Small craft - Owner's manual (ISO 10240:2019); German version EN ISO 10240:2020 / Note: To be replaced by DIN EN ISO 10240 (2022-09).
1Key Takeaways
This document sets out requirements for the owner's manual for small watercraft. It contains information on the operation, safety, and maintenance of the vessel. Its scope covers all small watercraft as defined in the Recreational Craft Directive 2013/53/EU.
2Expert Interpretation
An in-depth interpretation of the DIN EN ISO 10240:2020 international standard, "Small Craft User Manual," covers safety requirements, technical specifications, implementation guidelines, and EU compliance requirements, providing professional guidance for ship manufacturers and owners.
Standard Overview and Technical Background
DIN EN ISO 10240:2020 is the international standard for small craft user manuals, replacing the 2015 version. This standard was jointly developed by ISO/TC 188, Small Craft, and CEN/SS T01, Ships and Marine Equipment, and was published and implemented in May 2020. The full 32-page standard applies to all small craft up to 24 meters in length.
Main Technical Changes
| Areas of Change | Requirements of the 2015 Edition | New Requirements of the 2020 Edition | Technical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope of Application | Basic Scope of Application | The scope of application has been re-stated to reflect the extended requirements of the EU Recreational Vehicle Directive 2013/53/EU | The scope of application is clearer and the compliance requirements are enhanced |
| Definition of Hazard Levels | Definitions in original clause 3.1 | Restated and moved to section 5.2, integrating the contents of Appendix A | Safety Warning Classification is more scientific |
| Ship design categories | Original four categories | Updated design category definitions and requirements | Adapt to the development of modern ship design |
| Maximum load labeling | General requirements | Section 5.3 refines the maximum load requirements on the manufacturer’s label | Load management is more precise |
| Maintenance references | No clear requirements | Added reference requirements for maintenance and servicing | Improved life cycle management |
User manual core content requirements
5.1 General requirements
The owner's manual must contain the necessary information to ensure the safe operation of the vessel, its equipment and systems, with particular attention to construction, maintenance, correct operation, risk avoidance and risk management. The manual may include a checklist of actions to be taken before the vessel is put into operation.
5.2 Manual Introduction
Each manual must contain an introductory chapter reminding the vessel owner of his or her responsibilities in the intended operation. Safety warnings must be explained according to the following hierarchy:
- Danger — Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury
- Warning — Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in death or serious injury
- Caution — Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury
- Instruction — Provides important information without any risk of injury
5.3 Basic Vessel Information
The manual must include the following applicable information: manufacturer's name, model designation, design category, light load mass, maximum load capacity, main dimensions, bridge navigation height, draft, propulsion method, fuel tank capacity, etc.
5.4 Maximum Passenger Capacity
The maximum recommended number of adults and/or adults and children, determined in accordance with the ISO 14946 and ISO 12217 series of standards, must be stated. If multiple design categories are specified, the corresponding maximum passenger capacity for each category must be stated.
5.7 Flooding Risk and Transverse Stability
Detailed guidance must be provided on hull openings, bilge pump systems, transverse stability and buoyancy, righting after capsizing, handling capsizes of multihulls, and grounding response measures.
Safety Critical System Requirements
5.8 Fire or Explosion Hazards
Safety operating requirements for propulsion engines, generator sets, gas systems, other fuel-burning appliances, fire-fighting equipment, and fire escape routes must be covered. In particular, detailed installation, inspection, and operating instructions must be provided for gas systems.
5.9 Electrical System
The fire or explosion hazards and electric shock hazards that may arise from improper operation of the DC and AC systems must be described. This includes battery switch operation, switchboard description, fuse replacement procedures, and battery ventilation requirements.
5.10 Operational Characteristics
Provide information on safe vessel operation, including engine starting procedures, the location and operation of the emergency steering gear, etc. Emphasize that the engine's recommended maximum power rating must not be exceeded.
Environmental and Operational Precautions
5.11 Proper Operation Recommendations
Includes detailed requirements for man-overboard prevention and rescue, life raft stowage, hazards of moving mechanical parts, ventilation of combustion devices, securing loose equipment, environmental considerations, use of holding tanks, anchoring, mooring, and towing.
5.12 Sailboat Rigging
Instructions on how to adjust and maintain rigging for sailboats are provided to ensure safe navigation.
Appendix Contents Detailed Explanation
Appendix A: General Introduction to the User Manual
Provides a standardized manual introduction template that can be modified for specific vessels. It emphasizes shipowner responsibilities, the importance of training, weather condition assessment, maintenance requirements, and the use of safety equipment.
Appendix B: References to Related Standards
Lists 24 international standards that require reference, including the ISO 6185 series of inflatable boat standards, ISO 9094 fire protection standards, and ISO 10133 electrical system standards, providing a comprehensive reference for user manual compilation.
Implementation Recommendations and Compliance Guide
EU Conformity Requirements
This standard supports the essential requirements of EU Directive 2013/53/EU and clarifies its compliance with EU regulations through Annex ZA. Manufacturers should ensure that their user manuals comply with all relevant provisions to provide a presumption of conformity with EU regulations.
Multilingual requirements
The manual must be written in the languages accepted or required by the intended country of use and can be multilingual. If provided only in electronic form, the manufacturer must provide procedures for shipowners to print the manual.
Technical document management
It is recommended that manufacturers establish a complete user manual preparation and update process to ensure that all technical changes are reflected in the manual in a timely manner and maintain consistency with relevant standards.
Training and education
Shipowners and operators should receive appropriate training to understand the contents of the manual and master basic safety operating procedures, especially emergency response procedures.
Analysis of standard technology evolution
Since its first publication in 1996, the ISO 10240 standard has undergone three major revisions in 2004, 2015 and 2020. The main technical evolution of the 2020 edition is reflected in:
- Safety improvement: Strengthened safety requirements for complex systems on modern ships, especially electrical and gas systems
- Compliance integration: Better coordination with EU regulations and other international standards
- Technical update: Reflects the latest developments in ship design and construction technology
- User experience: Improved information presentation makes the manual easier to understand and use
The continuous updating of this standard reflects the international community's increasing attention to the safety of small vessels and also provides manufacturers with a clear technical guidance framework.