Get approval as an independent lifeboat servicing and testing organisation (ILSTO)

Business: Maritime

    Apply to a UK recognised organisation (classification society) to get approval as an independent lifeboat servicing and testing organisation (ILSTO).

    The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) no longer approves ILSTOs.

    You need approval if you want to service and test lifeboats, rigid rescue boats, launching appliances and on-load release gear aboard UK-registered ships.

    Original equipment manufacturers

    You don’t need approval if you’re the original equipment manufacturer or one of their representatives. However, you still need approval if you want to work on equipment built by other manufacturers.

    Existing ILSTOs

    You can continue working as an ILSTO, but you’ll also need to apply to a UK recognised organisation when your approval needs renewing.

    Approval procedures

    Contact your recognised organisation for details of their approvals procedures.

    Further information

    For more information about becoming an ILSTO contact the MCA Marine Technology Branch.

    Marine Technology Branch
    infoline@mcga.gov.uk
    Telephone: 023 8032 9100
    Fax: 023 8032 9104

    Marine Technology Branch

    Maritime and Coastguard Agency

    Bay 2/27

    Spring Place

    105 Commercial Road

    Southampton

    SO15 1EG

    Get approval from a recognised organisation as an independent lifeboat servicing and testing organisation (ILSTO) – renewal for existing ILSTOs, where to get further information