Berth operators are reminded of their responsibility to provide a safe berth for any visiting vessels, which should include a knowledge of the depth of water and of any obstructions.
Surveying the Estuary and River
As part of the PLA's conservancy commitment, the entire riverbed is surveyed on a rolling 8 to 10 year cycle. To this end, the PLA Hydrographic Service conducts some 300 surveys per annum in the 400 sq. miles of its area of responsibility. These surveys not only ensure that the PLA meets its commitment to provide safe access; they also contribute to fulfilling its environmental obligations.
Surveying Berths
Whilst these 'main' surveys include all berths, they are generally insufficiently detailed or frequent enough to constitute a declaration of safe water on the berth. As each berth is privately owned, it is the responsibility of the berth operator/owner to provide sufficient evidence to the Master/Pilot that a vessel will remain safely afloat or, in certain cases, safely aground, whilst alongside the berth.
Where a surveying contractor other than the PLA Hydrographic Service has conducted a hydrographic survey on behalf of a berth operator, the berth operator is responsible for ensuring that the results should be passed to the Port Hydrographer without delay. This will ensure that the Harbour Master, PLA Pilots and VTS Centres are equipped with the latest data and can advise mariners accordingly.
Should any operator be in any doubt as to the type or frequency of survey most appropriate for their berth, the Port Hydrographer would be happy to discuss the matter and provide immediate advice www.pla.co.uk/hydrohomepage or telephone 01474 562207.
This notice hereby cancels NABSO No.1 of 2002.
