actually mean and what are the benefits to you as the client?
Certification
On 1 January 2002, the accreditation of a number of professions, including those of yacht brokers and marine craft surveyors was done away with. Thus, the government put an end to the quality assurance of these professions, resulting in deregulation of the leisure craft surveyor profession, amongst others. In other words; anyone could set up as a leisure craft surveyor. This development was viewed as problematic by the watersports industry and professional maritime bodies. They were justifiably concerned that the quality and professionalism of the previously certified professions would deteriorate. Boat yards, yacht brokers, consumers and previously certified surveyors anticipated serious problems because of the potential proliferation of consultancies of a lower standard and with insufficient expertise, which additionally would have no obligation whatsoever to comply with professional practices.
The establishment of the EMCI
The ending of the accreditation process and the resulting consequences created a need for an overarching certification institute. On 5 May 2003, the EMCI (European Maritime Certification Institute) was founded. The EMCI is a wholly independent organisation that accredits maritime professions and companies, amongst others. In addition, EMCI manages the quality assurance and registration of certified leisure craft surveyors, etc. The EMCI also has a quality assurance committee, a complaints committee and an arbitration committee to which consumers can revert if they are dissatisfied with an EMCI certified leisure craft surveyor.
The advantages of using an EMCI certified profesional
Consumers benefit from opting for an EMCI certified professional. You are assured that the professional in question complies with minimum competency criteria and possesses extensive experience in certification and valuations of leisure craft. Besides, mandatory continual professional development means EMCI Experts are always familiar with the latest technology and developments in boat-building. If, for some reason, clients are dissatisfied with the professional services provided, they may revert to the arbitration committee, which mediates in disputes.
Check for more information: www.emci.nl
