Suriname’s Maritime Authority (MAS) has warned Canawaima Management Company NV that the MV Canawaima faces a sailing ban from August 14 unless outstanding safety deficiencies are fixed by August 13, giving the company a final chance to submit a plan of action.
The warning was contained in a letter dated August 7 to the company’s terminal manager in Southdrain, Nickerie, MAS said.
It follows earlier correspondence on July 26 instructing the company to submit a plan of action on the MV Canawaima’s inspection report within one week.
A re-inspection on August 5 found that most of the previously identified deficiencies had not been remedied, according to MAS.
The required plan must set out a clear timetable for fixing the deficiencies, carrying out major repairs and drydocking the vessel, the authority said.
Several safety matters must be resolved by August 13, including the full presence and readiness of all legally prescribed safety equipment, MAS said.
Fire-fighting equipment must be present, inspected and ready for immediate use, and the fire detection and fire-fighting system must be fully operational, it said.
All crew members must hold valid Basic Safety Training and Crowd Management certificates, with written proof of enrolment accepted, and completion required within one month, where certificates are not yet available.
An independent, recognised ship surveyor must also inspect and assess the watertightness of the hull and cofferdams, with a positive report a condition for any temporary exemption from mandatory drydocking, according to MAS.
The ban will remain in place until safe navigation conditions are fully satisfied, the authority said, adding that the safety of the vessel, crew and shipping traffic is paramount.
MAS called on Canawaima Management Company NV to act without delay. (GFC Nieuws)
