Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 856 - PUBLIC UTILITY COMMISSION, OREGON BOARD OF MARITIME PILOTS
Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Chapter 856 is the governing body of regulations for the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots, which operates under the umbrella of the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC). This chapter details the rules that ensure the safe and efficient navigation of vessels in Oregon's pilotage grounds, particularly the challenging waterways of the Columbia River Bar, Columbia River, Willamette River, Coos Bay, and Yaquina Bay.
The Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots (OBMP) is a vital state agency responsible for licensing and regulating the highly specialized profession of maritime pilots. These pilots are essential for guiding large ocean-going vessels safely into and out of Oregon's ports, navigating complex channels, currents, and weather conditions.
Here's a breakdown of the key areas covered in OAR Chapter 856:
General Provisions (Division 10): This division includes definitions relevant to maritime pilotage, outlines the board's operational fees, and establishes general principles for its functioning.
Training and Licensing (Division 15): This is a critical section that sets forth the rigorous requirements for becoming a licensed maritime pilot in Oregon. It includes:
Pilot Trainee and Apprentice Selection & Training Programs: The Board oversees programs for aspiring pilots, defining the experience, education, and practical training needed. This often involves extensive trips under the supervision of licensed pilots, accumulating specific transit hours and maneuvers.
Examinations: Rules for written and practical examinations to assess a candidate's knowledge and ship-handling skills.
License Grades and Restrictions: Different grades of licenses may be issued, authorizing pilots to handle vessels of specific sizes or types, or within certain pilotage grounds.
License Renewal (Division 16): Procedures and requirements for the annual renewal of pilot licenses, including continuing professional development (CPD) or other ongoing competency requirements.
Incidents, Complaints, and Discipline (Division 19): This division outlines the process for investigating maritime incidents involving licensed pilots or trainees, handling complaints, and imposing disciplinary actions (such as license suspension or revocation, or civil penalties) for violations of rules, incompetence, or negligence.
Ratemaking Procedures (Division 30): The Board has the authority to regulate and establish the pilotage rates that licensed pilots can charge for their services. This ensures fair and transparent pricing within the industry.
Miscellaneous (Division 25): Covers various other operational aspects, including delegations of authority within the Board and reporting requirements.
Why is this regulation important?
Oregon's waterways, particularly the Columbia River Bar, are among the most challenging in the world to navigate due to strong currents, shifting sandbars, and dynamic weather conditions. Maritime pilots, with their intimate knowledge of these local conditions, are crucial for:
Public Safety: Preventing accidents, groundings, and collisions that could endanger lives, cargo, and the environment.
Economic Vitality: Ensuring the smooth and efficient flow of maritime commerce, which is vital to Oregon's economy.
Environmental Protection: Minimizing the risk of spills or damage to sensitive aquatic ecosystems.
In essence, OAR Chapter 856 provides the comprehensive regulatory framework that enables the Oregon Board of Maritime Pilots to fulfill its mission of promoting public safety and ensuring the availability of competent pilotage services for vessels entering and leaving Oregon's ports.
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