What are the Equipment Rules of Sailing?

The Equipment Rules of Sailing (ERS) contains, mainly, definitions of terms that are commonly used to describe parts of the boat and its equipment in a way that enables those terms to be used in class rules without ambiguity concerning their meaning. Where class rules invoke the ERS this enables class rules to be shorter, more precise, clearer, and to use terminology that is common with other classes.

A small part of the ERS is related to the use of equipment when racing.

All the IRSA, IOMICA and MYA class rules are based on the ERS terminology.

Note that some words above appear in bold text. When class rules invoke the ERS any term that appears in bold text has the meaning defined in the ERS. This gives the term a commonly understood meaning.

A boat is defined as:

The equipment used by the crew to take part in a race.
It includes:
hull(s)
structure(s) connecting hulls
hull appendage(s)
ballast
rig
sail(s)
fittings
boat corrector weights and
all other items of equipment used
but excludes
consumables
personal equipment and
portable equipment.

Class rules are defined as:

The rules that specify:
the boat and its use, certification and administration.
the crew.
personal equipment and its use, certification and administration.
portable equipment and its use, certification and administration.
any other equipment and its use, certification and administration.
changes to the Racing Rules of Sailing as permitted by RRS 86.1(c).
The term includes rules of handicap and rating systems.

The current ERS can be viewed here.