MCA CODES OF PRACTICE

Since 1994 the MCA has published a succession of Codes of Practice, which set minimum standards and put legal obligations on operators of workboats and pleasure craft in commercial use. I   have been involved with these codes since they were introduced and have examined many hundreds of craft for compliance with the Codes.

These have included:

Open and Cabin Ribs from 4.5m to 13m

Angling Charter Boats from 7m to 16m

Dive Support Vessels   from 8m to 26m

10m and 15m Crew Transfer Catamarans

12m, 15m and 20m Wind Farm Support Boats

15m Pilot Boat

8m and 15m Logistical Support Boats

13m Mooring Service Workboat

Modern Charter Yachts from 7m to 18m

75ft Ex Baltic Trader Ketch

50ft Danish Sailing Kotter

If you are considering the purchase of a vessel that will require coding, please be aware that there are some craft that cannot be made to comply, and others where modifications or stability assessment will be expensive, and yet others where the operational area could be severely restricted due to stability, freeboard or other issues.

I am always happy to offer free guidance on the Code requirements, and whether a particular craft will comply.

Any vessel that has not yet been coded will almost certainly require two visits.  The first visit  will assess the soundness of the vessel and will enable a list to be provided of work required to achieve compliance.  The second visit  will be to establish that any work required has been correctly carried out, and that all of the required lifesaving and safety equipment is in place.  

If you are about to buy a vessel that already has a Code certificate, please be aware that the Certificate will expire on change of ownership, and that the vessel will require an examination to confirm compliance, before  a new certificate can be issued in your name.

As I approach  retirement, I only now carry out code examinations for my existing clients.  However I am happy to advise on any Code matter, and can direct you to a suitable  surveyor colleague for the examination.

Fox

Associates

Marine Surveyors and

Consultants