Transport Canada has assessed the safety of both types of vertical chute Marine Evacuation Systems used by BC Ferries and has confirmed that both systems are safe for use by all passengers, including infants (babies-in-arms). Extensive testing of BC Ferries’ chute systems was conducted following possible concerns raised by the Union about the suitability of the systems for infants, elderly and severely disabled passengers. On October 6, 2003, RFD Beaufort conducted tests in Northern Ireland in the presence of Transport Canada representatives on the Marin Ark chute system to demonstrate the system’s ability to safely evacuate children under five years and the severely disabled. The Marin Ark chute system is installed on the Queen of Coquitlam.