Loss Prevention Advice
- Details
- News /
Neglecting to review and integrate instructions and recommendations from manufacturers’ service letters into the Planned Maintenance System (PMS) can expose both crews and vessels to unnecessary risks, according to Gard.
Over the years Gard has handled numerous claims related to engine damage that could have been avoided if the instructions and recommendations in manufacturers’ service letters had been properly reflected in ships’ PMS. In some instances, the service letters were not distributed to all relevant vessels within the fleet.
As explained, in others, the letters were shared but lacked clear company instructions on how the required or recommended changes should be implemented and monitored, meaning the tasks were never added to the PMS.
- Details
- News /
The maritime regulatory landscape is undergoing significant changes as several key amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the STCW Code enter into force.
These updates represent a concerted effort by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to enhance safety at sea, protect the marine environment, and improve the welfare of seafarers. From new mandatory reporting protocols for lost containers to expanded safety requirements for fuel oil and lifting equipment, it is essential for ship owners, managers, and bridge teams to understand their evolving obligations.
The following summary outlines the critical changes across five key areas, identifying who is affected and the necessary actions required to ensure continued compliance.
Full advisory at the link.
- Details
- News /
Please note that your Board of Directors has approved the following changes to the Club’s By-Laws and Rules to take effect from February 20, 2026. The relevant amendments and additions are indicated in blue, and any required deletions in red. By-Laws In order to ensure the deadline relating to notice to the Members of the Annual Meeting, which includes the request for Proxies and for nominating Directors, the deadline for nomination of a candidate to the Board of Directors under Article II, Section 2 of the By-Laws has been amended to forty-five days instead of fifteen. The amendment to take effect as of the next policy year renewal, with the issuance of the new Rule Book, as of February 20, 2026, said date to be reflected Article VII, Sections 1 and 2 accordingly.
Full advisory at the following link.
- Details
- News /
An important new animation update focused on the dangers of ice-related conditions, particularly for tug and barge operations.
The latest instalment, titled “Ice, Ice Safety – Part 2,” continues the Good Catch safety series aimed at raising situational awareness and promoting risk mitigation in maritime work environments. Underwriters urge mariners and tug operators to proactively monitor ice conditions, maintain clear communication with relevant authorities, and coordinate with ice monitoring centres when planning or executing operations in ice-prone areas.
The original Good Catch animation highlighted the perils of working on deck in icy conditions, where sudden ice accretion can make superstructures, weather decks, and machinery treacherous and inoperable until cleared. Crew members can be caught off guard by swiftly forming ice, increasing the risk of slips, injuries, and operational disruption.
Make a Good Catch by being proactive in monitoring ice conditions and maintaining communication with other operators, the National Weather Service, the US Coast Guard, the US National Ice Centre and any other relevant authorities for the regions of operation.