The USCG (United States Coast Guard) has accepted the ABYC new requirements for in-tank fuel pumps and associated fuel hoses. The policy permits builders to use in-tank fuel pumps located beyond 12 inches from the engine without obtaining an exemption from the USCG. Additional compliance labeling on the boat is not required.
The ABYC H-24 (2025) policy provides flexibility to boat manufacturers to incorporate the latest fuel system technology. Extensive testing was conducted by ABYC and the Fuel & Ventilation Systems Project Technical Committee, resulting in approval of the policy. This new standard paves the way for manufacturers to solve the challenges associated with supplying gasoline in high-horsepower applications, while adhering to efficiency and safety standards. The standard includes a recommended compliance date of August 1, 2027, to provide manufacturers time to integrate the changes into their production line.
The USCG policy can be read at https://safeafloat.com/policies-letters. USCG accepts ABYC requirements as equivalent to federal regulations. ABYC (American Boat & Yacht Council) is a non-profit organization that develops voluntary global safety standards for the design, construction, and maintenance of recreational boats.
Standards are continuously researched, developed, and revised by ABYC marine professionals on 16 Project Technical Committees (PTCs) from all fields of the marine industry. Standards and technical information cover all major boat systems, with annual reviews of standards. Most boats on the water today are built to ABYC standards.
Historic Background. The ABYC non-profit organization was incorporated on February 1, 1954, in New York State. Philps Ingersoll, a marine hardware manufacturer, was elected as their first president. It was from 1954-1990 that ABYC defined itself with standards. By 1990, the big boating problems that had been reported by the Coast Guard were now solved. A certification program was started for trained technicians to receive specialized ABYC certifications.
ABYC Standards have helped minimize carbon monoxide deaths on boats, fires, electrical shocks, and more. ABYC is now making inroads into individual components, both in the marine and RV industries; high school education opportunities; and even looking into aquatic invasive species issues.
Photos: Compliment of ABYC
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