As Hong Kong will be entering the fog season soon, the Marine Department is warning coxswains and those in charge of vessels to post extra lookouts, proceed at a safe speed and strictly comply with the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea when navigating in poor visibility.
During the Navigational Safety Seminar 2015 today, Acting Director of Marine Ivan Tung noted that coxswains and those in charge of vessels are responsible for upholding safety at sea and must fully comply with marine laws.
Mr Tung advised coxswains and crew members to take appropriate and adequate safety precautions and prepare contingency arrangements before setting sail, while ensuring the vessels have sufficient life-saving equipment.
To prevent accidents, vessel owners and operators were also reminded to ensure that crew members have sufficient rest periods to avoid fatigue at work.
As more infrastructure projects are being undertaken in Hong Kong these days, Mr Tung reminded coxswains and crew members to pay special attention to the department's notices on marine works, and exercise extra caution when navigating near those areas to avoid accidents.
Click here for more information on safe navigation in poor visibility.
