Recent Posts

A GPS rollover event occurred in January 2022. Furuno has published a list of affected GPS models (see link below). Also attached is MCA Safety Bulletin 24 and the Mackay Look-up table

https://support.furuno.co.uk/en_US/news/gps-rollover-january-2022

There are other models of GPS units (JRC) that may need attention. Inspectors are advised to be aware of this risk.

Safety Alert: 02/2021 aims to raise awareness of correct use of hydrostatic release units, for both float-free life rafts and float-free EPIRBS.

The Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU) is designed and approved to automatically deploy a life raft or EPIRB in the event of a vessel sinking.

HRUs operate between 1.5 and 4 metres of water depth, to release the securing mechanism for the life raft or EPIRB.

AMSA inspectors often identify circumstances where HRUs are incorrectly fitted. In 2021, AMSA has issued over 100 deficiencies in relation to deficient HRU arrangements on life-rafts and float-free EPIRBs.

This Technical Alert is issued by the Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) to raise awareness of an unusually high number of port State control (PSC) detentions in the Black Sea MoU area, in particular, Novorossiysk Russia.