As a global maritime hub, the Port of Singapore sees a significant amount of shipping traffic in our port waters. It is imperative that the industry practices safe marine transfer of personnel between vessels, particularly during embarking and disembarking at anchorage. The launch boat industry, made up of many small and medium enterprises (SMEs), play a crucial role in safety stewardship.
The SSA Services Committee, in consultation with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), initiated an industry-led whitelisting programme for launch operators to be audited. The first wave of whitelisted operators identified by SSA are: –
These operators undergo an assessment based on a set of safety criteria and benchmarks such as: –
- Adherence to Singapore port safety regulations, including Port Marine Circular (PMC) No. 34 of 2020, “Guidelines for Safe Transfer of Persons Between Vessels at Anchorages”
- Provision of Certified Life Jackets according to Workplace Safety and Health Guidelines Personal Flotation Devices – Life Jacket
- Life jacket specifications of 150N SOLAS or ISO standards
- 2 crew boat manning
- Customer Feedback and Satisfaction: Positive feedback on service reliability, safety protocols, and professionalism
Following the programme’s launch, SSA is reaching out to more operators in the launch service industry to embark them on the programme. This safety related initiative could potentially enhance their competitiveness as a marine service provider, as whitelisted operators are understood as committed to ensuring safe and reliable personnel transfers.
To be a part of the programme or find out more, please write to jack@ssa.org.sg.