EU Declaration of Conformity for Inflatable Boats: Core Elements and Signing Requirements

What Is the EU Declaration of Conformity?

The EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC) is the formal document by which a manufacturer declares that a product meets all applicable EU directives. For RIB and inflatable boats, the primary directive is the Recreational Craft Directive (2013/53/EU). Without a valid DoC, a boat cannot bear the CE mark or be placed on the EU market.

Required Elements

The DoC must contain the following information:

• Product identification: model name, type, and HIN or serial number
• Applicable directives: typically RCD 2013/53/EU, and potentially others such as the Machinery Directive or EMC Directive
• Harmonised standards applied: such as ISO 6185, ISO 12217, ISO 10240
• Conformity assessment module: B+C or B+D, with the notified body number
• Notified body details: name, address, and four-digit identification number
• Manufacturer details: name and address of the responsible entity
• Technical file reference: identifying the supporting documentation
• Statement of conformity: a clear declaration that the product meets all essential requirements
• Date and place of issue
• Signature: name and function of the authorised signatory

Who Must Sign the DoC?

The DoC must be signed by a person authorised to represent the manufacturer. This is typically:

• The manufacturer themselves (for factory-direct operations)
• An authorised representative established within the EU
• An importer, if the manufacturer has no EU presence

The signatory assumes legal responsibility for the conformity of the product. Falsely signing a DoC can result in criminal liability and market access revocation.

Record-Keeping Obligations

The manufacturer must retain the DoC and the entire technical file for 10 years after the last unit of that model is placed on the market. This obligation exists to support market surveillance and traceability.

Common Mistakes

• Listing the wrong directive or omitting applicable directives
• Failing to update the DoC when standards or directives are revised
• Not matching the product description to the actual boat specification
• Missing the notified body number when Module B+D is used

Accessing the DoC

Buyers should always request a copy of the DoC before purchasing a RIB. It is a legal requirement that the DoC accompanies the product or is made available upon request.

Need help reviewing or preparing your DoC? Visit our CE Compliance page for templates and expert guidance.