Marine Orders - Part 59: Offshore support vessel operations, Issue 1 (Order No. 10 of 1997)

Overview

The Marine Orders, Part 59, issued in 1997, was introduced under the authority of the Navigation Act 1912 to address the need for a specific code of practice concerning the safe navigation and operations involved in the transfer of persons or goods to and from offshore industry vessels and offshore industry mobile units. This was enacted by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority to ensure that the unique requirements of the Australian offshore support vessel industry were met, thereby enhancing safety and operational efficiency within this sector. The purpose of these orders is to provide a framework that dictates the responsibilities of masters and crew in managing offshore support operations safely, allowing compliance through adherence to designated industry codes of safe practice. These measures were developed in consultation with industry associations, reflecting the needs and concerns of businesses operating within the offshore sector.

Scope and Application

The Marine Orders, Part 59, issued under the authority of the Navigation Act 1912, apply specifically to the offshore support vessel operations in the Australian maritime domain. These regulations are intended to ensure the safety of navigation and operations related to the transfer of persons or goods to and from offshore industry vessels and mobile units. The scope of the Act encompasses all vessels and offshore units engaged in these activities within Australian waters. Compliance with these regulations is mandatory for those involved in offshore support operations, and failure to adhere to the specified safety protocols may result in penalties. The Act extends its application through subordinate instruments, allowing for detailed specifications and modifications to the regulations as necessary to maintain safety standards. The application of the Act is not limited by geographical boundaries within Australia but is focused on ensuring that offshore operations meet the stringent safety requirements set forth in the Marine Orders, Part 59.

Key Provisions

The Marine Orders, Part 59, Issue 1, issued under Section 425(1AA) of the Navigation Act 1912, outlines a comprehensive code of practice for ensuring safe navigation and operations during the transfer of persons or goods to or from offshore industry vessels and mobile units. Under Provision 3, these orders apply specifically to offshore support vessels and offshore industry mobile units that are involved in support operations. Provision 5 delineates the responsibilities of the master and crew to ensure safe offshore support operations, which can be achieved by adhering to the designated industry code of safe practice. These orders impose significant obligations on the parties involved. The master and crew must ensure that all operations comply with the safety standards outlined in the designated industry code of safe practice. This includes maintaining operational readiness, ensuring all equipment is in good working order, and having contingency plans in place for emergencies. The provisions also mandate that offshore support vessels must be equipped with the necessary safety equipment and that the crew must be adequately trained in emergency procedures. Breaches of these provisions can result in serious consequences. Under Provision 4, certain provisions of Part 59 are designated as penal provisions, meaning that non-compliance can lead to legal action. The exact penalties are not specified in the explanatory notes but are likely to be determined under the broader framework of the Navigation Act 1912 and related regulations. The potential penalties could include fines, imprisonment, or both, depending on the severity of the breach and the specific circumstances. Non-compliance with these safety provisions can also have broader implications, including the potential for operational disruptions and increased risk to personnel and assets.