To reduce the hazards associated with these operations, contracts for these services shall specify a minimum level of safety and seaworthiness. In addition, the Master is required to ensure that a knowledgeable officer inspects water taxis prior to their being placed in service and at least daily thereafter. This chapter provides guidance on these safety inspections. Ensure that contracts for safe reliable water taxi services are available in ports which MSC vessels frequent.
Area charts are available and current.
Fire extinguishers are present in sufficient number for the size of the boat and currently inspected. Anchor and anchor chain are adequate given the size of the vessel. Topside areas are free of conditions which may be hazardous to passengers. The vessel is equipped with sufficient clean and serviceable life jackets for the maximum capacity of the vessel. Life jackets must be stowed in a readily accessible place marked clearly in English.