The Boat Safety Scheme

What is it?

The Boat Safety Scheme (BSS) started in 1997 to promote boat safety on the inland waterways of Britain. In order to obtain a navigation licence (also required on the inland waterways) you need to show a current BSS certificate. Boats must undergo an examination by a qualified BSS examiner who will provide you with a report on the safety of your vessel. Your boat must be re-examined every four years. ELITE Marine Services do not carry out BSS examinations but we work with the examiners who are totally independent of us to carry out schedules of work that have been highlighted in the report to make your boat safe.

Before your boat has its BSS examination you need to make sure she’s prepared. There are a few simple things that you can do to save time before the examiner arrives:

• Find the existing certificate and have this to hand. This will give the examiner all the information they need about your boat
• Ensure your boat is fully functional so the full examination can take place – make sure the batteries are charged and there’s sufficient gas and water in your systems
• The examiner will need access to all gas joints and pipework. Make sure gas lockers are unlocked and that all areas are easily accessible for inspection.

For privately owned and privately managed boats there are 31 legal requirements that must be met. These requirements are set out as goals that must be achieved.

Top five faults ELITE Marine Services resolve

1. Fire safety equipment - one of the most common things we’re asked to do is fit fire blankets and extinguishers. If there’s a cooker on your boat a fire blanket must be kept nearby within easy reach. It must be clearly marked BS EN 1869. These can be purchased in our chandlery
2. Warning notices - these may be required in close quarters where ventilation is not adequate for the appliances installed. Signage, for example “Warning - open ventilator(s) before use” may be required.
3. Batteries - the examiner will check your batteries to make sure they’re stowed in a well ventilated area and that they cannot move around freely. They’ll also check that your circuit breakers and fuses are correctly rated. We’re frequently asked to secure or move batteries to comply with the requirements for the examination.
4. Gas leaks - often we’re asked to rectify leaks as a result of poor or loose connections. Pipework should be made of a suitable material and remember, regulators should be changed approximately every ten years. Gas can be extremely dangerous so it’s important to ensure your system is performing properly.
5. Fuel spillages - it goes without saying that fuel spillages are a serious risk on boats and we’re often asked to fit drip trays under the engine or remove the bilge pumps from boats at risk. Where oil is present in the bilge water it’s possible to ft an oil separation filter that collects and retains oil from the water.

For more information on the Boat Safety Scheme visit www.boatsafetyscheme.com where you can download a full list of examination criteria and find your nearest Boat Safety Scheme examiner.