Fishing vessels and seaworthiness certificates – how are they regulated?

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is responsible for the inspection and safety certification of UK fishing vessels. A fishing vessel between 15-24 metres has to be surveyed every five years, with an intermediate inspection between year 2 and 3, an MCA spokesman told European Fish Trader.

“The intermediate inspection is general and will check condition of the vessel, lifesaving and fire fighting equipment. The 5 year survey involves a thorough look at the hull, machinery and safety equipment and an out-of-water survey where we look at the hull”. “Sometimes it could take 2 days but with larger vessels it can be a process that spans over several days depending on the size of the vessel and its condition.”

Vessels of 24m and over are surveyed every four years with an intermediate survey every two years.  The MCA usually sends out a reminder 6 months prior to the safety certificate expiry date so that the owner can be prepared.

“We send out information on preparing for survey to the owner and by doing so we can save time, and also save money for the vessel owner.”

A five-year survey usually requires a £ 1,500 deposit, surveyors time costs £94 per hour and is charged against the deposit, if a vessel is in good condition, and the survey is therefore quick, some of this deposit may be returned. A vessel in poor condition, which takes longer to survey, may cost the owner more money.

The spokesman said that there are 11 dedicated surveyors based around the UK. But it is not only at inspection times when the MCA is involved. The spokesman explained:

“Changes and repairs need to be reported to the MCA because they may invalidate the certificate, if for instance a bigger net drum is fitted, that may reduce the vessels stability, and a new inspection is necessary.”

For an inspection of a repair or change to the vessel the MCA would also charge an hourly rate of £94.

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