>Press Releases Home > Publications and press releases > Press Releases Investigation into at-sea collision completed The Director of Marine today (June 2) accepted the report submitted by the Investigating Officer into the collision between high-speed passenger ferry "Nan Sha No. 38" and Mainland container vessel "Zhong Hang 908", which occurred during low visibility conditions southwest of Tsing Yi Island on February 17, 2005.   The investigation was conducted by the Marine Accident Investigation and Ship Security Policy Branch of Marine Department with the aim of improving the safety of life at sea and avoiding similar incidents in future.    A Marine Department spokesman said the findings and conclusions of the investigation report could not yet be published because legal proceedings involving the masters of both vessels for alleged breaches of the Shipping and Port Control Ordinance (Cap. 313) are in progress. "However, the department will implement a number of measures that are recommended by the Investigating Officer to enhance maritime safety," the spokesman said. The measures to be implemented are: (a) The Marine Department will require operators of high-speed craft to install an automatic identification system (AIS) in their vessels in order to enable easy identification and monitoring by the Vessel Traffic Centre. (b) The Vessel Traffic Centre will give advice on the validity of speed restriction exemption permit (SREP) during the broadcast of fog warnings. (c) All high-speed craft ferry companies will be required: * to review operational procedures and sailing arrangements to ensure safe navigation during restricted visibility situation; * to assess the risks and hazards with respect to safety of passengers associated with the operating of high-speed craft such as disposal of luggage in passageway, use of seat belts; and establish policies and procedures with a view to eliminating such risks; * to develop measures of continuous improvement to crew with a view to enhancing the safety awareness. The performance standard of the crew should also be monitored during their course of duty. (d) In due course, a copy of the investigation report will be sent to the High Speed Craft Consultative Committee requesting the high-speed craft ferry companies to look at the findings of this accident with a view to ensuring that safety of navigation and passengers of their passenger vessels are maintained.   "A copy of the report will also be sent to the Mainland's Maritime Safety Administration for their information and appropriate follow-up action in due course," the spokesman said. The marine accident was investigated in accordance with the International Maritime Organisation Code for the Investigation of Marine Casualties and Incidents. Ends/Thursday, June 2, 2005
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