·
·
Lebanon
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport issued a regulatory circular aimed at controlling the use of personal watercraft (Jet Ski), given the noticeable and indiscriminate increase in their operation from unallocated or unsupervised locations, and the serious risks this may pose to the safety of swimmers and Lebanese beachgoers.
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport issued a regulatory circular aimed at controlling the use of personal watercraft (Jet Ski), given the noticeable and indiscriminate increase in their operation from unallocated or unsupervised locations, and the serious risks this may pose to the safety of swimmers and Lebanese beachgoers.
This circular comes as part of the Ministry's keenness to regulate this maritime activity, ensuring the safe and responsible use of public marine properties, and curbing uncontrolled practices, especially during the summer season.
The following is circulated:
First: Regulating Launch and Operation
- The launching or operation of personal watercraft is prohibited except from designated marine corridors specifically for this purpose, clearly marked with buoys and necessary marine signals.
- The launching of personal watercraft from designated swimming beaches or from any unlicensed or unsupervised points is strictly prohibited.
- All resorts, marine clubs, and personal watercraft rental stations must adopt safe and pre-defined launch and landing points.
Second: Safety Rules During Use
- The movement of personal watercraft within swimming areas or near the shore is prohibited for a safety distance of no less than /200/ meters.
- Speed within marine corridors and during entry and exit is subject to mandatory safety restrictions, and dangerous maneuvers or stunts near the shore are prohibited.
- Users of personal watercraft must wear mandatory life jackets and adhere to all marine safety requirements.
- The operation of personal watercraft by minors or unqualified individuals is prohibited, as is their rental without verifying the user's eligibility and providing necessary safety instructions.
Third: Conditions for Operating Stations and Rental Centers
Rental stations and centers must adhere to the following:
- Presence of a specialized safety supervisor.
- Provision of primary rescue means.
- Recording the entry and exit movements of personal watercraft.
- Specifying operating hours that do not endanger public safety.
- Full adherence to the conditions specified by the Directorate General of Land and Maritime Transport and other competent authorities.
Fourth: Oversight and Measures
- The competent authorities are tasked with intensifying oversight of the proper implementation of this circular and taking measures against violators, including suspending operations or withdrawing licenses where necessary.
- All concerned parties are required to immediately comply with the content of this circular, failing which they will be held accountable.
The Ministry affirms that this circular constitutes a fundamental step towards re-establishing marine safety on the Lebanese coast, and solidifying clear rules that ensure the protection of lives and preserve the right of all citizens to safe and responsible use of public facilities.
