TRANSPORT
Hydrographic Service
The Hydrographic Office of the Marine Department carries out hydrographic surveys and produces bilingual nautical charts and publications. Notices to Mariners for updating of charts are issued once every two weeks. The office also provides real-time tidal information for the Kwai Chung Container Terminals and tidal stream predictions through the Internet.
Port Planning and Development
The Planning and Development Branch of the Marine Department provides professional advice on port and marine projects, and coordinates publicity on all marine development works. These include the CT9, Central and Wan Chai Reclamation, the Hong Kong Disneyland project and developments in the Tuen Mun Area 38, South- East Kowloon, Tseung Kwan O and Western district as well as the proposed links to the Pearl River Delta.
Safety Guide and Code of Practice on Cargo Handling
A Safety Guide for Shipboard Container Handling was issued to the industry in December 2001, based on the recommendations of a consultancy study completed in September 1999. The Safety Guide provides guidance on such matters as managing safety at work, safety procedures for working on the top of containers and personal protective clothing and equipment. The department is preparing a draft code of practice for derrick cranes which will provide practical guidance to owners of vessels and competent examiners on provisions such as strength calculations, tests and the examination of cranes to be implemented in consultation with the industry after Merchant Shipping (Local Vessels) Ordinance enters into force (expected in mid- 2003).
Educational Seminars and Marine Safety Campaign
The Marine Department continues to organise educational seminars and marine safety campaigns both in Hong Kong and in the Mainland, the latter in liaison with the authorities and local shipping companies. Through these activities, shipmasters and vessel operators are continuously updated on the latest port developments and regulatory framework. This forms a major part of the department's ongoing programme to ensure safe and efficient operation of the port of Hong Kong.
Port Services and Facilities
Mainland and Macau Ferry Services
The Marine Department manages two cross-boundary ferry terminals: the China Ferry Terminal (CFT) with 13 berths and Macau Ferry Terminal (MFT) with 12 berths. The CFT opens from 7 am to 10 pm daily and the MFT operates round-the- clock.
Immigration and Quarantine Services
Immigration and quarantine services are available 24 hours a day at the Western Quarantine and Immigration Anchorage and from 6 am to 6 pm at the Eastern Quarantine and Immigration Anchorage. A shipping agent may apply for immigration and quarantine services, including advance clearance, for a ship.
261