The document outlines specifications for constructing wooden hulled fishing vessels under 24 meters in length, including definitions, material requirements, and fastening practices. Key sections discuss the scantlings and assembly of various components such as the keel, frames, and decks, as well as recommendations for timber quality and moisture content. It serves as a guideline to ensure safety and structural integrity in local fishing vessel construction.

1. File: /Scantling Specs WOOD. doc
Standard Specifications for the Construction of Local Fishing
Vessels of less than 24 metres in Length Overall
Country …………………
Fisheries Act …………..
Regulation ……………..
Section ………………….
Schedule 7 Construction of a Wooden Hulled Local Fishing Vessel

2. 4:12 PM01/28/16
2
Contents
1. Definitions ................................................................................................................................. 5
3. Materials ................................................................................................................................... 5
3.1 Timber Quality........................................................................................................... 5
3.2 Moisture Content........................................................................................................ 5
4. Fastenings.................................................................................................................................. 6
4.1 Materials..................................................................................................................... 6
4.2 Fastening Practice ...................................................................................................... 6
5. Keel, Stem, Sternpost and Horn Timber................................................................................ 6
5.1 Keel and Hog.............................................................................................................. 6
5.2 Stem............................................................................................................................ 6
5.3 Sternpost and Horn Timber........................................................................................ 6
6. Frames....................................................................................................................................... 7
6.1 Scantlings ................................................................................................................... 7
6.2 Grown or Sawn Frames.............................................................................................. 7
7. Floors......................................................................................................................................... 7
7.1 Scantlings ................................................................................................................... 7
7.2 Fastenings................................................................................................................... 8
8. Beamshelf and Bilge Stringer.................................................................................................. 8
8.1 Scantlings ................................................................................................................... 8
8.2 Scarph Joints .............................................................................................................. 8
8.3 Raised Deck................................................................................................................ 8
8.4 Fastenings................................................................................................................... 8
9. Bilge Stringers .......................................................................................................................... 8
9.1 Requirement ............................................................................................................... 8
9.2 Scantlings ................................................................................................................... 8
9.3 Scarphs ....................................................................................................................... 8
9.4 Fastenings................................................................................................................... 9
9.5 Alternatives ................................................................................................................ 9
10. Breast Hooks and Quarter Knees........................................................................................... 9
11. Outside Planking ...................................................................................................................... 9
11.1 Thickness of Planking ................................................................................................ 9
11.2 Butts ........................................................................................................................... 9
11.3 Fastenings................................................................................................................... 9
11.4 Hard chine plywood hulls ........................................................................................ 10
11.5 Chine log .................................................................................................................. 10
12. Decks........................................................................................................................................ 10
12.1 Scantlings ................................................................................................................. 10
12.2 End Attachments ...................................................................................................... 10
12.3 Local Reinforcement................................................................................................ 10
13. Decks........................................................................................................................................ 10
13.1 Deck Planking .......................................................................................................... 10
13.2 Thickness of Deck.................................................................................................... 10
13.3 Plywood Decks......................................................................................................... 11

3. 4:12 PM01/28/16
3
13.4 Planked Decks.......................................................................................................... 11
14. Deck houses............................................................................................................................. 11
14.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 11
14.2 Requirements............................................................................................................ 11
14.3 Wood........................................................................................................................ 11
14.5 Fibreglass ................................................................................................................. 12
14.6 Access....................................................................................................................... 12
14.7 Handrails .................................................................................................................. 12
14.8 Windows................................................................................................................... 12
14.8.1 Wheelhouse windows:.......................................................................................... 12
14.8.2 Deckhouse windows:............................................................................................ 12
15. Accommodation...................................................................................................................... 13
15.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 13
15.2 Galley arrangements................................................................................................. 13
15.3 Ventilation................................................................................................................ 13
16. Hatches and Coamings........................................................................................................... 13
16.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 13
16.2 Coamings.................................................................................................................. 14
16.3 Hatches..................................................................................................................... 14
17. Engine Beds............................................................................................................................. 15
17.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 15
7.2 Wooden engine beds ................................................................................................ 15
7.3 Steel engine beds...................................................................................................... 15
7.4 Outboard engine mounting....................................................................................... 15
7.5 External shaft support brackets ................................................................................ 15
18. Paint and coatings .................................................................................................................. 15
18.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 15
19 Protection of the crew ............................................................................................................ 16
19.1 General ..................................................................................................................... 16
Scantling Tables .............................................................................................................................. 17
Table I. ............................................................................................................................. 17
Table II............................................................................................................................. 18
Table III............................................................................................................................ 19
Table IV............................................................................................................................ 20
Table V............................................................................................................................. 21
Table VI............................................................................................................................ 22
Table VII. ......................................................................................................................... 23
Table VIII......................................................................................................................... 24
Table: IX. ......................................................................................................................... 25
Figures.............................................................................................................................................. 26
Fgure 2 Siding and Moulding........................................................................................ 27
Figure 3 Section through keel......................................................................................... 27
Figure 4 Keel scarf joints................................................................................................ 28
Figure5 Stem to keel connection...................................................................................... 29
Figure 6 Shaft log, sternpost and horn timber ................................................................ 30
Figure 7 Correct placement of stopwaters...................................................................... 30
Figure 8 Frame connection ............................................................................................. 31

