Announcing CE Certification for American Boatbuilders

HPi Verification Services (HPiVS) has partnered with Boksa Marine Design (BMD) to provide Notified Body certification services in the United States. HPiVS, a leading provider of technical and regulatory services for the marine industry, is a Notified Body authorised to issue certificates on behalf of the EU Commission for products requiring a CE mark to access the European market. BMD will conduct onsite inspections and surveys of boats and equipment manufactured in the U.S. that require CE certification for distribution in Europe.

HPiVS delivers high-quality verification services across a range of industries and maintains partnerships with global organisations. Achieving Notified Body status means that HPiVS operates under a code of conduct and a quality system licensed by the Irish government on behalf of the EU Commission. This allows HPiVS to offer a CE certification service.

Boksa Marine Design is a naval architecture and marine design firm based in Lithia, Florida, just outside Tampa. Specialising in full-scale vessel design and engineering, BMD develops vessels that comply with class standards, regulatory requirements, and flag state regulations. The company collaborates closely with OEMs to ensure their products meet certification requirements for global distribution.

“Boksa Marine Design will perform surveys for pleasure craft and supply those results to HPi for review and certification purposes,” said Jeff Kuenning, the firm’s vice president of naval architecture. “With years of experience providing class and compliance services to luxury yacht builders, production boatbuilders and commercial shipyards, BMD is proud to partner with HPiVS. We look forward to ensuring all American boatbuilders in the European market adhere to CE recreational craft regulations.”

Boatbuilders, yacht builders, and OEMs seeking CE certification for their products can schedule in-person meetings with BMD’s naval architects and engineers at the Miami International Boat Show, taking place February 12–16, 2025.

Insights from ABYC Standards Week

Last week, we had the privilege of attending ABYC Standards Week, where we participated in critical discussions and stayed up to date on key developments in marine compliance.

The event covered a wide range of significant topics, including fire-fighting equipment, CO2 detectors, bilge pumping, and outboard engine weights. Additionally, updates on upcoming ISO standards were shared. While there are notable similarities between the Recreational Craft Directive and ABYC standards, the event also highlighted key differences that require careful consideration.

With CEproof software, available at Rulefinder.net, we offer certification to the EU Recreational Craft Directive or the option to issue a voluntary Statement of Conformity to ABYC standards, ensuring your compliance needs are met effectively.

HPi Verification Services: 2024 Year in Review

As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on a year marked by growth, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. Here are some of the key moments that defined our journey:

We led the ISO 12217 Update at Düsseldorf Boatshow

The revision of ISO 12217, the core standard for boat stability under the RCD, began on January 22, 2024, at the Düsseldorf Boatshow. Our CEO, Alasdair Reay, led discussions on sailboats (Parts 2 & 3) and contributed to Part 1.

Over five days, we reviewed industry feedback and explored potential changes, including a dedicated Part 4 for sailing multihulls. While no final decisions were made, the updated standards promise greater clarity and usability.

We welcome feedback on ISO 12217—contact us to share your suggestions with the committee.

Elevating Standards with ASME Certification

We began the year celebrating the successful completion of the ASME Authorised Inspector Commission Course by Vladislav Maslov. This achievement underscores our dedication to maintaining the highest standards in pressure equipment inspection and verification. The training combined theoretical expertise from the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors with hands-on practice through our partner APAVE SA.

Joining Forces for a Sustainable Future

In August, HPiVS became a corporate member of the International Electric Marine Association (IEMA). This global alliance unites companies driving innovation in the electric marine industry. We are proud to support IEMA’s mission of accelerating sustainable growth in this sector.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Designers

Alasdair had the privilege of visiting The Landing School, engaging with aspiring yacht designers. He highlighted how working within technical standards can fuel innovation. The passion and ingenuity displayed by the students were truly inspiring, and we look forward to their future contributions to the industry.

