We are bringing the below information to the attention of all ship owners and ISM operators.
We would like to highlight a critical safety concern relevant to vessels operating in ports under the jurisdiction of the Tokyo MoU. It is imperative to be aware of the potential risks associated with testing the automatic start of the emergency source of electrical power and its connection to the emergency switchboard, specifically when employing a simulated blackout method. This concern is detailed in the attached Tokyo MoU Safety Bulletin 04/2024.
Key Points of Concern:
- Simulated Blackout Method: There are inherent risks when using this method to test emergency power systems. Improper procedures or a lack of readiness can lead to failures that compromise the safety of the vessel and crew.
- SOLAS Compliance: This issue pertains to compliance with SOLAS Chapter II-1, Regulations 42 and 43, which mandate proper testing and operation of emergency power sources.
Action Required:
- Review the Bulletin: All ship owners and ISM operators are strongly encouraged to thoroughly review the attached Safety Bulletin.
- Circulate Information: Ensure that the contents of this memo and the attached bulletin are communicated to all relevant parties within your organization, including technical staff and ship crew.
- Prepare for Inspections: Given the precedent set by the Tokyo MoU, similar actions are likely to be adopted by other MoUs. It is crucial to ensure full compliance with the outlined requirements to avoid any complications during Port State Control (PSC) inspections.
Our Goal: We aim to support safe and compliant operations for all our certified systems. By adhering to these guidelines and being proactive, we can collectively work towards avoiding issues and ensuring smooth PSC inspections.
Direct link to the Tokyo MoU Safety Bulletin 04/2024 :
If you have any questions or require further assistance, please contact our dedicated unit – PRS HO/Marine Management Systems Bureau at kz@prs.pl.
We wish you safe voyages and successful PSC inspections!
