(a) whether security norms are being violated while handling gas
and petroleum items on ships;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government has conducted any inquiry in this regard;
(d) if so, the outcome therein; and
(e) the remedial measures taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF SHIPPING (SHRI G.K. VASAN)
(a): No, Madam.
(b): Does not arise.
(c) & (d): An accident was reported recently in an Indian Flag vessel
named LPG Maharshi Krishnatreya while handling the machinery in compressor
room of the vessel. A preliminary inquiry by a team comprising officers of
Mercantile Marine Departments of Kandla and Jamnagar and experts from the
Shipping Industry and Indian Register of Shipping has been ordered.
(e): The standards of design and safety of ships carrying gas and petroleum
products are required to conform to the codes adopted under the International
Maritime Organisation’s Conventions. The oil and gas industry regulates the
standards through vetting inspections and prescribed international best
practices in the trades. The preventive measures are laid down as per the
safety management systems developed by the shipping company as per
international safety management code. Besides, the Government has also
prescribed the following preventive measures:
(i) All personnel working on such ships are required to have special
ship type endorsement which is given based on specialized training and/or
experience.
(ii) Gas-tankers and chemical tankers are required to have certificate
of fitness which is given only if the vessel is found to be constructed and
maintained in a safe manner, fit for such trade and in compliance with IMO
prescribed standards like International Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk Code and
International Liquefied Gases in Bulk Code.
(iii) The flag state/port state control inspections are carried out covering
the operational aspect by the surveyors of Mercantile Marine Department.
(iv) Ensuring well established procedures on board ships under ISM Code by
adopting safe operating practices.
(v) Ensuring availability of calibrated gas detection equipments on board
ships.
(vi) Ensuring availability of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including
Emergency Escape Breathing Device (EEBD) on board ships.
(vii) Ensuring availability of procedures to carry-out risk assessment of
key ship board operations so that safeguards against such risks are initiated
by the ship personnel.