ISO 6185 Standards for Inflatable Boats: What RIB Manufacturers Must Comply With

Overview of ISO 6185

ISO 6185 is the primary international standard governing the design, construction, and testing of inflatable boats, including RIBs. It is referenced as a harmonised standard under the RCD, meaning compliance with ISO 6185 provides a presumption of conformity with the relevant essential requirements of the directive.

Part 1: General Requirements

ISO 6185-1 covers the general requirements applicable to all inflatable boats:

• Definitions and classification of boat types
• Minimum design and construction criteria
• Material requirements for tube fabrics
• General safety requirements for compartments, valves, and fittings

Part 2: Boats with Motor Rating of 4.5 kW to 15 kW

Part 2 addresses small motorised inflatables and specifies:

• Buoyancy and stability requirements for the rated power range
• Transom strength and attachment testing
• Maximum capacity and payload calculations
• Pressure test requirements for tube compartments

Part 3: Boats with Motor Rating of 15 kW and Greater

Part 3 covers larger inflatables and RIBs with more powerful engines:

• Enhanced structural requirements for higher speeds and loads
• Hull-to-tube attachment strength testing
• Stability criteria for planing conditions
• Additional safety equipment requirements

Part 4: Boats with Motor Rating up to 4.5 kW

Part 4 addresses small inflatables and tenders with limited power:

• Simplified buoyancy calculations
• Reduced structural requirements reflecting lower operating speeds
• Basic safety provisions for sheltered water use

Buoyancy Requirements

ISO 6185 mandates that inflatable boats must have sufficient buoyancy to remain afloat when swamped or capsized. The standard specifies:

• Minimum number of separate buoyancy compartments
• Required buoyancy volume relative to maximum loaded displacement
• Compartment isolation to prevent total loss of buoyancy from a single leak

Pressure Test Protocols

The standard defines pressure testing procedures:

• Tubes inflated to rated working pressure and held for a specified duration
• Overpressure testing at 1.25 times working pressure
• Leak detection and acceptance criteria

Relationship to RCD Compliance

When ISO 6185 is applied in full, the manufacturer gains a presumption of conformity with RCD essential requirements related to buoyancy, stability, and construction. However, the manufacturer must still address other RCD requirements not covered by ISO 6185, such as electrical systems and fire protection.

Ensure your RIB complies with the full scope of ISO 6185. Visit our CE Compliance page for testing and documentation support.