Safety & Security

• Six North Sea countries have taken a significant step towards enhancing the security of critical underwater energy and telecommunications infrastructure in the region.
• Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Norway, the UK, and Denmark have signed a joint declaration to cooperate and share information on the protection of subsea infrastructure, aiming to bolster resilience and prevent potential threats.
• The declaration follows discussions initiated at the North Sea Summit in April 2023 and...

https://mfame.guru/joint-declaration-enhancing-security-of-north-sea-subsea-infrastructure/

The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) has released comprehensive guidelines focusing on the development and implementation of Safety Management Systems (SMS) under the International Safety Management (ISM) Code. Specifically, these guidelines address the challenges posed by the use of potentially hazardous alternative fuels on board ships. Building upon last year’s report on operational management for maritime decarbonization, this release underscores the critical need for proactive measures in...

https://mfame.guru/navigating-new-frontiers-mtfs-sms-guidelines-for-alternative-fuels/

Marine Medical Solutions (MMS) is raising concerns about the growing trend of unnecessary antibiotic use among seafarers, which poses risks of antibiotic resistance and future health complications. They advocate for greater medical input from professionals to ensure proper treatment onboard vessels.

https://mfame.guru/addressing-antibiotic-misuse-concerns-in-maritime-health-management/

• In recent months, Somali pirates have resurfaced as a significant threat, targeting multiple merchant vessels in international waters.
• The incidents involving vessels like the MV Ruen and MV Abdullah highlight the urgent need for the shipping industry to prioritize adherence to BMP5 guidelines for maritime security.
• These guidelines provide a framework for ship operators to enhance self-defense measures and mitigate the risk of piracy in vulnerable regions such as the southern Red Sea and the...

https://mfame.guru/enhancing-maritime-security-the-imperative-of-ship-self-protection/

• EMSA commissioned the Danish Institute of Fire and Security Technology.
• Recommendations from the report could lead to changes in SOLAS regulations.
• Identified 17 potential measures to enhance fire safety on container ships.

European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) commissioned the Danish Institute of Fire and Security Technology (DBI) to address the rising incidents of fires on container ships, reports Insurance Maritime News.

Collaborators included Bureau Veritas BV, RISE, the University of...

https://mfame.guru/danish-report-influences-imo-discussions-on-fire-safety-in-containerships/

Effective communication and teamwork are crucial elements in maritime workplaces, where seafarers must collaborate with colleagues onboard and interact with various shoreside personnel. Poor communication can lead to unpredictable work environments, low morale, conflict, and increased errors. Understanding and overcoming communication barriers are essential for smooth operations at sea.

Several barriers onboard, such as different communication styles, hierarchical...

https://mfame.guru/importance-of-communication-and-teamwork-at-sea/

• IMO aims to strengthen regulations governing global shipping.
• Supporting Member States, Especially SIDS and LDCs
• IMO aims to approve the proposed measures during MEPC 83

IMO aims to strengthen regulations governing global shipping to ensure safety, security, and environmental responsibility.

The focus is on aiding Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), recognizing their unique challenges in the maritime sector, reports IMO.

https://mfame.guru/new-agenda-set-by-imo-secretary-general/

In a collaborative effort between West of England P&I Club and Astaara, a video underscores the critical role of crew awareness in mitigating cyber risks within the maritime industry. As electronic systems become integral to safety and efficiency in maritime operations, cybersecurity emerges as a vital aspect of safety management.

In the ever-evolving maritime landscape, the reliance on interconnected electronic systems is undeniable. Recognizing that the strength...

https://mfame.guru/beyond-the-horizon-ensuring-cyber-resilience-in-seafaring-system/

With eight deaths over the past seven days in enclosed spaces on ships, InterManager has called on the shipping industry to work together to improve safety in these challenging onboard areas, reports InterManager.

Three seafarers and five shore workers died over the past week in accidents in enclosed spaces, bringing this year’s known deaths to a total of 31, although the reporting process can be slow. InterManager, the international trade association for the ship and crew management...

https://mfame.guru/fatal-enclosed-space-incidents-spur-urgent-industry-wide-safety-measures/

Amid growing threats and recent attacks on merchant vessels, ChartWorld has taken proactive measures to bolster its route networks and digital routing service.

These updates offer crucial flexibility within a recommended security corridor, empowering bridge teams in their decision-making processes, says an article published on chart world website.

Industry associations, including ICS, BIMCO, CLIA, INTERCARGO, IMCA, OCIMF, and INTERTANKO, have collectively issued a...

https://mfame.guru/chartworlds-response-to-maritime-threats/