EN ISO 6185-2:2018 PDF

Overview

EN ISO 6185-2:2018 is the internationally recognized standard for inflatable boats with a maximum motor power rating from 4.5 kW to 15 kW, inclusive. Developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) in collaboration with ISO Technical Committee 188, this standard specifies the minimum safety requirements for the design, materials, manufacturing, and testing of inflatable boats, including rigid inflatable boats (RIBs), under 8 meters in length and with a minimum buoyancy of 1800 N. EN ISO 6185-2:2018 plays a crucial role in supporting regulatory compliance, particularly with EU Directive 2013/53/EU on recreational craft.

Key Topics

• Scope: Applies to inflatable boats and RIBs equipped with outboard motors in the power range of 4.5 kW to 15 kW. It does not cover single-chambered boats, boats made from unsupported materials with buoyancy exceeding 12 kN, aquatic toys, or inflatable liferafts.

• Safety Requirements:

  • Structural integrity and hull strength
  • Stability, buoyancy, and flotation
  • Means of avoiding flooding
  • Safe maximum permitted load and engine power
  • Builder’s plate and operator’s manual
  • Field of vision from the steering position
  • Means of reboarding

• Materials: Specifications for reinforced and unsupported materials, wood (plywood, timbers), metals, synthetic materials, and glass-fiber reinforced plastics are covered, ensuring durability in marine environments.

• Functional Components:

  • Hull fittings and transoms
  • Rowlocks, oars, towing devices
  • Manual lifting/carrying devices
  • Valves for inflation and deflation
  • Rudder and remote steering systems

• Testing Methods: Sets out detailed requirements for performance and safety testing, including pressure tests, tear resistance, load testing, and watertightness.

Applications

EN ISO 6185-2:2018 serves as a foundational reference for manufacturers, designers, and suppliers of inflatable boats in the 4.5-15 kW motor power class. Its adoption ensures:

• Market Access: Compliance enables products to be sold throughout the European Economic Area and other regions recognizing EN and ISO standards.
• Product Safety: Adherence reduces risks linked to structural or material failure, protecting boat users.
• Ease of Certification: Meeting the standard supports presumption of conformity with EU Directive 2013/53/EU and facilitates CE marking for small craft.
• Consumer Confidence: Clearly defined requirements for essential safety features, including field of vision, reboarding capability, and stability, directly benefit end-users.

Related Standards

Businesses and professionals involved with inflatable boats should also be familiar with:

• EN ISO 6185-1: Inflatable boats with max motor power 4.5 kW and below
• EN ISO 6185-3: Inflatable boats with max motor power above 15 kW
• EN ISO 14945: Builder’s plate requirements
• EN ISO 10087: Watercraft identification number requirements
• EN ISO 15085: Reboarding means and safety features
• EN ISO 12215-1: Hull construction and material specifications

By following EN ISO 6185-2:2018, organizations can ensure safe, reliable, and market-ready inflatable boats, supporting regulatory compliance and international trade in the marine industry.

Keywords: EN ISO 6185-2:2018, inflatable boats, safety requirements, small craft, rigid inflatable boats, CE marking, EU Directive 2013/53/EU, boat manufacturing standard, marine safety, small craft regulations, European standard.