The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is to install enhanced transponders and systems on small harbour and pleasure craft to improve situational awareness and safety in port waters.
With SGD6.8 million (USD4.8 million) in government funding, the installation of the transponders and systems is due to start in September 2015 and to complete by December 2016.
The initiative will replace all the existing Harbour Craft Transponder System (HARTS) units on the vessels with Automatic Identification System-B (AIS-B) transponders and electronic chart systems (ECS).
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For passenger ferries, the MPA is working with the association of regional ferry operators to develop an under-seat life jacket receptacle to make life vests more easily accessible in emergencies.
In collaboration with the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) the MPA has also produced a safety film for free distribution to shipping companies. The practical guide features scenarios on the local navigating environment to help mariners visualise the passage through the Strait of Singapore, including possible traffic conditions.
All these initiatives are part of the MPA’s Safety@Sea campaign, running for the second year on 17-21 August 2015. The campaign is a collaborative effort with the private sector and maritime industry to enhance safety of navigation in the Port of Singapore.
To discuss safety issues and brainstorm new ideas, the MPA has formed working groups with the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA), pilotage service provider PSA Marine Pte Ltd (PSAM), and ferry and pleasure craft operators.
This post was sourced from IHS Maritime 360: View the original article here.
