A Hull shipping lawyer is urging vessel owners to get to grips with new legislation relating to the safety of workers. Andrew Oliver, a shipping and transport partner at Andrew Jackson, said the two new Merchant Shipping regulations, which came into force on January 10, apply to UK ships and all other vessels when they are in UK waters.
He warned: "There are severe penalties including imprison- ment and the detention of vessels for breaches of the regulations, so I would encourage ship owners to act now to ensure they are up to speed with the changes."
The rules require a risk assessment to be carried out when workers are, or may be, exposed to optical radiation such as laser equipment.
There is also a duty to give 14 days notice, where possible, to the Secretary Of State of any intention to carry out work relating to asbestos on board.
Mr Oliver said: "There are also requirements relating to the preparation of work plans, worker training, consultation and record keeping relating to the identity of workers working with asbestos and their health."