The Harbour Master’s division of the Port of Rotterdam Authority will enforce in the event of violations of the new regulations of the Port Regulations regarding lashing at sea, which means that “violators may be booked”, according to the port’s statement.
The height of the fine for violations will be determined by the Public Prosecution Service.
Since April, it has been prohibited for all seagoing vessels to lash or release containers and other goods while at sea and until now.
“This measure is in line with our policy to guarantee safety and order on the harbour waters,” stated government harbour master René de Vries, who pointed out that “lashing at sea jeopardises the safety of the crew and therefore also the safety on the harbour waters”.
In accordance with the Port Regulations, lashing at the quay in the management area of the Port of Rotterdam is only allowed by the crew on ships smaller than 170 metres, while longer ships may only be lashed by licensed lashing companies.