292 | Transport
and recognised security organisations by means of an innovative Flag State Quality Control (FSQC) System, which ensures that ships comply fully with the applicable international standards. Under the system, the performance of all ships and management companies on the HKSR is carefully monitored in accordance with established criteria. A computerised database is then used for selection of ships and companies for FSQC inspections. During the year, 45 FSQC inspections of ships and 12 FSQC visits of companies were carried out by the department's surveyors.
As a result of these quality control measures, Port State Control detention rates for Hong Kong-registered ships continue to remain well below the world average.
Marine Accident Investigations
To discharge its obligations as a responsible maritime administration, the department's Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) investigates all serious marine accidents involving vessels in HKSAR waters. The department also investigates all serious accidents outside the HKSAR if a Hong Kong-registered ship is involved.
Investigations are carried out to identify the cause of accidents as well as the circumstances under which they occurred to avoid similar accidents from happening again. Summaries of the investigation reports are posted on the department's website and copies of the reports are made available to the public upon request to promote and enhance maritime safety.
Depending upon the seriousness of the accident and the public interest involved, a public inquiry in the form of a Marine Court may be ordered by the Chief Executive, or, in case of an accident involving a licensed pilot, a Board of Investigation by the Director of Marine. In 2004, the MAIB investigated 20 serious accidents.
Seafarers
The Merchant Shipping (Seafarers) Ordinance and its subsidiary legislation. regulate the registration, employment, competence, discipline, health, safety and welfare of Hong Kong seafarers. The Marine Department's Mercantile Marine Office registers these seafarers and supervises their engagement on board ships.
In 2004, some 17 000 seafarers of various nationalities served on board ocean- going ships flying the Hong Kong flag. About 1 000 officers and ratings served on high-speed passenger vessels plying within the river trade area.
The department's Seafarers' Certification Section monitors training provided to seafarers and examines candidates for the issue of certificates of competency. Towards this end, the section works closely with various training institutions in the training of seafarers.
Participation in International Shipping Activities
International Maritime Organisation
As an Associate Member in the name of Hong Kong, China, the HKSAR participates in the activities of the IMO. The Hong Kong maritime industry is consulted on and kept well informed of all the issues discussed in the IMO that may