[Title 46 CFR ]
[Code of Federal Regulations (annual edition) - October 1, 2023 Edition]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]



[[Page i]]

          

          Title 46

Shipping


________________________

Parts 156 to 165

                         Revised as of October 1, 2023

          Containing a codification of documents of general 
          applicability and future effect

          As of October 1, 2023
                    Published by the Office of the Federal Register 
                    National Archives and Records Administration as a 
                    Special Edition of the Federal Register

[[Page ii]]

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[[Page iii]]




                            Table of Contents



                                                                    Page
  Explanation.................................................       v

  Title 46:
          Chapter I--Coast Guard, Department of Homeland 
          Security (Continued)                                       3
  Finding Aids:
      Table of CFR Titles and Chapters........................     443
      Alphabetical List of Agencies Appearing in the CFR......     463
      List of CFR Sections Affected...........................     473

[[Page iv]]





                     ----------------------------

                     Cite this Code: CFR
                     To cite the regulations in 
                       this volume use title, 
                       part and section number. 
                       Thus, 46 CFR 159.001-1 
                       refers to title 46, part 
                       159, section 001-1.

                     ----------------------------

[[Page v]]



                               EXPLANATION

    The Code of Federal Regulations is a codification of the general and 
permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the Executive 
departments and agencies of the Federal Government. The Code is divided 
into 50 titles which represent broad areas subject to Federal 
regulation. Each title is divided into chapters which usually bear the 
name of the issuing agency. Each chapter is further subdivided into 
parts covering specific regulatory areas.
    Each volume of the Code is revised at least once each calendar year 
and issued on a quarterly basis approximately as follows:

Title 1 through Title 16.................................as of January 1
Title 17 through Title 27..................................as of April 1
Title 28 through Title 41...................................as of July 1
Title 42 through Title 50................................as of October 1

    The appropriate revision date is printed on the cover of each 
volume.

LEGAL STATUS

    The contents of the Federal Register are required to be judicially 
noticed (44 U.S.C. 1507). The Code of Federal Regulations is prima facie 
evidence of the text of the original documents (44 U.S.C. 1510).

HOW TO USE THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS

    The Code of Federal Regulations is kept up to date by the individual 
issues of the Federal Register. These two publications must be used 
together to determine the latest version of any given rule.
    To determine whether a Code volume has been amended since its 
revision date (in this case, October 1, 2023), consult the ``List of CFR 
Sections Affected (LSA),'' which is issued monthly, and the ``Cumulative 
List of Parts Affected,'' which appears in the Reader Aids section of 
the daily Federal Register. These two lists will identify the Federal 
Register page number of the latest amendment of any given rule.

EFFECTIVE AND EXPIRATION DATES

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Code a note has been inserted to reflect the future effective date. In 
those instances where a regulation published in the Federal Register 
states a date certain for expiration, an appropriate note will be 
inserted following the text.

OMB CONTROL NUMBERS

    The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 (Pub. L. 96-511) requires 
Federal agencies to display an OMB control number with their information 
collection request.

[[Page vi]]

Many agencies have begun publishing numerous OMB control numbers as 
amendments to existing regulations in the CFR. These OMB numbers are 
placed as close as possible to the applicable recordkeeping or reporting 
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PAST PROVISIONS OF THE CODE

    Provisions of the Code that are no longer in force and effect as of 
the revision date stated on the cover of each volume are not carried. 
Code users may find the text of provisions in effect on any given date 
in the past by using the appropriate List of CFR Sections Affected 
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the Code prior to the LSA listings at the end of the volume, consult 
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for 1949-1963, 1964-1972, 1973-1985, and 1986-2000.

``[RESERVED]'' TERMINOLOGY

    The term ``[Reserved]'' is used as a place holder within the Code of 
Federal Regulations. An agency may add regulatory information at a 
``[Reserved]'' location at any time. Occasionally ``[Reserved]'' is used 
editorially to indicate that a portion of the CFR was left vacant and 
not dropped in error.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

    What is incorporation by reference? Incorporation by reference was 
established by statute and allows Federal agencies to meet the 
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to materials already published elsewhere. For an incorporation to be 
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This material, like any other properly issued regulation, has the force 
of law.
    What is a proper incorporation by reference? The Director of the 
Federal Register will approve an incorporation by reference only when 
the requirements of 1 CFR part 51 are met. Some of the elements on which 
approval is based are:
    (a) The incorporation will substantially reduce the volume of 
material published in the Federal Register.
    (b) The matter incorporated is in fact available to the extent 
necessary to afford fairness and uniformity in the administrative 
process.
    (c) The incorporating document is drafted and submitted for 
publication in accordance with 1 CFR part 51.
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CFR INDEXES AND TABULAR GUIDES

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alphabetical list of agencies publishing in the CFR are also included in 
this volume.
    An index to the text of ``Title 3--The President'' is carried within 
that volume.

[[Page vii]]

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This index is based on a consolidation of the ``Contents'' entries in 
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the revision dates of the 50 CFR titles.

REPUBLICATION OF MATERIAL

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INQUIRIES

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or write to the Director, Office of the Federal Register, National 
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Connect to NARA's website at www.archives.gov/federal-register.
    The eCFR is a regularly updated, unofficial editorial compilation of 
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the Federal Register and the Government Publishing Office. It is 
available at www.ecfr.gov.

    Oliver A. Potts,
    Director,
    Office of the Federal Register
    October 1, 2023







[[Page ix]]



                               THIS TITLE

    Title 46--Shipping is composed of nine volumes. The parts in these 
volumes are arranged in the following order: Parts 1-40, 41-69, 70-89, 
90-139, 140-155, 156-165, 166-199, 200-499, and 500 to end. The first 
seven volumes containing parts 1-199 comprise Chapter I--Coast Guard, 
DHS. The eighth volume, containing parts 200--499, includes Chapter II--
Maritime Administration, DOT and Chapter III--Coast Guard (Great Lakes 
Pilotage), DHS. The ninth volume, containing part 500 to end, includes 
Chapter IV--Federal Maritime Commission. The contents of these volumes 
represent all current regulations codified under this title of the CFR 
as of October 1, 2023.

    For this volume, Stephen J. Frattini was Chief Editor. The Code of 
Federal Regulations publication program is under the direction of John 
Hyrum Martinez.

[[Page 1]]



                           TITLE 46--SHIPPING




                  (This book contains parts 156 to 165)

  --------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    Part

chapter i--Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security 
  (Continued)...............................................         159

[[Page 3]]



   CHAPTER I--COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED)




  --------------------------------------------------------------------

SUBCHAPTER Q--EQUIPMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND MATERIALS: SPECIFICATIONS AND 
                                APPROVAL
Part                                                                Page
156-158

[Reserved]

159             Approval of equipment and materials.........           5
160             Lifesaving equipment........................          15
161             Electrical equipment........................         297
162             Engineering equipment.......................         311
163             Construction................................         362
164             Materials...................................         373
165

[Reserved]

[[Page 5]]



SUBCHAPTER Q_EQUIPMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND MATERIALS: SPECIFICATIONS AND 
                                APPROVAL



                        PARTS 156	158 [RESERVED]



PART 159_APPROVAL OF EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS--Table of Contents



                         Subpart 159.001_General

Sec.
159.001-1 Purpose.
159.001-2 Right of appeal.
159.001-3 Definitions.
159.001-4 Incorporation by reference.
159.001-5 Correspondence and applications.
159.001-7 Substituted procedures.
159.001-9 OMB Control Numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork 
          Reduction Act.

   Subpart 159.003_Approvals Under Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRA)

159.003-1 Purpose.
159.003-3 Acceptance of foreign approvals under a Mutual Recognition 
          Agreement (MRA).
159.003-5 Approval by the Coast Guard under a Mutual Recognition 
          Agreement (MRA).
159.003-7 Multiple approval numbers.
159.003-9 Products covered by Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRAs).

                   Subpart 159.005_Approval Procedures

159.005-1 Purpose.
159.005-3 Application for preapproval review.
159.005-5 Preapproval review: Contents of application.
159.005-7 Preapproval review: Coast Guard action.
159.005-9 Approval inspections and tests.
159.005-11 Approval inspection or test report: Contents.
159.005-12 Plans.
159.005-13 Equipment or material: Approval.
159.005-15 Approval of equipment or material: Suspensions, withdrawals, 
          and terminations.

 Subpart 159.007_Production Inspection and Tests of Approved Equipment 
                              and Materials

159.007-1 Purpose.
159.007-3 Production inspections and tests: Independent laboratory's 
          procedures.
159.007-5 Production inspections and tests: Application for acceptance.
159.007-7 Application for acceptance for production inspections and 
          tests: Coast Guard action.
159.007-9 Production inspections and tests.
159.007-11 Production inspections and tests: Yearly report.
159.007-13 Production inspections and tests: Records.

  Subpart 159.010_Independent Laboratory: Acceptance, Recognition, and 
                               Termination

159.010-1 Purpose.
159.010-3 Independent laboratory: Standards for acceptance.
159.010-5 Independent laboratory: Application for acceptance.
159.010-7 Recognized independent laboratory: Memorandum of 
          Understanding.
159.010-11 Changes in the laboratory's qualifications.
159.010-15 Contracting inspections and tests or transferals to another 
          laboratory or person.
159.010-17 Termination of acceptance or recognition of an independent 
          laboratory.
159.010-19 Termination of acceptance or recognition: Procedure.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3703; 49 CFR 1.45, 1.46; Section 159.001-
9 also issued under the authority of 44 U.S.C. 3507.

    Source: CGD 76-048, 44 FR 73043, Dec. 17, 1979, unless otherwise 
noted.



                         Subpart 159.001_General



Sec.  159.001-1  Purpose.

    (a) This part contains the procedures for the approval of equipment 
and materials when that equipment or material is inspected or tested by 
an independent laboratory or by the manufacturer of the equipment or 
material.
    (b) The regulations in this subchapter (parts 159 through 164) have 
preemptive effect over State or local regulations in the same field.

[CGD 76-048, 44 FR 73043, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by USCG-2012-0196, 
81 FR 48273, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  159.001-2  Right of appeal.

    Any person directly affected by a decision or action taken under 
this subchapter, by or on behalf of the Coast Guard, may appeal to the 
Deputy for Operations Policy and Capabilities

[[Page 6]]

(CG-DCO-D) as provided in Sec.  1.03-15 of this chapter.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13927, Mar. 28, 1996, as amended by CGD 96-041, 61 FR 
50733, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49236, Sept. 25, 2009; 
USCG-2012-0832, 77 FR 59785, Oct. 1, 2012]



Sec.  159.001-3  Definitions.

    As used in this part:
    Classification society means an organization involved in the 
inspection of ships and ship equipment, and which, as determined by the 
Commandant, meets the standards in IMO Resolution A.739(18).
    Independent laboratory means an organization which meets the 
standards for acceptance in Sec.  159.010-3 of this part, and which is 
accepted by the Coast Guard for performing certain tests and 
inspections. In addition to commercial testing laboratories, the 
Commandant may also accept classification societies and agencies of 
governments that are involved in the inspection and testing of marine 
safety equipment that meet the requirements of Sec.  159.010-3.
    Marine Equipment Directive (MarED) means the European Community 
Council Directive 96/98/EC of December 20, 1996 on marine equipment, as 
amended.
    Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is an agreement between the Coast 
Guard and a laboratory that specifies the approval functions a 
recognized independent laboratory performs for the Coast Guard and the 
recognized independent laboratory's working arrangements with the Coast 
Guard.
    Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) means an agreement between the 
United States and other Maritime Administrations or organized 
associations, such as the European Community and the European Free Trade 
Association that specifies equipment approval and monitoring processes 
through which parties of the MRA agree to approve equipment on behalf of 
all parties. An MRA allows reciprocal approval and acceptance of 
equipment between all parties.
    Recognized independent laboratory means an independent laboratory 
which meets the standards of Sec.  159.010-3, and is accepted by the 
Coast Guard to perform certain equipment approval functions on behalf of 
the Coast Guard, as described in a Memorandum of Understanding signed by 
the laboratory and the Coast Guard in accordance with Sec.  159.010-
7(b).

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13927, Mar. 28, 1996, as amended by USCG-2012-0196, 
81 FR 48273, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  159.001-4  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG-4), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) Resolution A.739(18), Guidelines for the Authorization of 
Organizations Acting on Behalf of the Administration, November 22, 1993, 
IBR approved for Sec.  159.001-3.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (c) International Organization for Standardization, ISO Central 
Secretariat BIBC II, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, 
Geneva, Switzerland, +41 22 749 01 11, http://www.iso.org.
    (1) ISO/IEC 17025:2005(E), International Standard: General 
requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories, 
Second edition, 15 May 2005 (``ISO/IEC 17025''), IBR approved for Sec.  
159.010-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48273, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  159.001-5  Correspondence and applications.

    Unless otherwise specified, all correspondence and applications in 
connection with approval and testing of

[[Page 7]]

equipment and materials must be addressed to: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), 
Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 
2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; 
telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.

[USCG-2006-25697, 71 FR 55747, Sept. 25, 2006, as amended by ; USCG-
2009-0702, 74 FR 49236, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2012-0832, 77 FR 59785, 
Oct. 1, 2012; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60156, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  159.001-7  Substituted procedures.

    (a) The Commandant may substitute the procedures in this part for 
the procedures in any other part of this subchapter. Each person known 
to be affected by the substitution shall be informed that the procedures 
in this part apply.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  159.001-9  OMB Control Numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork
Reduction Act.

    (a) Purpose. This section collects and displays the control numbers 
assigned to information collection and recordkeeping requirements in 
this subchapter by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) pursuant to 
the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980, (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.). The Coast 
Guard intends that this section comply with the requirements of 44 
U.S.C. 3507(f) which requires that agencies display a current control 
number assigned by the Director of the OMB for each approved agency 
information collection requirement.
    (b) Display.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Current
                                                                  OMB
    46 CFR part or section where identified or described        control
                                                                  No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sec.   159.007-11.13........................................   1625-0035
Sec.   160.002-5............................................   1625-0035
Sec.   160.047-5............................................   1625-0035
Sec.   160.048-5............................................   1625-0035
Sec.   160.050-5............................................   1625-0035
Sec.   160.052-7............................................   1625-0035
Sec.   160.053-4............................................   1625-0035
Sec.   160.055-4............................................   1625-0035
Sec.   160.064-6............................................   1625-0035
Sec.  Sec.   161.001 through 161.010........................   1625-0035
Sec.   161.171-15...........................................   1625-0035
Sec.   161.171-23...........................................   1625-0035
Sec.  Sec.   162.001 through 161.018........................   1625-0035
Sec.   162.041..............................................   1625-0035
Sec.   162.043..............................................   1625-0035
Sec.   164.012-13...........................................   1625-0035
Sec.   164.019-5............................................   1625-0035
Sec.   164.019-7............................................   1625-0035
Sec.   164.019-9............................................   1625-0035
Sec.   164.019-13...........................................   1625-0035
Sec.   164.019-15...........................................   1625-0035
Sec.   164.023-15...........................................   1625-0035
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[49 FR 38121, Sept. 27, 1984, as amended by CGD 86-057, 51 FR 35220, 
Oct. 2, 1986; CGD 84-068, 58 FR 29492, May 20, 1993; USCG-2004-18884, 69 
FR 58350, Sept. 30, 2004]



   Subpart 159.003_Approvals Under Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRA)

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48273, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  159.003-1  Purpose.

