March 15, 2002



MOL Implements 2002 Companywide Safety Checks


TOKYO - for the eighth consecutive year, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd (MOL) (President: Kunio Suzuki) today announced the start of a companywide inspection to ensure safe vessel operation and cargo handling. The inspection program reflects ongoing advances in safety-related know-how and technology.

Based on MOL's vessel safety operation and environmental protection policies, the company is working to maintain and improve its transport service quality. Our safety inspection focuses on pinpointing and addressing real-world problem.

MOL makes it a top priority to maintain and strengthen the safety of its vessel operation and cargo handling procedures. Safety issues are overseen by the Operational Safety Committee, chaired by MOL President Suzuki.

This year's safety inspections are slated for March 15 to April 30.

Inspections will focus on ensuring the practical effectiveness of the onboard firefighting manual; confirming procedures for transferring oil between a ship's tanks; follow-up on issues from the Ad Hoc Safety Campaign last year; and ensuring compliance with MARPOL.

MOL marine specialists are visiting ships operated by MOL and affiliated shipowners and ship management companies, and performing a range of checks based on the ISM Code and ISO9002 quality assurance standards.

About 80 MOL-operated ships of all types will undergo on-board inspections, with experts evaluating crew training and readiness as well as the condition of the vessels. These inspections will help MOL set future standards for safety management.

After spotting problems and trends in each company based on a thorough analysis of daily data on ship inspection and accident, inspectors will visit ship management companies and charter ship owners both in Japan and overseas.

After analyzing data from past inspections and accidents, MOL marine specialists will also contact affiliated shipowners and ship management companies to discuss safety issues and ensure compliance with MOL safety standards.