- Increased vessel traffic raises collision and safety risks.
- Crews urged to strengthen collision prevention training.
- Ships are advised to plan voyages carefully during typhoon season.
Fishing activities along China’s coast are set to fully resume on September 16, which means we can expect a significant uptick in vessel traffic and navigational hazards. The China Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) has rolled out updated safety advisories for vessels operating in these waters. While fishing activities had been partially resumed since August, the full-scale season kicks off in mid-September, reports Safety4Sea.
Rising Navigational Risks
Since the start of the 2025 fishing season, there has been an increase in collisions and near-miss incidents between merchant and fishing vessels in China’s coastal waters. To tackle these challenges and enhance navigational safety, the China MSA has put forth specific guidelines for vessel operators.
Advisory 1: Boost Collision Prevention Training
Vessels are encouraged to gather information on accident prevention, focusing on high-risk collision zones and the operational patterns of fishing boats. Crew members should familiarise themselves with documents like the Guidelines for the Prevention of Collision Between Merchant Vessels and Fishing Vessels in China’s Coastal Waters and the Safety Notice for Preventing Collisions between Commercial and Fishing Vessels. Knowing the high-risk areas and best practices is essential.
Advisory 2: Create Scientific Navigational Plans
With typhoon season bringing intense storms, fishing vessels often enter and exit ports in large numbers. Ship operators are advised to carry out safety risk assessments before each voyage, adhere to recommended and public routes, and steer clear of areas that are heavily congested with fishing boats during port entry and exit.
Advisory 3: Perform Safety Inspections of Critical Equipment
All vessels must conduct thorough inspections and tests of essential systems, including engines, steering gear, windlass, boilers, radar, AIS, VDR, VHF, electronic charts, and navigation lights. It’s crucial that all equipment is in good working order and readily available to prevent failures at critical moments.
Advisory 4: Enforce Watchkeeping Requirements
When ships are navigating through areas bustling with fishing activity, it’s crucial to switch from autopilot to manual steering. Keeping a vigilant lookout with at least two crew members is essential, and if possible, maintaining a safe distance of at least one nautical mile is recommended. If fishing vessels aren’t responding on VHF or their movements seem uncertain, it’s important to take proactive and significant avoidance actions. New masters or those who aren’t familiar with China’s coastal waters should receive tailored safety briefings.
Advisory 5: Enhance Emergency Training and Drills
Vessels should prioritise conducting emergency drills that cover procedures for man overboard situations and vessel abandonment. These exercises will enhance the crew’s ability to perform self-rescue and assist each other in emergencies. In critical situations, vessels must ensure their own safety while actively engaging in rescue efforts and promptly reporting incidents to the local Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre.
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Source: Safety4Sea