    This subpart contains the procedures for obtaining Coast Guard 
approval under a Mutual Recognition Agreement.



Sec.  159.003-3  Acceptance of foreign approvals under a Mutual Recognition 
Agreement (MRA).

    A Coast Guard approval issued by a foreign authority in accordance 
with the provisions of an effective MRA is acceptable for any 
application where the regulations in this chapter require Coast Guard 
approval.



Sec.  159.003-5  Approval by the Coast Guard under a Mutual Recognition
Agreement (MRA).

    (a) Manufacturers must specify in writing that foreign approval 
under an MRA is requested.
    (b) The Coast Guard Certificate of Approval will clearly identify as 
specified in the MRA that the product is approved to the foreign 
requirements under the MRA.



Sec.  159.003-7  Multiple approval numbers.

    A product will not be issued a Coast Guard approval number by the 
Coast Guard if it already holds a Coast Guard approval number issued by 
a foreign authority under a Mutual Recognition Agreement.

[[Page 8]]



Sec.  159.003-9  Products covered by Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs).

    A complete list of equipment and materials approved by the Coast 
Guard under an MRA, as well as detailed information on marking and 
identifying items approved by foreign authorities under an MRA, is 
available online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil/Equipment/Default.aspx.



                   Subpart 159.005_Approval Procedures



Sec.  159.005-1  Purpose.

    (a) This subpart contains the procedures by which the Coast Guard 
approves equipment and materials under other subparts of this subchapter 
that require--
    (1) Preapproval inspections and tests by an independent laboratory;
    (2) Preapproval inspections and tests by the manufacturer; or
    (3) No preapproval inspections or tests.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  159.005-3  Application for preapproval review.

    (a) Each manufacturer of equipment or material who seeks Coast Guard 
approval under an applicable subpart must submit an application that 
meets Sec.  159.005-5 to the Commandant unless--
    (1) The subpart contains a list of independent laboratories;
    (2) The subpart does not require Coast Guard review prior to 
testing; and
    (3) The manufacturer meets the requirements of paragraph (b) of this 
section.
    (b) If the applicable subpart contains a list of independent 
laboratories and does not specifically require preapproval review by the 
Coast Guard, the manufacturer may have the tests performed by a listed 
laboratory and submit the report required by Sec.  159.005-11 to the 
Commandant.



Sec.  159.005-5  Preapproval review: Contents of application.

    (a) Each application must contain the following:
    (1) The name and address of the manufacturer and the factory where 
the finished equipment or material is produced.
    (2) One or more of the following as required by the applicable 
subpart:
    (i) Two sets of general plans of the equipment or material.
    (ii) Two sets of specifications of the equipment or material.
    (iii) A sample of the equipment or material accompanied by a written 
description of its components.
    (3) A statement signed by the manufacturer or the manufacturer's 
representative, that an official representative of the Coast Guard is 
allowed access to the place of manufacture and to the place of test to 
verify the information submitted in the application or to witness tests.
    (4) If the material submitted under paragraph (a)(2) of this section 
contains confidential commercial information that could cause 
substantial competitive harm if released to the public, a statement to 
the effect that the material is considered privileged and confidential 
under exemption (b)(4) of the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552), 
and that it should not be released to anyone other than the original 
submitter.
    (b) If the equipment or material is required by the subpart to be 
inspected and tested by an independent laboratory, the application must 
contain the following additional information:
    (1) The name and address of a laboratory that meets Sec.  159.010-
3(a) and that is selected by the manufacturer to perform or supervise 
the inspections and tests.
    (2) If the laboratory has not been accepted previously for 
inspecting and testing the manufacturer's equipment or material under 
the applicable subpart, the completed application under Sec.  159.010-
5(a).

[44 FR 73043, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25545, May 
9, 1997]



Sec.  159.005-7  Preapproval review: Coast Guard action.

    (a) If approval inspections and tests are required under the 
applicable subpart, the Commandant takes the following action:
    (1) If the Commandant determines from the application that the 
equipment or material appears to meet the

[[Page 9]]

design requirements of an applicable subpart or appears to have 
equivalent performance characteristics, and that the laboratory meets 
Sec.  159.010-3(a), the Commandant informs the manufacturer that the 
required approval inspections and tests may be conducted.
    (2) If the Commandant determines from the application for approval 
that the equipment or material does not appear to meet the design 
requirements of an applicable subpart or does not appear to have 
equivalent performance characteristics, or that the laboratory does not 
meet Sec.  159.010-3(a), the Commandant informs the manufacturer of the 
reason why the equipment or material is not acceptable for approval 
inspections and tests or why the laboratory is not accepted.
    (b) If no approval inspections or tests are required under the 
applicable subpart, the Commandant--
    (1) Takes action in accordance with Sec.  159.005-13; or
    (2) Informs the manufacturer of additional information required 
before action under Sec.  159.005-13 can be taken.
    (c) An item of equipment or material that does not meet all of the 
requirements of this subchapter for design or performance may be 
approved by the Commandant if it has equivalent performance 
characteristics. The item has equivalent performance characteristics if 
the application and any approval tests prescribed by the Commandant, in 
place of or in addition to the approval tests required by this 
subchapter, demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Commandant that the 
item is at least as effective as one that meets the requirements of this 
subchapter.

[44 FR 73043, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25545, May 
9, 1997]



Sec.  159.005-9  Approval inspections and tests.

    (a) Each manufacturer of equipment or material that is required to 
be subjected to approval inspections and tests must--
    (1) If the applicable subpart requires the equipment or material to 
be inspected or tested, have the approval inspections or tests 
performed;
    (2) If the applicable subpart requires the equipment or material to 
be inspected or tested by an independent laboratory, insure that a 
laboratory accepted by the Commandant performs or supervises the 
approval inspections or tests;
    (3) Bear all costs of the approval inspections and tests;
    (4) If requested, advise the Commandant of the time, date, and place 
of each approval inspection or test, or both, before the inspection or 
test is performed; and
    (5) After completion of the approval inspections and tests, submit 
to the Commandant--
    (i) A test report that meets Sec.  159.005-11;
    (ii) At least two sets of specifications of the material as 
inspected or tested or at least two sets of plans of the equipment as 
inspected or tested that meet Sec.  159.005-12; and
    (iii) A description of the quality control procedures that will be 
in effect during the production of the equipment or material.
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGD 76-048, 44 FR 73043, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by USCG-2014-0688, 
79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  159.005-11  Approval inspection or test report: Contents.

    (a) Each approval inspection or test report must contain the 
following:
    (1) The name of the manufacturer.
    (2) If the inspections or tests are performed or supervised by an 
independent laboratory, the name and address of the laboratory.
    (3) The trade name, product designation (such as model numbers), and 
a brief description of the equipment or material inspected or tested.
    (4) The time, date, and place of each approval inspection and test.
    (5) The name and title of each person performing, supervising, and 
witnessing the approval inspections or tests.
    (6) The performance data for each test required in the applicable 
subpart, including a description of each failure.
    (7) A description or photographs of the procedures and apparatus 
used in the inspections or tests, or a reference to another document 
that contains an appropriate description or photographs.

[[Page 10]]

    (8) At least one photograph that shows an overall view of the 
equipment or material submitted for approval and other photographs that 
show--
    (i) Design details; and
    (ii) Each occurrence of damage or deformation to the equipment or 
material that occurred during the approval tests.
    (b) Each inspection or test report must bear an attestation that the 
inspections or tests were conducted as required by the applicable 
subpart and that the report contains no known errors, omissions, or 
false statements. The attestation must be signed by:
    (1) The manufacturer or manufacturer's representative, if the 
inspection or tests are conducted by the manufacturer; or
    (2) The chief officer of the laboratory, or the chief officer's 
representative, if the inspection or tests were conducted by an 
independent laboratory.

    Note: A false representation on a report is a ground for suspension 
or withdrawal of approval of the equipment or material. A false 
representation is also punishable as a crime under 18 U.S.C. 1001.



Sec.  159.005-12  Plans.

    (a) Each set of plans under Sec.  159.005-9(a)(5)(ii) for equipment 
must include the following:
    (1) An assembly drawing or general arrangement drawing.
    (2) A description of each component of the equipment that includes 
the name, the manufacturer, and the part identification of each 
component in--
    (i) A detail drawing;
    (ii) A bill of material or parts list; or
    (iii) A specification for that component.
    (3) A list of the drawings and specifications in the set of plans, 
including each revision, and the date of that list.
    (4) If a manufacturer's instructions or manual is required in the 
applicable subpart, a copy of the instructions or manual.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  159.005-13  Equipment or material: Approval.

    (a) If from analysis of the material and data required to be 
submitted under this subpart, the Commandant determines that the 
equipment or material meets the applicable subpart or has equivalent 
performance characteristics in accordance with Sec.  159.005-7(c), the 
Commandant--
    (1) Approves the equipment or material;
    (2) Issues a certificate of approval to the manufacturer under Sec.  
2.75-5 of this chapter;
    (3) Retains one set of approved plans and returns all others to the 
manufacturer; and
    (4) Publishes a record of the approval in the Coast Guard Maritime 
Information Exchange (CGMIX). A listing of current and formerly approved 
equipment and materials may be found on the Internet at: http://
cgmix.uscg.mil/equipment.
    (b) If from analysis of the material and data submitted the 
Commandant determines that the equipment or material does not meet the 
applicable subpart, the Commandant informs the manufacturer of the 
reason why that equipment or material does not meet the subpart.
    (c) If an independent laboratory performs the approval inspections 
or tests, the Commandant will notify the laboratory of the actions taken 
under paragraph (a) or (b) of this section, unless the manufacturer 
specifically requests that the laboratory not be notified.

[44 FR 73043, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13928, Mar. 
28, 1996; CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25545, May 9, 1997; USCG-2015-0867, 80 FR 
62470, Oct. 16, 2015]



Sec.  159.005-15  Approval of equipment or material: Suspensions, 
withdrawals, and terminations.

    (a) The Commandant suspends an approval issued under this subchapter 
in accordance with Sec.  2.75-40 of this chapter, withdraws an approval 
issued under this subchapter in accordance with Sec.  2.75-50(a) of this 
chapter, and terminates an approval issued under this subchapter in 
accordance with Sec.  2.75-50(b) of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]

[[Page 11]]



 Subpart 159.007_Production Inspection and Tests of Approved Equipment 
                              and Materials



Sec.  159.007-1  Purpose.

    (a) This subpart contains the procedures under which production 
inspections and tests of approved equipment or materials are to be 
performed under this subchapter.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  159.007-3  Production inspections and tests: Independent
laboratory's procedures.

    (a) The manufacturer may follow an independent laboratory's 
procedures for production inspections and tests if those procedures--
    (1) Meet or exceed the production inspection and test requirements 
of the applicable subpart or are equivalent to those inspections and 
tests;
    (2) Include labeling or marking the equipment or material when the 
equipment or material meets the inspection and test procedures of the 
laboratory; and
    (3) Are accepted by the Commandant under Sec.  159.007-7(b).
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  159.007-5  Production inspections and tests: Application for 
acceptance.

    (a) If the applicable subpart requires production inspections and 
tests by an independent laboratory, the manufacturer must select a 
laboratory and submit an application for acceptance that meets Sec.  
159.010-5(a) unless the laboratory--
    (1) Is listed in the subpart; or
    (2) Is accepted by the Commandant for approval inspections and tests 
of the equipment or material under Sec.  159.005-7(a)(1).
    (b) If the manufacturer wants to follow the laboratory's procedures 
for production inspections and tests instead of meeting the Coast Guard 
procedures under this subchapter, the application must contain a 
description of those procedures.



Sec.  159.007-7  Application for acceptance for production inspections
and tests: Coast Guard action.

    (a) From the information submitted with the application, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the laboratory is accepted for 
production inspections and tests. The Commandant informs the 
manufacturer of the results of this determination, if the Commandant 
does not accept a laboratory, the reason for the disapproval will be 
given.
    (b) From the description of the laboratory's procedures for 
production inspections and tests, the Commandant determines whether or 
not those procedures are accepted. The Commandant informs the 
manufacturer of the results of this determination. If the Commandant 
does not accept the laboratory's procedures, the reasons why they are 
not accepted will be given.



Sec.  159.007-9  Production inspections and tests.

    (a) If the applicable subpart requires the production inspections 
and tests to be performed or supervised by an independent laboratory, 
the manufacturer shall insure that all required production inspections 
and tests are performed or supervised by an independent laboratory 
accepted by the Commandant.
    (b) If the applicable subpart does not require an independent 
laboratory to perform the production inspections and tests, the 
manufacturer shall have those inspections and tests performed.
    (c) Unless alternative procedures have been accepted by the 
Commandant under Sec.  159.007-3 each production inspection and test 
must be performed or supervised in accordance with the applicable 
subpart.
    (d) The manufacturer shall admit a Coast Guard inspector to any 
place where approved equipment is manufactured, for the purpose of 
verifying that the equipment is being manufactured in accordance with 
the approved plans and the requirements of this subchapter.

[44 FR 73043, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25545, May 
9, 1997]

[[Page 12]]



Sec.  159.007-11  Production inspections and tests: Yearly report.

    (a) When the manufacturer uses the production inspection and test 
procedures in an applicable subpart he must submit a yearly report. The 
report is not required when inspection and test procedures approved 
under Sec.  159.007-3 are used.
    (b) The report must include the following:
    (1) A list of all inspections and tests performed;
    (2) A summary of the results of each group of inspections or tests;
    (3) A detailed description of any test failures; and
    (4) A statement whether or not all required tests were performed.



Sec.  159.007-13  Production inspections and tests: Records.

    (a) The manufacturer must have a completed record with the following 
information for each production inspection and test:
    (1) The time, date and place of each inspection and test.
    (2) The name and title of each person performing, supervising and 
witnessing the inspections or tests.
    (3) The performance data for each test required in the applicable 
subpart, including a description of each failure.
    (4) A description or photographs of the procedures and apparatus 
used in the inspections or tests.
    (b) The manufacturer must retain each record under this section for 
at least 60 months after the month in which the inspection or test was 
conducted.
    (c) The records must be made available for examination by the 
Commandant upon request.



  Subpart 159.010_Independent Laboratory: Acceptance, Recognition, and 
                               Termination



Sec.  159.010-1  Purpose.

    This subpart contains the following:
    (a) The standards and procedures under which the Coast Guard accepts 
an independent laboratory that a manufacturer proposes to use.
    (b) The standards and procedures under which a laboratory is 
accepted as a recognized laboratory under applicable subparts.
    (c) The circumstances under which the acceptance or recognition of a 
laboratory is terminated.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13928, Mar. 28, 1996]



Sec.  159.010-3  Independent laboratory: Standards for acceptance.

    (a) To be accepted by the Coast Guard as an independent laboratory, 
a laboratory must--
    (1) Be engaged, as a regular part of its business, in performing 
inspections and tests that are the same as or similar to the inspections 
and tests required in the applicable subpart;
    (2) Possess or have access to the apparatus, facilities, personnel, 
and calibrated instruments that are necessary to inspect and test the 
equipment or material under the applicable subpart. In addition, for 
testing conducted on or after July 1, 2012, on equipment subject to 
SOLAS requirements, they must have ISO/IEC 17025 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  159.001-4) accreditation from an accreditation body 
that is a full member of the International Laboratory Accreditation 
Cooperation (ILAC) or a recognized accreditation body by the National 
Cooperation for Laboratory Accreditation (NACLA);
    (3) Not be owned or controlled by--
    (i) The manufacturer of the equipment or material to be inspected or 
tested under this subchapter or any manufacturer of similar equipment or 
material;
    (ii) A vendor of the equipment or material to be inspected or tested 
under this subchapter or a vendor of similar equipment or material; or
    (iii) A supplier of materials to the manufacturer;
    (4) Not be dependent on Coast Guard acceptance under this subchapter 
to remain in business; and
    (5) Not advertise or promote the manufacturer's equipment or 
material that the laboratory inspects and tests under this subchapter.
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGD 76-048, 44 FR 73043, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by USCG-2012-0196, 
81 FR 48274, July 22, 2016]

[[Page 13]]



Sec.  159.010-5  Independent laboratory: Application for acceptance.

