The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) is set to initiate audits and inspections of all shipping companies and their vessels starting May 26th. Joweli Cawaki, the MSAF CEO, emphasized that this measure aims to ensure compliance with the Maritime (Safe Ship Management Systems) Regulation 2014. He issued a notice on April 25 instructing all shipping operators to prepare for these evaluations and ensure that all necessary documentation is accurate and readily available.
Cawaki made it clear that all systems and procedures must align with the Maritime (Safe Ship Management Systems) Regulation 2014 prior to the audit date. He cautioned that ships failing to comply with the regulations could face detention, highlighting the seriousness of adhering to safety standards.
This initiative comes in the wake of MSAF’s recent findings regarding concerning practices within the shipping industry, particularly issues noted with Goundar Shipping Limited. Previous concerns included employee malpractices such as ticket sales to relatives, leading to passenger overloading. As regulations become stricter, the MSAF is taking steps to bolster maritime safety measures, including monitoring compliance and implementing additional safety checks, especially during peak travel periods.
The commitment to rigorous audits and inspections not only enhances accountability among shipping operators but also reflects an overall effort to improve safety and reliability in Fiji’s maritime operations. By enforcing these standards, MSAF aims to foster a safer environment for both passengers and workers in the maritime industry, paving the way for more trustworthy and efficient service.
As MSAF prepares for these audits, there is hope that such proactive measures will lead to a significant improvement in shipping practices across Fiji, ultimately contributing to a safer travel experience during a busy season. The ongoing commitment to safety demonstrates a positive outlook for the future of maritime operations in the region.
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