Lloyd’s Register gains MCA backing for uncrewed vessels

Lloyd’s Register (LR) has become the first certifying authority authorised by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) to certify remotely operated and unmanned vessels (ROUVs) under the latest Workboat Code Edition 3 (WBC3) Annexe 2.

The WBC3 framework states that all uncrewed and remotely operated vessels under 24 metres operating in UK waters must meet strict safety and operational standards, verified by an approved certifying authority.

With this authorisation, LR can now offer certification services for ROUVs in line with WBC3, complementing its existing Unmanned Marine Systems Code. The move positions LR to support the growing commercial uptake of autonomous and uncrewed vessel solutions.

Jordan McRuvie, unmanned marine systems specialist at Lloyd’s Register, comments: “LR’s achievement as the first organisation to meet the MCA’s competency standards for ROUV certification demonstrates our technical expertise and commitment to advancing innovation in maritime autonomy.  

“This was made possible through collaboration with a number of industry partners on key projects. We are committed to supporting clients through the certification process and look forward to granting the first WBC3 certification to an ROUV shortly.”