FAQ

What is the difference between a Certificate of Survey and a Certificate of Operation?

Both the Certificate of Survey (CoS) and the Certificate of Operation (CoO) are essential documents issued by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) for commercial vessels, but they serve distinct purposes.

Certificate of Survey (COS):

  • The Certificate of Survey is primarily concerned with the structural integrity and safety equipment of the vessel
  • It is issued after a thorough inspection by an AMSA-accredited surveyor, ensuring that the vessel meets specific design, construction, and safety standards
  • The Certificate of Survey specifies the vessel’s maximum number of passengers, crew and operational limitations based on its design and intended use
  • This certificate is renewable at regular intervals, typically every five years, subject to ongoing compliance with AMSA regulations and standards

Certificate of Operation (CoO):

  • The Certificate of Operation focuses on the company/vessel’s operational aspects, including crew competency, and compliance with operational standards
  • It is issued based on the company/vessel’s intended commercial operations, such as passenger transport, fishing, or charter activities
  • The Certificate of Operation authorizes the company to engage in specific commercial activities with their vessels in designated areas and under prescribed conditions
  • Like the Certificate of Survey, the Certificate of Operation requires periodic renewal to ensure continued compliance with AMSA regulations and operational standards
  • It’s a condition of the Certificate of Operation that the vessel must have a safety management system that complies with the requirements in Marine Order 504

The Certificate of Survey and Certificate of Operation are both essential for commercial vessels operating within Australian waters and are subject to strict regulatory oversight by AMSA.

If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly service team.

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