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West Coast Powerboat Handling since 1994.

 

MED A4

The MED A4 was a one day course for Basic Safety and Operator Proficiency for Small Non-Pleasure Vessel Operators.

This Certificate has now been dropped by Transport Canada as the requirements were almost the same as the PCOC.

If you have previously obtained this certificate, it is still valid.

SDV-BS is now the course which is a pre-requisite for the SVOP.

I recently had an inquiry from a former student where his company had informed him that he would need a PCOC to replace his MED A4.  I contacted Transport Canada in Ottawa and spoke with Mario Lavoie and Terry SanCartier and received the following from Terry:

Following our discussion over the telephone yesterday, I can confirm the following: 

The MED A4 is recognized as proof of competency when operating a boat fitted with a motor that is used for recreational purposes.

For the purposes of MPR, subsection 205(3), a training certificate from previously conducted approved MED A4 is valid:

i) in lieu of the Pleasure Craft Operator Card; and 

ii) on vessels of not more than 15 gross tonnage operating not more than 2 miles from shore in sheltered waters, other than passenger carrying vessels and fishing vessels.

I’ve attached a copy of the ship safety bulletin. (SSB 11/2007)

Best regards,

Terry SanCartier

Standards and Policy Development Officer / Agent d'élaboration des normes et des politiques

National Pleasure Craft Operator Competency Program / Programme nationale de compétence des conducteurs d’embarcations de plaisance 

Marine Safety and Security | Sécurité et sûreté maritime 

Transport Canada | Transports Canada 

My note: If you are carrying passengers, such as transporting workers to their work site, operating more than 2 miles form shore in sheltered waters or operating in Near Coastal Class 2 waters, you will require the SVOP certificate.

A Transport Canada Recognized Institution for
SDV-BS and SVOP courses.

Recognized Examiner for
ROC(M)

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
and CPS-ECP. 

Sail Canada - Senior Powerboat & Senior Cruising Instructor Evaluator and Member School.