    (a) Each application for acceptance of an organization as an 
independent laboratory must contain the following:
    (1) The name and address of the organization.
    (2) A list of the equipment or material that the organization would 
inspect, or test, or both, under this subchapter.
    (3) A description of the organization's experience and its 
qualifications for conducting the inspections and tests required in the 
applicable subpart.
    (4) A description of the apparatus and facilities available to the 
organization for conducting those inspections and tests.
    (5) If instruments are used in the required tests and inspections, a 
description of the instrument calibration program applying to those 
instruments.
    (6) The position titles of personnel who are to perform, supervise, 
or witness those inspections or tests, along with the training and 
experience required for personnel in those positions.
    (7) A statement signed by the chief officer of the organization or 
the chief officer's representative, that an official representative of 
the Coast Guard is allowed access upon request to the place where tests 
and inspections take place, to verify the information submitted in the 
application, or to witness tests and inspections.
    (b) Each application for acceptance as an independent laboratory 
that is not submitted by an agency of a state or another national 
government, or by a classification society, must also contain the 
following:
    (1) The name and address of each subsidiary and division of the 
organization, or a statement that none are involved in the testing or 
manufacturing of equipment approved under this subchapter.
    (2) The name, title, address, and principal business activity of 
each of the organization's officers and directors, and the name, 
address, and principal business activity of each person, company, or 
corporation that owns at least three-percent interest in the 
organization or in a company or corporation that controls the 
organization.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13928, Mar. 28, 1996]



Sec.  159.010-7  Recognized independent laboratory: Memorandum of
Understanding.

    (a) Only laboratories that have entered into an MOU with the Coast 
Guard may perform the functions of a recognized laboratory under this 
chapter.
    (b) An independent laboratory seeking to become a recognized 
independent laboratory must submit a signed MOU to the Commandant that 
includes--
    (1) A statement of purpose;
    (2) An identification and description of the parties involved;
    (3) A description of the problem resolution and appeals processes;
    (4) A description of the process for measuring effectiveness and 
efficiency of the program under the MOU;
    (5) The effective date of the MOU and terms for its termination;
    (6) A statement to the effect that the MOU is not an exclusive 
agreement between the recognized independent laboratory and the Coast 
Guard;
    (7) An agreement to conduct comparison testing with other recognized 
laboratories as directed by the Coast Guard, no more often than twice 
each year, with the laboratory bearing the cost of sample acquisition 
and testing;
    (8) A statement as to how the costs of implementing the MOU will be 
borne; and
    (9) A description of each party's responsibilities for--
    (i) Equipment review and approval;
    (ii) Coast Guard oversight of the recognized independent 
laboratory's procedures and processes;
    (iii) Coordination between the parties;
    (iv) Developing and maintaining regulations and standards;
    (v) Handling review and approval of new and novel items not 
anticipated by existing regulations and standards;
    (vi) Testing and inspection facilities and procedures;
    (vii) Production quality control; and
    (viii) Maintenance of records.
    (c) The signature on the MOU required by paragraph (b) of this 
section must be that of the chief officer of the

[[Page 14]]

independent laboratory or the chief officer's representative. The 
Commandant or an authorized representative of the Commandant will review 
the MOU to ensure that it contains the information required by paragraph 
(b) of this section, and that the substantive provisions submitted in 
compliance with that paragraph are equivalent to those contained in 
other MOUs signed by the Commandant. If the Commandant determines that 
the MOU is acceptable and the independent laboratory is capable of 
carrying out the equipment approval functions identified in the MOU in 
accordance with all appropriate requirements, the Commandant or 
authorized representative may at his discretion sign the MOU. Where 
qualitative tests or determinations are required for approval or follow-
up, provision must be made for conducting comparison tests with other 
recognized laboratories.
    (d) Copies of MOUs signed by the Commandant in accordance with this 
part and of lists of independent laboratories which have been accepted 
as recognized laboratories but which have not yet been added to the 
lists included in this subchapter may be obtained at the address listed 
in Sec.  159.001-5.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13928, Mar. 28, 1996; 61 FR 15868, Apr. 9, 1996]



Sec.  159.010-11  Changes in the laboratory's qualifications.

    (a) If any of the information submitted under Sec.  159.010-5(a) 
changes, the laboratory shall notify the Commandant in writing of each 
change within 30 days after the change has occurred.
    (b) If any change in the independent laboratory occurs which affects 
its performance under the MOU required under Sec.  159.010-7, the 
laboratory shall notify the Commandant in writing within 30 days after 
the change occurs. The Commandant may terminate the MOU, or may require 
amendments or revisions.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13929, Mar. 28, 1996]



Sec.  159.010-15  Contracting inspections and tests or transferrals
to another laboratory or person.

    (a) No independent laboratory may contract or transfer to another 
person or laboratory the performance or supervision of inspections or 
tests, or both, required under an applicable subpart for which it is 
accepted or listed unless--
    (1) A request in writing regarding the contract or transfer is 
submitted to the Commandant before the contract is executed or the 
transfer is completed; and
    (2) The Commandant notifies the laboratory in writing that the 
contract or the transfer is allowed.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  159.010-17  Termination of acceptance or recognition of an
independent laboratory.

    The acceptance or recognition of a laboratory terminates if the 
laboratory--
    (a) Requests termination;
    (b) Is no longer in business;
    (c) Knowingly fails to perform or supervise an inspection or test, 
or both, as required in an applicable subpart;
    (d) Knowingly attests to the lack of errors, omissions, or false 
statement of an approval test report that contains errors omissions, or 
false statements;
    (e) Does not meet the requirements of Sec.  159.010-3(a);
    (f) Does not comply with Sec.  159.010-11;
    (g) Contracts or transfers the performance or supervision of 
required inspections or tests to another laboratory or person without 
the approval of the Commandant; or
    (h) Fails to, or in the opinion of the Commandant is unable to, 
carry out its responsibilities under an MOU required by Sec.  159.010-7.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13929, Mar. 28, 1996]



Sec.  159.010-19  Termination of acceptance or recognition: Procedure.

    (a) If the Coast Guard receives evidence of grounds for termination 
of acceptance or recognition of an independent laboratory under Sec.  
159.010-17, the Commandant will notify the laboratory that termination 
is under consideration. The laboratory may submit written comments to 
the Commandant within 21 days of receipt of the notification. The 
Commandant will take all timely written comments into account

[[Page 15]]

before taking final action in the matter, and in no case will the 
Commandant take final action until at least 30 days after the laboratory 
has received the notification. Any final action taken by the Commandant 
is final agency action on the matter.
    (b) If a deficiency could materially affect the validity of an 
approval issued under an applicable subpart, the Commandant may 
temporarily suspend the acceptance of the laboratory and may direct the 
holder of the certificate of approval to cease claiming that the items 
tested or inspected by the laboratory are Coast Guard approved, pending 
a final decision in the matter.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13929, Mar. 28, 1996]



PART 160_LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT--Table of Contents



                Subpart 160.001_Life Preservers, General

Sec.
160.001-1 Scope.
160.001-2 General characteristics of life preservers.
160.001-3 Procedure for approval.
160.001-5 Production oversight.

 Subpart 160.002_Life Preservers, Kapok, Adult and Child (Jacket Type), 
                             Models 3 and 5

160.002-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.002-2 Size and models.
160.002-3 Materials.
160.002-4 Construction.
160.002-5 Sampling, tests, and inspections.
160.002-6 Marking.
160.002-7 Procedure for approval.

Subpart 160.005_Life Preservers, Fibrous Glass, Adult and Child (Jacket 
                         Type), Models 52 and 56

160.005-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.005-2 Size and model.
160.005-3 Materials.
160.005-4 Construction.
160.005-5 Sampling, tests, and inspections.
160.005-6 Marking.
160.005-7 Procedure for approval.

               Subpart 160.006_Life Preservers: Repairing

160.006-2 Repairing.

         Subpart 160.010_Buoyant Apparatus for Merchant Vessels

160.010-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.010-2 Definitions.
160.010-3 Inflatable buoyant apparatus.
160.010-4 General requirements for buoyant apparatus.
160.010-5 Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy.
160.010-6 Capacity of buoyant apparatus.
160.010-7 Methods of sampling, inspections and tests.
160.010-8 Nameplate and marking.
160.010-9 Procedure for approval.
160.010-10 Independent laboratory.

Subparts 160.011-160.015 [Reserved]

       Subpart 160.016_Lamps, Safety, Flame, for Merchant Vessels

160.016-1 Applicable specification.
160.016-2 Requirements.
160.016-4 Marking.
160.016-5 Procedure for approval.

                      Subpart 160.017_Chain Ladder

160.017-1 Scope.
160.017-7 Independent laboratory.
160.017-9 Approval procedure.
160.017-11 Materials.
160.017-13 Construction.
160.017-15 Performance.
160.017-17 Strength.
160.017-21 Approval tests.
160.017-25 Marking.
160.017-27 Production tests and examination.

             Subpart 160.021_Hand Red Flare Distress Signals

160.021-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.021-2 Type.
160.021-3 Materials, workmanship, construction and performance 
          requirements.
160.021-4 Approval and production tests.
160.021-5 Labeling and marking.
160.021-6 Container.
160.021-7 Procedure for approval.

   Subpart 160.022_Floating Orange Smoke Distress Signals (5 Minutes)

160.022-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.022-2 Type.
160.022-3 Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance 
          requirements.
160.022-4 Approval and production tests.
160.022-5 Marking.
160.022-7 Procedure for approval.

    Subpart 160.023_Hand Combination Flare and Smoke Distress Signals

160.023-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.023-2 Type.
160.023-3 Materials, workmanship, construction and performance 
          requirements.
160.023-4 Approval and production tests.
160.023-5 Labeling and marking.
160.023-6 Container.

[[Page 16]]

160.023-7 Procedure for approval.

  Subpart 160.024_Pistol-Projected Parachute Red Flare Distress Signals

160.024-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.024-2 Type.
160.024-3 Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance 
          requirements.
160.024-4 Approval and production tests.
160.024-5 Marking.
160.024-7 Procedure for approval.

Subpart 160.026 [Reserved]

            Subpart 160.027_Life Floats for Merchant Vessels

160.027-2 Type.
160.027-3 Additional requirements for life floats.
160.027-7 Pre-approval tests for alternate platform designs.

      Subpart 160.028_Signal Pistols for Red Flare Distress Signals

160.028-2 Type.
160.028-3 Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance 
          requirements.
160.028-4 Approval and production tests.
160.028-5 Marking.
160.028-6 Container.
160.028-7 Procedure for approval.

    Subpart 160.031_Line-Throwing Appliance, Shoulder Gun Type (and 
                               Equipment)

160.031-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.031-2 Type and size.
160.031-3 Materials, construction, workmanship, and performance 
          requirements.
160.031-4 Equipment for shoulder gun type line-throwing appliance.
160.031-5 Approval and production tests.
160.031-6 Marking.
160.031-7 Procedure for approval.

Subpart 160.032-035 [Reserved]

Subpart 160.036_Hand-Held Rocket-Propelled Parachute Red Flare Distress 
                                 Signals

160.036-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.036-2 Type.
160.036-3 Materials, workmanship, construction and performance 
          requirements.
160.036-4 Approval and production tests.
160.036-5 Marking.
160.036-6 Container.
160.036-7 Procedure for approval.

           Subpart 160.037_Hand Orange Smoke Distress Signals

160.037-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.037-2 Type.
160.037-3 Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance 
          requirements.
160.037-4 Approval and production tests.
160.037-5 Labeling and marking.
160.037-6 Container.
160.037-7 Procedure for approval.

     Subpart 160.038_Magazine Chests, Portable, for Merchant Vessels

160.038-1 Applicable specifications.
160.038-2 Type.
160.038-3 Materials, workmanship, and construction.
160.038-4 Inspections and tests.
160.038-5 Marking.
160.038-6 Procedure for approval.

Subpart 160.039 [Reserved]

 Subpart 160.040_Line-Throwing Appliance, Impulse-Projected Rocket Type 
                             (and Equipment)

160.040-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.040-2 Type and size.
160.040-3 Materials, construction, workmanship, and performance 
          requirements.
160.040-4 Equipment for impulse projected rocket type line-throwing 
          appliance.
160.040-5 Approval and production tests.
160.040-6 Marking and labeling.
160.040-7 Procedure for approval.

Subpart 160.041 [Reserved]

          Subpart 160.042_Skids, Liferaft, for Merchant Vessels

160.042-1 Applicable specification.
160.042-2 General requirements.
160.042-3 Construction.
160.042-4 Inspection.
160.042-5 Procedure for approval.

Subparts 160.043-160.044 [Reserved]

                  Subpart 160.046_Emergency Provisions

160.046-1 Scope.
106.046-3 Incorporation by reference.
160.046-5 General requirements for emergency provisions.
160.046-7 Independent laboratory.
160.046-9 Manufacturer certification and labeling.
160.046-11 Manufacturer notification.

  Subpart 160.047_Specification for a Buoyant Vest, Kapok, or Fibrous 
                         Glass, Adult and Child

160.047-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.047-2 Model.
160.047-3 Materials.

[[Page 17]]

160.047-3a Materials--Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other 
          instruments of closure for buoyant vests.
160.047-4 Construction.
160.047-5 Inspections and tests.
160.047-6 Marking.
160.047-7 Recognized laboratory.

   Subpart 160.048_Specification for a Buoyant Cushion, Fibrous Glass

160.048-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.048-2 Types and sizes.
160.048-3 Materials.
160.048-4 Construction and workmanship.
160.048-5 Inspections and tests.
160.048-6 Marking.
160.048-7 Procedure for approval.
160.048-8 Recognized laboratory.

    Subpart 160.049_Specification for a Buoyant Cushion Plastic Foam

160.049-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.049-2 Types and sizes.
160.049-3 Materials.
160.049-4 Construction and workmanship.
160.049-5 Inspections and tests.
160.049-6 Marking.
160.049-7 Procedure for approval.
160.049-8 Recognized laboratory.

Subpart 160.050_Specification for a Buoy, Life Ring, Unicellular Plastic

160.050-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.050-2 Types and sizes.
160.050-3 Materials.
160.050-4 Construction and workmanship.
160.050-5 Sampling, tests, and inspection.
160.050-6 Marking.
160.050-7 Procedure for approval.

        Subpart 160.051_Inflatable Liferafts for Domestic Service

160.051-1 Scope.
160.051-3 Definitions.
160.051-5 Incorporation by reference.
160.051-7 Design and performance of Coastal Service inflatable 
          liferafts.
160.051-9 Design and performance of A and B inflatable liferafts.
160.051-11 Equipment required for Coastal Service inflatable liferafts.

