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Boat Safety Scheme - Go Boating, stay safe
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      • part 2 - inboard engines
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      • part 10 - non-private boats & safety features
        • handrails
        • life-buoy
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        • unpowered hotel boats
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handrails

  • Arranging A BSS Examination
  • Private Boat Requirements
  • Hire Boats Requirements (2024)
  • Non-private Boat Standards
    • part 2 - inboard engines
    • part 3 - electrical installations
    • part 4 - electrically propelled vessels
    • part 5 - outboard & portable engines
    • part 6 - fire prevention & extinguishing equipment
    • part 7 - LPG installations
    • part 8 - appliances, flueing & ventilation
    • part 9 - pollution
    • part 10 - non-private boats & safety features
      • handrails
      • life-buoy
      • water intakes
      • hull openings
      • ventilation labels
      • glass
      • unpowered hotel boats
      • exemptions
      • need more help or advice on part 10?
      • part ten checklist
  • Boats with gas
  • Warning Notices
  • Q&A on BSS Examinations
  • 10 most common fails

To reduce the risk of someone on your boat falling overboard it's recommended that privately-owned boats have effective handrails fitted where there are walkways.

They are mandatory for non-private boats.

To work properly the handrails must be of sufficient length - where practical the full length of cabin tops - and of adequate strength. Alternatively, guard rails may be fitted around the perimeter of the deck. [10.2]

The Boat Safety Scheme Limited is a public safety initiative, run as a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales with company number 15501423. Registered office address c/o National Waterways Museum Ellesmere Port South Pier Road Ellesmere Port Cheshire CH65 4FW.

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The BSS is endorsed by the following organisations:

  • Canal & River Trust
  • The Environment Agency
  • Broads Authority
  • Association of Inland Navigation Authorities
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