The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji has initiated a comprehensive audit and inspection process for ships and shipping companies to ensure adherence to the Maritime Safe Ship Management Systems (SSMS) Regulation 2014. This proactive measure is led by Iliesa Batisaresare, the acting chief executive officer of the authority, who emphasized that the audits will span approximately six months, focusing on all eligible vessels and companies in the maritime sector.
As part of this process, the authority has notified stakeholders that they must submit their company SSMS manuals and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) by the deadline of March 31 this year. Batisaresare highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating that compliance with these regulations is crucial for maritime safety and operational standards in Fiji.
The authority has reminded all relevant parties to pay attention to Section 40 of the Maritime Transport Act 2013 and Regulation 18 of the Maritime (Safe Ship Management Systems) Regulations 2014, reinforcing the legal foundation of this auditing process.
The Maritime Safety Authority aims to issue full SSMS certifications to compliant ships and companies in the near future, expressing gratitude for the cooperation expected from stakeholders. For further information regarding the SSMS audit, stakeholders are encouraged to reach out to Captain Sesoni Komaisoso, the manager of ship inspections at the authority.
This initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing safety standards in Fiji’s maritime industry, promising a safer and more regulated environment for all stakeholders involved.
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