Updated Marine Order 504

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has announced an updated version of Marine Order 504 (Certificates of operation — national law), which will come into effect on June 1, 2025. This update is crucial if you are in the maritime industry, involved with domestic commercial vessels (DCVs).

Key Changes – the updated Order introduces several significant changes aimed at enhancing safety and operational efficiency including:

• Simplifying SMS Requirements: Requirements for smaller, less complex vessels and operations have been simplified to make compliance easier.
• Strengthening Fatigue Management: Clarified and strengthened guidelines to ensure crew members are well-rested and alert.
• Managing Drug and Alcohol Risks: Enhanced policies to manage the risks associated with drug and alcohol use.
• Clarifying Roles and Responsibilities: Ensuring that roles and responsibilities for the safe operation of the vessel are clearly defined.
• Updating Emergency Plans: Assembly station requirements in the vessel’s emergency plan have been updated.
• Aligning Procedures with Risk: Procedures for onboard operations and emergency preparedness are now aligned with identified risks.
• Addressing Vessel Stability Risks: Operational risks to vessel stability are addressed more comprehensively.
• Reducing Administrative Burden: The certificate of operation renewal criteria have been amended to reduce administrative burdens.

Focus on Drug and Alcohol Policies – a notable update is the requirement for procedures and policies for vessel operations to include a comprehensive drug and alcohol policy. This policy must address the risks associated with drug and alcohol use, ensuring that all personnel are not impaired while operating the vessel.

Additionally, the risk assessment for the operation of a Class 4 vessel must now include or identify the arrangements to be followed to ensure that each hirer, participant, and any other person operating the vessel is not impaired by drugs or alcohol.

Operators with an existing drug and alcohol policy must ensure familiarisation with the policy is included as part of crew/staff induction and training, emphasizing the reasons for the policy and the risks associated with non-compliance.

How We Can Help? 

If you are an owner, operator, master, or crew member of a domestic commercial vessel, take time to understand how these changes may apply to your vessel and operation.

As leaders in Drug and Alcohol Testing solutions, we are here to help you navigate these important changes. Our expertise includes policy writing and providing comprehensive testing solutions to ensure compliance with the updated Marine Order 504.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team to learn more about how we can support you in implementing these new requirements. Stay informed and prepared for the upcoming changes to ensure your operations remain safe and compliant.

Source

AMSA News Release

AMSA Marine Order 504 PDF