Paul Smith MEng, Dip Mar Sur, MIIMS, AMYDSA

The Recreational Craft Directive (RCD)
Yacht Designers and Surveyors Association
International Institute of Marine Surveying

The Boat Safety Scheme

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BSS Page 2


It should be noted that the above list does not include hull integrity and craft stability. Hence, it cannot be assumed that a craft carrying a Boat Safety Scheme Certificate has a sound hull.

The Scheme was first introduced in the late 1970’s and became compulsory for all hire boats operating on the inland waterways from 1980.
At this time, a Certificate of Conformity (C of C) was issued for vessels meeting the requirements.

The Scheme was modified and renamed the Boat Safety Scheme in the mid-1990’s, with a new Boat Safety Scheme Certificate (BSSC) replacing the C of C.

Inboard, Outboard & Portable Engines
Fuel Installations
Electrical Installations

Gas Installations including Appliances
Fire Prevention and Extinguishing Equipment


The Scheme then became compulsory for all inland waterway craft, being phased in from 1st January 1997.

The Boat Safety Scheme

The Boat Safety Scheme (BSS), operated jointly by British Waterways and the Environment Agency, defines minimum requirements regarding installations & equipment aboard a vessel.


This encompasses: