The Offshore Marine Services Association (OMSA) is praising the U.S. Coast Guard for revising its previously-issued Policy Letter to allow for more practical data storage methods to meet the video and audio surveillance requirements of the Safer Seas Act.

Following OMSA’s recommendation, the USCG has now approved motion- and voice-activated monitoring as an alternative to continuously recording cameras and microphones, enhancing safety measures for mariners.

OMSA emphasizes its commitment to collaborative efforts aimed at advancing pragmatic safety and regulatory measures while prioritizing the well-being of mariners. This approach aligns with the broader mission of creating a safe and conducive offshore environment.

The Safer Seas Act, enacted in late 2022, mandates video and audio recording in offshore energy vessels’ hallways, passageways, and common areas outside crew members’ berths, with a requirement to retain the footage for at least one year.

President of OMSA, Aaron Smith, states, “OMSA is dedicated to finding feasible solutions that ensure mariners’ protection without imposing unnecessary costs. The updated policy letter reflects industry collaboration in implementing effective surveillance systems.”

OMSA’s endorsed recommendations on video and audio surveillance will significantly reduce data storage requirements by 90%, lessening the financial burden on vessel owners while maintaining robust security and monitoring measures.

Smith further acknowledges OMSA members’ collaborative efforts with the Coast Guard, mariner advocates, and victim advocates in advancing this change, emphasizing the importance of upholding statutory requirements to protect mariners.

He concludes, “We value the contributions of American mariners and look forward to ongoing collaboration with the USCG to bolster the industry, support American energy, and safeguard our workforce.”