Trading in the Gulf region including Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf
You would have seen the recent news of several attacks against tankers trading in the Gulf area. It is too soon to predict how the political situation will develop but it cannot be excluded that further similar attacks will be taking place.
The BIMCO has released the following advice to their members and we like to share same with you:
BIMCO ADVICE TO MEMBERS
The tension in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf is now as high as it gets without being an actual armed conflict. Shipowners are advised to exercise extreme caution and instruct their vessels to take precautions as described below when operating in the area. Depending on the risk acceptance levels of the company, and to the extend operations allow, it could be considered to instruct ships to avoid the area or keep as much distance as possible.
Ships operating in the area should take following precautions:
- Continue to follow the registration and reporting procedures described in chart Q6099 and BMP 5.
- Report security incidents including suspicious behavior to UK MTO, MSCHOA and CMF. Details are found in BMP5.
- Increase vigilance of ship’s crew e.g. by stepping up on lookouts and security patrols, keep VHF radio watch and maintain dialogue with port authorities.
- When operating in the listed areas, implement security measures equivalent to ISPS Security Level 2.
- Consider improving the watertight integrity of the hull by closing selected doors and hatches.
- Consider ensuring that crew sleeping areas are located above the waterline.
- Consider the wide range of additional self-protection measures as described in ATP-02.1 Naval Cooperation and Guidance for Shipping, which can be found on the joint industry security website.
- Maintain close dialogue with insurance providers.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.