Australian Authorities Impose 90-Day Ban On Cargo Ship Over Explosive Mishandling

The BBC Jade, a general cargo ship owned and operated by Briese Heavylift GmbH & Co. and flying the flag of Antigua and Barbuda, has been placed under a 90-day suspension by Australia’s maritime watchdog, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).

This is the third ban that AMSA has imposed on a Briese Heavylift ship this year.

Inspectors in Port Alma found that 57 tons of explosive materials had been improperly stored on board during transit, leading them to impose the ban.

This major violation of safety regulations comes after earlier this year’s similar actions against the operator’s vessels. The BBC Pearl was banned for 180 days the following month due to multiple safety management system failures.

Due to Briese Heavylift GmbH & Co.’s track record of inadequate performance, AMSA has issued numerous warnings, threatening severe enforcement action in case of further safety violations.

Acting AMSA Executive Director of Operations Evan Boyle deemed the recent ban necessary, which noted that the operator’s continued subpar performance made immediate action more imperative.

AMSA is dedicated to protecting the community of Australians and seafarers, especially when it comes to the transportation of hazardous materials.

The authority advises Australian businesses that ship hazardous cargo, like explosives, to choose vessels with a high safety rating with care.

Antigua & Barbuda Flag State Control found more safety infractions on BBC Jade besides AMSA’s intervention. These problems are being fixed to bring the vessel into compliance with international regulations.

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code is essential for guaranteeing the appropriate transportation of hazardous materials and averting possible environmental contamination incidents.

The AMSA’s strict enforcement tactics indicate a wider trend toward a rise in safety bans; in 2023, the BBC Jade became the eighth ship to be banned due to safety concerns, as opposed to just two in 2022 and four in 2021.

Reference- Safety4Sea

Australian Authorities Impose 90-Day Ban On Cargo Ship Over Explosive Mishandling appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide

Source: Maritime Shipping News