CESNI, the European committee responsible for developing technical requirements for inland water vessels, is currently discussing the use of doubler plates. Doubler plates are steel plates fitted over existing hull plating, for example as part of a repair or to protect the hull against wear. EMH, as recognized organisation, takes part in the regular held CESNI meetings.  

The discussions concern possible changes to the requirements for both existing and new doubler plates. These developments are relevant to passenger vessels and could potentially also affect historic vessels used as pleasure craft over 20 metres. Under the current rules, the restrictions concerning doubler plates do not apply to pleasure craft.

Depending on the outcome, stricter requirements could have significant practical and financial consequences for some shipowners.

At this stage, however, these are ongoing European discussions. No conclusions should yet be drawn about the final requirements or what they may mean for individual vessels.

Another topic on the CESNI agenda concerns updated requirements for the inspection and maintenance of rigs on passenger sailing vessels. Broadly speaking, the intention is to reduce the room for interpretation within the current goal-based requirements by making certain provisions more explicit and prescriptive.

EMH is involved in and closely following these discussions. Our priority is to ensure that the particular circumstances of traditional and historic vessels are properly taken into account. We will keep shipowners informed as soon as there is more clarity.