4. 4:12 PM01/28/16
4
Figure 9 Section through keel showing floor connection............................................... 31
Figure 10 Section through beam shelf and deck beam connection .................................. 32
Figure 11 Bilge stringer detail .......................................................................................... 32
Figure 12 Spacing of butts................................................................................................ 33
Figure 13 Hard chine construction alternatives................................................................ 33
Figure 14 Hanging and lodging knee arrangements in deck structures and alternative
options for beam shelves and clamps............................................................................... 34
Figure 15 Deck framing.................................................................................................... 34
Appendix 2....................................................................................................................................... 35
List of Schedules .............................................................................................................. 36

5. 4:12 PM01/28/16
5
1. Definitions
1.1 For the purpose of this schedule, the method of measuring a wooden hulled vessel is given in
Figure 1. The following terms mean:-
 Length overall (Loa) is the length overall measured in feet/metres in a straight line on a
line parallel to the design waterline taken from the extreme forward part of the stem at top
to the aftermost part of the transom, or outrigger (Horn timber end if transom has reverse
rake).
 Breadth (B) is the maximum breadth of the vessel in feet/metres measured to the outside
of the planking.
 Depth (D) is the depth in feet/metres at the middle of the length from the outside of the
keel rabbet to the top of the deck beam at side. measured vertically from the bottom of the
wood keel to the top of the deck at side. In an open or well-decked vessel the measurement
is made to the top of the gunwale.
 Scantling Numeral, for wooden fishing vessels is the result of multiplying Loa x B x D
as defined above. The measurements for obtaining the Scantling Numeral for these
regulations shall be made in Metres.
 Scantlings dimensions of vessel structural components obtained by reference to the
Scantling tables.
 Siding (S) is the thickness of a structural member measured between its straight parallel
faces (Fig. 2).
 Moulding (M) is the thickness of a structural member measured between its curved faces
(Fig. 2).
 Inspector a person authorised to inspect fishing vessels on behalf of the Minister (CFO?)
from the designated government agency charged with fishing vessel inspection work,
regardless of the rank of that person in that agency.
 Bedding compound flexible waterproof mastic material used in wood joints to prevent
water entering the vessel through joints in structure, also used to seal fittings installed on
weather decks.
3. Materials
3.1 Timber Quality
The timber shall be of good quality, properly seasoned and free from heart, sapwood, decay, insect
attack. splits, shakes and other imperfections which would adversely affect the efficiency of the
material. The material for hull and deck planking is to be generally straight grained. Plank to be used
for caulked laid decks shall preferably be from quarter sawn stock.
Suitable timbers for boatbulding applications in the eastern Caribbean are listed in Table: ... Alternate
wood species may also be used if suitability for the application intended is verifiable by the Inspector.
3.2 Moisture Content
The timber shall be stored properly stacked off the ground, under dry conditions and should have an
air dried moisture content of not more than about 20% before use. Due care is to be taken to avoid
rapid or excessive drying out during building, temporary shelters over the construction site may be
necessary.
The moisture content of timber that is to be glued shall not exceed 15%.

6. 4:12 PM01/28/16
6
4. Fastenings
4.1 Materials
The materials used for fastenings are to be of the following metals:
Copper, Silicon Bronze, Stainless Steel, Aluminium Bronze, hot dip process Galvanised Steel.
Stainless Steel fastenings are to be of a suitable grade of 18/8 fully austenitic type. Due care must be
taken to prevent galvanic corrosion action between dissimilar metals, The galvanic series of metals
commonly found in marine applications is shown in Fig: 14.
4.2 Fastening Practice
Through bolts are to be clenched on rings or washers or are to be fitted with nuts and washers. Nuts
and washers are to be of the same material as the bolts.
Where bolt fastenings pass through the outside planking or centreline structure, cotton or other
suitable grommet material and bedding compound are to be placed under the bolt heads.
Where screw fastenings are used, the thread of the screw must enter the frame or beam a distance
equal to the thickness of the hull or deck planking that it holds in place.
Countersunk headed Stainless Steel or Bronze ring nails of an approved size may in some cases be
substituted for screw fastenings.
5. Keel, Stem, Sternpost and Horn Timber
5.1 Keel and Hog
The scantlings of wood keels, or keel and hog are given in Table: 1. according to the scantling
numeral of the vessel measured in metres.
The rabbet for the garboard strake is to have a faying surface on the hog of not less than 1.5 times the
siding of the garboard strake.
The wood keel is to be in one length when the boat length (Loa) does not exceed 10.6m (35ft). In
larger vessels, the keel should be, when possible, in one continuous length. When a scarph joint is
necessary in the keel or hog it shall have a length not less that 6 times the moulding of the keel or hog
respectively. The scarph in the keel should be of the hooked or keyed type if through bolted or plain
type without lips if glued.
Scarphs in the keel and hog are to be at least 1.5m (5ft) apart and the keel scarph is to be clear of the
engine seating. When these distances are difficult to maintain, it is strongly recommended that scarph
joints in main structural members be glued together using Resorcinol or Epoxy resin adhesives.
Details are given in Figures 3 and 4.
5.2 Stem
The scantlings of the stem are given in Table 1 and are to be uniformly tapered from head to heel if so
required. The scantlings at the heel may need to be increased, depending on the shape of the forefoot,
to enable an adequate scarph or joint to the keel to be arranged. Details are shown in Figure5.
5.3 Sternpost and Horn Timber
The scantlings of the sternpost are given in Table I
The cross section area of the horn timber at its forward end, adjacent to the stern post, is not to be less
than the cross sectional area of the sternpost. The horn timber may be gradually reduced to 75% of this
area at its after end adjoining the transom.
The horn timber is to be securely fastened to the sternpost and shaft log/deadwoods. It is
recommended that the stern post shall be tenoned or fitted with tabling pieces to the horn timber and
keel and through fastened. Details are shown in Figure 6.

