ICOMIA and ICMI offer simplified scantlings calculator for boatbuilders

A free scantlings calculator should aid builders for compliance with the EU Recreational Craft Directive.

The International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA), supported by the International Marine Certification Institute (IMCI), is offering a free scantlings calculator to boatbuilders to help comply with the ISO (Small Craft) Scantling standard. The associations said that builders face a “number of challenges” when “self-assessing” scantlings for hull lengths under 12m to comply with the EU Recreational Craft Directive (RCD).

“In order to comply with RCD requirements, builders use the ‘Harmonised Standard’ which provides the ‘Presumption of Conformity',” says Ulrich Heinemann, IMCI managing director, in a statement. “However, the complex nature of these documents often forces them into hiring a consultant or seeking a way to bypass the proof of compliance with the RCD.” Heinemann said IMCI wanted to support the boatbuilders by offering the software for free.

ICOMIA’s Technical Committee, sponsored by IMCI, commissioned Southampton Solent University to develop simplified spreadsheets for the ISO standard.

“I believe this calculator will be of significant benefit to boatbuilders, particularly those currently self-certifying under the EU’s RCD,” says Tony Rice, ICOMIA secretary general, in the statement. “I congratulate Dr Robin Loscombe of Southampton Solent University for his excellent work and express my gratitude to IMCI whose financial support made this possible.”