Updates to merchant shipping safety law proposed
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The IMO has made the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code) mandatory under the SOLAS to provide an international standard for the safe transport of ships carrying liquefied gases in bulk. The IGC Code is amended by IMO from time to time to enhance the safety of gas carriers.
A spokesman for the Transport and Housing Bureau said, "The proposed legislative amendments seek to update the requirements in respect of the design, the electrical system and the cargo handling and operation of gas carriers by implementing the latest requirements of the IGC Code. The latest requirements to be incorporated include increasing the separation distance between gas tanks and the side shell, mandating the carriage of an approved stability instrument as well as enhancing the design of electrical system of gas carriers."
The Legislative Council Panel on Economic Development and the relevant consultative committee of the Marine Department have been consulted. Members supported the legislative proposal.
The proposed legislative amendments were gazetted today (May 4) and will be tabled at the Legislative Council on May 9 for negative vetting.
Ends/Friday, May 4, 2018
Issued at HKT 11:00
Issued at HKT 11:00
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