7. 4:12 PM01/28/16
7
The length of the horn timber from the aft side of the stern post to the transom should not be more than
25% of vessel (Loa).
Scarphs in the stem or sternpost may be plain or hooked. Stopwaters are to be fitted where the scarph
in any centreline member crosses the planking rabbet. Stopwaters should be made of soft Pine or
similar wood. For correct placement of the stopwaters see Figure 7.
6. Frames
6.1 Scantlings
The scantlings and spacing for grown / sawn frames are given in Table: II
6.2 Grown or Sawn Frames
Grown frames are to be cut to shape from timber having the correct curvature of grain. Short or cross
grain wood for frames shall be avoided. Frames may also be laminated using marine grade adhesives
such as Resorcinol and Epoxy resins. Persons intending to laminate frames shall notify the inspector of
such intention and obtain approval. The builder shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Inspector
that he has the knowledge, materials, capability and equipment to produce properly laminated
components for the vessel(s).
The siding of each grown frame is to be uniform over its length and the moulding is to be a fair taper
from heel to head if so required.
Grown or sawn frames may be butted, overlapped or scarphed. Scarphs are to be glued and have a
length not less than six (6) times the siding of frame material. Where frames are butted, the butts are to
be close fitted and side clamps arranged. The side clamps are to have a sectional area of not less than
that of the frame at the butt location and a minimum length of not less than twelve (12) times the
frame siding.
The clamp is to be through fastened to the frame by not less than three fastenings on each side of the
butt joint. Where frames sections are overlapped, the two sections of frame shall fit closely together,
with an overlap of at least twelve (12) times the frame siding, and be through fastened with at least
three fastenings. Fastening diameters are to be as shown in Table: VIII
Frames are to be bevelled on faying surface with planking to allow full contact of planks with the
frames.
Where the heels of frames terminate at the centre line construction members they are to be let into and
fastened to them unless floors are fitted at every frame.
Details are given in Figure 8.
7. Floors
A floor shall be fitted where possible at every frame, where space is limited for wooden floors
fabricated metal floors of galvanised steel may be substituted with the approval of the Inspector.
7.1 Scantlings
The scantlings of floors are to be as in Table: II. Moulded dimensions of floors at keel centreline shall
not be less than the minimum moulded dimensions of frames.
Wood floors are to be cut from timber having correct grain direction or may be laminated using marine
grade glues such as Resorcinol or Epoxy Resins.
The sectional area at the ends of the arms is not to be less than half that given in the table for the centre
line moulding of frames.
Details are given in Figure 9.

8. 4:12 PM01/28/16
8
7.2 Fastenings
The size of the fastenings are to be as given in Table: VIII.
The floors shall fit closely to the frames and be through fastened to the frames with at least 3
fastenings in each arm where the length does not exceed 300mm (1ft) or 3 fastenings when the arm
length is over 300mm (1ft)or greater in length.
The throat is to be attached to the keel by not less than two through bolts, where space does not permit,
such as in forefoot area, one (1) bolt may be permitted. Bolt diameters must not exceed more than 1/3
of the sided dimension of the floor.
8. Beamshelf and Bilge Stringer
8.1 Scantlings
The sectional area of the beamshelf for 3/5 Loa amidships is to be as given in Table: III. Outside this
length the area may be gradually reduced to the ends where it may be 25% less than amidships.
The scantling table area of beamshelf is to be that clear of beams; such that the section removed for the
beam end joint does not impair the efficiency or strength of the shelf. Details of construction are given
in Figure 10.
8.2 Scarph Joints
Where the beamshelf is not fitted in one length, a plain glued scarph is to be arranged. Scarphs are to
be suitably positioned in relation to joints in other longitudinal members.
The scarph is normally to be cut across on the moulded dimension of beam shelf. Alternate scarph
arrangements may be approved by the Inspector.
8.3 Raised Deck
Where there is a raised deck, the main beamshelf shall be carried to the ends of the boat. Suitable
arrangements shall then be made for a beamshelf at the raised deck level. Suitable chocking
arrangements shall be made at the aftermost end of the raised deck beamshelf to tie into the main
beamshelf.
8.4 Fastenings
The beamshelf is to be attached to each frame by one through fastening when the moulding of the
shelf does not exceed 178mm (7inches) and by two through fastenings when the moulding exceeds
seven 178mm. The diameters of fastenings to be used are given in Table: VIII.
9. Bilge Stringers
9.1 Requirement
A bilge stringer(s) is to be fitted when the Scantling Numeral of the vessel is ten (10) or above when
measured in metres. Details are given in Figure 11.
9.2 Scantlings
The sectional area of bilge stringers for 3/5Loa. amidships shall be as given in Table: III. Outside this
length the area may be gradually reduced to the ends where it may be 25% less than the table area
given for amidships.
The greatest dimension of the stringer is to be fitted against the frames.
9.3 Scarphs
Scarphs in the port and starboard stringers are to be staggered and suitably positioned in relation to
joints in other members. Scarphs should preferably be glued using Resorcinol or Epoxy resins, where

