Inland Waters Small Passenger Boat Code

27        RESPONSIBILITY OF THE OPERATOR FOR SAFE MANNING OF THE VESSEL

27.1 It is the responsibility of the operator to ensure that the skipper and, where necessary, the crew of the vessel have, in addition to any qualifications, recent and relevant experience of the type and size of vessel, the machinery on the vessel, and the type of operation in which the vessel is engaged.  The operator should also assess whether additional crew are needed, and what training or expertise they may need, having regard to the type and duration of voyage or trip being undertaken.

27.2 In some cases, vessels will operate in higher risk areas – e.g. through locks and tunnels –  and also have higher risk passengers on board.  In these instances, it is recommended that a risk assessment be carried out.  The operator should ensure that there are sufficient persons on board with relevant experience to cope in the case of an emergency.

27.3 The following factors should be taken into consideration:

1.   Locks where additional crew may be needed to control the vessel and operate the lock.
2.   Tunnels where additional crew may be needed to summon assistance in the event of an emergency occurring within the tunnel.
3.   Passengers where additional crew may be needed to assist disabled passengers.
4.   Children where additional crew may be needed to supervise unaccompanied children.

27.4 At all times there should be a person with adequate experience in charge of steering the vessel.  The following factors must be taken into account:

          1.         the present and forecast state of the weather and visibility,
          2.         the proximity of navigational hazards,
          3.         the density of traffic in the area,
          4.         and the present and forecast water level and flow conditions.