 Subpart 160.052_Specification for a Buoyant Vest, Unicellular Plastic 
                          Foam, Adult and Child

160.052-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.052-2 Size and model.
160.052-3 Materials--standard vests.
160.052-3a Materials--Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other 
          instruments of closure for buoyant vests.
160.052-4 Materials--nonstandard vests.
160.052-5 Construction--standard vests.
160.052-6 Construction--nonstandard vests.
160.052-7 Inspection and tests--standard and nonstandard vests.
160.052-8 Marking.
160.052-9 Recognized laboratory.

          Subpart 160.053_Work Vests, Unicellular Plastic Foam

160.053-1 Applicable specifications.
160.053-2 Type.
160.053-3 Materials, construction and workmanship.
160.053-4 Inspections and tests.
160.053-5 Marking.
160.053-6 Procedure for approval.

Subpart 160.054 [Reserved]

  Subpart 160.055_Life Preservers, Unicellular Plastic Foam, Adult and 
                       Child, for Merchant Vessels

160.055-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.055-2 Type and model.
160.055-3 Materials--standard life preservers.
160.055-4 Materials--nonstandard life preservers.
160.055-5 Construction--standard life preservers.
160.055-6 Construction--nonstandard, life preservers.
160.055-7 Sampling, tests, and inspections.
160.055-8 Marking.
160.055-9 Procedure for approval--standard and nonstandard life 
          preservers.

                       Subpart 160.056_Rescue Boat

160.056-1 General requirements.
160.056-2 Construction.
160.056-3 Fittings and equipment.
160.056-4 Approval tests of prototype rescue boat.
160.056-6 Name plate.
160.056-7 Procedure for approval.

   Subpart 160.057_Floating Orange Smoke Distress Signals (15 Minutes)

160.057-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.057-2 Type.
160.057-3 Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance 
          requirements.
160.057-4 Approval and production tests.
160.057-5 Marking.
160.057-7 Procedure for approval.

     Subpart 160.058_Desalter Kits, Sea Water, for Merchant Vessels

160.058-1 Applicable specification.
160.058-2 Type.
160.058-3 Materials, workmanship, construction and performance 
          requirements.

[[Page 18]]

160.058-4 Inspections.
160.058-5 Labeling and marking.

     Subpart 160.060_Specification for a Buoyant Vest, Unicellular 
                   Polyethylene Foam, Adult and Child

160.060-1 Incorporation by reference.
160.060-2 Type and model.
160.060-3 Materials--standard vests.
160.060-3a Materials--Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other 
          instruments of closure for buoyant vests.
160.060-4 Materials--nonstandard vests.
160.060-5 Construction--standard vests.
160.060-6 Construction--nonstandard vests.
160.060-7 Inspections and tests--standard and nonstandard vests.
160.060-8 Marking.
160.060-9 Recognized laboratory.

Subpart 160.061 [Reserved]

  Subpart 160.062_Releases, Lifesaving Equipment, Hydraulic and Manual

160.062-1 Applicable specifications, and referenced material.
160.062-2 Types.
160.062-3 Materials, construction, workmanship, and performance 
          requirements.
160.062-4 Inspections and tests.
160.062-5 Markings.
160.062-6 Procedure for approval.
160.062-7 Procedures for acceptance of repair facility.
160.062-8 Procedures for acceptance of testing facility.

                 Subpart 160.064_Marine Buoyant Devices

160.064-1 Applicable specifications.
160.064-2 Types and models.
160.064-3 Requirements.
160.064-4 Marking.
160.064-6 Examinations, tests and inspections.
160.064-7 Recognized laboratory.

 Subpart 160.066_Distress Signal for Boats, Red Aerial Pyrotechnic Flare

160.066-1 Type.
160.066-5 Design, construction, and manufacturing requirements.
160.066-7 Performance requirements.
160.066-9 Labeling.
160.066-10 Expiration date.
160.066-11 Approval procedures.
160.066-12 Operational tests.
160.066-13 Technical tests.
160.066-15 Production testing.

Subpart 160.071 [Reserved]

         Subpart 160.072_Distress Signals for Boats, Orange Flag

160.072-1 Applicability.
160.072-3 General performance requirements.
160.072-5 Accelerated weathering test.
160.072-7 Manufacturer certification and labeling.
160.072-09 Manufacturer notification.

  Subpart 160.073_Float-Free Link or Life Floats and Buoyant Apparatus

160.073-1 Scope.
160.073-5 Certification.
160.073-10 Construction and performance.
160.073-15 Tests.
160.073-20 Marking.

   Subpart 160.076_Inflatable Recreational Personal Flotation Devices

160.076-1 Scope.
160.076-3 Applicability.
160.076-5 Definitions.
160.076-7 [Reserved]
160.076-9 Conditional approval.
160.076-11 Incorporation by reference.
160.076-13 Approval procedures for inflatable PFDs.
160.076-15 Suspension or termination of approval.
160.076-17 Approval of design or material changes.
160.076-19 Recognized laboratories.
160.076-21 Component materials.
160.076-23 Construction and performance requirements.
160.076-25 Approval testing.
160.076-27 [Reserved]
160.076-29 Production oversight.
160.076-31 Production tests and examinations.
160.076-33 Manufacturer records.
160.076-35 Information pamphlet.
160.076-37 Owner's manual.
160.076-39 Marking.

      Subpart 160.077_Hybrid Inflatable Personal Flotation Devices

160.077-1 Scope.
160.077-2 Definitions.
160.077-3 Required to be worn.
160.077-4 Type.
160.077-5 Incorporation by reference.
160.077-6 Approval procedures.
160.077-7 Procedure for approval of design or material revision.
160.077-9 Recognized laboratory.
160.077-11 Materials--Recreational Hybrid PFD's.
160.077-13 Materials--Type I and Commercial Hybrid PFD.
160.077-15 Construction and Performance--Recreational Hybrid PFD.

[[Page 19]]

160.077-17 Construction and Performance--Type I and Commercial Hybrid 
          PFD.
160.077-19 Approval Testing--Recreational Hybrid PFD's.
160.077-21 Approval Testing--Type I and Commercial Hybrid PFD.
160.077-23 Production tests and inspections.
160.077-25 Manufacturer records.
160.077-27 Pamphlet.
160.077-29 PFD Manuals.
160.077-30 Spare operating components and temporary marking.
160.077-31 PFD marking.

              Subpart 160.115_Launching Appliances_Winches

160.115-1 Scope.
160.115-3 Definitions.
160.115-5 Incorporation by reference.
160.115-7 Design, construction, and performance of winches.
160.115-9 Preapproval review.
160.115-11 [Reserved]
160.115-13 Approval inspections and tests for prototype winches.
160.115-15 Production inspections, tests, quality control, and 
          conformance of winches.
160.115-17 Marking and labeling.
160.115-19 Operating instructions and information for the ship's 
          training manual.
160.115-21 Operation and maintenance instructions.
160.115-23 Procedure for approval of design or material change.

               Subpart 160.132_Launching Appliances_Davits

160.132-1 Scope.
160.132-3 Definitions.
160.132-5 Incorporation by reference.
160.132-7 Design, construction, and performance of davits.
160.132-9 Preapproval review.
160.132-11 [Reserved]
160.132-13 Approval inspections and tests for prototype davits.
160.132-15 Production inspections, tests, quality control, and 
          conformance of davits.
160.132-17 Marking and labeling.
160.132-19 Operating instructions and information for the ship's 
          training manual.
160.132-21 Operation and maintenance instructions.
160.132-23 Procedure for approval of design or material change.

    Subpart 160.133_Release Mechanisms for Lifeboats and Rescue Boats

160.133-1 Scope.
160.133-3 Definitions.
160.133-5 Incorporation by reference.
160.133-7 Design, construction, and performance of release mechanisms.
160.133-9 Preapproval review.
160.133-11 [Reserved]
160.133-13 Approval inspections and tests for prototype release 
          mechanisms.
160.133-15 Production inspections, tests, quality control, and 
          conformance of release mechanisms.
160.133-17 Marking and labeling.
160.133-19 Operating instructions and information for the ship's 
          training manual.
160.133-21 Operation and maintenance instructions.
160.133-23 Procedure for approval of design or material change.

                        Subpart 160.135_Lifeboats

160.135-1 Scope.
160.135-3 Definitions.
160.135-5 Incorporation by reference.
160.135-7 Design, construction, and performance of lifeboats.
160.135-9 Preapproval review.
160.135-11 Fabrication of prototype lifeboats for approval.
160.135-13 Approval inspections and tests for prototype lifeboats.
160.135-15 Production inspections, tests, quality control, and 
          conformance of lifeboats.
160.135-17 Marking and labeling.
160.135-19 Operating instructions and information for the ship's 
          training manual.
160.135-21 Operation and maintenance instructions.
160.135-23 Procedure for approval of design or material change.

              Subpart 160.151_Inflatable Liferafts (SOLAS)

160.151-1 Scope.
160.151-3 Definitions.
160.151-5 Incorporation by reference.
160.151-7 Construction of inflatable liferafts.
160.151-9 Independent laboratory.
160.151-11 Approval procedure.
160.151-13 Fabrication of prototype inflatable liferafts for approval.
160.151-15 Design and performance of inflatable liferafts.
160.151-17 Additional requirements for design and performance of SOLAS A 
          and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts.
160.151-21 Equipment required for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable 
          liferafts.
160.151-25 Additional equipment for inflatable liferafts.
160.151-27 Approval inspections and tests for inflatable liferafts.
160.151-29 Additional approval tests for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable 
          liferafts.
160.151-31 Production inspections and tests of inflatable liferafts.

[[Page 20]]

160.151-33 Marking and labeling.
160.151-35 Servicing.
160.151-37 Servicing manual.
160.151-39 Training of servicing technicians.
160.151-41 Approval of servicing facilities.
160.151-43 Conditions at servicing facilities.
160.151-45 Equipment required for servicing facilities.
160.151-47 Requirements for owners or operators of servicing facilities.
160.151-49 Approval of servicing facilities at remote sites.
160.151-51 Notice of approval.
160.151-53 Notice to OCMI of servicing.
160.151-55 Withdrawal of approval.
160.151-57 Servicing procedure.
160.151-59 Operating instructions and information for the ship's 
          training manual.
160.151-61 Maintenance instructions.

       Subpart 160.156_Rescue Boats and Fast Rescue Boats (SOLAS)

160.156-1 Scope.
160.156-3 Definitions.
160.156-5 Incorporation by reference.
160.156-7 Design, construction, and performance of rescue boats and fast 
          rescue boats.
160.156-9 Preapproval review.
160.156-11 Fabrication of prototype rescue boats and fast rescue boats 
          for approval.
160.156-13 Approval inspections and tests for prototype rescue boats and 
          fast rescue boats.
160.156-15 Production inspections, tests, quality control, and 
          conformance of rescue boats and fast rescue boats.
160.156-17 Marking and labeling.
160.156-19 Operating instructions and information for the ship's 
          training manual.
160.156-21 Operation and maintenance instructions.
160.156-23 Procedure for approval of design, material, or construction 
          change.

 Subpart 160.170_Davit-Launched Liferaft Automatic Release Hooks (SOLAS)

160.170-1 Scope.
160.170-3 Definitions.
160.170-5 Incorporation by reference.
160.170-7 Design, construction, and performance of automatic release 
          mechanisms.
160.170-9 Preapproval review.
160.170-11 [Reserved]
160.170-13 Approval inspections and tests for prototype automatic 
          release mechanisms.
160.170-15 Production inspections, tests, quality control, and 
          conformance of release mechanisms.
160.170-17 Marking and labeling.
160.170-19 Operating instructions and information for the ship's 
          training manual.
160.170-21 Operation and maintenance instructions.
160.170-23 Procedure for approval of design, material, or change.

                     Subpart 160.171_Immersion Suits

160.171-1 Scope.
160.171-3 Incorporation by reference.
160.171-5 Independent laboratory.
160.171-7 Approval procedures.
160.171-9 Construction.
160.171-11 Performance.
160.171-13 Storage case.
160.171-15 Instructions.
160.171-17 Approval testing for adult size immersion suit.
160.171-19 Approval testing for child size immersion suit.
160.171-23 Marking.
160.171-25 Production testing.

                 Subpart 160.174_Thermal Protective Aids

160.174-1 Scope.
160.174-3 Incorporation by reference.
160.174-5 Independent laboratory.
160.174-7 Approval procedures.
160.174-9 Construction.
160.174-11 Performance.
160.174-13 Storage case.
160.174-15 Instructions.
160.174-17 Approval testing.
160.174-23 Marking.
160.174-25 Production testing.

                 Subpart 160.176_Inflatable Lifejackets

160.176-1 Scope.
160.176-2 Application.
160.176-3 Definitions.
160.176-4 Incorporation by reference.
160.176-5 Approval procedures.
160.176-6 Procedure for approval of design or material revision.
160.176-7 Independent laboratories.
160.176-8 Materials.
160.176-9 Construction.
160.176-11 Performance.
160.176-13 Approval Tests.
160.176-15 Production tests and inspections.
160.176-17 Manufacturer records.
160.176-19 Servicing.
160.176-21 User manuals.
160.176-23 Marking.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3103, 3306, 3703, 4102, 4302, and 4502; 
and DHS Delegation No. 00170.1, Revision No. 01.3.

    Editorial Note: Nomenclature changes to part 160 appear by USCG-
2012-0832, 77 FR 59785, 59786, Oct. 1, 2012.



                Subpart 160.001_Life Preservers, General



Sec.  160.001-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart contains the general:

[[Page 21]]

    (1) Characteristics of life preservers;
    (2) Approval procedures for life preservers; and
    (3) Production oversight requirements for life preservers.
    (b) Other subparts in this part specify the detailed requirements 
for standard type life preservers and may supplement the requirements in 
this subpart.

[CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51209, Sept. 30, 1997, as amended by USCG-2013-0263, 
79 FR 56499, Sept. 22, 2014]



Sec.  160.001-2  General characteristics of life preservers.

    (a) A life preserver must be of such construction, material and 
workmanship that it can perform its intended function in all weathers 
and at all temperatures which may be expected in the normal usage of the 
life preserver. All components used in the construction of a life 
preserver must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of 
the chapter.
    (b) A life preserver must be capable of supporting a minimum of 22 
pounds in fresh water for 48 hours.
    (c) Life preservers which depend upon loose or granulated material 
for buoyancy are prohibited.
    (d) A life preserver must be:
    (1) Simple in design;
    (2) Capable of being:
    (i) Worn inside-out,
    (ii) worn clearly in only one way, or
    (iii) Donned correctly without demonstration, instructions, or 
assistance by at least 75 percent of persons unfamiliar with the design; 
and
    (3) Capable of being quickly adjusted for a secure fit to the body 
of wearers for which it is intended.
    (e) A life preserver shall support the wearer in the water in an 
upright or slightly backward position, and shall provide support to the 
head so that the face of an unconscious or exhausted person is held 
above the water.
    (f) A life preserver shall be capable of turning the wearer, upon 
entering the water, to a safe flotation position as described in 
paragraph (e) of this section.
    (g) A life preserver shall not be appreciably deteriorated or 
rendered unable to perform its intended function by common oils or oil 
products.
    (h) A life preserver shall be of a highly visible color, such as 
Indian Orange, International Orange, or Scarlet Munsell Red.
    (i) A life preserver shall be of such construction, materials, and 
workmanship as to be at least equivalent to a standard type life 
preserver described in detail by other subparts in this part.
    (j) Each thread in a life preserver regulated under subparts 
160.002, 160.005 and 160.055 of this part must meet the requirements of 
a Federal or military specification in table 164.023-5(a) of this 
chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.

