up to 4% fuel, says MOL New paint traps water to give a smooth surface for better fuel savings. A novel hull paint has delivered fuel savings of 4%, says Mitsui OSK Lines, following sea trials on its latest newbuilding, the car carrier Neptune Ace. Along with the fuel savings come corresponding CO2 emission cuts, the company pointed out. This low-friction coating has been developed jointly by MOL and Nippon Paint Marine Coatings and it is being marketed under the brand name LF-Sea, while joint R&D continues to develop what MOL describes as "an ultra-high fuel efficient" ship bottom paint, with the aim of further CO2 reductions.Source: MITSUI OSK Lines