The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has reminded ship masters and maritime operators to maintain proper communication and ensure the use of approved navigational equipment to avoid marine incidents.
In a marine notice issued this week, Acting Chief Executive Officer Iliesa Batisaresare said recent marine incident reports have highlighted the dangers of poor communication during vessel manoeuvring.
“Ship masters must maintain proper and close communication during close-quarters manoeuvring and in confined or high-risk areas, including ports and harbour approaches,” he said.
Batisaresare warned that a lack of communication or delayed responses between vessels can lead to serious incidents at sea.
“Recent reports highlight the risks arising from no, inadequate or delayed communication, which can lead to collisions, groundings or environmental harm,” he said.
He also raised concerns over the continued use of outdated or unapproved navigational aids on some vessels.
“Ship owners and masters must ensure that approved and updated navigational aids, including charts and nautical publications required for their class of ship, are always available onboard and maintained in good working condition,” Batisaresare said.
He further reminded maritime operators that seafarers must be properly familiar with shipboard equipment and operating procedures in line with maritime safety regulations.
Batisaresare warned that failure to comply with Fiji’s maritime safety laws could result in regulatory penalties.
