Following many months of protracted discussions and consultation earlier this year, Workboat Code edition 3 is set to become law from 13 December 2023. From this date onwards this Code must only be used for new workboats and pilot boats.
Existing vessels that are certificated under the Brown Code, its equivalent standard published in the technical Annex to MGN 280(M), or Workboat Code Edition 2, Amendment 1 shall meet the requirements of Workboat Code edition 3 by the vessel’s next renewal examination or three years after the date of entry into force of the Code, whichever is later, except, where references to previous requirements are explicitly specified within individual sections of the Code they may comply with such requirements.
New vessels which have their keels laid, or are at a similar stage of construction, between the entry into force of Workboat Code Edition 2 and the date of entry into force of the Code, may be considered as existing vessels that are certificated under Workboat Code Edition 2; or shall meet the requirements of Workboat Code Edition 3 in full.
This Code provides information needed for the design, construction, engineering, electrical systems, hull systems, fire protection, and provision of firefighting, lifesaving, navigation and radio equipment to ensure the safety and protection of the crew, personnel, passengers and other marine users, and to maintain environmental standards. It also offsets requirements for manning and the qualifications needed for the crew.
It should also be noted that, where any existing vessel upgrades, and phases-in, to the Workboat Code Edition 3 regime, it must do so fully. A vessel cannot meet a combination of the new Code and those of earlier codes or standards.
This Code should be read in conjunction with the Statutory Instrument – SI 2023 No. 1216.
Download the code: Workboat Code edition 3