That sinking feeling! 

Advice from the Boat Safety Scheme on how to avoid getting that sinking feeling and to check your weed hatch cover.

Owners of boats with weed hatches are being reminded by the Boat Safety Scheme (BSS) to routinely check the security of weed hatch covers before setting off, if they want to avoid that sinking feeling.

The advice follows a number of recent sinkings and partial sinkings on the waterways where water ingress was through weed hatch openings. The routine should also include checking that the hatch seals are effective and are maintained in good working condition.

BSS Manager, Graham Watts explains,
‘For boats with weed hatches, safety will likely depend on the effectiveness of the weed hatch sealing arrangements.

“Accepted standards for boats suggest a distance of at least 150mm between the weed hatch top and the normal waterline on the boat, but changes to ballasting or adding equipment during the boat’s life may mean the rear of the craft sitting lower in the water.

“The boats stern will also naturally pull down when underway, but the disturbance of water from the propeller may test the weed hatch seals every time the boat is put in gear. So make a routine of checking the hatch cover bolts are tight before setting off and any time the hatch is used.

“You should also, at least annually, inspect the hatch body, the cover and sealing gasket to see if they are still in good condition with no early signs of problems,’ he added.

The Boat Safety Scheme

The BSS is a public safety project owned jointly by the Canal & River Trust, and the Environment Agency. At least 14 other navigation and harbour authorities have also adopted the scheme. The Scheme aims to help reduce the risks of fire, explosion and pollution on small craft. This is done by promoting fire safety and pollution avoidance advice to help boat owners keep themselves and their crews safe as well as regular examination of fuel systems, gas systems, electrical systems and appliances.

More information on the Boat Safety Scheme