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SINGAPORE – With more visitors heading to the Southern Islands and Pulau Ubin in recent months, safer management measures have been put in place at the Marina South Pier and Changi Point ferry terminals, the Singapore Maritime and Port Authority said on Thursday. (MPA). (Dec. 24).
These include the deployment of safe distance ambassadors to remind visitors of the need to stay far enough apart, setting up dedicated queues for areas with more traffic, such as the departure lounge and jetty areas, as well as increasing of the use of the berth at Marina South Pier during peak weekend periods to cater for the largest number of ferry trips.
This would ease overcrowding, given the increased number of weekend passengers departing for the southern islands after restrictions on international travel were applied due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The AMP also reminded people involved in recreational activities at sea to be aware of potential dangers such as strong waves and currents, deep drops, underwater hazards, and nearby vessels, and noted incidents involving visitors to the islands of the south in recent weeks.
Earlier this month, a 41-year-old man was found dead after diving alone near the Sisters’ Islands Marine Park. He was reportedly with his family when they arrived at the Sisters’ Islands.
Beach goers should swim only in areas manned by lifeguards or within marked swimming areas, the MPA said.
Singapore is also in the middle of the monsoon season, which is expected to end in early March.
“Particularly from December this year to early January next year, monsoon swells are expected to cause continuous and widespread moderate to heavy rains, with strong winds and rough seas that can increase risks at sea,” said AMP. , reminding all users and members of the port that the public remains safe at sea during the end of the year Christmas season.
Mr. Ishak Ismail, Chairman of the National Council for Maritime Safety at Sea, said: “At this time when many of us are looking forward to spending time with family and friends, we should continue to remind ourselves, our colleagues and the public that we put safety first, so that we are safe and can spend this holiday season with our loved ones. “
The maritime industry has put in place a number of safety measures during this period, including checks carried out by AMP inspectors on ferries to ensure that rescue and fire fighting devices on board are in good working order.
Notices have been sent to ferry and port facility owners and operators to stay alert to security threats and to ensure that the ship’s crew is familiar with security measures, such as the location of emergency exits .
Contractors involved in marine projects such as the Tuas port development, as well as land reclamation on the west coast of Tuas and Pulau Tekong, have been reminded to exercise due diligence to prevent workplace accidents.
“Companies are also encouraged to conduct safety time-out drills as a reminder that everyone in the workplace has a role to play in ensuring that safety is not compromised,” the MPA said.
The MPA warning comes after five workplace deaths occurred in two weeks in late November and early December, prompting the labor movement to urge companies to prioritize and safeguard worker safety. .
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