WORKSHOP ON VTS COMPETENT AUTHORITIES

Background

Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) are recognized internationally as a navigational safety measure through the International Convention on the Safety of Life at Sea 74/78 (SOLAS).  Specifically:

• IMO Resolution A.1158(32) Vessel Traffic Services that describes the purpose of VTS, the regulatory and legal framework for establishing and operating VTS, the roles and responsibilities of Contracting Governments, competent authorities, VTS providers and participating ships and sets out the qualifications and training requirements for VTS personnel.
• The IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS) where Member States have the primary responsibility to establish and maintain an adequate and effective system to discharge their obligations as flag, port and/or coastal States emanating from applicable international law.
• IALA standards including recommendations, guidelines and model courses that specifically relate to the establishment and operation of VTS, as described in IMO resolution A.1158(32).

Existing IALA guidance for the establishment and operation of VTS is largely focused on the delivery of VTS, that is the responsibilities of VTS providers. However, there is little guidance available describing practices to assist Contracting Governments and competent authorities, such as:

• Implementing a regulatory framework for establishing and operating VTS in accordance with relevant international conventions and IMO instruments, IALA standards and national law.
• Authorizing VTS providers.
• Establishing appropriate policy and regulatory mechanisms to ensure VTS providers meet their obligations.
• Ensuring that VTS training is approved and VTS personnel are certified.
• Demonstrating conformance with IALA standards and associated recommendations, guidelines, and model courses.
• Establishing a compliance and enforcement framework with respect to violations of VTS regulatory requirements.