276 Transport
Carriage of Dangerous Goods
The department conducts random shipboard inspections of vessels in Hong Kong waters in accordance with international and local standards. The dangerous goods legislation is being revised to make it conform with the new requirements of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code.
Pilotage Service
Pilotage is compulsory in Hong Kong waters for vessels of 3 000 gross tonnage and above, oil tankers of 1 000 gross tonnage and above, and all gas carriers.
The Director of Marine is the authority regulating and monitoring the pilotage service with the assistance of the Pilotage Advisory Committee, which has a membership covering a wide spectrum of port users and shipping interests. The pilotage service is provided through the Hong Kong Pilots Association, which is a private company. The service is available round-the-clock throughout the year.
Local Craft
In 2005, 14 000 local craft including passenger, cargo, fishing and pleasure vessels were licensed in Hong Kong to provide a variety of efficient and continuous services for the port and the community. The department plans to introduce new legislation in 2006 with a view to rationalising the licensing and management of these vessels.
Hydrographic Service
The Hydrographic Office carries out hydrographic surveys and produces bilingual nautical charts and publications. It also produces Electronic Navigational Charts. Notices to Mariners for updating of charts are issued once every two weeks. The office also provides real-time tidal information and tidal stream predictions through. the Internet (www.hydro.gov.hk).
Planning, Development and Port Security
The department's Planning, Development and Port Security Branch provides professional advice on port and marine projects, and coordinates publicity on all marine development works. These include developments in Tuen Mun Area 38, Central, Wan Chai, southeast Kowloon and Tseung Kwan O, and the proposed new links to the Pearl River Delta.
The branch is also the executive arm of the designated authority for implementing the IMO's International Ship and Port Facility Security Code for port facilities in Hong Kong. Current tasks include monitoring security exercises and drills conducted by port facilities and undertaking annual audits of port facility security plans.
Safety Guide on Cargo Handling
The Safety Guide for Container Handling is available from the Marine. Department for cargo operators to enhance marine industrial safety. The safety guide provides guidance on matters such as managing safety at work, safety procedures for working on top of containers and personal protective clothing and equipment.
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