Notice to Users: 1/12/2003

Announcement Regarding Canadian Hydrographic Service Print on Demand (POD) charts

In providing nautical charts to the public, the goal of the Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) is to maintain a level of service for safe navigation while at the same time keeping the cost to the public at a reasonable level. Many CHS nautical paper charts are now printed using Print on Demand (POD) technology. These charts are easily recognized by the coloured logo of the Canadian Hydrographic Service. Customers may have noted some differences from conventionally lithographic printed charts. While at the present time, POD charts are not as durable as those printed by the lithographic process. This new technology enables CHS to print charts in a more efficient and cost effective manner while enhancing their content with new important information. As well, safety of navigation is not affected if the charts are used carefully.

The new POD technology allows the customer to have up-to-date corrected charts without having the historical hand corrections or glued on patches applied. In addition, it also eliminates potential out of stock situations which arose with the lithographic process. Thus, the mariner will always be able to buy an up to date product. In cases of National Emergency, large numbers of a chart can be provided in a very short period. The advantages of POD are improved marine safety, environmental protection and reduction in the risk of damage to commercial property.

CHS encourages its customers to handle the POD charts more carefully than lithographic printed charts and avoid spilling liquids on the chart. Even if there is a chalky surface to the chart, the essential information (black) should remain. When buying a chart, the POD chart will be up-to-date with the latest available information. POD paper is also whiter than traditional chart paper and as a result residual pencil marks may be more apparent. Care should be taken when plotting information on the chart by using slightly lighter pencil strokes than normally used on lithographic charts. As well, tests done by CHS have shown that an Indian gum eraser does the best job when working on the product. This eraser is also suitable for charts printed by the lithographic process.

Although, CHS is continually improving its printing and distribution processes, clients can expect the quality of POD to remain the same for approximately 2 years. Changes in the pricing of paper, ink and POD technology should result in improved and more affordable delivery of service in the next few years. POD will also allow CHS to explore new business models with Private Industry. Such models may result in the availability of POD products directly from authorized chart dealers rather than from CHS.

CHS is adapting to new realities and it wishes to assure customers that resources are being used effectively to distribute essential Marine Safety information. We thank you for your understanding during this transition period.