IUMI urges action on places of refuge
01.06.18, Industry PolicyThe International Union of Marine Insurance has joined an industry initiative urging coastal states to adhere to IMO guidelines when a ship in distress or in need of assistance requests a place of refuge.
The IMO Legal Committee is invited to take note of the industry's concerns presented in a document submitted by International Chamber of Shipping, International Group of P&I Clubs, International Union of Marine Insurance, and International Salvors' Union. Early and decisive action on a place of refuge is necessary to protect human life, minimise the risk of structural deterioration and mitigate the threat of pollution from the ship's cargo and bunkers. The initiative comes as a reaction to a series of incidents with casualty vessels being delayed in accessing a safe harbour. Cefor has taken an active role in raising these concerns through the IUMI Political Forum.