Overview
EN ISO 11591:2020 (ISO 11591:2020) - Small craft - Field of vision from the steering position - specifies visibility requirements for small craft up to 24 m length of hull (LH) (per ISO 8666:2016). It defines minimum forward and astern fields of vision (horizontal and vertical), operator eye positions, and requirements for different craft types (human‑powered, power‑driven, sailing). The standard is used throughout Europe (endorsed as EN ISO 11591:2020) and supports conformity with Directive 2013/53/EU for recreational craft.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope: small craft up to 24 m LH; applies to main steering position designated in the owner’s manual.
- Forward horizontal field: at least 112.5° to starboard and 112.5° to port from the steering eye position (operator must not leave the steering position to attain these angles).
- Obstructions: permanent and removable obstructions must allow clear vision with normal operator movement while maintaining control.
- Operator eye positions: specified reference heights for seated and standing operators (examples in the standard):
- Standing high eye: 1 730 mm above standing surface
- Standing low eye: 1 480 mm
- Seated high eye: 840 mm above seat intersection
- Seated low eye: 690 mm
- Multiple steering positions: at least one steering position must meet requirements and be designated the main steering position; other positions that do not comply must display a warning symbol and information (per ISO 11192 / ISO 7010).
- Additional clauses: tailored requirements for human‑powered craft, power‑driven craft with fixed steering wheels, and sailing craft (sails and steering means).
- Owner’s manual: mandatory guidance for operators about visibility limitations and warnings.
- Normative references: ISO 8666, ISO 7010, ISO 10240, ISO 11192.
Applications and who uses it
EN ISO 11591:2020 is practical for:
- Boat designers and naval architects - to design helm stations, wheelhouses and deck layouts that meet visibility criteria.
- Manufacturers and fabricators - to validate compliance for CE marking and market access in the EU.
- Surveyors and certification bodies - to assess visibility during inspections and conformity checks.
- Compliance officers and regulatory authorities - to reference objective visibility criteria tied to Directive 2013/53/EU.
- Owners/operators - for understanding helm sightlines, interpreting owner’s manual warnings, and safe operation.
Related standards
Keywords: EN ISO 11591:2020, ISO 11591:2020, small craft visibility, field of vision, steering position, helm design, recreational craft compliance.