Boatmasters’ qualifications, crew and hours of work regulations

Formally consulting on amending the boatmasters’ licence (BML) regulations to:

• extend the licensing structure to include a BML for restricted local tidal operations
• increase the list of qualifications which can be held in lieu of a BML
• recognise additional training which is considered equivalent to some areas of BML training
• address safety issues not provided for under the regulations, such as the introduction of additional training and revalidation requirements for masters undertaking certain operations, and a new offence of operating whilst being medical unfit
• amend and simplify the current regulations and guidance for ease of public accessibility
• incorporate the Merchant Shipping (Local Passenger Vessels) (Crew) Regulations 2006 so that all boatmaster issues will be located in one set of regulations.