The Marine Policing Unit (MPU) of the Metropolitan Police, in conjunction with the PLA, pier operators, and passenger vessel operators, issue guidance and procedures under the codename of Operation Boatman.
The TSA hosts regular Emergency Services training sessions as part of the Thames CPD Programme and has been asked by the MPU to promote this material.
This guidance is to be followed in the event of the discovery of a suspect package, either on a passenger vessel or on a pier. It also covers general vessel security and bomb threats/hoaxes.
The protocol has been reviewed and updated in October 2024. The main change is that if a suspect package is identified and an Op Boatman is called, Masters of the vessel are required to call 999 first themselves. Following this, they will then inform VTS on Channel 14.
You can download the updated Operation Boatman Flow Charts using the links below. These are for central London Piers and Class V operators:
Download Operation Boatman Flow Chart (Vessel)
Download Operation Boatman Flow Chart (Pier)
Ideally, the Flow Charts should be displayed in the wheelhouse/pier or Masters office. If this isn’t possible, they should be placed somewhere easily accessible in the event of an emergency.
Please ensure you are familiar with the procedures and are confident in quickly actioning the necessary steps in the event of an emergency.