NATIONAL STANDARDS FOR INLAND WATERWAY NON-PASSENGER VESSELS Over recent years, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has been developing, with industry and other stake holders, National Standards for new non-passenger vessels used in commercial operation. This has included a Fitness for Purpose (FFP) scheme for existing vessels with a history of safe operation. The aim of these National Standards was to support more commercial use of inland waterways,where viable, and to underpin safety standards. Proposed New Vessel Standards These proposed standards are not yet completebut have been made available now so that any operator considering building a new vessel can opt to comply with the new standards, in advance of them becoming mandatory under MCA legislation. It is important to note that the Standards will eventually apply to all commercial vessels operating in Category A to D waters, which do not go to sea, other than passenger vessels. The standards so far published are aimed primarily for vessels carrying dry cargo. Still to be developed are requirements for workboats (particularly those under 24 metres), tankers and container carriers. These additional provisions will be subject to public consultation before being agreed. Any further developments on these areas will be published on this website in due course.
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