From a post by Vic in the equipment forum, a good question that I'd like to see a rules interpretation on:



Rule 6.4 requires a Fixed non-electric compass

My personal interpretation is that anything fixed to the boat is ok and you can't substitute a hand held or compass on a lanyard to meet the requirement. It doesn't say how it has to be fixed, and Velcro seems like a good way to attach things - my instrument mast bracket is attached with velcro.

Can we get an official rules interpretation on this?

We measured and approved several boats at past NA's with this setup which is why I went this route.

After review

Required One Design Equipment under Rule 6.4 for Fixed non-electric compass : Rules Interpretation A magnetic compass is required for one design racing with the compass located so that it is clearly visible by the helmsman. It must be firmly secured in such a way that it that it can not be dislodged by moving objects (i.e. feet, bodies and or sailing equipment). If the mounting is different than the original installation it must be inspected and documented by the local fleet measurer to confirm that it will stay in a fixed location during racing conditions. It is suggested that the owner maintain a copy of documentation provided by the fleet measurer showing the results of the inspection. Note that any mounting may degrade over time rendering the attachment ineffective. It is incumbent on the owner to maintain the integrity of the mount so that it meets the intended requirements

Not to question the value of having a fixed non-electric compass, in my opinion this ruling overreaches the rule itself which is simply a list of safety items.

To my knowledge a compass was not offered as standard original equipment, so there can be no original installation location. I see no reason for the measurer to rule on or specify how to locate this or any other safety equipment, excepting the anchor which clearly has a logical place in the boat's built in anchor well.

How and where to locate safety equipment, as long as it meets the plain language of the rules, is most reasonably left to the individual skipper.