Safety warning

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Inter-island vessels docked at Port Mua-i-Walu. Picture: FT FILE/ANA MADIGIBULI

SHIP Masters and operators in Fiji who are found to breach legislation will be taken to task by the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) under legal processes available in the legislation.

This was highlighted by MSAF chief executive officer Captain Phillip Hill yesterday.

Capt. Hill said the provisions for detaining ships were covered under the Maritime Transport Act 2013 and all operating commercial ships were to comply with the regulatory requirements.

“Vessels have been detained for rectification of defects and the detained vessels have returned to operation,” he said.

“A survey certificate is issued to a commercial operating vessel once it complies with all safety requirements and is valid for six months. Within the period of validity special surveys are conducted to ensure the respective defect that may arise during the six months period and that it has been rectified to standard.”

He said under the legislation there were provisions for limiting age of vessels to 55 years.

“Upon reaching 55 years, the vessel undergoes full survey. Recommendations are made for its continued operation or its decommissioning and there are conditions under the legislation that governs the decision,” he said.

In order for boat owners to operate commercially in Fiji, Capt. Hill said they were required under law to be fully surveyed and registered under the Fiji Registrar of Ships.

“Vessel survey ensures safety of ship operation including an emphasis on the protection of the marine environment,” he said.

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