UK guidance on 2024 Yacht Code: Stability and fire safety

The Red Ensign Group (REG) of the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency, in October 2024, updated its guidance for the Red Ensign Group (REG) Yacht Code, 2024 Edition Part A.

This notice is directed towards a range of stakeholders, including Maritime Administrations, Recognised Organisations, Industry Associations, Naval Architects, and Yacht Builders, among others.

Applicability:

The guidance applies to vessels whose contracts for construction are signed prior to July 1, 2025, provided that the keel is laid by July 1, 2026. This is important because the deadlines ensure that vessels already in development adhere to the existing guidelines, while also giving room for flexibility based on industry feedback.

Purpose:

The primary objective is to make all relevant parties aware of changes to the implementation dates of certain requirements in Part A of the REG Yacht Code (2024 Edition). The guidance comes after industry consultation on two main topics: stability and fire safety. These are considered critical areas where feedback from the industry indicated that revisions or clarifications were needed.

Key Areas of Change:

The REG, after consulting with industry stakeholders on March 27, 2024, has decided to delay certain requirements in the 2024 Edition for applicable vessels:
- Stability Criteria: This includes provisions for vessels with openings in the hull, where the lower edge is less than 600mm above the uppermost load line, as well as tender garages that are prone to flooding. These sections fall under Part A, Chapter 11 (sections 11.5 & 11.6).
- Fire Safety Requirements: Specifically, for vessels under 500 gross tonnage (GT), the requirement for passive fire protection in enclosed spaces where vehicles with petrol in their tanks are stored has been delayed. The specific sections are outlined in Part A, Table 14A.1 and 14A.2 (3) (b).

Next Steps:

The REG will conduct a full review of these existing requirements and assess the possibility of further amendments. Any changes to the Yacht Code will be communicated to the industry at the earliest opportunity. However, it is emphasized that any amendments will only affect vessels whose contracts are signed on or after July 1, 2025. This timeline provides clarity for yacht builders and stakeholders, ensuring that any vessel construction already in progress is not subjected to sudden regulatory changes.