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Topic starter
June 10, 2022 5:29 pm
I recently purchased a Blue Sea 5056 fuse block, and was surprised to find it did not meet ABYC requirements. In the description it states "5056100 meets ABYC/USCG insulation requirements". When one scrolls down the webpage there is a section that has icons for the regulatory requirements met. Here it shows CE and IP66.
OK, My bad. I wasn't paying close enough attention. It said '5056100 meets ABYC/USCG insulation requirements" in the description for the item, I didn't realize it wasn't describing the item I was purchasing. A little disingenuous, but probably not the intent
This led me to dig a little deeper. I have already purchased several Blue Sea fuse blocks for an upcoming project. One of these was the 2722. The description states "Clear polycarbonate cover snaps on to meet Coast Guard and ABYC insulation requirements". Great. However, scroll down to the regulatory icon list and no ABYC E11 icon present, Only a CE icon is present. So now I'm confused. Does it meet ABYC insulation requirements, but not get the ABYC E11? Several other blade fuse blocks I've been collecting show the same.
Perhaps it would be appropriate for Blue Sea to state that an Item does NOT meet ABYC E11 in the advertising, and give a link to an item that does.
I enjoy doing wiring projects, and look forward to wiring my boat. I take special care to make sure the connections, fuses, wire gauge, circuits, etc are appropriate, and that I follow code. Therefore, I went on a search for the published ABYC regulations, to make sure I was following code, but apparently a membership fee is required to view them.
Which begs another question. Are ABYC regulations simply best practices, or do they carry real world weight? Do ABYC regulations have to be met for insurance? I have heard some rumbling about this, but would be surprised to find this to be true, since the regulations are not published.
Anyway, would be interested in any comments wrt to Blue Sea, ABYC regulations, etc.
June 20, 2022 4:48 pm
Many dont ever notice the things like this.
As it has been explained to me before in multiple different issues or considerations regarding ABYC and compliance.
ABYC is not a regulatory body, so much as an advisory group built from very knowledgeable individuals and industry representatives. They will not issue any recommendation that contravenes an existing law or provision by a regulatory body such as CE or USCG.
In Canada here it is interesting to note that TP1332E which is part of the Marine Vessel Manufacturing requirements and is law to build new boats in Canada, actually now instructs builders to refer to ABYC standards for guidance.
It is often found that their standards and methods are far more current as government is often far slower to move within specific industries in updating their standards.
If building for a commercial project or to a defined standard then it is always prudent to use the products that carry proof and validation of meeting the inspection or testing requirements of that standard. In recreational boating it is a bit different and bodies like ABYC or NMEA carry a lot of weight for a very valid reason.
July 23, 2022 9:52 pm
ABYC standards are voluntary. Surveyors will often check for compliance with key ABYC standards. Insures often require owners to address any recommendations in survey reports.
Keep in mind that the ABYC does not approve or endorse any item, construction, or proprietary device. Manufacturers often state that their products meet ABYC standards, but you’ll never see an ABYC approval stamp on a product.