[CGFR 66-33, 31 FR 15297, Dec. 6, 1966, as amended by CGD 78-012, 43 FR 
27152, June 22, 1978; CGD 78-174b, 54 FR 50320, Dec. 5, 1989; CGD 84-
068, 58 FR 29493, May 20, 1993; CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51209, Sept. 30, 1997]



Sec.  160.001-3  Procedure for approval.

    (a) General. Designs of life preservers are approved only by the 
Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard. Manufacturers seeking approval of a life 
preserver design shall follow the procedures of this section and subpart 
159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) Each application for approval of a life preserver must contain 
the information specified in Sec.  159.005-5 of this chapter. The 
application and, except as provided in paragraphs (c) and (d)(2) of this 
section, a prototype life preserver must be submitted to the Commandant 
for preapproval review. If a similar design has already been approved, 
the Commandant may waive the preapproval review under Sec. Sec.  
159.005-5 and 159.005-7 of this chapter.
    (c) If the life preserver is of a standard design, as described by 
subpart 160.002, 160.005, or 160.055, the application:
    (1) Must include the following: A statement of any exceptions to the 
standard plans and specifications, including drawings, product 
description, construction specifications, and/or bill of materials.
    (2) Need not include: The information specified in Sec.  159.005-
5(a)(2).
    (d) If the life preserver is of a non-standard design, the 
application must include the following:
    (1) Plans and specifications containing the information required by 
Sec.  159.005-12 of this chapter, including

[[Page 22]]

drawings, product description, construction specifications, and bill of 
materials.
    (2) The information specified in Sec.  159.005-5(a)(2) (i) through 
(iii) of this chapter, except that, if preapproval review has been 
waived, the manufacturer is not required to send a prototype PFD sample 
to the Commandant.
    (3) Performance testing results of the design performed by an 
independent laboratory, that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the 
Coast Guard under Sec.  159.010-7 of this subchapter covering the in-
water testing of personal flotation devices, showing equivalence to the 
standard design's performance in all material respects.
    (4) Any special purpose(s) for which the life preserver is designed 
and the vessel(s) or vessel type(s) on which its use is intended.
    (5) Buoyancy and other relevant tolerances to be complied with 
during production.
    (6) The text of any optional marking to be included on the life 
preserver in addition to the markings required by the applicable 
approval subpart.
    (7) For any conditionally approved life preserver, the intended 
approval condition(s).
    (e) The description of quality control procedures required by Sec.  
159.005-9 of this chapter may be omitted if the manufacturer's planned 
quality control procedures meet the requirements of those accepted by 
the Commandant for the independent laboratory performing production 
inspections and tests.
    (f) Waiver of tests. A manufacturer may request that the Commandant 
waive any test prescribed for approval under the applicable subpart. To 
request a waiver, the manufacturer must submit to the Commandant and the 
laboratory described in Sec.  159.010, one of the following:
    (1) Satisfactory test results on a PFD of sufficiently similar 
design as determined by the Commandant.
    (2) Engineering analysis demonstrating that the test for which a 
waiver is requested is not appropriate for the particular design 
submitted for approval or that, because of its design or construction, 
it is not possible for the PFD to fail that test.

[CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51209, Sept. 30, 1997, as amended by USCG-2013-0263, 
79 FR 56499, Sept. 22, 2014]



Sec.  160.001-5  Production oversight.

    (a) General. Production tests and inspections must be conducted in 
accordance with this section, subpart 159.007 of this chapter, and if 
conducted by an independent laboratory, the independent laboratory's 
procedures for production inspections and tests as accepted by the 
Commandant. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and 
inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor 
compliance with the requirements of this subchapter.
    (b) Oversight. In addition to responsibilities set out in part 159 
of this chapter and the accepted laboratory procedures for production 
inspections and tests, each manufacturer of a life preserver and each 
laboratory inspector shall comply with the following, as applicable:
    (1) Manufacturer. Each manufacturer must--
    (i) Perform all tests and examinations necessary to show compliance 
with this subpart and subpart under which the life preserver is approved 
on each lot before any inspector's tests and inspection of the lot;
    (ii) Follow established procedures for maintaining quality control 
of the materials used, manufacturing operations, and the finished 
product; and
    (iii) Allow an inspector to take samples of completed units or of 
component materials for tests required by this subpart and for tests 
relating to the safety of the design.
    (2) Laboratory. An inspector from the accepted laboratory shall 
oversee production in accordance with the laboratory's procedures for 
production inspections and tests accepted by the Commandant. During 
production oversight, the inspector shall not perform or supervise any 
production test or inspection unless--
    (i) The manufacturer has a valid approval certificate; and

[[Page 23]]

    (ii) The inspector has first observed the manufacturer's production 
methods and any revisions to those methods.
    (3) At least quarterly, the inspector shall check the manufacturer's 
compliance with the company's quality control procedures, examine the 
manufacturer's required records, and observe the manufacturer perform 
each of the required production tests.
    (c) Test facilities. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place 
and apparatus for conducting the tests and inspections necessary to 
determine compliance of life preservers with this subpart. The 
manufacturer shall provide means to secure any test that is not 
continuously observed, such as the 48 hour buoyancy test. The 
manufacturer must have the calibration of all test equipment checked in 
accordance with the test equipment manufacturer's recommendation and 
interval but not less than at least once every year.
    (d) Lots. A lot may not consist of more than 1000 life preservers. A 
lot number must be assigned to each group of life preservers produced. 
Lots must be numbered serially. A new lot must be started whenever any 
change in materials or a revision to a production method is made, and 
whenever any substantial discontinuity in the production process occurs. 
The lot number assigned, along with the approval number, must enable the 
PFD manufacturer to determine the supplier's identifying information for 
the component lot.
    (e) Samples. (1) From each lot of life preservers, manufacturers 
shall randomly select a number of samples from completed units at least 
equal to the applicable number required by table 160.001-5(e) for 
buoyancy testing. Additional samples must be selected for any tests, 
examinations, and inspections required by the laboratory's production 
inspections and tests procedures.

             Table 160.001-5(e)--Sampling for Buoyancy Tests
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Number of
                                                                 life
                          Lot size                            preservers
                                                              in sample
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100 and under..............................................            1
101 to 200.................................................            2
201 to 300.................................................            3
301 to 500.................................................            4
501 to 750.................................................            6
751 to 1000................................................            8
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) For a lot next succeeding one from which any sample life 
preserver failed the buoyancy test, the sample shall consist of not less 
than ten specimen life preservers to be tested for buoyancy in 
accordance with paragraph (f) of this section.
    (f) Buoyancy test. The buoyancy of the life preservers must be 
determined by measuring the upward force exerted by the individual 
submerged unit. The buoyancy measurement must be made at the end of the 
24 or 48 hours of submersion, as specified in the applicable approval 
subpart, during which period the pad inserts must not be disturbed.
    (g) Buoyancy required. The buoyancy must meet the requirements of 
the applicable approval subpart.
    (h) Lot inspection. On each lot, the laboratory inspector shall 
perform a final lot inspection to be satisfied that the life preservers 
meet this subpart. Each lot must demonstrate--
    (1) First quality workmanship;
    (2) That the general arrangement and attachment of all components, 
such as body straps, closures, tie tapes, and drawstrings, are as 
specified in the approved plans and specifications;
    (3) Compliance with the marking requirements in the applicable 
approval subpart; and
    (4) The information pamphlet specified in 33 CFR part 181 subpart G, 
if required, is securely attached to the device, with the PFD selection 
information visible and accessible prior to purchase.
    (i) Lot acceptance. When the independent laboratory has determined 
that the life preservers in the lot are of a type officially approved in 
the name of the company, and that such life preservers meet the 
requirements of this subpart, they shall be plainly marked in waterproof 
ink with the independent laboratory's name or identifying mark.
    (j) Lot rejection. Each nonconforming unit must be rejected. If 
three or more

[[Page 24]]

nonconforming units are rejected for the same kind of defect, lot 
inspection must be discontinued and the lot rejected. The inspector must 
discontinue lot inspection and reject the lot if examination of 
individual units or the records for the lot shows noncompliance with 
either this subchapter or the laboratory's or the manufacturer's quality 
control procedures. A rejected unit or lot may be resubmitted for 
testing and inspection if the manufacturer first removes and destroys 
each defective unit or, if authorized by the laboratory, reworks the 
unit or lot to correct the defect. A rejected lot or rejected unit may 
not be sold or offered for sale under the representation that it meets 
this subpart or that it is Coast Guard-approved.

[CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51210, Sept. 30, 1997]



 Subpart 160.002_Life Preservers, Kapok, Adult and Child (Jacket Type), 
                             Models 3 and 5



Sec.  160.002-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Specifications and standards. This subpart makes reference to 
the following documents:
    (1) Military Specifications:

MIL-W-530--Webbing, Textile, Cotton. General Purpose, Natural or in 
Colors.

    (2) Federal Specification:

L-P-375--Plastic Film, Flexible, Vinyl Chloride.

    (3) Federal Standards:

No. 191--Textile Test Methods.
No. 751A--Stitches, Seams, and Stitchings.

    (4) Coast Guard specifications:

164.003--Kapok, Processed.

    (b) Plans. The following plans, of the issue in effect on the date 
life preservers are manufactured, form a part of this specification:

Dwg. No. F-49-6-1:
    (Sheet 1) Cutting Pattern and General Arrangement (adult).
    (Sheet 1A) Alternate stitching of tapes and webbing (adult and 
child).
    (Sheet 2) Pad Detail (adult).
Dwg. No. F-49-6-5:
    (Sheet 1) Cutting Pattern and General Arrangement (child).
    (Sheet 2) Pad Detail (child).

    (c) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications and plans referred 
to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together 
with the certificate of approval. They shall be kept for a period 
consisting of the duration of approval and 6 months after termination of 
approval. The Coast Guard specifications and plans may be obtained upon 
request from the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and 
Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King 
Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. The Federal specifications 
and standards may be purchased from the Business Service Center, General 
Services Administration, Washington, DC, 20407. The Military 
specifications may be obtained from the Military Specifications and 
Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 
Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://
assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
    (d) [Reserved]

[CGFR 53-25, 18 FR 7855, Dec. 5, 1953, as amended by CGFR 65-16, 30 FR 
10897, Aug. 21, 1965; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27153, 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 
88-070, 53 FR 34535, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 
1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 
49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60156, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.002-2  Size and models.

    Each life preserver specified in this subpart is to be a:
    (a) Model 3, adult, 24 ounces kapok; or
    (b) Model 5, child, 16 ounces kapok.

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8118, Mar. 28, 1973]



Sec.  160.002-3  Materials.

    All components used in the construction of the life preserver must 
meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter and 
the following requirements apply to individual components;
    (a) Kapok. The kapok shall be all new material complying with 
subpart 164.003 of this subchapter and shall be properly processed.
    (b) Envelope. The life preserver envelope, or cover, shall be made 
of cotton drill. The color shall be Indian Orange, Cable No. 70072, 
Standard Color Card of America, issued by the Textile Color

[[Page 25]]

Association of the United States, Inc., 200 Madison Avenue, New York, 
N.Y., or Scarlet Munsell 7.5 Red 6/10. The drill shall be evenly dyed, 
and the fastness of the color to laundering, water, crocking, and light 
shall be rated ``good'' when tested in accordance with Federal Test 
Method Standard No. 191, Methods 5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660. After 
dyeing, the drill shall be treated with a mildew-inhibitor of the type 
specified in paragraph (j) of this section. The finished goods shall 
contain not more than 2 percent residual sizing or other non-fibrous 
material, shall weigh not less than 6.5 ounces per square yard, shall 
have a thread count of not less than 72 in the warp and 54 in the 
filling, and shall have a breaking strength (grab method) of not less 
than 105 pounds in the warp and 70 pounds in the filling. If it is 
proposed to treat the fabric with a fire-retardant substance, full 
details shall be submitted to the Commandant for determination as to 
what samples will be needed for testing.
    (c) Tunnel strip. The tunnel strip shall be made of cotton drill 
conforming to the requirements for the envelope cover.
    (d) Pad covering. The covering for the kapok pad inserts shall be 
flexible vinyl film not less than 0.006 inch in thickness meeting the 
requirements of specification L-P-375 for Type I film Type II, Class 1 
film not less than 0.008 inch in thickness will also be acceptable.
    (e) Tie tapes and drawstrings. The tie tapes at the neck and the 
lower drawstrings shall be made of 1\1/4\-inch cotton tape weighing not 
less than 0.3 ounce per linear yard, and having a minimum breaking 
strength of 200 pounds. The tie tapes and drawstrings shall be treated 
with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in paragraph (j) of this 
section.
    (f) Body strap. The body strap shall be made of one-inch cotton 
webbing having a minimum breaking strength of 400 pounds. One-inch 
cotton webbing meeting the requirements of specification MIL-W-530 for 
Type IIb webbing is acceptable. The complete body strap assembly shall 
have a minimum breaking strength of 360 pounds. The body strap shall be 
treated with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in paragraph (j) 
of this section.
    (g) Dee rings and snap hook. The dee rings and snap hook shall be of 
brass, bronze, or stainless steel, and of the approximate size indicated 
by Dwg. F-49-6-1, Sheet 1. The snap hook spring shall be phosphor bronze 
or other suitable corrosion-resistant material. Dee ring ends shall be 
welded to form a continuous ring. The webbing opening of the snap hook 
shall be a continuous ring.
    (h) Reinforcing tape. The reinforcing tape shall be made of \3/4\-
inch cotton tape weighing not less than 0.18 ounce per linear yard and 
having a minimum breaking strength of 120 pounds, and shall be treated 
with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in paragraph (j) of this 
section.
    (i) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 
164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each 
seam.
    (j) Mildew-inhibitor. The mildew-inhibitor shall be 
dihydroxydichloro- diphenylmethane, known commercially as Compound G-4, 
applied by the aqueous method. The amount of inhibitor deposited shall 
be not more than 1.50 percent and not less than 1.00 percent of the dry 
weight of the finished goods.

[CGFR 58-23, 23 FR 4627, June 25, 1958, as amended by CGFR 65-16, 30 FR 
10897, Aug. 21, 1965; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27153, 27154; June 22, 1978; CGD 
84-068, 58 FR 29493, May 20, 1993]



Sec.  160.002-4  Construction.

