A new code which sets out ‘best practice’ in the safety of passenger boats was launched earlier today. Developed by the Port of London Authority, the code brings together in one place practical advice and an interpretation of regulations that represent best practice for passenger boat operations.
PLA officials say the code is aimed at maintaining and improving safety aboard passenger vessels on the river. To draw up the code the Authority worked with the Maritime & Coastguard Agency, London River Services, the Marine Policing Unit, the Company of Watermen and Lightermen, the Passenger Boat Association, several Class V passenger vessel and high speed craft operators and other river users.
Speaking at the launch PLA chief harbour master, David Snelson, said: “the development of the Code is an important signal that the river community is not complacent about safety. In the twenty years since the Marchioness tragedy many improvements have been made, for example the electronic location system specially developed by us for vessels working on the river Thames in the centre of the city.”
”This latest initiative shows the commitment of the river community to constantly improve what we do; something that is vital as the use and popularity of the river for transport continues to grow.”
Copies of the Passenger Boat Code are available from the PLA website
