Although boating on the Broads is seen as pretty safe, there are up to 10 fires on boats every year! But ensuring that all boats at risk comply with the Boat Safety Scheme (BSS) can reduce these incidents.

So, this Scheme - coming in on 1 April 2007 - will help make our waterways even safer. Most of us keep our boats safe and in good condition but through a system of independent inspection deterioration of systems and equipment can be identified and rectified.

The safety scheme is rather like an MoT test for boats, indeed a fair proportion of Broads boats have it already. If you have already obtained a BSS certificate please ensure that the Broads Authority is sent a copy in order that our database can be updated.

A certificate is also often needed to sell a boat for use in other waters. Our scheme will be brought in by byelaws from 1 April 2007. This will be a stopgap until the Private Bill comes into force which will allow us to keep our scheme in line with the national scheme as it develops on waterways throughout the country.

Hire craft will have to comply with the original boat safety scheme. All private craft will have to comply with the revised requirements, which were published in January 2005.These allow a greater degree of flexibility, and include some advisory items, which we would recommend boat owners should comply with where practicable.

What do I need to do?
Boat owners will have to pay authorised independent examiners to check their craft and issue certificates. Examiners' fees vary, so it may be worth getting several quotes. There are around 25 examiners who cover the Broads and most are willing to give advice about essential work, as is the BSS office. Craft must be maintained to the standard of the BSS throughout the life of the certificate. If you are unhappy with any item identified as failed or in need of technical advice on maintenance and equipment replacement or modification, the BSS office will gladly advise.

BSS examinations will include safety checks, fire escape provision, flues for toxic fume spillage and power connections with potential for electrocution. The owner of a boat that fails any of these checks will be formally notified and offered advice.

Where can I get information?
The second edition of the Boat Safety Scheme Essential Guide has now been launched. It takes you step by step through the BSS, identifying hazards, approaches to risk reduction techniques, the legal requirements of the navigation authorities and the best practice standards to keep you and your crew safe when aboard or close to your boat. Available from the BSS website: www.boatsafetyscheme.com, or by post from the BSS office, price , £6.30 plus post and packaging.