Have you ever found yourself mid-inspection staring at a fuel system and thinking, “This doesn’t look quite right, but is it technically wrong?”
You’re not alone. As boating technology advances and regulations shift to keep up, the line between compliance and confusion can blur. That’s why events like the Coast Guard and American Boat & Yacht Council’s Risk Mitigation Series are becoming must-attend sessions. These twice-annual webinars are dedicated to improving safety in recreational boat design and construction for anyone working in marine safety, boatbuilding or inspections.
In May, the series included a two-hour deep dive into gasoline fuel systems, a topic that’s seen some big changes lately. From new Coast Guard equivalency policies to the revised ABYC H-24, Gasoline (Petrol) Fuel Systems standard, published this past January, the session was packed with timely insights and practical takeaways for anyone who wants to stay compliant and keep boaters safe.
For starters, there are newly accepted equivalencies for gasoline fuel systems, 22-gauge wiring and capacity labeling. These changes show that the Coast Guard is adapting, and that’s good news for all of us.
The ABYC is also launching a Regulatory Compliance Specialist Certification, a course that focuses on recreational boat regulatory requirements from hull identification numbers, fuel systems and flotation to electrical systems. This is an opportunity for people in compliance and inspection roles at boat manufacturers who want to gain deeper regulatory knowledge, enhance product compliance with the law, and be more prepared for Coast Guard factory inspections. Ultimately, it is a great tool to reduce risk while gaining a professional acknowledgment.
One of the most eye-opening segments came from Kevin Ferrie of the Coast Guard. He broke down what the new Coast Guard equivalency policy means in practical terms.
In the past, fuel-system exemptions, like the much-discussed “MasterCraft” exemptions, were handled in a model-by-model manner. (MasterCraft was the first company to submit a model for exemptions related to fuel tank systems where the fuel pump is greater than 12 inches from the engine.) The case-by-case approach added more work for boat manufacturers and the Coast Guard without necessarily improving safety.
Now, the Coast Guard has more authority and flexibility to formally recognize
alternative standards that meet or exceed existing regulations. This gives boatbuilders more room to innovate, while still staying within a strong safety framework.
As Ferrie explained, instead of just responding to change, “We’re building a system that can evolve with the industry.” It’s a meaningful shift that opens the door for safer, more efficient technologies without getting tangled in outdated rules.
ABYC H-24 Changes and More
If you work with gasoline fuel systems, the revised ABYC H-24 standard is a big deal. The changes are focused on new requirements for in-tank fuel pumps. Previously not included in the standard, these systems are now officially addressed, thanks to updated testing and performance criteria — and the Coast Guard is on board.
There are also expanded requirements on connections, hoses and fire testing for pressurized fuel delivery systems, or pump-in-tank. The logic behind the updates is rooted in modern technology and real-world
laboratory validation cases, based on collaboration between the ABYC and the Coast Guard. It’s a reminder that standards aren’t just red tape; they’re evolving tools that help us build better, safer boats.
The most down-to-earth part of the session came from the panel discussion with boat inspectors and accident investigators. Common issues they see include cracked fuel lines, blocked vents, corroded fittings and DIY “repairs” gone wrong. Accidents following refueling were another hot topic, especially on older vessels where systems might not have been inspected or maintained.
As one panelist noted, even the best-built systems can fail over time if they’re not maintained properly or if changes are made without a full understanding of the regulations. It was a powerful reminder that risk mitigation doesn’t stop at the factory. It’s an ongoing process that requires diligence from boat owners, service techs and inspectors alike.
This session made one thing clear: Staying current isn’t optional. With new standards like H-24 2025 and the Coast Guard’s more flexible equivalency policy, we’re seeing a shift toward smarter, more adaptable regulation. But that only works if the professionals in the field — inspectors, builders and service techs alike — are tuned in and trained up.
We’re all working toward the same goals: safer boats, fewer incidents and clearer guidance to get us there. That’s what turns evolving standards into real-world improvements.
Whether it’s getting certified, revisiting inspection protocols or simply keeping an eye out for common field mistakes, there’s a lot we can do right now to reduce risk. But in the end, it’s not just about boxes checked or standards met. It’s about keeping boaters safe, vessels reliable and the waterways we love free from preventable disasters.
Brian Goodwin is director of standards and compliance for the American Boat & Yacht Council.
