In the specialized and often complex world of marine maintenance, confusion and misinformation can easily proliferate, particularly concerning the essential safety equipment aboard vessels. When it comes to the critical function of marine elevators, we recognize how unsettling and confusing the market discourse can be. So many conflicting stories are currently circulating regarding who is legally, ethically, and technically allowed to work on your ship’s elevator systems.
A primary source of this market noise is the misleading use of the term ‘Maker Authorization’ or Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) exclusivity. Let us state this clearly and unequivocally: there is no such thing as Maker Authorization as a legal or binding requirement for servicing marine elevators. This is a myth often perpetuated by OEMs to monopolize the service market. The truth, supported by the highest levels of international standards and regulations, is that the ultimate responsibility and authority lie elsewhere—in the hands of the vessel owner. There is, however, a very real concept known as “Owner Authorization.”
To help navigate this mish-mash of gossip and proprietary claims, here is a definitive outline of what truly classifies a marine elevator service company as genuinely “Authorized” and competent in the eyes of international law and safety standards.
Maker vs. Owner Authorization: Understanding Liability and Responsibility
The distinction between these two concepts is the most critical element in understanding liability. There is indeed no such thing as Maker Authorization that restricts an owner’s choice of a competent service provider. Conversely, “Owner Authorization” is very real and carries significant legal weight.
The vessel Owner is 100% responsible to choose a competent and professional marine elevator service company. This responsibility cannot be delegated to the OEM. When an incident or accident occurs—a worst-case scenario that no owner wants to face—the owner will be held liable for negligence if it is proven that they failed to exercise due diligence in selecting a qualified service provider. This burden of proof rests entirely on the quality and certification of the company hired, not on a non-existent OEM permission slip.
The applicable EN (European Norm) and ISO (International Organization for Standardization) rules and norms are very clear about this matter. They do not grant OEMs exclusive service rights but focus instead on the competency and procedure of the personnel and company performing the work. These documents provide very clear definitions of ‘authorized personnel’ which center entirely on training, experience, and procedural adherence, independent of the original manufacturer.
The Definitive Service Company Authorization Checklist
To exercise your right to Owner Authorization responsibly, you must ensure that any marine elevator service company you engage can meet and prove the following non-negotiable checklist of requirements. These points are the foundation of legal competency and safe operation:
Formalized Training for Staff and Technicians (Proof of Competency): This is the core requirement. Technicians must possess current, documented evidence of competency in elevator mechanics, electrical systems, and safety procedures. This goes beyond basic training; it requires continuous professional development and training specific to elevator maintenance and repair. This ensures they understand the systems and, more importantly, how to work on them safely.
ISO 9001 Certificate: An ISO 9001 certificate demonstrates that the service company operates a rigorous Quality Management System (QMS). It proves that their processes for planning, documentation, service delivery, and continuous improvement are internationally recognized and audited. This certification guarantees a consistent and reliable service, which is essential for maritime safety.
Liability Insurance (for Work on Vessels): Standard insurance is insufficient. The company must hold specialized, high-limit Liability Insurance specifically covering work performed on vessels and marine environments. This protects the owner against catastrophic financial loss should the service work inadvertently cause damage or disruption.
Perform Maintenance as per OEM Maintenance Manual: While they do not require authorization, service providers must adhere to the maintenance procedures outlined in the OEM Maintenance Manual for the specific equipment being serviced. This ensures the elevator is maintained to its original design specification. A competent service company will have access to, and follow, these manuals for every brand they service.
Work Formalized in Method Statements and Risk Assessment Documents: Every service job, from a minor repair to a full modernization, must begin with a documented Method Statement (outlining how the work will be performed step-by-step) and a detailed Risk Assessment (identifying and mitigating potential hazards). This procedural rigor is a clear sign of professionalism and compliance with maritime safety protocols.
These criteria are not arbitrary; they are derived directly from the most important industry standards, including:
EN 81-20: The current standard for the safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts.
EN 13015: The European standard for rules for maintenance instructions and maintenance operation.
ISO 8383: The International standard for essential requirements for the construction and installation of lifts.
ISO 14798: The International standard detailing the methodology for risk assessment and risk reduction for lifts.
Let yourself not be misled by any OEM suggesting it is different or claiming proprietary service rights. Maker authorization does not exist; owner authorization does. It is the owner who should authorize the marine elevator service company based on demonstrable competency and compliance with the above standards. The international rules and regulations for elevators are 100% clear and binding about it.
In conclusion: as an owner, you are absolutely free to use any marine elevator service company. Just make very sure they comply with the rules and norms as per the authoritative checklist above. You are selecting a partner, not seeking permission.
For ease of reference and internal distribution, Click here to download a useful PDF of this information.
A Note on Service Assurance:
Please note: all jobs performed by MR Elevator have a 12 months warranty valid in any of the 133 ports covered worldwide. This warranty reflects our confidence in our certified processes and the quality of our multi-brand expert team. Our global coverage ensures that, no matter where your vessel is located, the integrity of our service is guaranteed.
