The split of the 2002 Boat Safety Scheme Check List items into two categories: Mandatory and Advisory applied to privately-owned boats only. Since April 2005, the BSS Standards published in this section  apply to non-private craft only and thus remain all mandatory where applicable.

This situation will remain current until the navigation authorities have had the opportunity to consider and possibly implement, a proposed new code for hire and similar craft, which is expected from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.