Marina Facility Management
Expert-defined terms from the Certificate in Yacht and Marina Management course at London School of Planning and Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
**Asset Management #
** In Marina Facility Management, asset management refers to the systematic process of operating, maintaining, upgrading, and disposing of the marina's property, infrastructure, and equipment. The goal is to maximize the value of these assets while minimizing costs and risks. Related terms include maintenance management, lifecycle cost analysis, and total cost of ownership.
**Berthing #
** Berthing refers to the process of mooring a boat in a marina. This can be done at a fixed pier, a floating dock, or a mooring buoy. The size and type of berth will depend on the size and type of boat. Berthing can be a challenge in rough weather, so marinas often provide protective breakwaters, as well as fingers and slips to provide additional shelter.
**Breakwater #
** A breakwater is a structure that protects a marina from waves and currents. It is typically built offshore, using rocks, concrete, or other materials. A well-designed breakwater will reduce wave action within the marina, providing a safer and more comfortable environment for boaters.
**Concession Agreement #
** A concession agreement is a contract between a marina owner and a concessionaire, who operates the marina on behalf of the owner. The concession agreement will typically specify the terms of the arrangement, including the length of the concession period, the services that the concessionaire is required to provide, and the fees that the concessionaire will pay to the owner.
**Dock Management #
** Dock management refers to the day-to-day operations of a marina's docks. This includes managing berthing assignments, maintaining the docks and related infrastructure, and providing services to boaters. Dock management is a critical component of marina operations, as it directly affects the boating experience of marina users.
**Electrical Systems #
** Electrical systems are an essential component of modern marinas. They provide power to boats for lighting, heating, air conditioning, and other needs. Marinas must ensure that their electrical systems are safe, reliable, and properly maintained. This includes providing adequate shore power, installing ground fault protection, and following all applicable electrical codes and standards.
**Facility Management #
** Facility management is the practice of coordinating the day-to-day operations of a marina, including maintenance, security, and administrative tasks. The goal of facility management is to ensure that the marina operates efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively. Related terms include asset management, dock management, and maintenance management.
**Fender System #
** A fender system is a system of fenders, or bumpers, that protects a marina's docks and pilings from damage caused by boats. Fenders are typically made of rubber, foam, or other materials that can absorb the impact of a boat's hull. A well-designed fender system will provide adequate protection while also allowing boats to move freely within the marina.
**Health and Safety #
** Health and safety is a critical concern in marina operations. Marinas must comply with all applicable health and safety regulations, and must take steps to ensure the safety of their employees, contractors, and users. This includes providing adequate training, maintaining safe working conditions, and conducting regular inspections and audits.
**Hull Cleaning #
** Hull cleaning is the process of removing marine growth, such as barnacles and algae, from a boat's hull. Regular hull cleaning is important for maintaining the performance and efficiency of the boat, as well as preventing damage to the hull. Marinas may provide hull cleaning services, or may allow boat owners to do their own cleaning using designated hull cleaning stations.
**Inspection and Maintenance #
** Inspection and maintenance are critical components of marina facility management. Regular inspections can help identify potential problems before they become serious, while regular maintenance can help prevent equipment failures and extend the life of marina assets. Marinas must develop and implement comprehensive inspection and maintenance programs to ensure the safe and efficient operation of their facilities.
**Jet Ski Docking #
** Jet ski docking refers to the process of mooring a personal watercraft, such as a jet ski, in a marina. Jet skis require special docking facilities, such as floating docks or wave attenuators, to provide a stable and safe mooring platform. Marinas must ensure that their jet ski docking facilities are properly designed, installed, and maintained to ensure the safety of jet ski users.
**Lifecycle Cost Analysis #
** Lifecycle cost analysis is a technique used in asset management to evaluate the total cost of owning and operating an asset over its entire life cycle. This includes the initial cost of acquisition, as well as ongoing costs for maintenance, repair, and disposal. Lifecycle cost analysis can help marinas make informed decisions about asset investments and maintenance strategies.
**Marina Design #
** Marina design refers to the process of planning and designing a marina facility. This includes selecting an appropriate site, determining the size and layout of the marina, and designing the infrastructure and amenities. Marina design must take into account a wide range of factors, including local regulations, environmental considerations, and user needs.
**Maritime Law #
** Maritime law is the body of law that governs maritime activities, including boating and shipping. Marinas must comply with all applicable maritime laws, which can vary depending on the jurisdiction. Maritime law covers a wide range of issues, including safety, environmental protection, and liability.
**Mooring Buoy #
** A mooring buoy is a floating device that is used to moor a boat in a marina. Mooring buoys are typically used in deep water areas where docks are not feasible. Boats are secured to the mooring buoy using a line or chain, and the buoy provides a stable and secure mooring platform.
**Occupational Health and Safety #
** Occupational health and safety (OH&S) is a specialized area of health and safety that focuses on the safety and well-being of employees in the workplace. Marinas must comply with all applicable OH&S regulations, and must take steps to ensure the safety of their employees, contractors, and users. This includes providing adequate training, maintaining safe working conditions, and conducting regular inspections and audits.
**Operations and Maintenance Manual #
** An operations and maintenance manual is a document that provides detailed instructions for operating and maintaining a marina facility. The manual should include information on all aspects of marina operations, including safety procedures, maintenance schedules, and emergency response plans. Marinas must develop and implement comprehensive operations and maintenance manuals to ensure the safe and efficient operation of their facilities.
**Piling #
** A piling is a vertical support structure that is used to support docks, piers, and other marina infrastructure. Piles can be made of wood, concrete, steel, or other materials, and are typically driven into the seabed using a pile driver. Marinas must ensure that their piles are properly designed, installed, and maintained to ensure the safety and stability of their facilities.
**Preventive Maintenance #
** Preventive maintenance is a proactive approach to maintenance that involves performing regular inspections and maintenance tasks to prevent equipment failures and extend the life of marina assets. Preventive maintenance can help marinas reduce maintenance costs, improve equipment reliability, and enhance the safety of their facilities.
**Public Liability Insurance #
** Public liability insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for bodily injury or property damage that occurs as a result of the marina's operations. Public liability insurance is an essential component of marina risk management, as it provides protection against financial losses resulting from lawsuits or claims.
**Recreational Boating #
** Recreational boating refers to the use of boats for leisure activities, such as fishing, water skiing, or cruising. Recreational boating is a popular pastime in many parts of the world, and marinas play a critical role in providing access to boating opportunities.
**Risk Management #
** Risk management is the process of identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with marina operations. Risks can include environmental hazards, such as storms or floods, as well as operational hazards, such as equipment failures or accidents. Marinas must develop and implement comprehensive risk management plans to ensure the safety and security of their facilities.
**Security #
** Security is a critical concern in marina operations. Marinas must provide adequate security measures to protect their facilities, employees, and users from theft, vandalism, and other criminal activities. Security measures can include fencing, lighting, access controls, and surveillance cameras.
**Slip #
** A slip is a space in a marina where a boat is moored. Slips can be either fixed or floating, and are typically designated for boats of a specific size or type. Marinas must ensure that their slips are properly designed, installed, and maintained to ensure the safety and security of the boats and their occupants.
**Storm Preparation #
** Storm preparation is the process of preparing a marina for an approaching storm or other weather event. This includes securing loose equipment, preparing emergency response plans, and communicating with marina users. Marinas must