European Commission: Updating marine equipment standards

The European Commission issued Regulation (EU) 2024/1975 setting forth new rules for marine equipment in the European Union.

The Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/1975 was adopted on 19 July 2024.

Updated Standards and Requirements (Article 1)

The regulation outlines that the marine equipment must adhere to the updated design, construction, performance requirements, and testing standards as specified in international instruments referenced in Directive 2014/90/EU. These international standards are crucial for ensuring that marine equipment is safe and effective.

Repeal of Previous Regulation (Article 2)

Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/1667 is repealed. This means that the new regulation will replace the older set of rules, streamlining the regulatory framework for marine equipment.

Transition Periods (Article 3)

To allow the marine equipment industry time to adapt to the new regulations, a transitional period is provided:
- Equipment listed under Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/1158 can continue to be used until 25 August 2024 if it complies with national type-approval requirements before that date.
- Equipment listed under Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1157 can be used until 15 August 2025, given it meets earlier national approval standards.
- New equipment listed under this regulation (2024/1975) can be used until 4 September 2027 if it conforms to national requirements before 4 September 2024.

Implementation and Entry into Force (Article 4)

The regulation entered into force 40 days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Binding Nature (Final Provision)

The regulation will be directly applicable and binding in all EU Member States, ensuring uniform application across the EU.

The regulation aims to:

Update Standards: Reflect the latest international standards and ensure that marine equipment complies with current safety and performance requirements.
Streamline Regulation: Replace outdated regulations with a single, updated framework to simplify compliance and enforcement.
Provide Transition Periods: Allow manufacturers and suppliers to adapt to new requirements without abrupt disruptions to the market.

The regulation includes an annex that lists various categories of marine equipment subject to the updated standards. These categories include:

Life-saving appliances
Marine pollution prevention equipment
Fire protection equipment
Navigation equipment
Radio-communication equipment
Equipment required under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREG 72)
Other safety equipment
Equipment under SOLAS Chapter II-1 (Safety of Life at Sea)
Equipment not subject to MED (Marine Equipment Directive) certification