FAILURE to strictly comply with existing guidelines on
the conduct of vessels in restricted visibility has been blamed for causing two
serious ship collisions in Hong Kong waters in the first half of 2013.
The first accident occurred at night in mid-April when
two Chinese registered coastal trade cargo ships collided near Bluff Head in
visibility of less than 0.5 nautical mile. One of the vessels sank, causing the
death of six crewmen.
The same month, and also at night, a high speed passenger
ferry travelling from Central to Cheung Chau collided with a barge in the North
Cheung Chau Traffic Separation Scheme in visibility of less than 0.5 nautical
miles, injuring 40 people.
The investigation into these incidents shows that the
accidents could have been avoided if the navigation officers of the vessels had
ensured strict compliance with the requirements of the Rules of COLREGS,
particularly Rule 19 on the conduct of vessels in restricted visibility.
Owners, operators, masters, coxswains and navigation
officers of vessels within Hong Kong waters are being encouraged to study an
issued Marine Department Notice regarding "Safe Navigation In Poor
Visibility" from time to time.
Source : HKSG.
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