Commercial vessel safety

Welcome to the commercial boating safety section of iMarine.

The Department promotes the safety of commercial marine operations as required by Western Australian legislation.

The Western Australian State Government legislates for the safe and correct construction, modification and operation of commercial vessels for use in the navigable waters of the State (rivers, lakes, estuaries, territorial waters) and seas adjacent to the State of Western Australia.

Since 1 October 2008, all new vessels and any existing vessels upgrading (changing Class) or undergoing alteration (modifying) are required to conform with the Consolidated Uniform Shipping Laws (USL) Code 2008.  

The Consolidated USL Code 2008 incorporates, via amendment, elements of the National Standard for Commercial Vessels. A Notice to Industry titled "Consolidated USL Code 2008" describing the changes to the code and the parts of the NSCV that have been adopted, is available in the Publications section of the Marine Information site.

For further information on the consolidated USL 2008 and NSCV parts can be accessed at the National Marine Safety Committee website at: http://www.nmsc.gov.au

The industry's vigour and growth depend upon all commercial builders recognising that one badly constructed vessel being exported interstate or overseas compromises the reputation of all Western Australian builders.

This section provides information on rules, regulations ad definitions related to commercial vessels.

For information on commercial vessel surveys refer to registration and vessel surveys.

To apply for a determination on the Safety Manning of a vessel please complete the Safety Manning Determination form

Remember, everyone has some responsibility for themselves and those around them. The safety and seaworthiness of a commercial vessel is your responsibility.

We hope that you will find this information useful and informative.