Mast and rigging inspection for sailing vessels
PROFESSIONAL SAILING RIGGING CERTIFICATE
In commercial sailing, it is mandatory that the mast and rigging be inspected and thus certified every 2.5 years. After approval of the inspection, the vessel is given a Proof of Rigging which is a mandatory certificate on board.
PLEASURE SAILING CERTIFICATE OF RIGGING
This is not yet an issue in pleasure cruising, but ships carrying 12 passengers or less are advised to have the rigging inspected. After approval, they too will receive a Rigging Proof Certificate.
EXPERIENCES
I have more than 25 years of experience with masts and their rigging on board professional sailing ships, having worked with them as a skipper but also built and having carried out extensive inspections on various ships.
If you run into a situation you are unsure what to do, feel free to contact me.
Wooden mast/ spar inspection
In addition to visually inspecting your mast, booms, jib boom, gaff, etc., a thorough inspection can be carried out. Various techniques can be used for this. For example, it is possible to measure the moisture content of your round timber if necessary, or even to rule out rot in the mast using a resitograph. After a thorough inspection, you will receive a comprehensive report detailing the condition of your rigging, round timber, and/or mast.
Steel mast/ spar inspection
A steel mast is also subject to the elements and, of course, will need to be maintained. By inspecting and maintaining the mast properly, it will remain in good condition for a long time. However, it is wise to have your mast thoroughly inspected from time to time. During the inspection, we use an ultrasonic thickness gauge to check the plate thickness of the mast.
Aluminium mast and boom inspection
A product that is becoming established in sailing passenger vessels (brown fleet) but has been present on large and small yachts for many years. Aluminium is a product that can also be subject to different elements of weather and sailing behaviour. (Think different elongation and tensile stresses). With this product too, it is important to inspect for such things as hairline cracks and weakening.
Proof of Rigging Inspection
After an inspection of the mast and rigging, you will receive an official Proof of Rigging Inspection. This document confirms that the rigging has been checked for safety, wear and tear, and structural defects.
Commercial sailing for inland waterways: This inspection is mandatory for commercial sailing vessels. The mast and rigging must be inspected every 2.5 years. In addition, the mast must be presented ashore for a thorough inspection once every 5 years (regardless of whether it is made of wood or steel). Make an appointment for this with a recognised inspection body.
Recreational boating: This obligation does not (yet) apply to vessels carrying a maximum of 12 passengers. However, an inspection of the rigging is strongly recommended. In this case too, a Certificate of Rigging Inspection can be issued after approval, giving you certainty about the condition and safety of your vessel.