127 Learning from maritime emergency experts Wightlink partners with the UK’s HM Coastguard on an initiative to improve safety on the Solent Wightlink is working with HM Coastguard, the UK’s national maritime emergency service, to improve safety on the Solent, a strait between the Isle of Wight and Great Britain. Captain Sam Mitchell (pictured, left), Wightlink’s head of fleet operations, says: “Our bridge teams have unrivalled knowledge of Solent waters and value our close links with the coastguard. We were pleased to welcome them onboard and hope to carry out more joint exercises in future.” “These training visits give us valuable insights into commercial ferry operations,” says coastguard commander George Close (pictured, right). “Should there be an incident in the Solent we will work together so it’s important to know each other’s systems and procedures. This builds upon the regular search and rescue exercises we carry out with Wightlink and other ferry operators in the region.” Operational gaps targeted for maritime sustainability Maritime Technologies Forum provides recommendations on how to accelerate safe maritime decarbonisation Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) has produced a report to highlight the gaps in operational management practices and crew training requirements in association with classification and compliance body Lloyd’s Register. The report also identifies areas where safe maritime decarbonisation can be achieved, with reference to international conventions and codes. MFT’s report states that industry stakeholders must collaborate to safely adopt alternative fuels. This involves addressing key issues within three regulations: the International Safety Management Code; Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers; and the Maritime Labour Convention. Identification of hazards and risks, resolving regulatory uncertainties, and earmarking funding from market-based measures are crucial for successful implementation of alternative fuels. Referencing these fuels in international guidelines will ensure compliance at the national level. An innovative fire safety solution The Marioff HI-FOG water mist system has been approved to protect atrium-type areas The Marioff HI-FOG water mist fire protection system can now be used to protect atrium-type spaces with high ceilings onboard passenger ships, after passing fire tests at internationally recognised third-party laboratories and receiving Verband der Sachversicherer approval. “High spaces, such as halls, lobbies and reception areas are beautiful focal points that don’t just look great – they tie together the many functions of buildings and are critical for business continuity,” says Francisco García, business development manager at Marioff. “It’s not just the height of these spaces, but also the use of delicate materials and aesthetics that present a challenge for fire protection.” The HI-FOG system discharges a fine water mist at high velocity, creating significantly less water damage than traditional fire suppression systems.
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