SeaFish MCA reg Surveys.

These are carried out on behalf of the MCA through SEAFISH Fishing Authority. These are basically New registration surveys that have to be carried out to any fishing vessel in UK waters before the vessel can legally commercially fish. The vessels can be of all types and sizes and construction.
The majority of inspections I carry out fall into two groups that is under 7m and over 7m but below 15 m. In the first instance, the owner has to apply to SEAFISH directly in order to obtain an application form. Once the application form has been completed and sent back with an appropriate payment then, depending upon the area the vessel is located, a surveyor will be appointed to carry out the inspection.
These surveyors are authorised by SEAFISH. At this time, any under 7m inspection involves a hull structural inspection only without any regard to what is termed outfit, the outfit is the installation of engines, skin fittings, steering etc.

Once over 7m the inspection becomes considerably more comprehensive involving hull structure, bulkhead placement, watertight compartments, bilge pumps (number and size) depending on the length of the vessel, safety railings, size of the freeing ports (deck drainage cutaways in the hull above the deck in vessels fitted with a weather deck) and a considerable number of other items.  continue page top

In the case of a new construction fishing vessel it is imperative that any prospective owner contacts SEAFISH directly as, the regulations are particularly precise with regard to new build .
In all cases, unless the build has been authorised by SEAFISH it may he be refused registration in which case, it will be unable to commercially fish. The usual reason for existing vessels to require authorisation is change of ownership, lapse of registration or perhaps change of registration authority area.

In the case of existing vessels then a degree of practicality is taken into consideration in respect of whether the vessel reaches the construction standards required. Very few existing fishing vessels constructed before 2008 will comply with the required new build standards hence, a degree of practical understanding and flexibility.

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The new build constructional standards are particularly precise and take into account the conditions of GRP Hull construction with regard to temperature and humidity etc. whilst being laid up and lay down precise minimum scantling sizes and hull thicknesses as well as required number of bulkheads, watertight compartments and a considerable number of other constructional details which have to be incorporated from new.    

These standards are available from SEAFISH for anyone to peruse and, interestingly enough, in some cases they could easily be applied to certain yacht construction as the constructional details are very precise and designed for absolute structural integrity and seaworthiness. Without doubt, some of the installation practices of engines and ancillaries will transfer very easily from these to yachts.

Sample survey is available to applicants  here to help understand what is required. You can also contact Seafish Scottish office on 0131 5583331.

For further constructional information on the required standards for your vessel call the MCA direct on 01482 866606

More details on Seafish Web site http://www.seafishmarineservices.com/