PSS 7.9 Marine Pollution

Purpose

To provide guidelines relating to marine pollution incidents.

Policy

In addition to the environmental risks associated with marine pollution there is a potential for risk to the community that includes:

• The health risks associated with potentially poisonous substances.
• The potential threat of fire or explosion.
• Marine Algae

Procedure

Actions on identifying marine pollution

• As per “Emergency Beach Closure.”

Plus:

• Notify SurfCom and request they contact the Environment Protection Agency, National Maritime Safety Authority, Department of Primary Industries.
• Provide assistance to Service NSW/DPI Officers as instructed.

Reporting

Witnesses to pollution being discharged from any vessel or noticing oil or chemical pollution should contact SurfCom, who will then contact the NSW Maritime or Environment Protection Authority.
The information that should be provided includes:

• When and where the pollution occurred.
• The type of discharge or a description of the product.
• The extent (area covered).
• Name of the vessel or other source.
• Any other relevant information.