    (a) General. This specification covers life preservers which 
essentially consist of a vest-cut envelope containing pockets in which 
are enclosed pads of buoyant material, the life preserver being fitted 
with tapes and webbing to provide complete reversibility, proper 
adjustment for close fit to the bodies of various size wearers, and 
proper flotation characteristics to hold the wearer in an upright 
backward position with head and face out of water.
    (b) Envelope. The envelope shall be of not more than two pieces, one 
piece for either side, cut to the pattern shown on Dwg. No. F-49-6-1, 
Sheet 1, for adult size, and Dwg. F-49-6-5, Sheet 1, for child size, 
joined by seams and stitching as shown on the drawing. A drawstring 
tunnel shall be formed by

[[Page 26]]

stitching a strip of the tunnel strip material as shown on the drawing. 
The ends of the tunnel strip shall be tucked under the reinforcing tape 
stitched around the end openings so there is no direct access to the 
pads from the outside. Three pockets shall be formed for insertion of 
the kapok pads. The two front pads shall be removable from the envelope 
when portions of the lower longitudinal seam are opened, and the back 
pad shall be removable when a portion of one armhole seam is opened.
    (c) Pad inserts--(1) Forming, sealing, and distribution of kapok. 
The buoyant pad inserts shall be formed from two pieces of film cut to 
the patterns shown by Dwg. No. F-49-6-1, Sheet 2, for adult size, and 
Dwg. No. F-49-6-5, Sheet 2, for child size, which shall be heat-sealed 
tight. The heat-sealed pad seams shall show an adhesion of not less than 
8 pounds when one inch strips cut across and perpendicular to the seams 
are pulled apart at a rate of separation of the clamping jaws of the 
test machine of 12 inches per minute. The pad inserts shall be filled 
with kapok distributed as follows:

      Table 160.002-4 (c)(1)--Distribution of Kapok in Pad Inserts
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   Model 3 (minimum)   Model 5 (minimum)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Front pad (2):
  Lower section.................  5.25 oz. each.....  3.50 oz. each.
  Upper section.................  3.75 oz. each.....  2.50 oz. each.
Back Pad........................  6.00 oz...........  4.00 oz.
   Total........................  24.00 oz..........  16.00 oz.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) Displacement of pad inserts. The volume of the finished 
individual heat-sealed buoyant pad inserts shall be such as to provide 
buoyancy as set forth in the following table when tested in accordance 
with the method set forth in Sec.  160.002-5(d), except that the period 
of submergence shall be only long enough to determine the displacement 
of the pads:

        Table 160.002-4(c)(2)--Volume Displacement of Sealed Pads
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                        Model 3             Model 5
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Front pads......................  12\1/2\ lbs. each   6\1/2\ lbs. each
                                   \3/4\ lb.    thn-eq>\1/2\ lb.
Back pads.......................  8 lbs. each \   \1/2\ lb.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (d) Tie tapes. The tie tapes at the neck shall extend not less than 
14 inches from the edge of the adult life preserver and not less than 12 
inches from the edge of the child life preserver. They shall be stitched 
through both thicknesses of the envelope as shown by Dwg. No. F-49-6-1, 
Sheet 1, for adult size, and Dwg. No. F-49-6-5, Sheet 1, for child size, 
or by the alternate stitching shown on Sheet 1A. The free ends shall be 
doubled over and stitched in accordance with section G-G of Sheet 1.
    (e) Drawstrings. The drawstrings at the waist shall extend not less 
than 8 inches from the edge of the life preserver and shall be secured 
in the drawstring tunnel as shown by Dwg. No. F-49-6-1, Sheet 1, for 
adult size, and Dwg. No. F-49-6-5, Sheet 1, for child size, or by the 
alternate stitching shown on Sheet 1A. The free ends shall be doubled 
over and stitched in accordance with section G-G of Sheet 1.
    (f) Body strap. The body strap shall be fitted with a single Dee 
ring on one end with the arrangement of a snap hook and pre-threaded 
double Dee rings as shown on Dwg. No. F-49-6-1, Sheet 1, on the other. 
The body strap shall be stitched as shown on the drawings, and the edge 
of the single Dee ring shall be 20 inches from the center line for adult 
size and 15 inches for child size.
    (g) Reinforcing tape. Binding tape shall be stitched approximately 
15 inches for adult jackets and 12 inches for child jackets around the 
back of the neck, and also around the openings of the drawstring tunnel 
and around the bottom of the armholes, as indicated by the drawings.
    (h) Stitching. All stitching shall be a short lock stitch conforming 
to Stitch Type 301 of Federal standard No. 751 and there shall be not 
less than 7, nor more than 9 stitches to the inch.
    (i) Workmanship. Life preservers shall be of first-class workmanship 
and shall be free from any defects materially affecting their appearance 
or serviceability.

[CGFR 53-25, 18 FR 7856, Dec. 5, 1953, as amended by CGFR 58-23, 23 FR 
4627, June 25, 1958; CGFR 65-16, 30 FR 10897, Aug. 21, 1965]

[[Page 27]]



Sec.  160.002-5  Sampling, tests, and inspections.

    (a) Production tests and inspections must be conducted by the 
manufacturer of a life preserver and the accepted laboratory inspector 
in accordance with this section and Sec.  160.001-5.
    (b) Buoyancy test. The buoyancy of the pad inserts from the life 
preserver shall be determined according to Sec.  160.001-5(f) of this 
part with each compartment of the buoyant pad insert covers slit so as 
not to entrap air. The period of submersion must be at least 48 hours.
    (c) Buoyancy required. The buoyant pad inserts from Model 3 adult 
life preservers shall provide not less than 25 pounds buoyancy in fresh 
water, and the pads from Model 5 child life preservers shall provide not 
less than 16.5 pounds buoyancy.

[CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51211, Sept. 30, 1997]



Sec.  160.002-6  Marking.

    Each life preserver must have the following clearly marked in 
waterproof ink on a front section:
    (a) In letters three-quarters of an inch or more in height:
    (1) Adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds); or
    (2) Child (for persons weighing less than 90 pounds).
    (b) In letters that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:

    Inspected and tested in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard 
regulations.
    Kapok buoyant material provides a minimum buoyant force of (25 lb. 
or 16\1/2\ lb.).
    Do not snag or puncture inner plastic cover.
    Approved for use on all vessels by persons weighing (90 lb. or more, 
or less than 90 lb.).
    U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. 160.002/(assigned manufacturer's No.)/
(Revision No.); (Model No.).
    (Name and address of manufacturer or distributor.).
    (Lot No.).

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8118, Mar. 28, 1973, as amended by CGD 75-008, 43 FR 
9770, Mar. 9, 1978, as amended by USCG-2013-0263, 79 FR 56499, Sept. 22, 
2014]



Sec.  160.002-7  Procedure for approval.

    General. Manufacturers seeking approval of a life preserver design 
shall follow the procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, as 
explained in Sec.  160.001-3 of this part.

[CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51211, Sept. 30, 1997]



Subpart 160.005_Life Preservers, Fibrous Glass, Adult and Child (Jacket 
                         Type), Models 52 and 56



Sec.  160.005-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to 
the following documents:
    (1) Federal Specification:

L-P-375C--Plastic Film, Flexible, Vinyl Chloride.

    (2) Federal Standards:

No. 191--Textile Test Methods.
No. 751A--Stitches, Seams, and Stitchings.

    (3) Military Specification:

MIL-W-530F--Webbing, Textiles, Cotton, General Purpose, Natural and in 
colors.
MIL-R-2766B--Batt, Fibrous Glass, Lifesaving Equipment.

    (b) Plans. The following plans, of the issue in effect on the date 
life preservers are manufactured, form a part of this subpart:

Dwg. No. 160.005-1:
    (Sheet 1) Cutting Pattern and General Arrangement (Adult).
    (Sheet 2) Alternate Stitching of Tapes and Webbing (Adult and 
Child).
    (Sheet 3) Pad Detail (Adult).
    (Sheet 4) Cutting Pattern and General Arrangement (Child).
    (Sheet 5) Pad Detail (Child).

    (c) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications and plans referred 
to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together 
with the certificate of approval. They shall be kept for a period 
consisting of the duration of approval and 6 months after termination of 
approval. The Coast Guard plans may be obtained upon request from the 
Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. 
Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC 20593-7509. The Federal specifications and standards may 
be purchased from the Business Service

[[Page 28]]

Center, General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20407. The 
Military specifications may be obtained from the Military Specifications 
and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 
Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://
assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.

[CGFR 53-25, 18 FR 7862, Dec. 5, 1953, as amended by CGFR 65-16, 30 FR 
10897, Aug. 21, 1965; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27153, 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 
88-070, 53 FR 34535, Sept. 7, 1988; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60156, Sept. 
30, 2013]



Sec.  160.005-2  Size and model.

    Each life preserver specified in this subpart is a:
    (a) Model 52, adult, 46 ounces fibrous glass; or
    (b) Model 56, child, 30 ounces fibrous glass.

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8118, Mar. 28, 1973]



Sec.  160.005-3  Materials.

    All components used in the construction of a life preserver must 
meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter and 
the following requirements apply to individual components:
    (a) Fibrous glass. The fibrous glass shall be all new material 
complying with the requirements of Specification MIL-B-2766.
    (b) Envelope. The life preserver envelope, or cover, shall be made 
of cotton drill. The color shall be Indian Orange, Cable No. 70072, 
Standard Color Card of America, issued by the Textile Color Association 
of the United States, Inc., 200 Madison Avenue, New York, N.Y., or 
Scarlet Munsell 7.5 Red 6/10. The drill shall be evenly dyed, and the 
fastness of the color to laundering, water, crocking, and light shall be 
rated ``good'' when tested in accordance with Federal Test Method 
Standard No. 191, Methods 5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660. After dyeing, the 
drill shall be treated with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in 
paragraph (j) of this section. The finished goods shall contain not more 
than 2 percent residual sizing or other nonfibrous material, shall weigh 
not less than 6.5 ounces per square yard, shall have a thread count of 
not less than 72 in the warp and 54 in the filling, and shall have a 
breaking strength (grab method) of not less than 105 pounds in the warp 
and 70 pounds in the filling. If it is proposed to treat the fabric with 
a fire-retardant substance, full details shall be submitted to the 
Commandant for determination as to what samples will be needed for 
testing.
    (c) Tunnel strip. The tunnel strip shall be made of cotton drill 
conforming to the requirements for the envelope cover.
    (d) Pad covering. The covering for the fibrous glass pad inserts 
shall be flexible vinyl film not less than 0.006 inch in thickness 
meeting the requirements of specification L-P-375 for Type I film. Type 
II, Class 1 film not less than 0.008 inch in thickness will also be 
acceptable.
    (e) Tie tapes and drawstrings. The tie tapes at the neck and the 
lower drawstrings shall be made of 1\1/4\-inch cotton tape weighing not 
less than 0.3 ounce per linear yard, and having a minimum breaking 
strength of 200 pounds. The tie tapes and drawstrings shall be treated 
with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in paragraph (j) of this 
section.
    (f) Body strap. The body strap shall be made of one-inch cotton 
webbing having a minimum breaking strength of 400 pounds. One-inch 
cotton webbing meeting the requirements of specification MIL-W-530 for 
Type IIb webbing is acceptable. The complete body strap assembly shall 
have a minimum breaking strength of 360 pounds. The body strap shall be 
treated with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in paragraph (j) 
of this section.
    (g) Dee rings and snap hook. The dee rings and snap hook shall be 
brass, bronze, or stainless steel, and of the approximate size indicated 
by Dwg. No. 160.005-1, Sheet 1. The snap hook spring shall be phosphor 
bronze or other suitable corrosion-resistant material. Dee ring ends 
shall be welded to form a continuous ring. The webbing opening of the 
snap hook shall be a continuous ring.
    (h) Reinforcing tape. The reinforcing tape shall be made of \3/4\-
inch cotton tape weighing not less than 0.18 ounce per linear yard and 
having a minimum breaking strength of 120 pounds, and

[[Page 29]]

shall be treated with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in 
paragraph (j) of this section.
    (i) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 
164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each 
seam.
    (j) Mildew-inhibitor. The mildew-inhibitor shall be 
dihydroxydichloro- diphenylmethane, known commercially as Compound G-4, 
applied by the aqueous method. The amount of inhibitor deposited shall 
be not more than 1.50 percent and not less than 1.00 percent of the dry 
weight of the finished goods.

[CGFR 58-23, 23 FR 4628, June 25, 1958, as amended by CGFR 65-16, 30 FR 
10898, Aug. 21, 1965; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27153, 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 
84-068, 58 FR 29493, May 20, 1993]



Sec.  160.005-4  Construction.

    (a) General. This specification covers life preservers which 
essentially consist of a vest-cut envelope containing pockets in which 
are enclosed pads of buoyant material, the life preserver being fitted 
with tapes and webbing to provide complete reversibility, proper 
adjustment for close fit to the bodies of various size wearers, and 
proper flotation characteristics to hold the wearer in an upright 
backward position with head and face out of water.
    (b) Envelope. The envelope shall be of not more than two pieces, one 
piece for either side, cut to the pattern shown on Dwg. No. 160.005-1, 
Sheet 1, for adult size, and Sheet 4, for child size, joined by seams 
and stitching as shown on the drawing. A drawstring tunnel shall be 
formed by stitching a strip of the tunnel strip material as shown by the 
drawing. The ends of the tunnel strip shall be tucked under the 
reinforcing tape stitched around the end openings so there is no direct 
access to the pads from the outside. Three pockets shall be formed for 
insertion of the pads. The two front pads shall be removable from the 
envelope when portions of the lower longitudinal seam are opened, and 
the back pad shall be removable when a portion of one armhole seam is 
opened.
    (c) Pad inserts--(1) Forming, sealing, and distribution of fibrous 
glass. The buoyant pad inserts shall be formed from two pieces of film 
cut to the patterns shown by Dwg. No. 160.005-1, Sheet 3, for adult 
size, and Sheet 5, for child size, which shall be heat-sealed tight. The 
heat-sealed pad seams shall show an adhesion of not less than 8 pounds 
when 1-inch strips cut across and perpendicular to the seams are pulled 
apart at a rate of separation of the clamping jaws of the test machine 
of 12 inches per minute. The pad inserts shall be filled with fibrous 
glass distributed as follows:

   Table 160.005-4(c)(1)--Distribution of Fibrous Glass in Pad Inserts
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  Model 52 (minimum)  Model 56 (minimum)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Front pad (2):
  Lower section.................  10.00 oz. each....  6.50 oz. each.
  Upper section.................  7.25 oz. each.....  4.75 oz. each.
Back pad........................  11.50 oz..........  7.50 oz.
    Total.......................  46.00 oz..........  30.00 oz.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) Displacement of pad inserts. The volume of the finished 
individual heat-sealed buoyant pad inserts shall be such as to provide 
buoyancy as set forth in the following table when tested in accordance 
with the method set forth in Sec.  160.005-5(d), except that the period 
of submergence shall be only long enough to determine the displacement 
of the pads:

        Table 160.005-4(c)(2)--Volume Displacement of Sealed Pads
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       Model 52            Model 56
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Front pads......................  12\1/2\ lbs. each   6\1/2\ lbs. each
                                   \3/4\ lb..   thn-eq>\1/2\ lbs.
Back pads.......................  8 lbs. each \   \1/2\ lb.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (d) Tie tapes. The tie tapes at the neck shall extend not less than 
14 inches from the edge of the adult life preserver and not less than 12 
inches from the edge of the child life preserver. They shall be stitched 
through both thicknesses of the envelope as shown by Dwg. No. 160.005-1, 
Sheet 1, for adult size, and Sheet 4, for child size, or by the 
alternate stitching shown on Sheet 2. The free ends shall be doubled 
over and stitched in accordance with section E-E of Sheet 1.
    (e) Drawstrings. The drawstrings at the waist shall extend not less 
than 8 inches from the edge of the life preserver and shall be secured 
in the drawstring tunnel as shown by Dwg. No. 160.005-1, Sheet 1, for 
adult size,

[[Page 30]]

and Sheet 4, for child size, or by the alternate stitching shown on 
Sheet 2. The free ends shall be doubled over and stitched in accordance 
with section E-E of Sheet 1.
    (f) Body strap. The body strap shall be fitted with a single dee 
ring on one end and with the arrangement of a snap hook and prethreaded 
double dee rings as shown on Dwg. No. 160.005-1, Sheet 1, on the other. 
The body strap shall be stitched as shown on the drawings, and the edge 
of the single dee ring shall be 20 inches from the center line for adult 
size and 15 inches for child size.
    (g) Reinforcing tape. Binding tape shall be stitched approximately 
15 inches for adult life preservers and 12 inches for child life 
preservers around the back of the neck, and also around the openings of 
the drawstring tunnel and around the bottom of the arm holes as 
indicated by the drawings.
    (h) Stitching. All stitching shall be a short lock stitch conforming 
to Stitch Type 301 of Federal Standard No. 751, and there shall be not 
less than 7, nor more than 9 stitches to the inch.
    (i) Workmanship. Life preservers shall be of first-class workmanship 
and shall be free from any defects materially affecting their appearance 
or serviceability.

