1.8.1 Merchant Shipping (Salvage and Wreck) Act 1993 – Wrecks and stranded vessels

For example, where the use of recreational craft involves an employer/employee relationship or where the use of such craft directly relates to an undertaking of a selfemployed person, there are duties imposed under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. Further information on the 2005 Act is available from the Health and Safety Authority at www.hsa.ie or Locall 0818 289 389 (between 9am and 3:00pm, Monday to Friday or email contactus@hsa.ie).

▪It is an offence to board or attempt

to board any wrecked or stranded vessel without the permission of the master or owner of that vessel. This is unless acting in an emergency for the purpose of either saving the lives of shipwrecked persons or saving the vessel or any part of its cargo or apparel from destruction.

Legislation

▪Any person authorised to raise

or remove a wrecked or stranded vessel must exercise due care in carrying out such operations to prevent or minimise damage to the environment.

1.8.3 Environmental Pollution – dangerous waste and litter

Certain wrecks may be protected under the National Monuments (Amendment) Act 1987 and a licence may be required from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to dive such wrecks.

Marine litter is an increasing problem for the marine environment and can harm ocean ecosystems, wildlife and humans. Plastic litter can persist in the marine environment indefinitely. Recreational craft users have a role to play in ensuring that they act responsibly in the disposal of all food, domestic and operational wastes produced on board. This includes food wastes, paper products, rags, glass, metal, bottles, crockery, discarded fishing lines/hooks/nets, baby care products and other refuse from vessels. The basic principles are:

1.8.2 Other requirements for commercial recreational craft operations

The main focus of this Code of Practice is the recreational use of craft in Irish waters. However, owners and operators of recreational craft are reminded that where such craft are operated on a commercial basis, certain other legislative requirements under other relevant legislation such as the Merchant Shipping Acts, the Sea Pollution Acts, and the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 (No. 10 of 2005) may apply in particular circumstances.

▪Never put any refuse into the sea

or other water;

▪Retain any refuse on board, store

it in a container and dispose of it correctly ashore, recycling where possible.

Part B

Figure from page 67

Recommended Guidelines for the Safe Operation of Recreational Craft