Category: Safety Date: 11/09/2012* Area: Europe and Middle East
We would like to advise Members that, due to the present unstable situation in Egypt as well as the lack of security in the ports/seas which in turn encourages looters to board vessels, our local correspondent has distributed a circular strongly advising the following precautionary measures to be undertaken:
1. Not to leave any gangways lowered
2. No permission is to be given to lower the gangway for boarding unless ensuring the identity of the visitors
3. Earlier notification for expected visitors is important
4. Limited number of visitors
5. No permission to be given at all for the ship chandlers to board the vessel
6. Intensive and continuous watch of bridge and deck for any approaching boats
7. Normal precautions for stowaways preventions to be followed (anchor chain doors and all ship’s accesses to be secured)
8. To ensure proper deck lighting throughout the night
9. To prepare fire hoses to be ready for use.
Source of information: Middle East Survey & Control Office (MESCO) http://www.mescoalex.com
*received overnight 11 to 12 Sept 2012
