Safety at sea is our highest priority, and has traditionally been the very foundation for the organisation.

New technology and the establishment of a primary database with considerable updated information have also given rise to opportunities for use of this information for other purposes. Examples include coastal zone planning, fisheries management and aquaculture.

Within the field of hydrographic surveying, terms such as approval and standardisation are very important. This also applies to the Norwegian Hydrographic Service. By approving international conventions, Norway has committed itself to produce nautical charts in accordance with internationally approved standards, and the Norwegian Hydrographic Service is the only authorised producer of official nautical charts in Norway.

Vessels over a certain size are also obliged to use authorised charts issued by the Norwegian Hydrographic Service.