Wescom Group receives Red Ensign approval for its marine pyrotechnics
04/04/2023
Wescom Group has announced that its commercial marine pyrotechnics have received MCA approvals to carry the Red Ensign logo.
A Red Ensign UK Conformity Mark is now required for new marine safety equipment on board British-flagged vessels under updated MCA Requirements (performance and testing standards.)
The regulations under Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) MSN 1874 amendment 6 apply to marine equipment on commercial SOLAS vessels, including lifesaving appliances, manufactured from 2023 onwards.
The aim is to ensure the conformity of marine equipment, with a focus on improving safety at sea. The updated regulations apply to UK merchant ships, fishing vessels, small commercial vessels and large leisure craft.
Sean McCrystal, Marketing Director of world-leading marine pyrotechnic manufacturer Wescom Group, says, “Wescom has always been committed to the highest regularity and performance standards and is delighted to offer compliant pyrotechnics. UK fleet managers should review labelling on any new pyrotechnics brought onboard, to ensure their distress signals for the bridge, lifeboats and life rafts meet the new MCA regulations. Pains Wessex and Comet SOLAS distress signals, which carry the Red Ensign logo, are fully approved and available now.”
MED-approved equipment on board a UK-flagged vessel before 1 January 2023, can remain until the end of its operational life and products manufactured in 2022 can still be supplied without the Red Ensign.
Manufacturers must seek approval from MCA accredited (approved bodies) before their products can carry the Red Ensign mark. Certification lasts for up to five years.
