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AMSA Update—5 June 2020


AMSA Update

In this edition

Reminder to wear lifejackets

We strongly urge domestic commercial vessel operators and crew to wear lifejackets while working on the deck of their vessels after the loss of a 48-year old seafarer overboard a fishing vessel on 18 May.  Read more ...

APL England container loss 

We're responding to an incident involving the loss of about 50 containers overboard the Singapore-flagged container ship APL England, 73 kilometres south-east of Sydney. Read more ...

Look after your EPIRB

A reminder to all vessel owners to update your EPIRB registration details, check your battery expiry date and be sure to dispose of your beacon correctly.  Find out more about registration and maintenance of your EPIRB.

Changes to EPIRB requirements

From 1 January 2021, certain types of domestic commercial vessels must have a float-free emergency position-indicating radio beacon installed. We've prepared materials to guide you through the changes and help you to choose, install and maintain the right EPIRB for your vessel.  Read more about changes to EPIRB requirements.

May Working Boats is here!

The latest edition featuring ‘our community’ is now available online. We speak to industry associations, individuals doing great work in their communities, operators who came to the aid of their communities during the summer bushfires and more. Subscribe to receive future online editions or request a printed copy.

Featured in this edition is the latest COVIDSafe advice for operators—how to reduce the chance of spreading the virus on board your vessel, what to do if someone on board presents symptoms and frequently asked questions.


Social distancing for vessels 

The Department of Health announced social distancing requirements to slow the spread of COVID-19. These requirements are being enforced by state and territory authorities. The Department of Health has also published information about routine environmental cleaning and disinfection in the community that covers cleaning requirements for frequently touched surfaces and minimally touched surfaces and is directly applicable to the maritime environment.

Every passenger counts—new safety sticker available

From 31 May 2020, any domestic commercial vessel that carries passengers must meet new requirements for passenger safety.  To assist operators, a new sticker is available to display on your vessel to remind crew and passengers of their responsibilities.  You can order a free passenger head count sticker for your vessel from our website.


Operating a DCV

We have not issued any direction that prevents domestic commercial vessels from operating in Australia but you must abide by the rules set by your state or territory government. If you are unsure whether you can operate, you should contact your local authority to discuss your individual circumstances as rules are subject to change.  Read more ...

Image of person in sea with life jacket and flare

April incidents

There were 31 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in April 2020. Of these, 9 were serious.  Read more about the reported April incidents.

Operation Recovery: YM Efficiency update

Operations to retrieve 63 shipping containers off the Hunter Coast are now complete, including onshore processing of all 720 tonnes of waste.


Resources

State Fisheries regulators and Wildcatch Fisheries have partnered to help you stay afloat.  Visit their Facebook page for regular updates. 

Copyright © 2020 Australian Maritime Safety Authority, All rights reserved.

 

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