AS/NZS 3004.2:2014 PDF Download

AS/NZS 3004.2:2014 is a standard that outlines the requirements for the design, construction, and installation of electrical systems in boats. The standard specifically applies to boats that have a length of up to 50 m and are used on inland waters or at sea. It is important to note that this standard does not apply to small boats that only have a battery supplying circuits for engine starting and navigation lighting, which is recharged from an inboard or outboard engine driven alternator.

The standard also highlights the need to comply with international regulations for preventing collisions at sea (COLREGs), which govern specific requirements for navigation lights. Additionally, attention is drawn to various regulations in Australia and New Zealand that govern requirements for safety, electromagnetic compatibility, marine safety, energy and water usage, telecommunications, and radio communication.

The standard covers different types of electrical systems, including direct current (d.c.) systems that operate at a nominal voltage not exceeding 1500 V, single-phase alternating current (a.c.) systems that operate at a nominal voltage not exceeding 1000 V, and three-phase alternating current systems that also operate at a nominal voltage not exceeding 1000 V. It is noted that three-phase systems are likely to be the principal electrical power system of a boat's installation, but boats may also have single-phase a.c. subsystems and d.c. subsystems.

Furthermore, the standard acknowledges that boats whose electrical installations comply with the requirements of an international maritime classification society recognized by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) or Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) can be used to demonstrate compliance, as long as the safety of the installation is equivalent to or exceeds the requirements of the standard. Exemptions based on this provision must be supported by appropriate and current certification documents.