Overview

The Operations and Environmental Programs (OEP) branch manages and enforces programs, guidelines and standards for safe ships, navigation and environmentally responsible marine operations.  Specifically, this work is related to:

• cargo handling and ship-port interface;
• environmental protection;
• marine environmental response systems and aerial surveillance;
• domestic (flag state) and foreign (port state) ship inspection;
• navigation safety and radiocommunications;
• protection of navigable waters; and
• registration.

It also trains and certifies inspectors who ensure the effective enforcement of legislation, regulations and procedures with respect to safe and environmentally responsible shipping and navigation.