Permanent fixing of navigation light bulbs: UK21/C001
Adopted EU recommendation COLREG-001. UK approved recommendation clarifying the meaning of a permanent fixing of navigation light bulbs.
Question
EN 14744, 4.11 states that holders for electrically powered light sources shall ensure permanent fixing and perfect electrical contact. Annex A in the same standard shows examples of electrical light sources with two of the most common holder/cap solutions, both with a kind of spring locking.
Can navigation lights using bulbs with traditional Edison screw cap/holder, without additional fixings, be regarded to fulfil the requirements for permanent fixing and contact?
Recommendation
No. In order to ensure permanent fixture and good electrical contact, the design of navigation lights should incorporate means to ensure that light sources remain in place during their expected lifecycle.
Even though navigation lights using light sources with Edison screw cap/holders may pass the specified vibration and shock tests in EN14744 we do not regard such a holder/cap solution to be permanently fixed unless additional mechanical support is used to ensure that the light sources stay in their holders. Individual feeling of right torque when setting in light source by hand should not be a basis for ensuring permanent fixing and electrical contact.
References
- MSN 1874 as amended
- The Merchant Shipping (Marine Equipment) Regulations 2016 as amended
Items affected
- UK/6.1, Navigation lights
More information
Maritime and Coastguard Agency
Bay 2/21
Spring Place
105 Commercial Road
Southampton
SO15 1EG
Telephone: +44 (0) 203 817 2000
Email: MEQA@mcga.gov.uk
Website: www.gov.uk/mca