The Boat Safety Scheme Examination – Preparing Your Boat
The Boat Safety Scheme Examination is important and deserves careful preparation to achieve a satisfactory result, but regular maintenance and checking to see that installations, components and fittings are in good condition will pay off and ensure that the process runs smoothly.
Here are some practical tips to ensure that compliance in your Boat Safety Scheme Examination is successful
1
Download the GuideGet the BSS Essential Guide . This BSS publication is an invaluable guide to help you understand what will be checked during your examination.
2
Got An Existing BSS Certificate?Have your existing BSS certificate to hand. This will help with information that is required to complete the paperwork.
3
Easy AccessProvide full access to all gas joints and to pipe-work wherever possible (including fuel lines) so that they can be examined.
4
Check Boat SystemsEnsure all the boat systems work. Have a fully charged battery and gas and water to enable a minimum 15 minute test to be run on the system.
5
Got an Open Flue Heater?If you have an open flue gas water heater on your boat, make sure there is sufficient water on board to fully test its operation and flue-spillage etc.
6
Open Gas LockersGas lockers should be unlocked and boards and panels removed to give access where necessary.
7
Remove Engine CoversEngine covers etc are removed or at least made easily removable.
8
Fire ExtinguishersCheck your fire extinguishers. The BSS Guide on fire extinguishers is available here . (refer to Chapter 6 for full details)
9
Charge Your BatteriesBatteries are fully charged and along with fuses, are easily accessible.
10
Disconnect Mains ElectricityEnsure that 230v mains electricity supplies (and inverters / generators) have been disconnected & that shore power leads are available for inspection. Where boats have been lifted or placed on hard-standing, please ensure that safe access is provided.
11
Keep People InformedIf your boat is moored on private moorings or in a marina please inform the owner so they are aware of the examination taking place. Many marina operators have an obligation to ensure that visiting contractors have the required level of public liability insurance.
