Drifting mines threaten seafarers' safe passage in the Black Sea

Drifting mines threaten seafarers' safe passage in the Black Sea
April 6, 2022 https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/04/06/business/maritime/drifting-mines-...

INTERNATIONAL maritime employers and unions urged governments to significantly increase efforts to ensure safe and secure passage for vessels following reports of mines drifting in the Black Sea.

The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) and the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG) — the social partners of the International Bargaining Forum (IBF) — met on March 31, 2022 to evaluate and discuss solutions that will ensure that seafarers, and their vessels, aren't collateral damage in the continuing conflict in Ukraine.

The IBF designated the Northern Black Sea Region, the Sea of Azov (46 degrees north latitude), and all ports in Ukraine Warlike Operations Areas (WOAs) in early March.

"The safety and security of seafarers in this evolving crisis, especially seafarers serving in the region, is our priority," said Captain Belal Ahmed, JNG spokesman and chairman of IMEC. "Reports that mines have been discovered both inside and outside of the designated WOAs raises serious concerns."

The NATO Shipping Center issued the following statement on March 30, 2022:

"There is a threat of drifting mines in the Northwest, West, and Southwest areas of the Black Sea. Drifting mines have been detected, and national authorities are working to find and neutralize any other mines in the region.

"Masters should take all precautions to mitigate the mine threat including avoiding floating objects, keeping the forward area of the ship clear of the crew, and using effective lookouts."

Meanwhile, David Heindel, chairman of the ITF Seafarer's Section said, "We strongly urge governments to do all in their power to mitigate the threat and secure the safe passage for vessels trading near these conflict areas. The world's seafarers must continue to perform their duties safely and keep global supply chains moving."