Financial Crime World

Shipping Safety: Nauru Enacts New Code for Carriage of Dangerous Goods

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Nauru has taken a significant step towards enhancing shipping safety by enacting the International Code for the Safe Carriage of Packaged Irradiated Nuclear Fuel, Plutonium, and High-Level Radioactive Wastes on Board Ships (INF Code).

Key Provisions

  • The new code sets out strict guidelines for the carriage of dangerous goods on board ships.
  • Vessel masters must ensure that a safe system of work is in place for crew members and other persons on board (Clause 71).
  • Specific requirements are outlined for dangerous goods in packaged form, including accurate identification, classification, packaging, placarding, marking, and labeling in accordance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code (Clause 72).

Documentation Requirements

  • Accurate completion and signing of documentation by shippers is required for dangerous goods.
  • Vessels will not be allowed to carry such goods unless all required documents are provided.

Training and Competencies

  • Crew members must undergo training and maintain records of their competence for handling dangerous goods (Clause 74).

Powers of Owners and Masters

  • Owners and masters of vessels have been granted specific powers under Clause 75 to:
    • Refuse to carry dangerous goods
    • Inspect packages suspected of containing such goods
    • Take necessary actions to ensure safety

Port State Control Measures

The code introduces port state control measures to ensure compliance with international shipping regulations. Under Part 3, inspectors will be empowered to:

  • Conduct inspections on vessels
  • Require masters to stop or maneuver the vessel
  • Demonstrate equipment operation
  • Provide access to documents and information
  • Issue warrants to enter and search premises
    • Seize evidence
    • Retain items for testing

Liability and Limitation of Liability

Part 4 of the code deals with liability and limitation of liability for shipowners and operators. Under Division 1, liability is limited in accordance with international conventions, including the Athens Convention relating to the Carriage of Passengers.

Conclusion

The new code demonstrates Nauru’s commitment to ensuring shipping safety and security, and its implementation is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s maritime industry.