The requirement will go into effect after three other laws related to passenger boats are amended. The National Legislative Assembly is pushing the change, said Marine Department deputy chief Nat Jabjai.
After the laws are amended, every public boat passenger must wear a life vest or the boat will not be permitted to leave the shore or pier, Mr Nat said.
The vest requirement applies to commuters travelling on public transport boats on both seas and rivers.
However, it does not apply to passengers on cruise, pleasure or commuter boats operating short distances in canals such as Khlong Saen Saep.
The boats which do not come under the new law must supply adequate buoyancy aids to passengers.
Mr Nat urged public boat operators to cooperate with authorities and ensure passengers wear life vests.
The department will issue a regulation requiring commuter vessels weighing 60 tonnes and over to ensure they are carrying fire extinguishers.
Strict inspections will also be carried out to ensure public passenger vessels are not overloaded.
Those wishing to apply for licences to operate passenger boats will face tougher screening, the department deputy chief said.
The Centre for Boat Traffic and Safety Surveillance intends to improve safety standards by launching a service where old life vests can be exchanged for new ones.
Meanwhile, authorities will designate zones on beaches on the Andaman, Gulf of Thailand and Samui coasts, to separate water sports and leisure activities.
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