Vessel stability

Operational requirements

Stability risk assessment
Applies to all vessels (Class 1, 2, 3 and 4) except those eligible for a simplified SMS.

Record of modifications affecting stability
Applies to Class 1, 2 and 3 vessels.

Best practice guidance

Commercial fishing vessels (Class 3)

Fishing vessel stability checklist PDF532.8 KB
A checklist to help you risk assess stability on your vessel.

Guide to fishing vessel stability
Understand the factors that influence fishing vessel stability.

Hook-up response for trawlers
Steps to follow in a hook-up situation.

Construction barges (Class 2)

Construction barge stability
Learn about construction vessel stability and hazards.

Safety lessons

• ‘Experience’ fails to prevent vessel capsize, which a proper risk assessment could have identified
• Work boat capsizes while relocating shifted mooring
• Landing barge capsizes after exceeding maximum weight limit in vessel stability book

Design, construction and equipment requirements

From the National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV).

• Intact stability requirements - C6A
• Buoyancy and stability after flooding - C6B
• Stability tests and stability information - C6C