THE AUSTRALIAN Maritime Safety Authority’s head of vessel safety and cargo systems, David Anderson, has been elected to chair the International Maritime Organization (IMO) sub-committee on carriage of cargoes and containers (CCC).

The sub-committee focuses on the safe transport of packaged dangerous goods, solid bulk cargoes, bulk gas cargoes, and containers on ships. 

The news will see Mr Anderson, formerly vice chair of the sub-committee, replace outgoing chair Maryanne Adams. The appointment to the chair position commences in 2025.

Mr Anderson expressed his pride in representing Australia as chair, highlighting the opportunity to play a key role in ensuring the safe carriage of cargo and containers worldwide.

“This is a critical area of maritime safety, as each type of cargo comes with unique risks to the vessel, crew and environment,” he said.

Mr Anderson also emphasised that the emergence of alternative fuels presents significant new risks that need to be addressed.  

“The rise of alternative fuels introduces new risks, and the sub-committee is dedicated to supporting their safe adoption as part of the push toward maritime decarbonisation.”

Mr Anderson will continue in his role at AMSA during his tenure as Chair.