What’s new?
The Marine Safety Management System Regulations (MSMSR) (SOR/2024-133), which came into force on July 3, 2024, replaces the previous Safety Management Regulations (SOR/98-348). The MSMSR expand safety management system requirements to cover most Canadian commercial vessels. Certification and oversight processes depend on the vessel’s class, size and type of operation.
Commercial vessels subject to Chapter IX of SOLAS, whether Canadian or foreign, operating in Canadian waters will continue to comply with the International Safety Management (ISM) Code by developing and implementing a safety management system.
For Canadian commercial vessels, the Authorized Representative (AR) will identify a Ship Manager, this Qualified Person will be responsible for developing, implementing and managing the shore-based and on-board operations of the vessel.
What is a Safety Management System (SMS)?
An SMS is a structured framework of policies and procedures designed to implement effectively safety and environmental protection practices. It fosters a positive safety culture, improves risk management, and stimulates safe and secure operations of a vessel.
Do I need one?
An SMS enhances day-to-day marine safety operation of vessels, while keeping financial impacts manageable. Its consistent and appropriate use is expected to reduce the likelihood and severity of marine occurrences, leading to fewer fatalities, serious injuries, and pollution events in the Canadian commercial marine sector.
Canadian vessels subject to the Regulations are grouped into five classes, with compliance requirements based on their size and type of operation. Detailed information is available at Marine Safety Management System Regulations
The following are type of vessels exempted from the MSMSR requirements:
- Fishing vessels that are under 24.4m in length and 150 GT or less;
- Vessels without mechanical means of propulsion that do not carry people, dangerous chemicals, or oil in bulk;
- Human-powered vessels;
- Inflatable vessels carrying passengers on an excursion in Canadian waters; and
- Pleasure craft.
Compliance Dates
Transitional periods and compliance dates depend on the vessel size and type, as well as their certification or registration schedule. For more details, visit Marine Safety Management System Regulations.