An order dated 11 October 2024, published in the Official Journal on 30 October 2024, makes several changes to the rules governing ship safety. It clarifies the requirements of Division 240, which governs the safety of pleasure craft up to 24 metres, and simplifies Division 244, harmonising the rules applicable to traditional vessels.

Changes to Division 240: new safety requirements on board

The kill switch:
The use of a kill switch is now compulsory for the driver of outboard motor boats equipped with a tiller or remote control, as well as for personal watercraft. This device, which cuts the electrical power to the engine in an emergency, must be attached to the pilot's wrist, leg or buoyancy aid. A second circuit breaker must be easily accessible on board.

Buoyancy aids:
Buoyancy aids and life jackets must comply with EC standards or wheelbarrow and be classified according to standard NF EN ISO 12402 with three performance levels: 50, 100 and 150. Annex 240-A.4 has been added to help choose the right equipment according to the user's weight. For children weighing less than 30 kg, an EIF of level 100 is compulsory, regardless of the distance from a shelter.

The magnetic compass:
The magnetic compass, which must be on board, must be waterproof, fixed temporarily or permanently, independent of any power source and visible from the steering position. It must include lighting and meet ISO 25862:2019 or ISO 14227:2001 standards.

The safety harness:
The safety harness and its lanyard ensure a link between the passengers and the boat, particularly in difficult navigation conditions. They must be attached to a lifeline or an attachment point on the vessel, without the need for a specific device.

The VHF watch:
Any vessel equipped with a VHF radio must maintain a listening watch on channel 16, in addition to a permanent visual and auditory watch, in accordance with rule 5 of the international regulations.

Annex 240-A.6 introduces a model for a prior declaration for boats and nautical vehicles that are rented or loaned. This document, which must be carried on board, facilitates inspections, rescue operations and user identification.

Windsurfers and kitesurfers may now sail up to 6 miles from a shelter for training or sporting competitions, provided that they comply with the safety conditions defined by the competent authorities.

The rules concerning neoprene equipment remain unchanged. All users must wear shorts, shorties or a full-body wetsuit at least 2 mm thick, in order to reduce the risk of injury from the turbine in the event of a fall. The maximum distance from a shelter is limited to 2 miles for single-seater craft and 6 miles for those that can carry several people.

Simplification of Division 244: harmonisation with other regulations

With a view to simplification, Division 244 aligns the requirements for traditional vessels less than 24 metres in length with those of Division 240.

Modifications to the vessels now follow the rules of Division 245, with the obligation to use materials compatible with the original design, while respecting the aesthetics and characteristics of traditional vessels.

The loading of vessels is harmonised with the provisions of Division 245.

The rules of navigation, exemptions and derogations are now integrated into Division 240.

These regulatory changes are immediately applicable and concern all recreational boating users.