ISAF and IHC
Posted: 28 Feb 2007, 16:26
ISAF has finally launched IHC. A quick glance through its requirements makes it clear that it is unlikely to suit any of the Radio Sailing Classes. In the past in the UK, the RYA has simply refused to engage with the IOMICA interest and position on the topic. Perhaps there is now an opportunity through ISAF itself.
http://www.sailing.org/default.asp?ID=j ... rmat=popup
ISAF IN-HOUSE CERTIFICATION
Some of the world's leading sailing nations have joined the ISAF In-House Certification programme (IHC), which aims to make getting out on the water and racing as simple as possible. Since the launch of the IHC last year several Olympic Classes and leading manufactures have also joined the programme.
The IHC programme will give sailors the opportunity to buy equipment which is race legal at the point of purchase. ISAF is aiming to implement an international system of IHC, giving sailors worldwide the benefits of self-certificated equipment principally savings in time and cost.
The basic structure of IHC incorporates ISAF Classes, Member National Authorities (MNAs) and manufactures as the key stakeholders. Since the launch of the IHC programme last year, Great Britain, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and the USA have all joined the development of the programme.
The IHC centres around a Certification System allowing the builder to self-certify their equipment at the point of manufacture but only once their have met a designated standard. Each nation or region will have an IHC Authorizing Authority (AA) approved by ISAF (normally the MNA), which will approve, contract and audit builders with Certification Systems. ISAF Classes involved in the IHC will ensure their class rules are suitable for IHC and assist the development of control methods and training.
Classes already involved include the 49er, 470, Finn, RS:X, Tornado and Yngling Olympic Classes, as well as the 29er, Formula 18 and Hobie 16 and Tiger.
Classes, MNAs and manufacturers that would like to become involved in or find out more about the IHC programme should contact the ISAF Technical Department to obtain an ISAF IHC Pack, or visit the ISAF IHC microsite at http://www.sailing.org/ihc