AMSA Introduces Key Changes To Safety Management Systems For Domestic Shipping

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Mfame Editor
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Starting June 1, 2025, new safety management system (SMS) requirements will be implemented for domestic commercial vessels in India. These new regulations aim to enhance safety standards within the domestic shipping sector, reports the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.

Important Changes 

Here are the key changes:

  1. Simplified SMS:
  • Eligibility for smaller vessels (under 7.5 meters) under simplified SMS rules.
  • Online tool is available to determine eligibility for simplified SMS.
  1. Fatigue Management:
  • Requirement for vessel owners to identify and address crew fatigue risks in their risk assessments.
  • Excludes Class 4 vessels.
  1. Drug and Alcohol Policy:
  • Inclusion of a drug and alcohol policy in the SMS to manage related risks.
  1. Cargo and Dangerous Goods:
  • Requirement for specific procedures in the SMS for managing cargo operations, including dangerous goods.
  1. Key Operational Procedures:
  • Class 1, 2, and 3 vessels must include procedures for key vessel operations in their SMS (if relevant).
  1. Vessel Emergency Plans:
  • Inclusion of loss of propulsion and oil/fuel spill procedures in emergency plans (if relevant).
  1. Master and Designated Person Responsibilities:
  • Clarification of the master’s authority and responsibilities.
  • Introduction of a designated person’s responsibility statement.
  1. Assembly Station Requirements:
  • Alternative assembly stations required only when reasonably practicable based on risk assessment and vessel characteristics.
  • Simplified rules for vessels eligible for simplified SMS.
  1. Record of Vessel Modifications:
  • Requirement to identify stability risks and maintain a record of modifications impacting stability.
  • Excludes Class 4 vessels.
  • Simplified rules for vessels eligible for simplified SMS.

What to Do

  • Review the “Changes to safety management system requirements from 1 June 2025” page on the AMSA website for detailed information.
  • Subscribe to AMSA updates for the latest guidance and resources.
  • Begin updating your SMS now, but note that the simplified SMS and new assembly station requirements are not effective until June 1, 2025.

Upcoming Webinars

  • AMSA will host webinars on Fatigue Management, SMS Changes, and Simplified SMS from February 2025 onwards.

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Source: Australian Maritime Safety Authority