AV Technology

AVT are a Notified Body for the noise emission tests as required by the new Recreational Craft Directive. Directive 2003/44/EC came into force from January 1st 2005 and consolidates the existing 1996 94/25/EC Directive and subsequent 1998 amendments. It has been implemented into UK Regulations under Statutory Instrument 2004 No 1464. While the original Directive focused primarily on essential safety requirements for the design and construction of craft, the new one now includes noise and exhaust emission limits.

The new Directive applies to recreational craft measuring 2.5 to 24 metres in length intended for sport and leisure activities. It covers the same craft as the old Directive, including those powered by outboard engines, stern drive engines or inboard engines, but now applies to personal water craft (PWC) such as jet skis propelled by water jet pumps. The new regulations will be applicable not only to new craft and propulsion engines coming onto the market, but also to existing craft and engines which undergo major modifications and conversions.

The noise emission requirements are presented in terms of maximum acceptable sound pressure levels determined from a pass-by test at a specified distance on open water. The new Directive requires the craft manufacturer, under the responsibility of the Notified Body to have measured the noise levels of each type of craft or engine