Pursuant to section 151 of the Implementation Act¹
Deemed not to be statutory instruments
Guidelines and Interpretation Notes are developed to provide assistance and guidance to interested parties in understanding the requirements of the regulations and how those requirements can be met. In certain cases, the goals, objectives and requirements of the regulations are such that no guidance is necessary. In other instances, guidance will identify a way towards achieving regulatory compliance. However, in all instances, the onus is on the Operator to demonstrate that the approach meets regulatory requirements.
Guidelines or Interpretation Notes sometimes reflect lessons learned through audits and assessments, advancements in technology and improvements to best practice. Guidelines are normally more encompassing of an entire regulation while Interpretation Notes are often issued in response to a specific matter or a particular topic where and when the Board deems there is a need or that a gap may exist in published guidelines. Where appropriate, Interpretation Notes may be subsumed into published guidelines when they are next updated or amended.
¹ Act referenced for simplicity