UNOLS Research Vessel Safety Standards, 10th Edition, July 2015.

Abstract

The UNOLS Research Vessel Safety Standards (RVSS) are the standards for the operation of oceanographic research vessels owned, operated or chartered by members of the University-National Oceanographic Laboratory System (UNOLS), to assure that research at sea is conducted to the highest practicable standards of safety. Full compliance is a requirement to maintain status as a UNOLS designated research vessel. UNOLS member institutions who operated other vessels or small boats which are not designated as UNOLS vessels are encouraged to comply and should adhere to the requirements of Chapter 18, “Chartering of Non-Institution Vessels. These standards are based in major part on applicable laws and regulations. In addition and where appropriate, they supplement, extend, and assist in the interpretation of the legal requirements. Nothing herein is intended to conflict with the legal standards, but rather to encourage and assist the operator to not only meet, but also exceed the legal minimums, as practical. It is recognized that the wide variety of vessel types and sizes, and their diverse operational usage will necessarily lead to many discretionary interpretations. In such cases, a common-sense application of the principles of good seamanship and sound marine engineering practice will be more effective than attempting to cover all conceivable cases. The UNOLS Research Vessel Operators’ Committee (RVOC) and the UNOLS Research Vessel Technical Enhancement Committee (RVTEC) are available to assist operating institutions by providing reference materials, and interpreting the laws, regulations and standards. Operators are reminded that in addition to the legal responsibilities and liabilities associated with Federal laws and regulations, and maritime law, safe operation is one of the factors used by Federal science sponsors in evaluating the merit of a ship as a research platform. These standards do not apply to research submersibles, which are covered by a different, and detailed, set of regulations, however a chapter on handling research submersibles from UNOLS vessels is covered in these standards. Recognizing that research vessels and ocean research in general should be at the forefront of maritime safety, research vessel operators should take every opportunity to participate in innovative research, procedures, and equipment operation to enhance the practice of safety at sea. Institutions are strongly encouraged to make available “Cruise Handbooks” or “User Manuals“ incorporating important parts of these standards, plus additional information on their particular ships and any pertinent institutional regulations or procedures. This document deals solely with safety standards for craft engaged in oceanographic or limnological research, or related instruction. For the purposes of this document the adjective “Research Vessel” applies to the terms ship, vessel, boat, or motorboat.