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Working on or near Water
Inland (e.g. Canals and Rivers etc): boat and crew

Inland waterway commercial boat hire firms are regulated by Association of Pleasure Craft Operators (APCO). Their members follow the Boaters Safety Code and provide a briefing to those who hire their vessels. A Boat Safety Scheme equivalent to an MOT for boats, includes safety equipment as part of the fixtures and fittings. There are no formal qualifications although the RYA do provide training for sail cruising and poweredboats - find more at the RYA site. For example, for powered boats:
  • RYA Level 1 provides a practical introduction to boat handling skills
  • RYA Level 2 (also known as the RYA National Powerboat Certificate) provides the skills and background knowledge needed by the competent powerboat driver and is the basis of the International Certificate of Competence, an essential qualification for powerboating abroad
  • RYA Safety Boat Course provides the skills required when acting as an escort craft, safety boat or coach boat for a fleet of dinghies, windsurfers or canoes, for racing or training activities
  • RYA Advanced Course provides the skills and background knowledge needed by powerboat drivers operating in coastal waters, in more demanding conditions by day and night. Ideal for the serious amateur, essential for the professional commercial user.

Competency of the skipper should be confirmed. Experience, RYA qualifications, familiarity with the location and the safety equipment will all contribute to establishing competency.

The British Canoe Union site has information about people powered boats e.g. canoes and rowing boats.  Their site details training and qualifications as well as the permissions needed.
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