Spring Fog Preparedness... Intensive Ship Safety Inspections Until May

Comprehensive Inspection of Passenger Ships and Small Fishing Vessels
Intensive Crackdown on Life Jacket Non-Wearing on Yachts and Fishing Boats

[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Moon Chaeseok] The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries announced on the 25th that it will implement spring maritime accident prevention measures from next month until May to prevent ship collisions and sea fishing accidents caused by spring marine fog.

First, together with local governments and the Korea Maritime Transportation Safety Authority, they will inspect navigation and engine equipment on about 1,500 fishing vessels under 10 tons.

For all coastal passenger ships nationwide, all 161 vessels currently in operation will have their fire extinguishing and lifesaving equipment status, as well as navigation and engine facilities, checked.

For ships where collisions or groundings frequently occur, crew training using virtual reality (VR) equipment will be conducted, and compliance with onboard work safety rules will be inspected.

For leisure vessels such as yachts and fishing boats, the Korea Coast Guard will focus on cracking down on unlicensed operation, disorderly navigation, and failure to wear life jackets. They will also support engine inspections and equipment management training.

Following last month's accident where a ship sank due to an uncovered cargo hold, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries plans to inspect all domestic cargo ships for cargo securing and overloading until June.

The Ministry also stated that to prevent maritime accidents caused by spring fog and other adverse weather conditions, it will provide weather and safety information more promptly through the Fisheries Cooperatives and the Korea Maritime Transportation Safety Authority.