Certification for commercial and government-operated boats
Manned boats under 24 metres must meet the relevant commercial or Government code before entering service and remain compliant throughout their operational life. Achieving and maintaining certification requires independent assessment against the nominated code.
LR provides certification and survey services for these vessels, supporting compliance from newbuild through to in-service operation. Working against recognised commercial and government codes, we provide plan approval, technical review, onboard surveys and certification to verify compliance throughout the vessel lifecycle.
Newbuild certification
LR provides certification for newbuild vessels against the nominated code, including:
- Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) Workboat Code Edition 3 (WBC3)
- MCA Sport or Pleasure Vessel Code
- LR Grey Boat Code
- Certification and survey of SOLAS-compliant Fast Rescue Craft (FRC).
Developed specifically for government-operated boats, the LR Grey Boat Code recognises that defence and coastguard craft may operate differently from commercial vessels while maintaining appropriate safety standards.
We are also authorised by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) to certify remotely operated and unmanned vessels (ROUVs) under Workboat Code Edition 3 (WBC3) Annex 2, extending certification to qualifying unmanned vessels operating under the Code.
We review all other aspects of compliance against the nominated code, including:
- Machinery and engineering systems
- Fire protection
- Life-saving appliances
- Navigation and radio equipment
- Crewing requirements
- Environmental protection
- Risk assessment and safety management systems.
In-service support
We provide through-life survey support to manned boats under 24 metres in accordance with the nominated code applicable to the vessel. Periodic surveys verify continued compliance with the relevant code requirements throughout the vessel's operational life.
