Rule 43 Safety Zones Around Exploration or Exploitation Vessels

(a) For the purpose of this Rule, with respect to an exploration or exploitation vessel that is in position for the purpose of exploring or exploiting the non-living natural resources of the sea bed, a safety zone is the area that extends from the outer extremities of the exploration or exploitation vessel to the greater of

(i) 500 metres in all directions, and

(ii) 50 metres beyond the boundaries of the anchor pattern of the vessel.

(b) The Minister may establish a safety zone greater than the safety zone referred to in paragraph (a) if it is reasonably related to the nature and function of the exploration or exploitation vessel and is necessary to ensure navigational safety.

(c) No vessel shall navigate within a safety zone.

(d) Paragraph (c) does not apply to a vessel that

(i) is in distress,

(ii) is attempting to save life or provide assistance to a vessel in distress,

(iii) is operated by or on behalf of the state having jurisdiction over the exploration or exploitation operations, or

(iv) has received permission from the person in charge of the exploration or exploitation vessel to enter the safety zone around that vessel.

(e) [Repealed, SOR/2008-272, s. 30]