The American Boat and Yacht Council recently introduced the ABYC C-7 certification - a new standard for marine battery disconnect switches. It aims to implement higher safety standards, improve product durability, and simplify and standardize compliance for businesses in the marine sector.
As leaders in the field, Blue Sea Systems are pleased to announce that all our marine battery disconnect switches already comply with the ABYC C-7 certification.
Our guide to the ABYC C-7 certification
As the marine industry transitions away from the older UL 1107 certification to the new ABYC C-7 standard, Blue Sea Systems aims to provide customers with all the information to manage the change.
With this in mind, here’s our comprehensive guide to the new ABYC C-7 certification and how it impacts Blue Sea Systems battery disconnect switches.
ABYC C-7 and Blue Sea Systems products
As Blue Sea Systems is committed to delivering the safest and most reliable products possible, all our marine battery disconnect switches already comply with the ABYC C-7 certification. End consumers and OEMs currently using our products will not have to change their existing switch selection, guaranteeing a seamless transition to the new standard.
As our products have not changed in response to the new requirements, all installation and maintenance processes will remain the same. No changes to warranty or service policies will result from the transition to ABYC C-7.
You can verify ABYC C-7 compliance via product documentation. Blue Sea Systems will update labels and documentation for all relevant products to ensure this information is communicated clearly.
ABYC C-7 Certification FAQs
What changes with the ABYC C-7 certification?
When compared against the older UL 1107 certification, the new ABYC C-7 certification differs in three key ways.
First, it introduces stricter safety standards, tightening up the electrical and mechanical testing criteria used to evaluate compliance. The new criteria aim to ensure all marine battery disconnect switches deliver improved performance in real-world conditions.
Second, it emphasizes enhanced product durability. The new testing criteria incorporate protocols that replicate exposure to vibration, extreme temperatures, and moisture - factors that often impact product longevity.
Finally, it aims to simplify and standardize compliance across the marine industry by aligning switch standards with modern boat-building regulations.
How does the ABYC C-7 certification benefit users and boat builders?
For end consumers, the ABYC C-7 certification reduces the risk of system malfunctions and electrical failures and enhances safety. It also improves battery disconnect switch longevity, resulting in a longer-lasting, more reliable product.
For OEM boat builders, ABYC C-7 certification means battery disconnect switch standards are now more aligned with other regulations used across the industry. Easier compliance simplifies processes and lowers costs. At the same time, more reliable switches mean fewer service issues and warranty claims. Finally, the new standard reduces the risk of electrical non-conformity during inspections and certifications.
What’s the timeline for changes?
The American Boat and Yacht Council has established the deadline for transition as July 2025. However, the ABYC C-7 certification is already in place and OEMs are encouraged to move away from the older UL 1107 certification and adopt the new standard as soon as possible to ensure a smooth transition.
How does this affect older UL 1107-certified products?
While ABYC C-7 is now the primary standard for marine battery disconnect switches, older UL 1107-certified products will remain in circulation and be gradually phased out.
Why do some electrical ratings appear lower under ABYC C-7?
The new standard introduces harsher testing protocols that better reflect real-world conditions. As a result, electrical ratings may appear lower. However, product performance has not changed in any way. The stricter testing simply results in a more accurate and conservative rating. Our battery disconnect switches continue to meet the same high performance standards.
What happens if an OEM’s current system is designed around UL 1107 specifications?
If you’re a Blue Sea Systems customer, you don’t need to worry. Our marine battery disconnect switches already meet the new standards. However, if you source your switches from other manufacturers, checking ABYC C-7 compliance is essential. From July 2025, all systems will need to utilize switches that comply with the new standard.
Where can I get more information or support about ABYC C-7 compliance?
For more information and support, contact your designated Blue Sea Systems sales representative or your regional EMEA, APAC, or AMER technical support team. We will be happy to help you with any questions or concerns you may have.
