TRANSPORT
dynamically-supported craft operate from Hong Kong to Macau and various ports in China. Safety is enhanced by the adoption of failure-mode effect analysis in analysing/ predicting shipboard system failures as part of the statutory requirements, supported by supervised crew training.
A plan-approval and survey service is also provided for local vessels. Those vessels plying within the waters of Hong Kong need to be licensed under the Shipping and Port Control Ordinance and are inspected and issued with certificates. A major review of the procedures and requirements for the certification of local craft is under way with the intention of developing a rationalised approach to the safety and control of the many disparate types of craft operating in Hong Kong. A free inspection and advice service is operated to promote safe working practices in ship repairing, ship breaking and cargo handling afloat.
The Marine Department conducts a wide range of examinations for persons requiring certificates of competency for service on vessels of all sizes and types operating in international and local waters. The department also monitors all aspects of training at approved establishments for the acquisition of various maritime qualifications recognised by the government and required by international conventions.
A major concern of the government and Hong Kong ship owners is the falling recruitment of local seafarers. Concerted efforts have been made by the Marine Depart- ment, Hong Kong Shipowners' Association, Merchant Navy Training Board, training institutions and seafarers' unions to stimulate the recruitment of trainee officers and to enhance the image of seafaring careers. The Hong Kong Shipowners' Association has agreed to sponsor 40 deck cadets at the Seamen's Training Centre and 30 engineering cadets for the three-year course at Hong Kong Polytechnic. By 1993, training courses currently offered by different educational institutes for seafarers will be provided centrally by the Vocational Training Council.
The Marine Department's Seamen's Recruiting Office and the Mercantile Marine Office register supervise the employment of about 2 800 active seafarers on board some 680 ships of various flags. Considerable attention has been given to providing more comprehensive training for Hong Kong seafarers. The Seamen's Training Centre provides training courses for new entrants and in-service training for seamen to comply with the requirements of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978.
Details of International Movements of Vessels, Passengers and Cargo are given at Appendix 37.
Hong Kong Shipping Register
The Hong Kong Shipping Register, which came into operation under local legislation in December 1990, reflects the government's commitment to the highest international standards of maritime safety while recognising commercial realities. Its supporting legislation embodies internationally-based standards for vessel construction, equipment and manning and is consistent with Hong Kong's obligations under International Maritime Organisation and International Labour Organisation conventions, including those on safety of life at sea, training and certification of crew, and protection of the marine environment. Administered by the Marine Department, the register had a total fleet amounting to 7.2 million gross registered tonnage at the end of 1992.
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