UK launches marine consultation: UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has launched a six-week public consultation on revoking and replacing the UK Marine Equipment Regulations. This move aims to provide clarity for shipowners, operators, and equipment manufacturers following the UK’s exit from the EU. The proposed changes will repeal the 2016 Regulations and the 2019 amendments, consolidating them into a single new regulation, the Merchant Shipping (Marine Equipment) Regulations 2025.
Key Aspects of the Proposed Regulations:
– UK Mark of Conformity: The ‘Red Ensign’ mark became mandatory on January 1, 2023, applying to all marine equipment on UK vessels previously subject to the EU’s ‘Wheel Mark’. This mark ensures that equipment meets UK standards and conformity assessment certification requirements.
– Exemptions for Technical Innovation: The proposed regulations will allow for exemptions in areas of technical innovation through the ‘Red Ensign’ mark. This flexibility will enable the industry to adopt new technologies while maintaining safety standards.
– Equipment Manufactured Before 2023: Equipment manufactured before January 2023 will remain out of scope for the proposed regulations, providing continuity and minimizing disruptions to the industry.
– Letter of Acceptance: Vessels will have the opportunity to apply for a ‘Letter of acceptance’ to install non-UK approved equipment. This provision will facilitate the use of alternative equipment while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.
– Ballast Water Management Systems: The amendments will include requirements and standards for Ballast Water Management Systems to be installed on UK ships. This measure aims to prevent the spread of invasive species and protect the marine environment.
Still on UK launches marine consultation
Rationale Behind the Proposed Changes:
The MCA regularly reviews legislation to ensure the UK’s commitment to safety at sea. According to Fraser Heasley, Director of UK Technical Maritime Services, marine equipment, its standards, and conformities are crucial to this work. The proposed updates to the Merchant Shipping (Marine Equipment) Regulations aim to combine the 2016 Regulations and 2019 amendments, providing clarity and consistency in the wake of the UK’s exit from the EU.
Consultation Details:
The six-week public consultation runs from April 14 to May 27, 2025. Stakeholders can participate in the consultation by visiting the (link unavailable) website. The MCA encourages feedback from shipowners, operators, equipment manufacturers, and other interested parties to ensure the proposed regulations meet the industry’s needs while maintaining safety and environmental standards.
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