Study on Article 10.1 of Regulation (EC) 391/2009 : Study on the level reached in the process of harmonising the rules and procedures and on Mutual Recognition (MR) of certificates for materials, equipment and components, pursuant to Article 10.2 of Regulation (EC) 391/2009

Regulation No 391/2009 and in particular Article 10 therein suggested that Recognised Organisations should harmonise their rules and procedures related to materials, equipment and components based on equivalent standards issued by them. As a result of the above, the EU ROs Mutual Recognition scheme was initiated. Article 10.2 requires that the state of implementation of the aforementioned Regulation is examined to establish the level of progress. This study reviews the current implementation of the requirements of Article 10.1 through the analysis of available information from various sources and presents a critical overview of information available. The current implementation regime is also examined through questionnaires, interviews and case studies performed. Overall, significant progress has been made and momentum has been developed thus far. While safety is considered at the highest level for all products included in the MR scheme, the current implementation needs further improvement and harmonisation of individual rules which can be delivered as the process matures over the next years. Additional information and dissemination of the overall MR process is also required engaging all marine industry. The benefits are clear but will live to their full potential when recognition of the scheme at a global level is achieved