Canada TC Marine News

Small Commercial Vessel Safety Guide TP 14070

Transport Canada Marine Safety published the Small Commercial Vessel Safety Guide (TP 14070E, December 2010) to inform owners and operators of their legal responsibilities under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001. The guide covers passenger-carrying commercial vessels not exceeding 15 gross tonnage with up to 12 passengers and commercial workboats not exceeding 15 gross tonnage. The guide is explicitly non-binding and clarifies that it does not replace applicable regulations—it advises operators to consult Transport Canada and the Department of Justice website for current legal requirements.

Pleasure Craft Operator Card Competency Requirements

Transport Canada explains the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) requirement that has been in effect since 1999, mandating that recreational boat operators demonstrate boating safety knowledge and carry proof of competency. The guidance covers acceptable documents (PCOC, pre-1999 certificates, professional marine certificates, rental checklists), youth horsepower restrictions (under-12 limited to 10 hp; 12-15 limited to 40 hp; under-16 prohibited from PWC), and exemptions for Nunavut and Northwest Territories. Fees for courses and cards are set by accredited course providers, not collected by the government.

Transport Canada Ship Safety Bulletins Index

Transport Canada's Marine Safety Directorate maintains an online index of Ship Safety Bulletins dating back to 1977, numbered sequentially by year of publication (e.g., 01/2003). The bulletins are aimed at owners, authorized representatives, and operators of commercial vessels, providing timely safety information including collision regulations, navigation, cargo handling, fire prevention, crew certification, and vessel inspection procedures. The index includes active bulletins as well as a separate archive of replaced bulletins.