Code of Practice for Aquaculture Vessels

Image courtesy of BMT

Research Program

Offshore Engineering and Technology

PROJECT LEADER

Chris Shearer

BMT

PROJECT ID

1.21.005

BECRC PARTNERS

BMT
DNV Australia
Oysters TAS
Tassal Group
University of Queensland
UTAS

START DATE

March 2022

END DATE

February 2024

DURATION

24 months

PROJECT IN BRIEF

There is an identified need to develop a Code of Practice (COP) specific to offshore aquaculture vessels for use in the growing blue economy sector.

The National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV), existing rules and regulations of Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), and guidelines of International Association of Classification Societies are relevant in describing the requirements of offshore aquaculture vessels. However, those rules and guidelines are not placed in a single Code of Practice (COP) document.

Therefore, future offshore aquaculture vessels deployed by the growing Blue Economy sector may have to refer to many documents with multiple interpretations in a time-consuming and non-user-friendly process.

This project will conduct a comprehensive review of existing National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV) and the guidelines of classification societies to develop a new set of “Deemed to Satisfy” rules and regulations for offshore aquaculture vessels.

The final COP will be a reference document for Australian operations, to be submitted to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) for possible adoption.

FINAL PROJECT REPORTS – SEPTEMBER 2024

FINAL REPORT

FINAL GUIDANCE

JANUARY 2024 UPDATE

In January, a public workshop was convened to gather feedback on the draft of the Code of Practice for Aquaculture Vessels. Over 30 individuals from various organisations participated in this workshop and subsequent follow-up meetings have been arranged to engage with a broader audience and stakeholders, aiming for a more comprehensive code of practice. Feedback received has been incorporated into the code, and the final document is now prepared for submission. This version will undergo review by AMSA and a presentation with the Tasmanian RINA branch has been scheduled for 12th March 2024.

PAST EVENTS

Code of Practice for Aquaculture Vessels Workshop

Code of Practice for Aquaculture Vessels Workshop

Workshop Recording: Code of Practice for Aquaculture Vessels Workshop

PUBLICATIONS

OMAE 2023: Prioritising challenges and risks in aquaculture vessels for developing a code of practice.

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FAQ

What is the primary purpose of introducing a Code of Practice for aquaculture vessels?

The primary purpose of introducing a Code of Practice for aquaculture vessels is to provide comprehensive guidance for the planning, building, surveying, and operation of such vessels in Australian waters. The code aims to facilitate the certification, commencement, and safe operation of aquaculture vessels, with a specific focus on addressing the challenges associated with aquaculture operations, within Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone.

What specific aspects of aquaculture vessel operations does the Code of Practice address that may not be covered by current regulations?

The Code of Practice addresses specific challenges in aquaculture vessel operations, including operations health and safety, regulatory classification issues, safety challenges during offshore transitions, food safety management systems, and the health and welfare of live animals during transport. These aspects may not be covered comprehensively by current regulations, necessitating the formulation of a specialised code to ensure safe and sustainable vessel operation.

Why a Code of Practice when there is already significant AMSA legislation and requirements already for the industry?

While there are existing regulations from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) and other relevant bodies, the Code of Practice is introduced to address specific challenges of aquaculture operations. The Code of Practice serves as a resource and guideline tailored to the domestic commercial vessels exclusively operating within Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone. It aims to provide more detailed and specific guidance on design, operation, and safety aspects of aquaculture vessels beyond what is covered in broader legislation.

How does the proposed Code of Practice complement existing AMSA legislation and requirements for the aquaculture industry?

The proposed Code of Practice complements existing AMSA legislation and requirements by providing more detailed and specific guidance tailored to the challenges of aquaculture operations. It is designed to address gaps and specific aspects not covered comprehensively by broader regulations. The Code of Practice aligns with ongoing efforts in the shipping industry and emphasizes the necessity of producing a guideline with broad adoption across both the industry and government spheres.

Will adherence to the Code of Practice be voluntary or mandatory for aquaculture vessel operators?

Adherence to the Code of Practice is explicitly stated to have the status of a voluntary guideline. The Code of Practice is voluntary, indicating that it serves as guidance rather than imposing mandatory requirements on aquaculture vessel operators.

How were industry stakeholders involved in the development of the Code of Practice, and what feedback was considered during its formulation?

Stakeholders were actively engaged in the development of the Code of Practice through interviews conducted between September 2022 and January 2023. These interviews involved individuals from four aquaculture sectors (research, authority, designer, and operator), ensuring diverse viewpoints. The discussions delved into prevailing aquaculture practices, regulatory landscapes, and aquaculture requirements. Feedback on challenges and potential solutions in design, operation, safety, training, and food safety management systems was gathered, contributing to the formulation of the code.

What resources and support will be provided to aquaculture operators to help them understand and implement the Code of Practice effectively?

The references include documentation such as the National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV), Commonwealth Legislation Marine Orders, National Law Exemptions, the Uniform Shipping Laws (USL) code, IMO Resolutions, guidelines from organizations like ABS, DNV, The Shipowners’ Club, and others. These documents lay out the regulatory framework and technical standards for the design, construction, survey, and operation of various vessels, including those involved in aquaculture.