Saudi Arabia’s Boat Construction Regulations

Saudi Arabia’s new “Technical Regulation for Watercrafts”, effective April 2023, establishes guidelines for boat construction. These align with the EU Recreational Craft Directive, covering boats, personal watercraft, Annex II components, and engines. HPiVS assists clients in navigating these requirements, ensuring smoother compliance across regions.

Hydrogen-Powered Performance

HPi-CEproof NZ Limited, part of HPiVS, supports McConaghy Sales Limited and Emirates Team New Zealand in their groundbreaking H2 Chase boats project. These hydrogen-powered foiling chase boats represent marine innovation. Featuring Toyota hydrogen fuel cells, seawater cooling systems, and advanced carbon-Nomex construction, they exemplify performance and sustainability. Our insights from inspecting their 2021 prototype helped refine this project.

Welcoming Adam Greene to Lead Our Marine Division

In August, we welcomed Adam Greene as our new Technical Director (Marine). With over 20 years of experience, including a tenure at Princess Yachts, Adam brings unparalleled expertise to regulatory compliance and innovation. His leadership will be instrumental as we strengthen our marine division.

Showcasing Excellence at IBEX and METS Trade

Our presence at IBEX and METS Trade highlighted our global reach and influence. These events offered opportunities to connect with industry leaders, showcase innovations, and discuss exciting new projects.

Driving Global Compliance

HPiVS remains the only company licensed to certify boats and components to CE, UKCA, and Saudi Arabian regulations. As more nations adopt ISO standards, our role in enabling compliance across jurisdictions has never been more critical.

Looking Ahead

As we close 2024, we celebrate the milestones achieved and partnerships formed. HPi Verification Services is committed to innovation, sustainability, and excellence—values that will guide us into 2025 and beyond. To our clients, partners, and team members: thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to another year of success together.

Adam Greene Joins HPi Verification Services as Technical Director (Marine)

Princess Yachts Naval Architecture Manager Brings Extensive Experience to Lead HPiVS’ Marine Division

Oxford, UK – August 16, 2024 – HPi Verification Services (HPiVS), a leading provider of technical and regulatory verification services, is pleased to announce the appointment of Adam Greene as the new Technical Director (Marine). Adam brings a wealth of experience from his previous role as Naval Architecture Manager at Princess Yachts, where he was involved in the design and development of some of the world’s most renowned luxury yachts. 

Adam will take over from Bas Edmonds during September, who, just back from officiating at the Paris Olympics sailing regatta, has served HPiVS with distinction in the role. Bas will continue to support the company as an external consultant, ensuring a smooth transition and ongoing access to his invaluable expertise, particularly with regards to commercial craft. 

Adam Greene’s appointment marks a significant step forward for HPiVS as the company continues to strengthen its marine division. With 12 years of experience at Princess and another decade with both power and sail boat builders in UK, Italy and Spain, Adam is widely respected among his peers in the industry for his deep understanding of both regulatory frameworks and engineering solutions. He is well known for his collaborative and pragmatic approach, effectively bridging the gap between design innovation and regulatory compliance to deliver projects that meet the highest standards. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Adam to HPi Verification Services,” said Alasdair Reay, CEO of HPiVS. “His expertise in naval architecture, particularly with yachts at the larger end of the ‘small craft’ spectrum, will be instrumental in driving our marine division forward. We are also grateful to Bas Edmonds for his years of service and are pleased that he will continue to contribute as a consultant.” 

Adam Greene expressed his enthusiasm about joining HPiVS: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining HPiVS, knowing how well we have worked together on many other projects over the years.  I look forward to working with HPiVS and leading the talented marine team to build upon our valued exceptional service to our clients and industry colleagues in the marine sector.” 

HPiVS has a long-standing reputation for providing high-quality verification services across various industries and holds partnerships with several global organisations such as ABS, TUV and RINA. The addition of Adam Greene to the leadership team underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining its position at the forefront of the marine sector. 

