REGULATION news
Key focus on planned vessel maintenance: AMSA notice
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has issued marine notice 2024/08 concerning planned maintenance on ships.
Purpose:
This notice emphasizes the critical role of planned maintenance in ensuring the safe operation of vessels, particularly during port State control (PSC) inspections by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). Recent incidents highlight the risks associated with inadequate maintenance of main engines and power systems.
Key Points:
Importance of Maintenance: Effective maintenance is crucial for crew safety, vessel integrity, and environmental protection. AMSA will increase its scrutiny of planned maintenance during inspections.
ISM Code Compliance:
The International Safety Management (ISM) Code mandates: - Regular maintenance inspections. - Reporting non-conformities and taking corrective action.
- Keeping detailed records of maintenance activities.
- Identifying critical equipment that could cause hazards if it fails and ensuring reliability through regular testing.
Global Supply Chain Challenges:
Operators are urged to proactively manage supply chain issues, especially post-COVID-19. They should plan maintenance to mitigate risks from potential spare parts shortages and consult with manufacturers and classification societies if parts are unavailable.
Inspection Focus:
AMSA will prioritize the inspection of propulsion and auxiliary equipment. Compliance actions may include requiring surveyors from classification societies to verify critical equipment conditions. This approach is part of a long-term focus on maintenance rather than a temporary inspection campaign.
IMO issues amendments to lifeboat maintenance and inspection requirements
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has issued resolution MSC.559(108) amending the requirements for the maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul, and repair of lifeboats, rescue boats, launching appliances, and release gear.
The amendments aim to keep safety protocols current, particularly concerning ventilation systems for totally enclosed lifeboats. This is in response to advancements in safety practices and lessons learned from past incidents.
The resolution recalls previous decisions, notably Resolution MSC.402(96), which set forth the initial requirements for the maintenance and examination of lifesaving equipment. The amendments align with updates made in Resolution MSC.535(107) regarding ventilation.
Specific amendments to requirements The amendments include detailed procedures for annual inspections and operational tests. Key aspects of the new inspection protocols for lifeboats and rescue boats include:
– Structural Examination: Inspecting the boat structure, including both fixed and loose equipment, and conducting visual checks of void spaces where possible.
– Engine and Propulsion System: Assessing the condition and functionality of the engine and propulsion systems to ensure safe operation.
– Safety Systems: Checking installed systems such as sprinklers, air supply, and maneuvering systems to confirm they are operational.
– Power Supply: Evaluating the power supply systems to ensure reliability in emergency situations.
– Bailing and Fender Systems: Inspecting the bailing systems and fender/skate arrangements for effective water management and stability.
– Righting System: For rescue boats, ensuring that the righting systems are functioning correctly, which is vital for crew safety.
– Ventilation System: Assessing ventilation systems to ensure they are in good working order, particularly for enclosed lifeboats.
The IMO amendments will come into force on 1 January 2026. 44 | ISSUE 110 | DEC 2024 | THE REPORT
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