- Describe the role of EACH of the following:
(a) the International Maritime Organisation;(4)
(b) the Maritime and Coastguard Agency:(3)
(c) the Marine Accident Investigation Branch.(3)
(a) Role of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) (4 marks)
- Develops and adopts international conventions and regulations to improve maritime safety, security, and prevention of marine pollution.
- Provides a forum for co-operation among member states on technical matters affecting shipping.
- Monitors and promotes effective implementation of IMO conventions worldwide.
- Continuously updates standards (e.g., SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW) in response to new risks and technological advances.
(1 mark each = 4)
(b) Role of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) (3 marks)
- Implements and enforces UK maritime safety and environmental protection legislation.
- Carries out ship inspections, surveys, and certification to ensure compliance with national and international regulations.
- Provides search and rescue services through HM Coastguard, ensuring safety of life at sea.
(1 mark each = 3)
(c) Role of the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) (3 marks)
- Investigates marine accidents and incidents involving UK ships worldwide and other ships in UK waters.
- Identifies causes and contributing factors to improve safety, not to apportion blame or liability.
- Publishes safety recommendations and reports to prevent recurrence and promote learning across the maritime industry.
(1 mark each = 3)