This question relates to ERS H.1.1 This is the clause that, in short form, says…
For the IOM the minimum weight of the complete boat, and the maximum weights of the keel and the rudder are specified in Section C of the class rules. Section C rules are those which apply to the competitor and boat at an event. Other Section C rules control the draught, hull depth and hull length.
All these measurements are inter-related and are affected by the competitor’s freedom to replace radio control equipment weights and positions as well as alter the placement and weight of the keel and rudder without having to have each minor change certified by an Official Measurer. In this way the class rules give complete freedom to the owner to work on his boat BUT with the responsibility that he shall ensure the weight and flotation is correct before racing.
Put another way, if the weight of boat, keel and rudder were certified the owner would be unable to alter any of them without having the equipment re-certified. History tells us that this restriction was too onerous for owners to tolerate. The current rules give the owners freedom to do what they were doing anyway, but within the class rules. However, they need to be aware that they remain responsible for checking the weight of the boat, keel and rudder.
It follows that, as weighing these items is not a certification matter, it is not necessary for an Official Measurer to carry it out. Owners often rely on the Official Measurer to carry out these checks for them as they will usually have access to suitable weighing equipment. Alternatively owners may invest in equipment accurate enough to do this for themselves or find someone else able to provide the service for them. Some clubs buy and maintain equipment suitable for their members to use and which can be used for equipment inspection at open events when competitors’ boats are checked for compliance.