9. 4:12 PM01/28/16
9
this is impractical scarphs shall be mechanically fastened using bolts, ends of scarphs shall be in way
of transverse frames for support.
The scarphs in the stringers should be cut across the moulded dimension. Alternate scarph
arrangements may be approved by the Inspector.
9.4 Fastenings
Stringers are to be fastened to each frame by one through fastening when the moulding of the stringer
does not exceed 178mm (7 inches) and by two through fastenings when the stringer moulding exceeds
178mm.
9.5 Alternatives
As an alternative to the fitting of a single bilge stringer two or more side stringers may be fitted.
When two side stringers are fitted the sectional area of each should not less than 60% of the Table area
given for a single bilge stringer of that Scantling Numeral.
10. Breast Hooks and Quarter Knees
The beamshelf and bilge stringer ends are to be efficiently attached to the centreline construction at the
stem and at the transom.
Breast hooks are to be installed at stem and junction of beamshelves. Breasthooks are to be so
dimensioned that each arm has a minimum of 2 bolts and one bolt in the throat. See Figs: 5 and 15.
Quarter knees are to be installed at junctions of beamshelves and transom, see Fig.15. Quarter knees
are to be so dimensioned that each arm has a minimum of 2 bolts and one bolt in the throat.
11. Outside Planking
11.1 Thickness of Planking
The thickness for single skin carvel construction is to be as given in Table 4.
11.2 Butts
No butts in the outside planking are to be nearer than two frame spaces to each other on adjacent
strakes; no butts are to be in the same frame space unless there are three clear strakes between them.
The land length for plank ends butting on frames shall not be less than 1.5 times the plank siding ie;
25mm (1inch) plank shall have a minimum land length of 38mm (1.5inch). Where this dimension
cannot be attained, planks shall be butted on solid butt straps, between frames, of same siding as hull
planking. Details are shown in Figure 12.
11.3 Fastenings
The number of fastenings in each plank butt is to be as shown in the following Table:-
Width of Plank Number of Fastenings per Plank end
Inches mm
Less than 4 Less than 100 3
4 to 8 100 to 200 4
8 to 10 200 to 254 5
The diameter or gauge of fastenings attaching the outside planking to the frames are to be of suitable
size for the planking and according to best boatbuilding practice. On grown / sawn frames through
fastenings shall be arranged in way of beam shelf and bilge stringer.
The garboard strakes are to be screw fastened to the keel and / or hog. Fastenings are to be staggered
and spaced not more than twelve diameters apart in each row and are to enter the keel or hog to a
depth at least equal to the sided dimension of the garboard.

10. 4:12 PM01/28/16
10
11.4 Hard chine plywood hulls
Plywood used for planking of hard chine or “V” bottom vessels shall be of the best marine grade
available and shall conform to (BS1088/4079) standard or equivalent as may be approved by the
Inspector.
Plywood shall be treated to prevent rot, insect and marine borer attacks. All edges shall be sealed
against ingress of water.
Scantlings for plywood planking shall be included in the specification submitted for plans approval
and shall specify the sided dimension based on the vessel size, the use intended, the installed
horsepower and estimated maximum speed of operation. Other successful plywood vessel designs in
the area may also be used for guidance in selecting scantling dimensions for plywood construction of
similar size and style.
11.5 Chine log
All vessels of hard chine construction shall have proper chine logs or stringers installed at the junction
of topsides and bottom planking to provide a land size for plank fastening(s) of at least 1.5 times the
sided dimension of hull planking. Some typical chine arrangements are shown in Fig: 13
12. Decks
12.1 Scantlings
The scantlings of ordinary beams and strong beams are not to be less than those given in Table: III.
Strong beams are to be fitted at ends of all openings in the deck framing structure including at mast
partner chocks if a mast is to be fitted.
12.2 End Attachments
All beams are to be dovetailed and fastened to the shelf.
As an alternative where a plywood deck is fitted the beams need not be dovetailed but may be carried
past the shelf and checked over it. The depth of the check is to be about one quarter the depth of the
beam and the beam is to be fastened to the shelf with screws or bolts.
12.3 Local Reinforcement
The beams and deck are to be suitably strengthened with Lodging Knees, Hanging Knees and under
deck reinforcing Chocks in way of mooring posts, mast and cleats etc.
All deck openings are to be properly framed with Carlings fitted to receive the half beams. All
Carlings shall have tie rods fitted alongside every second half beam on large deck openings or evenly
spaced in smaller deck openings. Any deck opening with a Carling length of up to 2m (6.5ft) shall
have at least one tie rod, deck openings over 2m in length shall have tie rods installed as noted above.
Details of construction are shown in Figures 14 and 15.
13. Decks
13.1 Deck Planking
Decks may consist of:
 laid planks of an approved species.
 approved marine plywood
 marine plywood sheathed with fibreglass or other material as approved by the Inspector.
13.2 Thickness of Deck
The sided dimensions of laid deck is to be in accordance with Table: III.

