RNLI Navigation Safety Policy PDF 2022

Policy Navigation Safety Policy – PO1047 Policy owner Version number John Payne (Lifesaving Operations 3.0 Director) Published date P...

Policy Navigation Safety Policy – PO1047 Policy owner Version number John Payne (Lifesaving Operations 3.0 Director) Published date Policy contact 11/07/2022 Alana Ward (Senior Policy Development Manager) Owning department Lifesaving Operations Applicability All RNLI personnel involved in RNLI powered craft operations. Background of policy To clarify the responsibilities for the operation of all RNLI powered craft (whether on service, passage, trials or exercise), and set out the safe navigation principles of operating RNLI powered craft. Policy 1 Definitions For the purpose of this policy, the following definitions apply: 1.1 IRPCS: International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea. 1.2 RNLI craft: any boat, hovercraft or powered rescue watercraft operated within its designated concept of operation by the RNLI. 1.3 SOLAS V: Chapter V, Safety of Navigation, of the Annex to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea. 2 Introduction 2.1 This policy sets out the principles and expectations of operating RNLI craft to facilitate delivery of its lifesaving services. The overriding responsibility of those in charge of any RNLI craft (whether on service, passage, trials or exercise) is the safety of crew and those we are endeavouring to rescue, followed by the protection of the environment and the preservation of RNLI property. 2.2 In accordance with SOLAS V Regulation 34.1 the RNLI shall not prevent or restrict the person in command (coxswain, helm or commander) from taking or executing any decision which, in their professional judgement, is necessary for safety of life and protection of the marine environment. Published date: 11/07/2022 | Classification: The content of this document is considered Protected in line with the RNLI classifications. Policy 3 Principles 3.1 While a craft is underway its progress and the well-being of those aboard will be monitored by appropriate shore side authorities/individuals. 3.2 RNLI craft are highly visible and recognisable. It is expected that the conduct and navigation of RNLI craft will be of the highest standard and in accordance with best practice, especially: Compliance with applicable international and local regulations (including bye- laws, VTS and other reporting requirements). Awareness of the effects of operating in close proximity to other craft, water users and the shoreline (e.g. effect of wake or sudden, unexpected changes of course). When operating in heavy weather. When operating at night or in restricted visibility. When operating in areas of high traffic density. When operating close to the coast, in shoal or pilotage waters, or other hazards (including unchartered or poorly chartered areas). Compliance with RNLI policies, procedures and guidance. 3.3 RNLI craft must be fit for the intended task. They must: Be maintained and that maintenance recorded in accordance with the RNLI's instructions. Be fully equipped and stored for the intended task, with all equipment and hatches etc correctly secured. Be crewed in accordance with RNLI policy. The crew must be fit, adequately rested, briefed, suitably qualified, competent and current in their role. Have available appropriate risk assessments, contingency plans and operating procedures. Appropriate documentation should be carried on-board where applicable. 3.4 The person in command must ensure that the craft is appropriately and safely navigated especially with regard to: Passage planning, passage conduct, anticipation of hazards, maintenance of records, navigation and awareness of safe havens [SOLAS V Regulation 34]. Understanding and making full use of all available navigational equipment. The handling and sea-keeping characteristics of their craft. Access to relevant navigational and safety information. Up to date navigational charts and publications [SOLAS V Regulation 27]. Access to relevant environmental information. Use of dynamic risk assessments. Briefing; internal and external communications (including authorising use of personal mobile phones to ensure that crew members are not distracted from their duties or pass inappropriate messages). Watchkeeping. Liaison with the responsible authorities ashore. Adherence to the rules on the wearing and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Position fixing. Published date: 11/07/2022 | Classification: The content of this document is considered Protected in line with the RNLI classifications. Policy Resource management (including crew task rotation). Fatigue. Response to emergency situations. Adherence to procedures. 3.5 Nothing relieves the person in command or crew from exercising sound judgement when facing a situation not specifically addressed by policy, procedure and guidance, but where possible they should adhere to the intent of such procedures and their training. Related documents Policies, procedures and guidance ALB Navigation Safety SOP ILB-IRH Navigation Safety SOP Charts and Almanacs Guidance - GU1125 Lifeboat Training and Exercises Procedure - PR1015 Local Knowledge LOP Guidance - GU1182 Minimum Competence Requirements Guidance - GU1060 Operating Guidelines for ILB and IRH Guidance - GU1014 Operational Briefings and Debriefings (SMEAC) Guidance - GU1043 PIM Reporting Guidance - GU1113 Powered Rescue Craft Operational Limitations Guidance - GU1041 Radio Procedure - PR1052 Safe Crewing of Maritime SAR Assets - GU1007 Safe Use of Speed Guidance - GU1124 Navigation Safety FAQs Volunteer Code of Conduct Policy Forms and instructions Passage Planning Form Lifeboat Operations - Cover and Relief External references SOLAS V MGN 520 Human Element Guidance Review information Next review date 07/06/2025 Amendment history Date Version Author/Contributor Amendment details 04/12/2015 1.0 Mark Castle-Smith Policy first published on Horizon. 15/01/2021 2.0 Julie Rogers Reviewed – no changes needed. Review date updated. Published date: 11/07/2022 | Classification: The content of this document is considered Protected in line with the RNLI classifications. Policy 11/07/2022 3.0 Julie Rogers Reviewed and updated with changes to applicability and mobile phone communications. Review frequency 3 years Published date: 11/07/2022 | Classification: The content of this document is considered Protected in line with the RNLI classifications.