Feb. 13, 2023

Mariners’ have a role in reducing the risk of lethal coral disease spread

In response to this ongoing environmental threat and the potential for ship-borne spread, the Coast Guard urges vessel owners and operators to familiarize themselves with existing ballast water requirements [USCG: 33 CFR Part 151 and 46 CFR Part 162.060; EPA: 2013 Vessel General Permit (VGP), as codified by the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act)] and ballast water management recommendations in MSIB 07-19. We also encourage vessel owners and operators to familiarize themselves with biofouling management and cleaning regulations and recommended practices (e.g., 33 CFR Part 151.2050;  EPA 2013 VGP Sec. 2.2.23).

Feb. 13, 2023

IMO Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping develops amendments to the STCW Code to combat bullying and harassment, including sexual assault and sexual harassment

Bullying and harassment, including sexual assault and sexual harassment (SASH), in the maritime environment have known detrimental effects on seafarers including depression, poor performance, unhealthy coping mechanisms and isolation. Moreover, seafarers who experience or witness bullying and harassment, including SASH, are more likely to make errors at work and provide compromised levels of service.

Feb. 10, 2023

Coast Guard Investigative Service remains ready to investigate all allegations of sexual misconduct in the maritime domain

The U.S. Coast Guard motto is Semper Paratus, meaning “Always Ready.”  As such, the Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) remains ready to respond to and investigate all allegations of sexual misconduct in the maritime domain. 

Feb. 10, 2023

MSIB: Reporting sexual misconduct on U.S. vessels

The Coast Guard has released Marine Safety Information Bulletin 01-23 "Reporting sexual Misconduct on U.S. vessels" to emphasize the Coast Guards commitment to investigating and pursuing appropriate enforcement actions for all reports of sexual misconduct on U.S. flagged vessels.

Feb. 9, 2023

Summary of the 9th session of the IMO Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction (SDC 9)

The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction (SDC) held its ninth session in-person and remotely from IMO headquarters in London, United Kingdom, from January 23 to 27, 2023.