11. 4:12 PM01/28/16
11
Where certified marine plywood is used the thickness may be reduced by 25%
13.3 Plywood Decks
Plywood decks are to be fitted in as large panels as practicable.
Butts are to be on a strong beam or are to be butt strapped if joints fall between beam spaces.
Seams are to be arranged on a longitudinal member, if no suitable member is in place one must be
installed.
Where plywood is butt jointed the land width shall be a minimum of 2 times the siding of the plywood
decking.
Butts and seams are to be sealed watertight by application of flexible marine bedding compounds.
13.4 Planked Decks
The seams in planked decks not sheathed with fibreglass or other approved material are to be caulked
with boat cotton or oakum and payed with a suitable flexible marine caulking compound.
14. Deck houses
14.1 General
The term deck house is to include any structures including the wheelhouse that are built on the vessel
above the weather deck for purposes of shelter and / or accommodation purposes.
14.2 Requirements
Where wheelhouses and deckhouses are installed on a fishing vessel they may be constructed of wood,
metal or fibreglass. Wheelhouses and deckhouses shall be strongly constructed, stiffened and securely
fastened to the vessel structure and carlings with through bolts which shall have heavy washers and
nuts on each end unless bolt heads are of coach bolt configuration. All materials used for construction
of wheelhouses and deckhouses shall be of the best marine quality available.
14.3 Wood
Wooden wheelhouses and deckhouses are permitted, provided that they are so constructed and
adequately stiffened to resist the most severe service conditions in the proposed areas of operations.
When the wheelhouse / deckhouse structure is of wood it shall comprise of approved wood framing
and be covered with approved planking or marine plywood. As a guide the framework for vessels of
12m (39ft) Loa and under shall not be less than 38mm x 70mm (1 ½” x 2 ¾”). For vessels above 12m
Loa but less than 24m (78.7ft) Loa a minimum shall be 45mm x 89mm (1 ¾” x 3 ½”). All vertical
frame stiffeners shall be installed at 600mm (24”) centre to centre minimum.
Plywood or plank shall be properly fastened to the framework with screws and/or stainless steel ringed
nails and marine glue. The thickness of plank and plywood shall be included in the specification
submitted for plans approval but shall not be less than:
 12mm (½”) for vessels of 12m (39ft) Loa;
 16mm (⅝”) for vessels over 12m Loa but less than 18m (59ft) Loa; and,
 19mm (¾”) for vessels over 18m Loa but under 24m (78.7ft) Loa.
When planking is used thickness shall be increased or extra horizontal cross bracing stiffeners must be
placed in the framework.
Bolt diameters shall be in accordance with Table VIII, bolt spacing centre to centre around sill plate
through carling shall not exceed 600mm (24”).

