Safe Operational Plans for dive vessels
Learn about Safe Operational Plans (SOP) for diving vessels and how you can get one.
Commercial vessels of six metres or less in length that are engaged solely in excursions, which do not proceed beyond enclosed waters (or more than five miles from a safe haven on the coast of New Zealand), are required to have a Safe Operational Plan (SOP) under Maritime Rule Part 40A.
A vessel required to operate under a Safe Operational Plan cannot then be under a Maritime Transport Operator Plan.
How to get a Safe Operational Plan:
To get a Safe Operational Plan, you will need to do the following:
- Contact your nearest diving vessel Authorised Person/Safety Auditor for an inspection, audit and approval of your operation*
- When your SOP has been approved, you will need a Certificate of Compliance from Maritime New Zealand before you can begin operating.
Each operation must then undergo an annual audit for their Safe Operational Plan Certificate of Compliance to remain valid.
* This is on behalf of the Director of Maritime New Zealand.Related information:
Getting help
Contact a Maritime Officer for help with your operational and health and safety requirements.