Bulletin No.: 09/1994

Date (Y-M-D): 1994-06-06
 

Subject: Standards for the Construction and Inspection of Small Passenger Vessels, TP 11717 E

Background

In 1986, a group of ship operators, concerned about the safety of B.C.'s small vessel industry, joined forces with the Coast Guard to develop a program aimed at ensuring the safety of their clients.

Accordingly, the Small Passenger Vessel Compliance Programme was introduced in order to provide a three-year period during which upgrading of the vessels and certification of the crews could occur.

After having some experience with the Programme (which was terminated on December 31, 1989), it became obvious that the programme would not resolve the difficulties encountered while inspecting this type of vessel, and some permanent measures were needed in the future.

Again, the initiative was undertaken by a group of ship operators and ship designers and later overtaken by the Coast Guard to develop a set of standards which would be more appropriate than the present regulations.

As a result of all the above the subject standard has been developed and published and should be used while designing, inspecting and certifying small passenger vessels.

Description

The Standards include the requirements of the many regulations and standards which are applicable to small passenger vessels. The Standards apply to passenger vessels up to 150 GRT which are not more than 24 m in length and are restricted to voyages not more exposed than home-trade Class III or inland waters Class II. These vessels may carry up to 100 unberthed or 25 berthed passengers.

The Standards cover the following topics:

1. General Provisions.
2. Construction - Subdivision and Stability.
3. Machinery and Electrical Installations.
4. Structural Fire Protection, Fire Detection and Fire Extinction.
5. Life Saving Equipment and Arrangements and Safety of Navigation.
6. Inspections and Certificates.

This Bulletin cancels Ship Safety Bulletin 17/88, dated November 23, 1988 and Ship Safety Bulletin 2/90, dated January 25, 1990.

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