12. 4:12 PM01/28/16
12
Wooden wheelhouses and deckhouses shall have, in addition to the bolts through the sill to carlings,
an arrangement of vertical steel straps with end flanges top and bottom for bolting the flanges through
the sill and carling at deck level and through the cabin frame top plate. Either steel strap of 6mm x
25mm (1/4” x 1”) or 25mm x 25mm (1”x 1”) angle may be used with suitable end flanges for bolts.
14.4 Metal
14.4.1 Steel
On fishing vessels with Scantling Numbers of 200 and above the Minister of delegated authority may
require a wheelhouse/deckhouse to be constructed of steel. The plating thickness of steel used shall not
be less than 5mm (0.2”). Stiffener spacing shall not be less than 500mm (19.6”) on centres. Details of
cross sectional dimensions of stiffeners shall be included in the specification submitted for plans
approval.
14.3.2 Aluminium alloy:
The plating thickness of aluminium alloys used shall not be less than 6.35mm (0.25”). Stiffener
spacing shall not be less than 500mm (19.6”) on centres. Details of cross sectional dimensions of
stiffeners shall be included in the specification submitted for plans approval.
14.5 Fibreglass
Fibreglass wheelhouses and deckhouses would be permitted, provided that they are so constructed and
adequately stiffened to resist the most severe service conditions in the proposed areas of operations.
Special attention is to be paid to provisions for fire prevention measures on vessels with fibreglass
wheelhouses and deckhouses.
14.6 Access
Wheelhouses and deckhouses shall be constructed in a manner that allows unimpeded movement of
personnel to and from the wheelhouse or deckhouse. Access doors must be of weathertight design and
shall be operable from both sides, hinges shall be located on the forward side of opening. Door sill
heights above the deck shall be according to those given for coamings in section 16.2.
Where access to wheelhouse / deckhouse roof area is necessary this shall be provided by provision of
permanently mounted ladder(s) or companionway(s).
14.7 Handrails
Sufficient handrails shall be securely installed on the outside of wheelhouse, deckhouse and in the
interior of wheelhouse/deckhouse to the satisfaction of the Inspector.
14.8 Windows
14.8.1 Wheelhouse windows:
 Provision shall be made for at least 3 opening windows for cross ventilation.
 Window frames may be of metal or wooden framed types with adequate drainage provided.
 Window glass shall be of toughened type of not less than 6mm (0.25”) thick except where the
glass size exceeds 760mm x 600mm (30”x 24”) when it shall be increased to 10mm (0.4”)
thickness.
 On vessels of 12m (39ft) Loa or less toughened glass thickness may be reduced to 8mm (0.3”).
14.8.2 Deckhouse windows:
 Windows fitted in deckhouses shall not exceed 500mm x 350mm (19”x 14”).
 Glass thickness shall be as for wheelhouse.
 Windows shall not be installed at a height of less than 1.5m above the deck level.

13. 4:12 PM01/28/16
13
15. Accommodation
15.1 General
When a vessel is intended to be at sea for more than 24 hours an adequate standard of accommodation
for all on board shall be provided. This shall include adequate ventilation, lighting, fresh water
supply, sleeping accommodation, galley and toilet facilities. The sleeping bunks shall be of adequate
length and breadth to allow the incumbent to stretch out in comfort.
There should be at least two easily accessible means of escape from each accommodation space.
The interior walls of accommodation spaces may, as required, be lined with marine plywood or plastic
laminated sheets.
15.2 Galley arrangements
 Cooking facilities shall be provided for the crew, either kerosene or Liquefied Petroleum Gas
(LPG) may be used to fuel cook stoves.
 Cooking facilities shall not be installed in areas used for sleeping accommodation.
 When LPG fuel is used audible gas alarm/sensors shall be installed in the galley under stove or at
lowest point in galley, if other lower level accommodation areas are adjacent to the galley audible
alarm/sensors shall also be installed at the low point of these accommodations.
 Gas cylinders shall be installed outside wheelhouse / deckhouse in a dedicated locker that shall
permit any escaping gas to be vented to atmosphere or overboard, gas cylinder lockers shall not be
closer than 0.9m (36”) to any opening to the interior of the boat.
 Gas piping shall be of an approved material with permanently attached swaged end fittings, worm
drive clips shall not be used.
 A single action shutoff valve shall be installed adjacent to the stove in an easily accessible
location.
 A pressure gauge shall be installed at the low-pressure side of the gas cylinder regulator unit, the
gauge is used to check for leaks in the system.
 Cooking appliances shall have individual push and turn controls for each burner.
 LPG warning notices shall be placed at the cylinder locker and adjacent to the cooking appliance.
15.3 Ventilation
All crew accommodation compartments shall have adequate ventilation provided, either natural or
mechanical. Ventilators shall be designed to prevent ingress of water, and shall be capable of being
closed if required.
16. Hatches and Coamings
16.1 General
Hatches and coamings may be made from fibreglass laminate, wood or metals. Hatches and coamings
shall have all necessary fitting to allow rapid weather tight closure. Access hatches for personnel shall
not be less than 600mm x 600mm (24”x 24”) clear opening.