[CGFR 53-25, 18 FR 7863, Dec. 5, 1953, as amended by CGFR 58-23, 23 FR 
4628, June 25, 1958; CGFR 65-16, 30 FR 10898, Aug. 21, 1965]



Sec.  160.005-5  Sampling, tests, and inspections.

    (a) Production tests and inspections must be conducted by the 
manufacturer of a life preserver and the accepted laboratory inspector 
in accordance with this section and Sec.  160.001-5.
    (b) Buoyancy test. The buoyancy of the pad inserts from the life 
preserver shall be determined according to Sec.  160.001-5(f) of this 
part with each compartment of the buoyant pad insert covers slit so as 
not to entrap air. The period of submersion must be at least 48 hours.
    (c) Buoyancy required. The buoyant pad inserts from Model 3 adult 
life preservers shall provide not less than 25 pounds buoyancy in fresh 
water, and the pads from Model 5 child life preservers shall provide not 
less than 16.5 pounds buoyancy.

[CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51211, Sept. 30, 1997]



Sec.  160.005-6  Marking.

    Each life preserver must have the following clearly marked in 
waterproof lettering on a front section:
    (a) In letters three-fourths inch or more in height:
    (1) Adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds); or
    (2) Child (for persons weighing less than 90 pounds).
    (b) In letters capable of being read at a distance of 2 feet:

    Inspected and tested in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard 
regulations.
    Fibrous glass buoyant material provides a minimum buoyant force of 
(25 lb. or 16\1/2\ lb.).
    Approved for use on all vessels by persons weighing (90 lb. or more, 
or less than 90 lb).
    U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. 160.005/ (assigned manufacturer's 
No.)/(Revision No.). (Model No.);
    (Name and address of manufacturer or distributor.).
    (Lot No.).

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8118, Mar. 28, 1973, as amended by CGD 75-008, 43 FR 
9770, Mar. 9, 1978; USCG-2013-0263, 79 FR 56499, Sept. 22, 2014]



Sec.  160.005-7  Procedure for approval.

    General. Manufacturers seeking approval of a life preserver design 
shall follow the procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, as 
explained in Sec.  160.001-3 of this part.

[CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51211, Sept. 30, 1997]



               Subpart 160.006_Life Preservers: Repairing

    Source: 11 FR 187, Jan. 3, 1946; 11 FR 561, Jan. 12, 1946, unless 
otherwise noted.



Sec.  160.006-2  Repairing.

    (a) General. No repairs, except in emergency, shall be made to an 
approved life preserver without advance notice to the Officer in Charge, 
Marine Inspection, of the district in which such repairs are to be made. 
Emergency repairs shall be reported as soon as practicable to the 
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection.

[[Page 31]]

    (b) Kind of repairs. Except in emergency, tapes or straps may not be 
repaired, but may be renewed, and small holes, tears, or rips in the 
envelope cover fabric may be repaired, at the discretion of the Officer 
in Charge, Marine Inspection.



         Subpart 160.010_Buoyant Apparatus for Merchant Vessels

    Source: CGD 79-167, 47 FR 41372, Sept. 20, 1982, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.010-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that 
specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish notice of change 
in the Federal Register and the material must be available to the 
public. All approved material is available for inspection at Coast Guard 
Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire 
Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. 
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. You may also inspect this 
material at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For 
information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-
6030 or go to http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html. You may obtain copies of 
the material from the sources specified in the following paragraphs.
    (b) General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, 
Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, 
Arlington, VA 22202, 703-605-5400.
    (1) Federal Standard 595C, Colors Used in Government Procurement, 
(January 16, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.010-4 (``FED-STD-595C'').
    (2) [Reserved]
    (c) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 
4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 
7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), pages 7-71 (``IMO LSA Code''), IBR approved for Sec.  160.010-3.
    (2) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), Revised recommendation on testing of live-saving appliances, 
pages 79-254 (``IMO Revised recommendation on testing''), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.010-3.
    (d) Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents 
Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-
5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
    (1) MIL-P-19644C, Military Specification, Plastic Molding Material 
(Polystyrene Foam, Expanded Bead), (July 10, 1970), IBR approved for 
Sec.  160.010-5 (``MIL-P-19644C'').
    (2) MIL-P-21929B, Military Specification, Plastic Material, Cellular 
Polyurethane, Foam-In-Place, Rigid (2 and 4 Pounds per Cubic Foot), 
(August 11, 1969), IBR approved for Sec.  160.010-5 (``MIL-P-21929B'').
    (3) MIL-P-40619A, Military Specification, Plastic Material, 
Cellular, Polystyrene (For Buoyancy Applications), (December 9, 1968), 
IBR approved for Sec.  160.010-5 (``MIL-P-40619A'').
    (4) MIL-R-21607E(SH), Military Specification, Resins, Polyester, Low 
Pressure Laminating, Fire-Retardant, (May 25, 1990), IBR approved for 
Sec.  160.010-5 (``MIL-R-21607E(SH)'').

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62974, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60156, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.010-2  Definitions.

    Buoyant apparatus. Buoyant apparatus is flotation equipment (other 
than lifeboats, liferafts, and personal flotation devices) designed to 
support a specified number of persons in the water, and of such 
construction that it retains its shape and properties and requires no 
adjustment or preparation for use. The types of buoyant apparatus 
generally in use are the box-float type and the peripheral-body type 
defined in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section.
    Box-float. Box-float is buoyant apparatus of a box-like shape.
    Commandant means the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and 
Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.

[[Page 32]]

    Peripheral-body. Peripheral body is buoyant apparatus with a 
continuous body in the shape of either an ellipse or rectangle with a 
circular, elliptical, or rectangular body cross-section.
    Inflatable buoyant apparatus. An inflatable buoyant apparatus is 
flotation equipment that depends on inflated compartments for buoyancy 
and is designed to support a specified number of persons completely out 
of the water.

[CGD 79-167, 47 FR 41372, Sept. 20, 1982, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 
FR 50466, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; CGD 
85-205, 62 FR 25545, May 9, 1997; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 
2009; USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62974, Oct. 11, 2011; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 
60156, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.010-3  Inflatable buoyant apparatus.

    (a) Design and performance. To obtain Coast Guard approval, an 
inflatable buoyant apparatus must comply with subpart 160.151, with the 
following exceptions:
    (1) Canopy requirements (IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV/4.1.1.5 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.010-1 of this subpart)). It 
does not need a canopy.
    (2) Capacity (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.1.2.1). The carrying 
capacity must be not less than four persons.
    (3) Floor insulation (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.2.2). The floor 
may be uninsulated.
    (4) Stability (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.5.4). It does not need 
stability pockets.
    (5) Righting (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.5.2). A reversible one 
does not need arrangements for righting.
    (6) One with a capacity of 13 or more persons must be reversible, 
with the floor arranged between the buoyancy chambers so that the 
apparatus can, floating either side up, accommodate the number of 
persons for which it is approved. One with a capacity of 12 or fewer 
persons must either be reversible in the same manner, or be designed so 
that it can be readily righted by one person.
    (7) One with a capacity of 25 or more persons must be provided with 
self-bailing floor drains. If the floor of a reversible one includes one 
or more drains, each drain must be arranged to completely drain the 
floor of water when the device is fully loaded, and must prevent water 
from flowing back onto the floor.
    (8) If the buoyancy tubes are not vivid reddish orange, vivid 
yellow, or a fluorescent color of a similar hue, panels of such hue must 
be secured to the buoyancy chambers so that a minimum of 1 m\2\ (11 
ft\2\) is visible from above the apparatus when it is floating either 
side up.
    (9) Boarding ramp (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.4.1). Boarding ramps 
are not required if the combined cross-section diameter of the buoyancy 
chambers is 500 millimeters (mm) (19.5 in.) or less. An apparatus with a 
combined cross-section diameter greater than 500 mm (19.5 in.) requires 
boarding ramps as follows:
    (i) For an apparatus with a capacity of less than 25 persons, at 
least one ramp must be provided;
    (ii) For an apparatus with a capacity of 25 or more persons, at 
least two ramps must be provided; and
    (iii) The boarding ramps required by this paragraph must allow 
persons to board with either side of a reversible apparatus floating up, 
or the full number of ramps required must be installed on each side.
    (10) Boarding ladder (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.4.2). Boarding 
ladders must be provided on each inflatable buoyant apparatus as 
follows:
    (i) One ladder must be provided on each apparatus with a capacity of 
less than 25 persons, except that, for an apparatus with a capacity of 
13 or more persons that is not equipped with a boarding ramp, two 
ladders must be provided.
    (ii) Two ladders must be provided on each apparatus with a capacity 
of 25 or more persons.
    (iii) The ladders required by this paragraph must allow persons to 
board with either side of a reversible apparatus floating up, or the 
full number of ladders required must be installed on each side.
    (11) One or more exterior canopy lamps meeting the requirements of 
46 CFR 160.151-15(n) must be provided such that--

[[Page 33]]

    (i) On a non-reversible inflatable buoyant apparatus, one lamp is 
mounted so that it is on the uppermost surface of the floating 
apparatus; and
    (ii) On a reversible apparatus, two lamps are mounted so that one 
lamp is on the uppermost surface of the apparatus, whichever side is 
floating up.
    (12) Equipment. All equipment required by this paragraph must be 
either packed in a container accessible to the occupants, or otherwise 
secured to the apparatus. Duplicate equipment must be provided, for each 
side of a reversible inflatable buoyant apparatus, if the equipment is 
not accessible from both sides. In lieu of the equipment specified in 
Sec.  160.151-7(b) and (IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV/4.1.5), each apparatus 
must be provided with--
    (i) Rescue quoit and heaving line. One rescue quoit and a heaving 
line as described in Sec.  160.151-21(a) on each apparatus with a 
capacity of less than 25 persons; or two on each apparatus for a 
capacity of 25 or more persons. The heaving line(s) must be mounted 
adjacent to a boarding ramp (or boarding ladder, if no ramps are 
installed), and ready for immediate use;
    (ii) Knives. One knife, of a type designed to minimize the chance of 
damage to the inflatable buoyant apparatus and secured with a lanyard 
ready for use near the painter attachment. Any knife may be replaced 
with a jackknife meeting the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(16). In 
addition, an inflatable buoyant apparatus that is permitted to 
accommodate 13 persons or more must be provided with a second knife that 
is of the non-folding type;
    (iii) Bailer. One bailer as described in Sec.  160.151-21(c) on each 
apparatus with a capacity of less than 25 persons; or two bailers on 
each apparatus with a capacity of 25 or more persons, except that no 
bailers are necessary if both sides of the floor of a reversible 
apparatus are equipped with drains;
    (iv) Sponge. One sponge as described in Sec.  160.151-21(d) on each 
apparatus with a capacity of less than 25 persons, or two sponges on 
each apparatus with a capacity of 25 or more persons;
    (v) Paddles. Two paddles as described in Sec.  160.151-21(f) on each 
apparatus with a capacity of less than 25 persons, or four paddles on 
each apparatus with a capacity of 25 or more persons;
    (vi) Flashlight. One flashlight with spare batteries as described in 
Sec.  160.151-21(m);
    (vii) Signaling mirror. One signaling mirror as described in Sec.  
160.151-21(o);
    (viii) Repair outfit. One set of sealing clamps or plugs as 
described in Sec.  160.151-21(y)(1);
    (ix) Pump or bellows. One pump or bellows as described in Sec.  
160.151-21(z); and
    (x) Sea anchor. One sea anchor as described in Sec.  160.151-21(e), 
attached so as to be readily deployable when the apparatus inflates.
    (13) Marking and labeling. Marking and labeling of inflatable 
buoyant apparatus must be in accordance with the requirements of Sec.  
160.151-33, as well as IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.6.3 and 4.2.7.1.6, 
except that the device must be identified as an ``INFLATABLE BUOYANT 
APPARATUS'', and no ``SOLAS'' markings shall be placed on the container 
of the apparatus. The capacity marking specified in IMO LSA Code, 
chapter IV/4.2.7.1.6 must be applied to the top of each buoyancy tube.
    (14) Drop test. The drop test required under paragraph 1/5.1 of IMO 
Revised recommendation on testing (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.010-1 of this subpart) and Sec.  160.151-27(a) may be from a lesser 
height, if that height is the maximum height of stowage marked on the 
container.
    (15) Loading and seating test. For the loading and seating test 
required under paragraph 1/5.7 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing 
and Sec.  160.151-27(a), the loaded freeboard of the apparatus must be 
not less than 200 mm (8 in.).
    (16) Cold-inflation test. The cold-inflation test required under 
paragraph 1/5.17.3.3.2 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing and 
Sec.  160.151-27(a) must be conducted at a test temperature of -18 
[deg]C (0 [deg]F).
    (b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and 
tests for inflatable buoyant apparatus must be performed in accordance 
with the applicable requirements of Sec.  160.151-31.
    (c) Servicing. Inflatable buoyant apparatus must be serviced 
periodically at

[[Page 34]]

approved servicing facilities in accordance with the applicable 
requirements of Sec. Sec.  160.151-35 through 160.151-57.
    (d) Instruction placard. An instruction placard meeting the 
requirements of Sec.  160.151-59(c), giving simple procedures and 
illustrations for inflating, launching, and boarding the inflatable 
buoyant apparatus, must be made available to the operator or master of 
each vessel on which the apparatus is to be carried.
    (e) Requirements for ``open reversible liferafts'' Annex 11 to IMO 
Res. MSC.97(73). To be approved as meeting the requirements for open 
reversible liferafts in Annex 11 to IMO Res. MSC.97(73), an inflatable 
buoyant apparatus must meet all of the requirements in paragraphs (a) 
through (d) of this section, with the following exceptions:
    (1) The apparatus must be reversible regardless of size.
    (2) The surface of the buoyancy tubes must be of a non-slip 
material. At least 25 percent of the surface of the buoyancy tubes must 
meet the color requirements of Sec.  160.151-15(e).
    (3) The length of the painter should be such that the apparatus 
inflates automatically upon reaching the water.
    (4) An additional bowsing-in line must be fitted to an apparatus 
with a capacity of more than 30 persons.
    (5) The apparatus must be fitted with boarding ramps regardless of 
size.
    (6) An apparatus with a capacity of 30 or fewer persons must be 
fitted with at least one floor drain.
    (7) In addition to the equipment specified in Sec.  160.010-
3(a)(12), the apparatus must be provided with--
    (i) Sponge. One additional sponge as described in Sec.  160.151-
21(d) on each apparatus with a capacity of less than 25 persons;
    (ii) First-aid kit. A first-aid kit as described in 46 CFR 
199.175(b)(10);
    (iii) Whistle. A ball-type or multi-tone whistle of corrosion-
resistant construction;
    (iv) Hand flares. Two hand flares approved by the Commandant under 
approval series 160.121.
    (8) Marking and labeling of the apparatus must be in accordance with 
Sec.  160.151-33, except that the device must be identified as a ``NON-
SOLAS REVERSIBLE'', and the equipment pack must be identified as an 
``HSC Pack''.
    (9) Stability. It must be fitted with stability pockets, in 
accordance with IMO LSA Code Chapter IV/4.2.5.4.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25545, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-2010-0048, 76 
FR 62974, Oct. 11, 2011; USCG-2020-0107, 87 FR 68304, Nov. 14, 2022]



Sec.  160.010-4  General requirements for buoyant apparatus.

