Small vessel safety a focus for maritime authority

New regulations receive input

SOUTH AFRICA: Following an incident on a houseboat in 2021 as well as the ensuing campaign to inspect over 200 commercial vessels, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) has embarked on a project to update the National Small Vessel Regulations.

The revisions to the regulations, led by the SAMSA Centre for Boating, and gazetted in February this year for public comment by mid-March 2024, “reflect a concerted effort to address emerging challenges (in the subsector) and to ensure the safety of small vessels – both seagoing and on sheltered waters,” said Debbie James, the head of the boating unit.

“An extensive consultation process, which involved key stakeholders from the small vessel industry and relevant governing bodies, played a pivotal role in shaping the amendments to the existing regulations.

“In total, 120 people attended the sessions, and these sessions provided a platform for constructive dialogue, enabling stakeholders to voice concerns, propose recommendations, and contribute valuable insights based on their expertise and experiences,” she confirmed.

The revised Merchant Shipping (National Small Vessels Safety) Regulations 2024 is an improvement on those first adopted in 2007 and cover a wide range of small vessels safety issues inclusive of safety certification, vessel safety requirements, crewing, training, specifical provisions for unregistered pleasure vessels, supplemental delegated powers to agencies and related, administrative arrangements, as well as other relevant matters.

“As the small vessel fraternity continues to evolve, the updated Merchant Shipping (National Small Vessel Safety) Regulations underscore the commitment of regulatory authorities to prioritize safety, promote best practices, and foster a culture of compliance within the maritime industry.

“The successful revision of the regulations serves as a testament to the collective efforts from external stakeholders, SAMSA Officials which include the Maritime Legislation unit, Surveyors, Technical Support Unit and Boating unit among other SAMSA officials have worked tirelessly to facilitate the revision process from inception to fruition.

“Once again, we extend our gratitude for the presence of stakeholders during the consultation sessions,” said James.