Following a recent increase in such incidents on this busy and complex waterway, the Shanghai Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) is highlighting preventive safety measures as these incidents pose significant risks to navigational safety, environmental protection and operational continuity. Such failures will result in expanded Port State Control (PSC) inspections that can lead to costly detentions, penalties, repairs and reputational damage to owners and operators.
Navigational Risks in the Yangzte River Estuary
The Yangtze River Estuary is a high-density traffic zone with complex hydrographic and meteorological conditions. Sudden machinery or electrical failures (e.g. main engine breakdown, steering gear malfunction, power blackout) can lead to:
- Collisions, groundings, or contact incidentsBlockage of the fairway, disrupting entire shipping schedules
- Environmental pollution from spills or emissions
- Endangerment of crew and vessel integrity
In accordance with the Shanghai MSA Requirements, any vessel experiencing a machinery or electrical failure in the Shanghai region will be subject to an expanded PSC inspection.
Key areas for inspection will include:
- Maintenance records of machinery and electrical systems
- Crew competency and familiarity with emergency procedures
- Compliance with the International Safety Management (ISM) Code
- History of deficiencies and corrective actions
Vessels found with unresolved or concealed deficiencies will face detention, leading to:
- Significant financial losses (e.g. demurrage, repair costs, PSC fines)
- Reputational damage to owners and operators
- Potential suspension of the Document of Compliance/Safety Management Certificate
Read the full safety measures here.
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Source: Lloyd’s Register
