The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has recently announced that it will be targeting container shipping with a new inspection campaign. 

This is in response to a spate of container losses off the Australian coast, many of which have caused pollution (predominantly in the form of debris) washing up on Australian beaches.

This further emphasizes the need for clients to ensure due diligence is at the forefront of their mind at all stages of their operation. 

Detailed records of crew training, continually updated planned maintenance systems and a clear safety management system review procedure are just a few examples of the areas it is likely AMSA will be focusing on in these inspections. Non-compliance poses the risk of detention for the vessels, potentially creating charterparty disputes.