14. 4:12 PM01/28/16
14
16.2 Coamings
Heights of hatch coamings measured above the freeboard weather deck shall not be less than indicated
in the following:
Vessel Length Overall Minimum Coaming Height
Below 12m (39ft) Loa 200mm (8”)
12m to below 15m (49ft) 300mm (12”)
15m to below 18m (59ft) 380mm (15”)
18m to below 21m (69ft) 460mm (18”)
21m and above 600mm (24”)
Individually fabricated fibreglass hatch coamings may be incorporated in a wooden deck structure. As
a unit it shall have a heavy flange suitable for bolting the coaming unit solidly to the carlings and main
beams around the deck opening and be flanged at the top to receive hatch boards or hatch.
Wooden coamings shall be made from an approved wood. All corners shall be securely jointed with
dovetail joints or equivalent as may be approved by the Inspector. Provision must be made to allow
through bolting of the coaming to carlings and main beams around the deck opening. Minimum siding
of wooden coaming plank is 38mm (1.5inch), for vessels of 21m Loa and above the siding shall be a
minimum of 76mm (3inch). Dimensions for intermediate coamings shall be interpolated. The top of
wooden coamings shall be constructed in such a manner that hatch boards or hatch are easily fitted and
secured.
Metal or steel hatch coamings may be incorporated in a wooden deck structure. As a unit it shall have
a heavy flange or other suitable means for bolting the coaming unit solidly to the carlings and main
beams around the deck opening and a flange provided at top to receive hatch boards or hatch.
16.3 Hatches
All hatches shall be provided with covers and fitted with clamping devices and gaskets or other
equivalent arrangement sufficient to ensure weathertightness. Those hatches that have to be opened
during fishing operations shall be fitted near to the centreline of the vessel as practical.
Wooden hatch boards shall have a thickness of at least 4mm for each 100mm of unsupported span
subject to a minimum thickness of 40mm and the span shall not exceed 1.5m (4ft 11inch) the width of
the bearing surface of the hatch board ends on coamings shall not be less than 65mm (2.5”).
Hatch boards shall be clearly and permanently marked as to their correct position for proper closure.
Hatch cover materials other than wooden planks shall be capable of withstanding a loading of one
metric tonne per square metre. Where hatch covers are made of steel, the maximum stress, when
subjected to a load of one metric tonne per square metre, multiplied by 4.25 shall not exceed the
minimum ultimate strength of the material. Under these loads, the deflection shall not exceed 0.0028
times the span.
Where the Minister or delegated authority has allowed the use of flush hatches where necessary for a
fishing operation, they shall be capable of being closed weather-tight. The deck fitting for the hatch
cover shall be permanently attached to the deck.
Hinged hatches shall be hinged at the forward side of coaming and have a means of positive closure
operable from both sides when installed over occupied spaces.

15. 4:12 PM01/28/16
15
17. Engine Beds
17.1 General
Engine beds may be constructed of either wood or steel. Engine beds shall be at least two and one half
times the length of the engine and gearbox, this length being measured from the forward holding down
bolts to the face of gearbox to shaft coupling. Where a forward power take off drive(s) is fitted, the
length of the engine bed shall be extended to accommodate the machinery to be driven.
17.2 Wooden engine beds
Wooden engine beds shall be stiffened with side support brackets and transverse stiffeners. The top of
the engine bed shall have a continuous flat steel plate or angle iron fitted, the plate shall not be less
than 6mm (1/4”) in thickness.
17.3 Steel engine beds
Metal engine beds shall be fabricated to suit the make and power of the engine to be installed. The
base plates of steel engine beds shall be secured to the hull by bolting through the frames. Steel side
stiffeners shall be fitted at every second frame. The number and spacing of gusset plates and
intercostals shall be determined according to the power of the engine to be installed.
17.4 Outboard engine mounting
Where vessels are powered by outboard engines or stern drive units, they shall be installed on a
suitably reinforced transom in accordance with Table: IV.
17.5 External shaft support brackets
Where the stern configuration of a vessel is such that the propeller shaft extends well beyond the stern
post in order to obtain sufficient clearance for the propeller, it shall be properly supported by an
arrangement of brackets.
Steel pads shall be fitted to the hull with not less than 4 through bolts. The brackets shall be attached
to the steel pads by bolts or by welding and arranged to carry a boss for the propeller shaft nearing.
The steel brackets shall be fitted with suitable anodes.
Where the external shaft length is such that intermediate bearings would be necessary the same rules
shall apply as those applied to internal intermediate bearings
18. Paint and coatings
18.1 General
On wooden fishing vessels all bare wood shall be painted, in particular those areas not accessible after
final assembly such as non-glued joints, backs of planking and ceiling and any other inaccessible areas
shall be painted with a minimum of one marine primer coat. Only the best quality marine paints should
be used on woodwork. Normal applications on exterior non-sheathed areas will consist of a primer
coat over the bare wood, an undercoat and at least two topcoats of marine enamel.
Where epoxy or other resins are used to cover bare wood the manufacturers instructions are to be
carefully followed regarding application and safety precautions to be observed when using the
product. Some products are classified as hazardous materials and must be handled accordingly.
When painting fibreglass sheathed surfaces for colour or Ultra Violet (UV) protection the surface must
be properly prepared according to the manufacturers instructions. Good quality marine enamels,
automotive acrylic enamels or two-part polyurethane paints may be used to coat fibreglass sheathing
over wood.

16. 4:12 PM01/28/16
16
19 Protection of the crew
19.1 General
In every decked vessel, sufficient bulwarks, guard rails or guard wires shall be provided at the exposed
parts of the freeboard and superstructure decks and the tops of any deckhouses or companionways
used in the operation of the vessel.
In every decked vessel, adequate guard rails, lifelines, gangways or passages shall be provided for the
passage of the crew between their quarters, machinery spaces and working spaces. Storm rails shall be
fitted on the outside of all deckhouses and casings.
Controls of winches, line and net hauling shall be placed in a manner that the operators have ample
room for their unimpeded operation and that they have a clear view on the working area. The winches
and equipment shall be fitted with safety devices that are designed to prevent accidents.

