EU heralds type approval scheme

Class societies BV and LR have been given notified body status to issue the EU`s new type-approval certification on marine equipment. Their status covers the following categories: life-saving appliances; marine pollution prevention; and fire protection. BV can also approve navigation equipment but neither class society can approve radio communication equipment – all are covered by the directive.

The single type-approval replaces that of individual EU states and all specified equipment being installed onboard vessels flagged in the EU, Norway or Iceland, after the end of April must carry the new mark. However, the regulations allow a two-year period, for equipment manufactured before January 1, 1999, for existing stock to be sold.