Bob Lomas
During the forthcoming IMO Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 92 to be held 12 – 21 June 2013) Intercargo, the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners will present its Bulk Carrier Casualty Report and will call for member States to fully investigate ship losses and very serious casualties, and to make accident investigation reports available in the public domain, to ensure that the largest possible audience can learn from the findings. Objectivity, subjugating legal restrictions in deference to safety, adopting IMO principles and making casualty investigation reports available in a timely fashion should also be key objectives.
As a result of continuous monitoring of the worrying aspects of very serious casualties over the years and following the tragic loss of the bulk carrier Harita Bauxite in February 2013, Intercargo conducted a thorough examination of data stemming from the IMO Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS) Marine Casualties and Incidents module from 2008 to 2011. The research revealed that many serious bulk carrier incidents, in which both loss of life and vessel were recorded, were, in the majority of cases, either not accompanied by an investigation report or the report was not available for download.
Speaking of the research findings, Rob Lomas Secretary General of Intercargo said “the importance of clear, concise and consistent reporting of casualties and serious incidents cannot be stressed enough. Intercargo firmly believes making such investigation material available as widely as possible in the public domain in future, will help to prevent further casualties and tragic and unnecessary loss of life”.
Intercargo represents over 160 bulk carrier owners/operators (vessels engaged in the transport of dry bulk commodities such as coal, grain and iron ore) and associates. With Non-Governmental Organisation status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Intercargo’s objective is the creation of a “safe, efficient and environmentally friendly” dry cargo sector.
Intercargo, founded in 1980, works within the Round Table of international maritime associations comprising of BIMCO, the International Chamber of Shipping, Intercargo and Intertanko.
