Pratik Bijlani –
On December 21, the Mumbai Chapter of the Institute of Marine Engineers (IMEI) hosted a highly informative technical seminar and webinar, titled “MEG4 and Rope Safety”, at the IMEI House in Navi Mumbai. The event convened a panel of esteemed industry experts to delve into the latest Mooring Equipment Guidelines (MEG4) published by the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF), with a focus on optimizing the safety and performance of mooring systems. The seminar also served as a platform for announcing a pioneering partnership between IMEI and MarinArc, underscoring the institution’s commitment to bridging the gaps in maritime training and education. The event was further enriched by the participation of distinguished industry luminaries, including Capt. Philip Matthews, Director at SIMTF, and Mr Arun Kumar, former Chairman and Managing Director of the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), who shared their valuable insights and expertise with the attendees.
Mr David Birwadkar, Chairman, IMEI Mumbai Branch, extended a warm welcome to the assembled guests and expressed his enthusiasm for the newly forged partnership between IMEI and MarinArc, spearheaded by Ms Archana Sangal. He emphasized, “This initiative is about giving back to the industry by addressing the gaps in awareness and preparedness, ensuring seafarers and maritime professionals are equipped to prevent operational issues and accidents,” he stated. These courses include topics ranging from instrumentation to hydraulics and aim to prepare professionals for evolving industry regulations, such as ballast water record-keeping standards set to take effect in February 2025.
Mr Birwadkar highlighted the transition of IMEI’s training programs to online platforms during the pandemic, allowing participants from countries like Switzerland, South Africa, and Singapore to benefit. He also acknowledged the support of Mr Gupta and Mr Mohan Pal Singh, whose efforts facilitated this collaboration, enabling IMEI to overcome constraints in offering courses at its premises. “With over 20 value-added courses, we aim to touch all aspects of not only marine engineering but also the nautical side, providing both online and offline training to ensure greater outreach,” Mr. Birwadkar added. The session concluded with the release of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize the partnership.
The seminar transitioned into its technical sessions, with a keynote presentation by Mr Kishore Darda, Vice President of Garware Technical Fibres Limited. His address focused on innovative rope solutions and compliance with MEG4 guidelines. Mr Darda provided an overview of Garware’s cutting-edge technologies and its focus on manufacturing ropes tailored to meet industry requirements. “Complying with the guidelines is more important than the manufacturer’s trouble. A rope that meets the vessel’s exact requirements minimizes accidents and ensures operational safety,” he remarked.
Mr Darda introduced Garware’s advanced ropes, including the X2 and X10 series, which reduce weight, increase durability, and minimize snapback risks. He also showcased the company’s HMPE ropes as a safer alternative to traditional steel wire ropes. These ropes are lightweight, float on water, and eliminate the dangers of whiplash injuries, significantly enhancing safety during operations.
The event concluded with a lively Q&A session, offering attendees deeper insights into mooring safety and technological advancements. With the IMEI and MarinArch partnership poised to redefine maritime training and Garware’s innovations setting new benchmarks in rope safety, the seminar served as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovation in the maritime industry.
Marex Media