Inland Waters Small Passenger Boat Code 4 CONSTRUCTION AND STRUCTURAL STRENGTH 4.1 The design of the hull structure, its construction, and the materials and equipment used should be suitable for the service intended, and provide adequate strength and service life for the safe operation of the vessel at its service draught and maximum speed. The design should also withstand the conditions likely to be encountered in the intended area of operation. 4.2 New vessels should comply with an appropriate standard such as ISO 12215 Small Craft Hull Construction and Scantlings. Alternatively, for canal operation they may comply with the Canal Boat Builders Association Code of Practice for Steel Inland Waterways Craft and Narrow Boat Construction. This can be obtained from: Canal Boatbuilders Association 4.3 A vessel may be built to an equivalent standard of safety to the standards in paragraph 4.2 above, but it is recommended that full information (including calculations, drawings, details of materials and construction) is retained for reference. 4.4 Inflatable or rigid inflatable boat, in any category, should comply with ISO 6185-1 Inflatable Boats: Boats with a maximum motor rating of 4.5kW; ISO 6185-2: InflatableBoats: Boats with a maximum motor rating of 4,5kW to 15kW inclusive; ISO 6185-3 Inflatable Boats: Boats with a maximum motor rating of 15kW and greater, or equivalent standards. Alternatively, rigid inflatable craft or craft over 8 meters may be constructed in compliance with paragraph 4.2 above. 4.5 For existing vessels, constructed before these standards came into effect, the operator should be able to demonstrate a recent history of safe operation in a similar or more onerous operating category by this vessel or a vessel of similar construction. 4.6 A weed hatch, or rope cutters on the shaft may be fitted where there is a risk of weed and debris fouling the propeller. Where fitted, weed hatches should be at least 150mm above normal laden waterline, and watertight when the vessel is both static and in motion. 4.7 The operator should be satisfied themselves as to the soundness and integrity of the vessel’s hull, including an appropriate out-of-water examination of the hull, at least every five years (more frequently for wooden hulls), and this should be documented. 4.8 The hull, shell fittings, external steering and propulsion components of the vessel should be examined out of the water. A lesser interval maybe appropriate in consideration of hull construction material or the age or the type and service of the vessel. |