Transport Canada strengthens marine security requirements for vessels, facilities and ports

Transport Canada has established the Marine Transportation Security Regulations, strengthening its security requirements for vessels, marine facilities and ports.

These regulations, which have been approved by the Governor in Council for publication in the Canada Gazette, Part II on June 2, 2004, will implement the requirements of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) International Ship and Port Facility Security Code, as well as amendments to its Safety of Life at Sea Convention, 1974. The IMO is a specialized agency of the United Nations which focuses on improving safety at sea and preventing pollution from vessels.

Transport Canada’s regulations apply to all commercial vessels of 500 tons (gross tonnage) or more, or carrying more than 12 passengers and travelling between countries, and marine facilities and ports serving such vessels. They require the completion of security assessments and security plans, and the designation of security officers.
In addition, the regulations surpass the IMO requirements by extending them to cargo vessels of 100 tons (gross tonnage) or more other than towing vessels; towing vessels that tow barges carrying certain dangerous cargoes; and marine facilities and ports that serve the above vessels.

The Marine Transportation Security Regulations have been established in order to meet the International Maritime Organization’s July 1, 2004 deadline for implementation of the Security Code requirements.