The Atlantic Accord Implementation Acts and the associated regulations require that each offshore installation (production, drilling, diving and accommodation) have a valid Certificate of Fitness issued by a recognized Certifying Authority before that installation is used to conduct any activity in the offshore area.
The Government of Canada, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Government of Nova Scotia through the regulations have recognized four organizations to act as certifying authorities. The four organizations are:
It is the ultimate responsibility of the Operator to ensure the program, including the facilities, comply with the regulations and to ensure the program can be conducted safely without polluting the environment. The purpose of this additional certification is to provide an independent third party verification that the installation, during the term of the certificate, is fit for purpose and is being maintained in compliance with the regulations without compromising safety and polluting the environment.
Following the issuance of the Certificate of Fitness, the Certifying Authority surveys the installation periodically to verify the continued integrity of the installation. In addition, all modifications/repairs to the installation that may affect its strength, stability, integrity, operability, safety or regulatory compliance need to be reviewed and accepted by the Certifying Authority to ensure the continued validity of the certificate.
The Operations department receives periodic reports and meets regularly with the Certifying Authorities of installations operating in our jurisdiction. The Operations Department also monitors and audits the activities of the Certifying Authority.
Canadian flagged floating installations (e.g. mobile offshore drilling units (MODUs), floating production storage and offloading (FPSO’s) and vessels, etc) are reviewed by Transport Canada Marine Safety, as the Flag State, and require the issuance of convention certificates by Transport Canada.
Transport Canada Marine Safety’s assistance is also sought as required for marine matters (e.g. lifeboats) on fixed installations.