Guidance: Marine Order 504 changes

Step 3: Prepare for simplified SMS

Change to existing requirements: Simplified SMS requirements for smaller, less complex DCVs.
Applies to: Eligible Class 2, 3 and 4 vessels. Check if your vessel is eligible.
Effective from: 1 June 2025.

Operators are required to have a full SMS until 1 June 2025.

How to prepare for simplified SMS

Download a simplified SMS toolkit for step-by-step instructions on how to build your simplified SMS.

The steps you'll need to follow depend on your vessel's class.

Are you a solo operator?

Solo vessel operators face more risks because they work alone. Use our solo operator checklist to make sure you're managing these risks.

Download the solo operator checklist PDF148.85 KB

Q & A

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