A Boat Safety Certificate (BSC) is a document that shows that a narrowboat or any other type of boat meets the necessary safety requirements for use on inland waterways in the United Kingdom. The certificate is issued following an inspection of the boat’s safety equipment and systems by an accredited examiner. The inspection covers a range of safety aspects, including gas and electrical systems, fire safety equipment, ventilation, and hull integrity. The examiner will ensure that the boat meets the necessary safety standards and that all equipment is properly installed and functioning correctly. Once the inspection is complete, the boat will be issued with a Boat Safety Certificate, which is valid for four years. The certificate provides proof that the boat is safe to use on inland waterways and can be requested by the relevant authorities, such as the Canal and River Trust, during routine checks or in the event of an incident. It is important to note that the Boat Safety Certificate is a legal requirement for all boats operating on UK inland waterways, and failure to obtain one can result in fines or even imprisonment. It is the responsibility of the boat owner to ensure that their boat is properly maintained and meets all safety requirements to obtain a valid certificate.