17. 4:12 PM01/28/16
17
Scantling Tables
Table I.
Scantlings for Keel, Sternpost, Stem, Apron, Keelson and Hog

18. 4:12 PM01/28/16
18
Table II
Scantlings for Sawn or Grown Frames only.
xx

19. 4:12 PM01/28/16
19
Table III.
Scantlings for Carvel Planking, Strakes, Bilge Stringers and Beam Shelf

20. 4:12 PM01/28/16
20
Table IV
Scantlings for Transom, Fashion Pieces and Transom Knee

21. 4:12 PM01/28/16
21
Table V.
Scantlings for Deck Beams (Wide Spacing)

22. 4:12 PM01/28/16
22
Table VI.
Scantlings for Deck Beams (Close spacing)

23. 4:12 PM01/28/16
23
Table VII.
Scantlings for Carlings, Hanging and Lodging Knees

24. 4:12 PM01/28/16
24
Table VIII.
Bolts: Minimum Diameters

25. 4:12 PM01/28/16
25
Table: IX.
Intermediate Shaft Support Bearings
Diameter of Shaft
(mm)
Diameter of Shaft
(Inches)
Maximum Shaft
Bearing Spacing
Centre to centre in
(Metres)
Maximum Shaft
Bearing Spacing
Centre to centre in
(Feet)
25 0.98 1.21 4.0
30 1.18 1.37 4.5
35 1.38 1.52 5.0
40 1.57 1.66 5.4
45 1.77 1.80 6.0
50 1.97 1.93 6.3
55 2.16 2.05 6.7
65 2.56 2.29 7.5
75 2.95 2.52 8.3
The distance from gearbox coupling flange to the first bearing should be 20 times the shaft diameter
but not less than 12 times the shaft diameter.
For shaft speeds in excess of 1000 RPM the spacing shall be reduced to the satisfaction of the Minister
or delegated authority.

26. 4:12 PM01/28/16
26
Figures
Figure 1 Measurement of a wooden hulled local fishing vessel
Dimensions for Scantlings
L = Loa

27. 4:12 PM01/28/16
27
Fgure 2 Siding and Moulding
Figure 3 Section through keel
Keel
Floor
Garboard
Strake
Frame
Hog

28. 4:12 PM01/28/16
28
Figure 4 Keel scarf joints

29. 4:12 PM01/28/16
29
Figure5 Stem to keel connection

30. 4:12 PM01/28/16
30
Figure 6 Shaft log, sternpost and horn timber
Figure 7 Correct placement of stopwaters

31. 4:12 PM01/28/16
31
Figure 8 Frame connection
Figure 9 Section through keel showing floor connection
Throug bolts
Frame
Frame
Through
fastenings Hog
Wood floor

32. 4:12 PM01/28/16
32
Figure 10 Section through beam shelf and deck beam connection
Figure 11 Bilge stringer detail
Frames
Hull
Planking
Bilge
Stringer
Deck planking
Beam
Beam shelf
Frame

33. 4:12 PM01/28/16
33
Figure 12 Spacing of butts
Figure 13 Hard chine construction alternatives
2 Frame spaces
Butt joint
Frame spacing
3 Strakes
Hull
planks

34. 4:12 PM01/28/16
34
Figure 14 Hanging and lodging knee arrangements in deck structures and
alternative options for beam shelves and clamps.
Figure 15 Deck framing

35. 4:12 PM01/28/16
35
Fig. 14 Galvanic series (in sea water)
Noble, cathodic end
Platinum
Gold
Graphite
Titanium
Silver
Hastelloy C
18-8 austenitic stainless steels (passive condition)
Iron-chromium alloys (passive condition)
Inconel (passive)
Nickel
Monel
Cupronickel alloys
Bronzes
Copper
Brasses
Inconel (active)
Nickel (active)
Tin
Lead
18-8 Austenitic stainless steels (active)
13% Chromium stainless steel (active)
Cast iron
Mild steel and iron
Cadmium
Aluminum alloys
Zinc
Magnesium and magnesium alloys
Active, anodic end

36. 4:12 PM01/28/16
36
Appendix 2
List of Schedules
Schedule 1 Prescribed Forms
Schedule 2 Prescribed Fees
Schedule 3 Safety Equipment for a Local Fishing Vessel
Schedule 4 Fire Protection, Fire Detection, Fire Extinguishing and Fire Fighting Equipment.
Schedule 5 Equipment/Ground Tackle/Anchors and Chains
Schedule 6 Stability and Associated Seaworthiness
Schedule 7 Construction of a Wooden Hulled Local Fishing Vessel
Schedule 8 Construction of a Fibreglass Hulled Local Fishing Vessel
Schedule 9 Construction of a Steel Hulled Local Fishing Vessel
Schedule 10 Machinery and Electrical Installations
Schedule 11 Specifications for the Marking of Fishing Vessels