Transport Canada's Marine Safety branch has a mandate that encompasses the full spectrum of responsibilities related to the safety of ships and the protection of life, goods and the environment. It is responsible for the inspection of ships operating within the limits of our region. The mandate is discharged through the provision of the following services:

• ship surveys and inspections
• plan approvals
• certification of shipboard personnel
• pollution prevention through education, inspection and enforcement
• Port Warden services
• registration of ships
• monitoring of ships of dangerous goods and hazardous materials
• inspection of foreign ships under international conventions and Port State Control
• investigation of marine accidents and enforcement
• promotion of safe practices
• application of occupational safety and health programs for both mariners and stevedores

The Office of Boating Safety division is responsible for the promotion of safety boating for recreational boaters. The Navigable Waters Protection Program is responsible for the public right of navigation and the need to construct infrastructure such as bridges, docks, dams, etc.

The links below contain information on specific subjects as well as regional contacts.

Marine Services On-line: acts, regulations and policies, navigational aids, marine conditions, publications, navigational services, and ship registration and licensing for commercial as well as recreational boaters.

Contact one of your nearest Marine Safety Office in the region if you need further information.