Part II of the Canada Labour Code governs occupational safety and health conditions for employees of firms under so-called federal jurisdiction.  In the area of marine transport, vessel crews and dock workers are subject to this code.

Although Human Resources Development Canada has responsibility for the Canada Labour Code, Transport Canada, Marine Safety is responsible (under a memorandum of understandint) for enforcing various Code requirements with respect to crews and Labour Code, Transport Canada, Marine Safety is responsible (under a memorandum of understanding) for enforcing various Code requirements with respect to crews and dock workers working on board or in proximity to vessels for purposes of vessel operation or cargo handling.

In this regard, ship surveyors act as safety officers to inspect vessels of the workplace, arbitrate refusals to work, review complaints, investigate serious accidents, direct employers or employees to comply with requirements, and initiate legal proceedings where appropriate.

Firms not under federal jurisdiction must comply with specific provisions of the Canada Shipping Act or requirements imposed by provincial governments.

Ship's Tackle

Ship's tackle (ie, lifting cranes and related equipment) on domestic and foreign vessels is subject to periodic inspection to determine accident risk associated with use of the equipement.

Ship surveyors, acting as ship's tackle inspectors, verify the ship's log, assist in disassembling various parts, and issue certificates of compliance where appropriate.   Inspections carried out by recognized competent individuals are accepted, except in case of serious doubt.

This activity also includes inspection of permanent lifting cranes on loading/unloading docks as well as truck-mounted mobile cranes generally used in the residential construction industry.