Transport Canada’s revised stance on SUP PFD usage
For the past number of months, Bob Purdy and Stefan Idzan have been petitioning Transport Canada to recognize the standup paddleboard as a suitable safety alternative when combined with use of a worn board leash.
Well, it appears as though Transport Canada’s decision has been made, and it looks like PFD is still the law of the land when it comes to SUP. The following quote from Transport Canada’s website on April 16, 2012:
Transport Canada, like the United States Coast Guard, classifies Stand Up Paddleboards as human powered vessels when they are being used for navigation. When being used within the surf zone for surfing activities or within a beach area designated for their use (e.g. Jericho Beach in Vancouver), these requirements are not in force. When undertaking a trip or circuit such as a group crossing or solo outing, this is considered navigation.
As human powered vessels, Stand Up Paddleboards are subject to all carriage requirements, including lifejackets. There must be one Canadian approved lifejacket or personal floatation device available on board and available for immediate use. There are many PFD options available for ease of use, such as waist-pack inflatables (a popular choice among competitive rowers, who are also short on space and require a broad range of movement) or low profile paddling vests.
While we have received many requests for the consideration of a leash in lieu of a PFD, Transport Canada does not recognize the leash/paddleboard combination as a floatation device. The department has received many inquiries from Stand Up Paddleboarders regarding Section 4 (Substitute Safety Equipment) of the Small Vessel Regulations. This part is intended to provide like-to-like exemptions, for example for police marine units to make use of tactical PFDs, or for small commercial charter vessels to carry high buoyancy PFDs in place of small vessel lifejackets.
Transport Canada supports leash use, but not as an alternative to a lifejacket or personal floatation device.
RDIMS# 7464991
Judging from Transport Canada’s ruling, it sounds like Bob and Stefan’s efforts were indeed noticed, and though Transport Canada did provide clarification on PFD usage in the surf zone, they did not agree that the leash and board should be recognized as a suitable safety device to a PFD.
At the onset of this battle, I did not have false visions that this would change overnight. To remain positive, I have to give kudos to the SUP division of Paddle Canada for supporting our latest review efforts that were discussed at the latest CMAC meeting. The fact that we have the SUP division of PC aligned with the pro leash viewpoint that many SUP enthusiasts have is a victory in itself. Slowly over time maybe we’ll win over Transport Canada as well. Keep fighting the good fight everyone.
Stefan
OK, here’s the deal! This notice was sent out prior to the CMAC meeting in May, and was outdated before it was sent, very typical of Transport Canada. Our recent campaign of personal expemptions is being noticed, what is needed is for more paddlers to send in their requests, the volume has not yet reached critical mass. I am currently in talks to determine legal action aganist Transport Canada to explore options on that front. Transport Canadas lack of urgency in recognizing our requests is unacceptable, this week alone there have been 2 Sup deaths that appear to have been preventable with the proper use of leashes. Transport Canada is making decisions without proper input and representation from paddlers and are showing no interest in listening to our position. The SUP committee at Paddle Canada supported our postion at the last CMAC meeting, and it would appear their voice is not being heard either.
So, what can be done? You can help by getting every paddler you know send in a personal exemption request which can be found at http://www.paddlefortheplanet.ca For those that have already sent in a request. send in another request for a reply to your application. Making work for Transport Canada is the only way to get their attention. We need to get their attention because the changes they are considering to the regualtion are not good for the sport or paddlers safety. If we let Transport Canada have their way with this regulation we will have no one but ourselves to blame is we don’t speak up! Speak up and get everyone you know to speak up too, there is a lot at stake!…
I heard that we. See a flashlight and whistle along with the PDF. Is this true??? Thanks
I was just charged $240 under this ridiculous law. The guy never did mention that a flashlight and whistle were required. The law is stupid and the fine is crazy. Essentially a cash grab.