There have been a number of incidents recently, caused by a lack of up to date hydrographic survey information on some berths, which have resulted in delays to ships. This Notice reminds operators of their shared responsibility in the day to day management of safe marine operations in the Port of London.
1. Surveying the Estuary and River
The PLA Hydrographic Service conducts some 200 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.
2. Surveying Berths
As part of the PLA's conservancy commitment, the entire riverbed is surveyed on a rolling 8 to 10 year cycle. 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 and/or River Engineer would be happy to discuss the matter and provide immediate advice.
