Marine Safety Management System Regulations (MSMSR) have some key changes to be aware of. This bulletin is a reminder that certain transitional provisions, identified in Part 6 of the Regulations, will expire on July 3, 2026, the second anniversary of the MSMSR.
Transport Canada has issued Ship Safety Bulletin No. 05/2026 to remind vessel owners, authorised representatives and ship managers of upcoming adjustments that relate to the expiry of transitional provisions and will affect additional classes of vessels.
Background
The Marine Safety Management System Regulations (MSMSR) came into force on July 3, 2024, establishing requirements for vessels to implement a structured Safety Management System (SMS).
An SMS is defined as a structured set of policies and procedures designed to support the effective implementation of safety and environmental protection practices.
The regulations include transitional provisions under Part 6 to allow phased implementation for different vessel classes.
What Is Changing And What You Need to Know for July 3, 2026
As of July 3, 2026, the transitional provisions for certain vessels will expire.
From that date, the following vessels will be required to:
- Develop and implement a documented Safety Management System (SMS)
- Obtain a certificate to demonstrate full compliance with the MSMSR
The affected vessel types are:
- Class 2 non-passenger-carrying vessels
- Class 3 non-passenger-carrying vessels
- Class 4 non-passenger-carrying vessels over 15 gross tonnage
- Class 4 towboats and passenger-carrying vessels with a gross tonnage of 15 or less and measuring up to 7 metres
These transitional provisions are specifically referenced in subsections 602(2), 603(2), 604(2), and 604(4)(b) of the MSMSR.
Compliance Timelines
Compliance timelines are based on the vessel’s certification or registry dates.
Vessels with a Safety Inspection Certificate
- Must comply by the anniversary date of their Safety Inspection Certificate
Example provided by Transport Canada:
- A vessel issued a Safety Inspection Certificate on August 17, 2023 must comply by August 17, 2026
Vessels without a Safety Inspection Certificate
- Must comply by the anniversary date of their Certificate of Registry
This applies to:
- Passenger-carrying vessels up to 7 metres long with gross tonnage of 15 or less
- Towboats up to 7 metres long with gross tonnage of 15 or less
Example:
- A towboat registered on May 22, 2024 must comply by May 22, 2027
Additional Requirements
Transport Canada advises ship managers and authorised representatives to:
- Ensure that all required MSMSR certificates are obtained
- Keep the documented Safety Management System onboard
- Make these documents available for inspection
Transport Canada also notes that reviewing SMS documentation can take up to 45 business days once a complete application is submitted.
Summary
- Transitional provisions under the MSMSR will expire on July 3, 2026
- Additional vessel classes will be required to fully implement an SMS
- Compliance includes both documentation and certification
- Deadlines depend on vessel inspection or registry anniversary dates
- Operators should allow time for Transport Canada review and certification
Official Source
Full bulletin available here:
Marine Safety Management System Regulations – Second Anniversary (SSB No. 05/2026)
Partner with IIMS Canada
As the marine industry evolves, staying informed and connected is more important than ever.
Join the Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS Canada) to:
-
- Access industry insights and technical guidance
- Stay up to date on emerging risks and regulatory changes
- Connect with surveying professionals across Canada
