THE Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has strengthened its Port State Control (PSC) inspection capabilities following an intensive training program conducted in partnership with Japanese maritime experts.
The five-day Port State Control Expert Mission, held from October 19 to 23, brought together MSAF ship surveyors for practical training designed to improve their technical knowledge and ability to assess vessels against international maritime requirements.
The program focused on the importance of effective ship inspections in safeguarding lives at sea and preventing marine pollution.
MSAF said the training was aimed at equipping its surveyors with the practical skills and technical expertise needed to ensure ships operating in Fiji waters complied with international maritime safety and marine environmental protection standards.
Participants examined several key international conventions and regulations, including MARPOL Annex I, which addresses pollution by oil, and MARPOL Annex V, which covers the prevention of pollution from garbage discharged by ships.
The sessions also covered SOLAS Chapter IX and the International Safety Management Code, with practical case studies used to strengthen participants’ understanding of their application.
The Maritime Labour Convention was another key area of focus, with discussions examining requirements governing seafarers’ living and working conditions.
MSAF highlighted that beyond classroom instruction, the program provided surveyors with an opportunity to apply their knowledge during actual ship inspections.
On the third and fourth days, MSAF surveyors conducted live Port State Control inspections in Suva under the direct supervision of the visiting Japanese experts.
Each inspection was followed by a detailed review and evaluation, allowing participants to assess their work and refine inspection procedures and standard operating practices.
The mission concluded with a review of key findings and an official closing ceremony, marking a strengthened partnership between Fiji and Japan in advancing maritime safety and protecting the marine environment.
