COP_2023_V7_pages

3.7.5 For trials activities, as opposed to operational deployments, it will take a detailed process of review and selection
by the ‘Operator’ to identify and match the necessary functional and operational requirements to the Waterspace
availability and conditions needed.
3.7.6 To achieve a successful, authorised and approved MASS deployment a number of Waterspace Authorities may
need to be consulted dependent on the area requirements and the extent of the evaluation tasking. This may include
the area authorities from inshore to offshore ‘ownerships’ who may need to be consulted to cover the whole
deployment planned operations and also the waterfront support facilities, communications and surveillance
requirements. The principal points of contact are the Harbour Masters (HM) and Inner Harbour Authorities, the MCA
Maritime Future Technology Team, Marine Scotland, and, potentially other UK Government Departments, MMO
(Marine Management Organisation) especially where sensor and transmitter operating licences may be required.
Initial contact to the local HM is recommended in order to gain a full appreciation of the bounded area and adjacent
authorities, and other constraints such as environmental restrictions.
3.7.7 Notice to Mariners and appropriate radio navigation warnings (e.g. RNW and WZ) should be issued as
appropriate.
3.7.8 During the planning phase of any MASS Operational deployment the following additional operators and or
authorities should also be considered, and notification issued and or clearance obtained where relevant:
n Fishermen (Bulletin of intended ops);
n Offshore operators (i.e. Oil & Gas, and Renewable Energy operators/owners);
n Established local water sport leisure clubs and organisations;
n Other stakeholders with economical, safety or environmental interests in intended location.
3.7.9 In working to achieve the necessary approvals, it is expected that a suite of HSE documentation should be
provided to support the mission and assure the relevant approving authorities that full consideration to the safety
and risk management of the intended operation or evaluation trial has been completed. This may include a full
HSE Plan, Launch and Recovery Risk Assessment, Emergency Recovery Plan and Procedure, and the outline
Mission Plan and Method Statement. These documents will support the approval application and ensure all
operations are conducted within the intent of this Code. It also provides proof of the application of Industry Best
Practice and cognizance of the sensitivity and responsibility to societal acceptance of autonomous systems.
3.7.10 When a MASS operator is planning to complete operations within designated areas where offshore structures
are present, or are being constructed, it is expected the appropriate approval from the Offshore operator is sought
from the Offshore Wind Farm Developer or Oil/Gas Installation Operator. As part of this operator approval of the
mission, Risk assessment, emergency response plan and a communication plan will be required.
3.7.11 In general, all offshore structures have operational coordination. This will be through a Marine Co-ordination
Centre (MCC) for Offshore wind, or Offshore Installation Manager (OIM) for Oil/Gas installations. The MASS
operator must liaise with the appropriate coordinator to seek permission to access the work area and follow the
Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPS) and entry protocols.
3.7.12 The documentation submitted by the owner/operator will be as appropriate for the intended operation and could
include full formal safety assessments. As a minimum it should be to the standard expected by the relevant Health
and Safety Executive.
MASS UK Industry Conduct Principles and Code of Practice Version 7
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