Navigation (Wireless Telegraphy) Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules of 1942, No. 122, are Regulations made under the Navigation Act 1912-1935 by the Governor-General, acting on advice from the Federal Executive Council. These Regulations aim to amend the existing Navigation (Wireless Telegraphy) Regulations to enhance maritime safety by ensuring that ships are equipped with wireless equipment in lifeboats. The problem these Regulations address is the need to provide reliable communication means in emergency situations, thereby improving the chances of survival and rescue at sea. The policy objective is to mandate the installation of approved wireless equipment on ships, ensuring that such equipment is readily accessible and functional in lifeboats, thus augmenting the effectiveness of distress signals and communication during maritime emergencies.

Scope and Application

These regulations, made under the Navigation Act 1912-1935, amend the Navigation (Wireless Telegraphy) Regulations to require certain ships to be equipped with specific wireless communication apparatus in lifeboats. The regulations apply to all ships subject to the Navigation (Wireless Telegraphy) Regulations, mandating the installation of two approved aerial masts, one for each side of the ship's lifeboats, a portable wireless transmitting apparatus in the chart room, and means of charging the apparatus's batteries. These requirements are designed to ensure immediate wireless communication capabilities in the event of an emergency. Notably, the regulations do not apply to ships that already carry motor lifeboats fitted with an approved wireless telegraphy installation, as per the Navigation (Life-saving Appliances) Regulations. Compliance with these new requirements must occur before the first voyage after the regulations come into effect, unless the Director specifies a later date due to practical difficulties in obtaining the necessary equipment.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of this statutory instrument are found under the amendment of the Navigation (Wireless Telegraphy) Regulations, specifically the insertion of regulation 9a (1). This section mandates that every ship subject to these Regulations must be equipped with two approved aerial masts, each stored in a lifeboat on opposite sides of the ship, along with a length of aerial wire. Furthermore, it requires the ship to have an approved portable wireless transmitting apparatus and approved means for charging the batteries of this apparatus, all of which should be kept in the chart room or another approved room. The regulation also stipulates that all batteries must be fully charged once a month, with a record of these charges kept by the ship's master. The obligations imposed by these regulations are quite specific and detailed. Ship owners and operators must ensure that their vessels are equipped with the required wireless equipment, including the aerial masts and transmitting apparatus, and that these items are kept in the designated locations on the ship. Additionally, they must ensure that the batteries are charged monthly and that records of these charging events are maintained in the chart room. The requirement for approved equipment means that the apparatus must be certified by the Postmaster-General. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in civil and criminal consequences. Although the exact penalties are not specified within this statutory instrument, it is likely that breaches of these safety regulations could lead to penalties under the broader Navigation Act 1912-1935. Given the critical nature of the wireless equipment in emergency situations, the penalties for non-compliance could be significant, potentially including fines or other legal actions to enforce compliance.