HPiVS team member’s technical help at the Olympics

HPiVS is proud to announce that our Technical Director, Bas Edmonds, was a part of the ten-member Technical Committee for the sailing competition at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. Sailing, being an equipment-intensive sport, requires meticulous oversight to ensure that every athlete competes on an equal footing. The role of the Technical Committee is critical in this respect, as it ensures that the competition rewards the most skilled sailors, rather than those with the most advanced equipment or resources.

At HPiVS, we recognise the vital importance of standards and fairness, values that align closely with the responsibilities entrusted to the Olympic Technical Committee. The experience gained through work at HPiVS has been instrumental in preparing Bas for this prestigious role. The Olympics, like our own industry, relies heavily on a robust framework of guidelines and regulations—akin to the “ISO standards” that govern our operations. Just as ISO standards are crucial in maintaining quality and consistency across industries, the Olympic documents—ranging from the Notice of Race to Equipment Regulations—are essential in ensuring a fair and equitable competition. Our commitment to staying current with these evolving standards is mirrored in our daily work at HPiVS.

Moreover, the parallels between the decision-making processes at HPiVS and the Olympics are clear. In both arenas, tough decisions must be made to uphold fairness and integrity. Whether ensuring compliance within the industry or determining adherence to Olympic regulations, our approach remains rooted in respect, fairness, and pragmatism. Just as we guide our clients through complex compliance issues, our representative will work with the International Jury to ensure that all competitors are judged by the same rigorous standards.

HPiVS also recognises the importance of supporting our team members in their professional growth and passions. We were honoured to support Bas in this exceptional opportunity to contribute to the success of the Olympic Games Paris 2024. His involvement not only highlights the alignment of our work with the principles of the Olympics but also reflects our commitment to personal development and excellence.

We extend our warmest congratulations and gratitude to Bas for a job well done.

Alasdair was delighted to have had the opportunity to visit the famous, The Landing School

Alasdair was thrilled to visit the renowned The Landing School, where he engaged with an accomplished class of yacht design students. His presentation on designing to ISO standards was met with enthusiasm and attentiveness. “I explained that while technical standards are perceived as a brake on creativity, innovation can be maximised by identifying the parameters the standards constrain most at the outset, and designing around them—rather than completing a design and then having to compromise it, to fit the standards afterward.”

As well as its yacht design course, The Landing School offers a multidisciplinary program that allows students to learn how to work with wood and composite materials, honing their skills through the construction of various watercraft. The courses cover the full spectrum from traditional boats and methods, to the design students who were exceptionally innovative and modern in approach.

Impressed by the calibre of the students and their diverse design projects, Alasdair wished them all the best for their bright futures.

 

HPi Verification Services to Provide Free Compliance Advice at Crick Boat Show

Inland waterways

Boat builders and enthusiasts attending the Crick Boat Show from Saturday, May 25 to Monday, May 27, 2024, can benefit from expert compliance guidance courtesy of HPi Verification Services Ltd, who will offer free advice to attendees seeking clarity on compliance matters. With accreditation from UKAS, the government-appointed national body, HPi aim to simplify the complexities of compliance for boat builders, owners, and surveyors. Visit HPi Verification Services at stand WW76 in the Waterways World Boating Marquee to access valuable insights on adherence to regulatory standards.

Additionally, HPi Verification Services will be hosting two boating compliance masterclass presentations on Saturday and Sunday, with times to be announced soon.

Inland waterways

Tickets available here

HPiVS appointed a Corporate Member of IEMA

The International Electric Marine Association (https://iema.org/), which was formed in August 2023, has just unveiled a freshly re-branded website which now includes HPiVS as a new corporate member.

The association’s website states “IEMA is a global alliance of companies from across the electric marine industry specifically focused on accelerating this sector’s remarkable growth towards sustainability and unblocking all future obstacles as they emerge.”

IEMA have welcomed HPiVS input to the group in order to seek the harmonisation of safety-related methods and thresholds at a time when manufacturers are in-front of the standards committees . There are many ways to address the same safety issue. They may not all provide the same degree of safety but there is a threshold no product should fall below.

Anyone interested in joining the association should contact IEMA directly via the website. Please contact HPiVS with any other queries.