There are over 11 million boats registered throughout the U.S., so it’s no surprise that safety in boat building has become an increasingly hot topic in recent years. It has received increased attention, too, as many people bought boats for the first time in 2020 and 2021. It is every boat builder’s responsibility to construct safe and effective vessels, but even the most experienced boat builder must confront the liabilities contained in their work. Faulty materials and unintentional design flaws are just a few of the liabilities that can impact professionals in this field. Find out how boat builders can keep themselves out of harms way and mitigate the exposures associated with boat construction.

Avoid Design Flaws

Design flaws are one of the most common causes of litigation against boat builders, but fortunately, this liability can be avoided by paying close attention. Any experienced marine carpenter knows how to avoid mistakes like inadequate bulkheading, decks that are prone to flexing, and insufficient side framing on the hull. These flaws are still common in many boat designs, though, and they can lead to unhappy customers and potential injuries if the problem is left unaddressed. Investing in boat builder insurance can shield you from liability in such cases.

Recognize Other Hazards

Design flaws aren’t the only risk factor facing boat builders. Building a boat also entails extensive work with hazardous materials, including flammable materials and toxic resins. It’s important to use these materials in a way that ensures they are safe and pose no risk to the eventual buyer of the boat. If these materials are used incorrectly or are not allowed to cure properly, they can emit harmful vapors that are flammable and detrimental to mariners’ health. Boat builders must recognize these hazards and handle them with care.

Store Materials Safely

Boat builders need to treat hazardous materials with caution even when they aren’t in use. This means they must be stored safely and securely where they cannot be accessed by any unauthorized person. Hazardous materials should also be clearly labeled, and when disposal is necessary, boat builders should comply with local protocol to prevent causing environmental damage. Failure to do so is a major liability that can result in a boat builder insurance claim.

Obtain the Right Permits

In some states and local jurisdictions, boat builders may be required to obtain special permits before beginning work on a vessel. In order to avoid liability, marine carpenters should also research whether such a requirement is applicable in their area. Building a boat without the required permits can cause many issues, including fines and loss of boat building privileges. If a permit is required, it must be approved before any boat construction begins.

About Mariners Insurance

Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (888) 402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.