More care for bulk carriers

摘要

Major research into structural failures amongst bulk carrier casualties has led to new conditions of classification, which require greater strength to be maintained in older ships. New revised unified requirements have been set for ships contracted after July 1,1998. Marine transport, like any other means of transport and industrial activity, inevitably involves the risk of accidents. Such accidents may be unlikely, but if they do occur, they may cause harm to the ship itself, its cargo, crew and passengers, to port infrastructure or other vessels, to the marine and coastal environment, or to the business of its owners and operators. The way the ships are designed and operated is intended to minimise the risk of accidents. Risks can usually be reduced, at progressively greater cost, by adding further safety measures or achieving a higher standard of safety consciousness in operation. Nevertheless, it is impossible to eliminate them altogether.