The Australian Government has noticed ClassNK of "Australian Code of Safe Practice for Ship-Helicopter Transfers" for the Helicopter facilities on the ships sailing in Australian waters.

For the Helicopter facilities on the ships sailing in Australian waters, it is required to comply with the Australian domestic law.

Recently, when making a port call to Australia, it is reported that the case of frequent pointing out of defects on the Helicopter facilities by Australian Maritime Safety Authority (hereinafter referred to as AMSA).
And also, AMSA has reminded us of the necessity to comply with "Australian Code of Safe Practice for Ship-Helicopter Transfers".

It should be noted above, the Australian domestic law (Australian Code of Safe Practice for Ship- Helicopter Transfers) is required to be applied, in addition to SOLAS requirement and/or Rules of ClassNK, for Helicopter facilities on the ships sailing in Australian waters.

The domestic law is defined the requirements of procedure during operations (incl. arrangement of landing party, etc.) other than Structure/Equipment. Therefore, it is noted to be required the following items in addition to SOLAS requirements and/or Rules of ClassNK.

[Strength of the Helicopter Landing Site]
The strength of Helicopter Landing Site (hereinafter referred to as HSL) is required to comply with chapter 3 of the domestic law.
Strength of HLS for the vessel is confirmed by the following documents.
1. Maximum designed load of HLS described in the structural drawing such as hatch cover, upper deck, etc.
2. Strength confirmation letter by HLS designer (Shipyard, Hatch cover maker etc.)
3. Strength confirmation letter issued by ClassNK in case that item 1. and 2. above is not available.
In order to issue the letter of above 3., structural drawing of HLS is to be submitted.



(To be continued)