    (a) Each buoyant apparatus must be capable of passing the tests in 
Sec.  160.010-7.
    (b) Materials not covered in this subpart must be of good quality 
and suitable for the purpose intended.
    (c) Buoyant apparatus must be effective and stable, floating either 
side up.
    (d) Each buoyant apparatus must be of such size and strength that it 
can be handled without the use of mechanical appliances, and its weight 
must not exceed 185 kg (400 lb.).
    (e) The buoyant material must be as near as possible to the sides of 
the apparatus.
    (f) Each buoyant apparatus must have a life line securely attached 
around the outside, festooned in bights no longer than 1 m (3 ft.), with 
a seine float in each bight, unless the line is of an inherently buoyant 
material and absorbs little or no water. The life line must be at least 
10 mm (\3/8\ in.) diameter and have a breaking strength of at least 5400 
N (1215 lb.).
    (g) Pendants must be fitted approximately 450 mm (18 in.) apart 
around the outside of each buoyant apparatus. Each pendant must be at 
least 6 mm (\1/4\ in.) diameter, at least 3.5 m (12 ft.) long, secured 
in the middle, and have a breaking strength of at least 2400 N (540 
lb.). Each pendant must be made up in a hank, and the hank secured by 
not more than two turns of light twine.
    (h) Each peripheral body type buoyant apparatus without a net or 
platform on the inside must also have a life line and pendants around 
the inside.
    (i) Synthetic line or webbing must not be used unless it is of a 
type represented by its manufacturer as ultraviolet light resistant, or 
it is pigmented in a dark color. A typical

[[Page 35]]

method of securing lifelines and pendants to straps of webbing is shown 
in Figure 160.010-3(i). If webbing is used to secure life lines and 
pendants, it must be at least 50 mm (2 in.) wide and must have a 
breaking strength of at least 3.4 kN (750 lb.) for apparatus of under 25 
persons capacity, and 6.7 kN (1,500 lb.) for apparatus of 25 persons 
capacity and higher.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.000


[[Page 36]]


    (j) Buoyant apparatus must have a fitting with an inside diameter of 
at least 50 mm (2 in.) for the attachment of a painter.
    (k) Each edge and exposed corner must be well rounded. Buoyant 
apparatus with a rectangular cross-section must have corners rounded to 
a radius of at least 75 mm (3 in.).
    (l) Buoyant apparatus must not have any evident defects in 
workmanship.
    (m) Each metal part of a buoyant apparatus must be--
    (1) 410 stainless steel or have salt water and salt air corrosion 
characteristics equal or superior to 410 stainless steel; and
    (2) Galvanically compatible with each other metal part in contact 
with it.
    (n) The color of the buoyant apparatus must be primarily vivid 
reddish orange as defined by sections 13 and 14 of FED-STD-595C 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.010-1 of this subpart).
    (o) When fibrous-glass-reinforced plastic is used in the 
construction of a buoyant apparatus, each cut edge of laminate must be 
protected from entry of moisture by resin putty or an equivalent method.
    (p) Each buoyant apparatus must have Type II retroreflective 
material meeting subpart 164.018 of this chapter on each side and end. 
The material must be in strips at least 50 mm (2 in.) wide extending 
from top to bottom over the side or end and continuing over the top and 
bottom surfaces of the apparatus. For peripheral body apparatus, each 
strip must extend completely over the top and bottom surface of the 
body. For box type apparatus, the strip must extend at least 300 mm (12 
in.) inboard from the edge over the top and bottom surface. Each strip 
must be positioned near the center of the side or end, but so that it is 
not obscured by any strap. A typical arrangement is shown in Figure 
160.010-3(p).
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.001


[CGD 79-167, 47 FR 41372, Sept. 20, 1982. Redesignated by CGD 85-205, 62 
FR 25545, May 9, 1997; USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62974, Oct. 11, 2011]



Sec.  160.010-5  Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy.

    (a) Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy must have a plastic 
foam body with an external protective covering. The body may be 
reinforced as necessary to meet the tests in Sec.  160.010-7.
    (b) Plastic foam used in the construction of buoyant apparatus must 
be a unicellular type accepted by the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) as meeting 
one of the following:
    (1) Subpart 164.015 of this chapter.
    (2) MIL-P-19644C (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.010-1 of 
this subpart).
    (3) MIL-P-21929B (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.010-1 of 
this subpart).
    (4) MIL-P-40619A (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.010-1 of 
this subpart).
    (c) The external protective covering must be--
    (1) Fibrous-glass-reinforced plastic, constructed of a polyester 
resin listed on the current Qualified Products List for MIL-P-21607E(SH) 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.010-1 of this subpart), or 
accepted by the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) as meeting MIL-P-21607;
    (2) Elastomeric vinyl accepted by the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) as 
meeting Sec.  160.055-3(j) of this chapter; or

[[Page 37]]

    (3) Any other material accepted by the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) as 
providing equivalent protection for the body of the apparatus.

[CGD 79-167, 47 FR 41372, Sept. 20, 1982, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 
FR 50466, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996. 
Redesignated by CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25545, May 9, 1997, as amended by 
USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 
62975, Oct. 11, 2011]



Sec.  160.010-6  Capacity of buoyant apparatus.

    (a) The number of persons for which a buoyant apparatus is approved 
must be the lowest number determined by the following methods:
    (1) Final buoyancy of the buoyant apparatus in Newtons after the 
watertight integrity test as described in Sec.  160.010-7 (e) and (f), 
divided by 145 (divided by 32 if buoyancy is measured in pounds). The 
divisor must be changed to 180 (40 if buoyancy is measured in pounds) if 
the apparatus is designed so that persons supported are only partially 
immersed or where facilities are provided for climbing on top of the 
apparatus.
    (2) Number of 300 mm (1 ft.) increments in the outside perimeter of 
the buoyant apparatus. The inside edge of peripheral-body type buoyant 
apparatus is not considered in determining the capacity.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.010-7  Methods of sampling, inspections and tests.

    (a) General. Production tests must be conducted under the procedures 
in subpart 159.007 of this chapter. An inspector from the independent 
laboratory must inspect the place of manufacture, observe the various 
operations involved in the construction process and determine that 
buoyant apparatus are made in accordance with this subpart and of 
materials and parts conforming strictly with the plans and 
specifications submitted by the manufacturer and approved by the 
Commandant (CG-ENG-4).
    (b) Sampling of production lots. A production lot must consist of 
not more than 300 buoyant apparatus of the same design and capacity 
manufactured by one factory. Samples for production tests must be 
selected at random from each lot. The required sample size for various 
lot sizes is given in Table 160.010-7(b).

          Table 160.010-7(b)--Sample Size for Various Lot Sizes
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 Sample
                           Lot size                               size
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 to 30.......................................................         1
31 to 60......................................................         2
61 to 90......................................................         3
91 to 300.....................................................         4
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (c) Testing of sample buoyant apparatus from production lots. Each 
sample buoyant apparatus selected for test from a production lot must be 
subjected to the tests described in paragraphs (d) through (g) of this 
section. The stability test in paragraph (h) must be performed whenever 
a question of stability arises.
    (d) Strength tests. The buoyant apparatus tested for approval must 
be subjected to the drop test. Buoyant apparatus tested for production 
lot inspections must also be subjected to the drop test except that in 
the case of peripheral body type apparatus, the beam loading test may be 
substituted.
    (1) Drop test. Drop the complete sample buoyant apparatus into still 
water from a height of 18 m (60 ft.) twice, once flat and once endwise. 
There must be no damage that would render the apparatus unserviceable.
    (2) Beam loading test. The buoyant apparatus must be stood on edge 
on one of its longer sides. A wood block 600 mm (24 in.) long and wide 
enough to cover the body of the apparatus must be centered on the top 
edge of the apparatus. A loading beam must be set at right angles to the 
float at a height so that the beam is in a horizontal position with its 
center on the center of the wood block. The loading beam must be hinged 
at one end and a load applied at the other end at a uniform rate of 225 
kg (500 lb.) per minute until the load at the end of the beam as shown 
on Table 160.010-7(d)(2) is reached. The beam is then held stationary 
for 10 minutes. The device used to apply the load must be a chain fall, 
hydraulic cylinder or other device that allows the device to unload as 
the

[[Page 38]]

strain on the buoyant apparatus relieves. At the end of the 10 minute 
period, the drop in the load on the device must not exceed the maximum 
permissible drop shown in Table 160.010-7(d)(2). If the buoyant 
apparatus is not one of the sizes listed in the table, the loads must be 
determined by linear interpolation.

    Note: Because of the lever ratio of the beam loading apparatus 
described here, the actual loads applied to the apparatus are twice the 
loads shown in the Table.

                Table 160.010-7(d)(2)--Beam Loading Test
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Maximum
                                                 Test load   permissible
     Size of buoyant apparatus (persons)        (kg (lb.))     drop (kg
                                                                (lb.))
------------------------------------------------------------------------
60...........................................         2,400   120 (264)
                                                    (5,280)
40...........................................         1,800    90 (198)
                                                    (3,960)
25...........................................         1,500    75 (165)
                                                    (3,300)
15...........................................         1,200    60 (132)
                                                    (2,640)
10...........................................   900 (1,980)    45 (100)
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (e) Buoyancy test. Known weights are loaded on the sample buoyant 
apparatus until it is awash. The buoyancy is the downward force exerted 
by the weights loaded on the apparatus. A raised platform of known 
weight having two runners on edge spaced so as to bear on the apparatus 
may be used to support the weights out of water to avoid the necessity 
for making allowances for the displacement of submerged weights. This 
test is not a required production test if the manufacturer--
    (1) Uses the same plastic buoyancy foam used in previous production 
lots,
    (2) Determines that the density of each batch of foam used is within 
a range specified on the approved plans, and
    (3) Closely controls the amount of foam used in each apparatus.
    (f) Watertight integrity test. The buoyant apparatus is submerged 
for 24 hours at a depth of 3 m (10 ft.) or equivalent water pressure. 
The final buoyancy of the buoyant apparatus is determined in accordance 
with paragraph (e) of this section. The final buoyancy must be at least 
145 N (32 lb.) per person capacity of the buoyant apparatus or 180 N (40 
lb.) per person capacity if the apparatus is designed so that persons 
supported are only partially immersed or if facilities are provided for 
climbing on top of the apparatus. The loss of buoyancy must not exceed 5 
percent of the initial buoyancy. This test is not a required production 
test if the manufacturer uses the plastic buoyancy foam controls 
permitted as an alternative to the buoyancy test in paragraph (e) of 
this section.
    (g) Painter attachment strength test. The apparatus must be 
positioned with its painter attachment fitting at the lowest point of 
the apparatus, directly below the center of buoyancy. The apparatus must 
be suspended in this position from the highest side. A load equal to 
twice the buoyancy of the apparatus must be suspended from the painter 
attachment fitting for 10 minutes. The fitting must remain firmly 
attached to the buoyant apparatus and the apparatus must not sustain any 
visible damage.
    (h) Stability test. With the sample buoyant apparatus floating in 
water, a weight of 22.5 kg of iron per meter of length (15 lb. per foot) 
must be suspended in the water from the life lines along one of the 
longer edges. The same test must be performed along one of the shorter 
edges. The minimum weight along any one edge must be 27 kg (60 lb.). The 
buoyant apparatus must neither capsize nor become partially awash under 
either of these tests.
    (i) Weight test. One buoyant apparatus of the lot submitted for 
approval must be weighed. The weight of the complete buoyant apparatus 
must be within the limit required in Sec.  160.010-3(d).
    (j) Lot acceptance or rejection. Inability of a sample buoyant 
apparatus to pass any one or more of the tests required in this section 
causes rejection of the lot. Each buoyant apparatus in a rejected lot 
must be reworked by the manufacturer to correct the defects found before 
the lot is resubmitted for inspection and testing.

[CGD 79-167, 47 FR 41372, Sept. 20, 1982, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 
FR 50466, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-
2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62975, 
Oct. 11, 2011; USCG-2014-0688, 79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  160.010-8  Nameplate and marking.

    (a) A substantial nameplate must be permanently attached to each 
buoyant

[[Page 39]]

apparatus. The nameplate must contain the name of the manufacturer, lot 
designation or serial number, approval number, dimensions, and number of 
persons capacity. Space must be provided for the date, and the 
identification of the independent laboratory.
    (b) The nameplates of buoyant apparatus accepted must be marked with 
the identification of the independent laboratory and the date.



Sec.  160.010-9  Procedure for approval.

    (a) A buoyant apparatus is approved by the Coast Guard under the 
procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) The test required for approval are those in Sec.  160.010-7, and 
must be performed on the first production lot of buoyant apparatus 
produced by the manufacturer.



Sec.  160.010-10  Independent laboratory.

    (a) The approval and production tests in this subpart must be 
conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]

Subparts 160.011-160.015 [Reserved]



       Subpart 160.016_Lamps, Safety, Flame, for Merchant Vessels

    Source: CGFR 50-12, 15 FR 3093, May 20, 1950, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.016-1  Applicable specification.

    (a) The following specification of the issue in effect on the date 
flame safety lamps are manufactured forms a part of this subpart:
    (1) Military specification:

MIL-L-1204, Lamps, Safety, Flame.

    (b) A copy of the above specification shall be kept on file by the 
manufacturer together with the approved plan and certificate of approval 
issued by the Coast Guard.



Sec.  160.016-2  Requirements.

    (a) Flame safety lamps for use on merchant vessels shall comply with 
the construction requirements of Military Specification MIL-L-1204.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.016-4  Marking.

    (a) Flame safety lamps shall be permanently and legibly marked with 
the name and address of the manufacturer and the type or model 
designation for the lamp.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.016-5  Procedure for approval.

    (a) General. Flame safety lamps are approved for use on merchant 
vessels only by the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire 
Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. 
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. Correspondence relating to the 
subject matter of this specification shall be addressed to the Commander 
of the Coast Guard District in which such devices are manufactured.
    (b) Pre-approval sample and plan. In order to apply for approval of 
a flame safety lamp for use on merchant vessels, submit one complete 
sample, together with four copies of an arrangement plan (parts drawings 
are not required), together with a statement that the lamp meets the 
construction requirements of Military Specification MIL-L-1204, as 
amended, to the Commander of the Coast Guard District who will forward 
same to the Commandant for determination as to its suitability for use 
on merchant vessels.

[CGFR 50-12, 15 FR 3093, May 20, 1950, as amended by USCG-2013-0671, 78 
FR 60156, Sept. 30, 2013]



                      Subpart 160.017_Chain Ladder

    Source: CGD 74-140, 46 FR 63286, Dec. 31, 1981, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.017-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart contains standards and approval and production 
tests for chain ladders used on a merchant vessel to get on and off the 
vessel in an emergency.
    (b) The requirements in this subpart apply to a chain ladder 
designed for use along a vertical portion of a vessel's hull.

[[Page 40]]



Sec.  160.017-7  Independent laboratory.

    The approval and production tests in this subpart must be conducted 
by or under the supervision of an independent laboratory accepted by the 
Coast Guard under subpart 159.010 of this chapter.



Sec.  160.017-9  Approval procedure.

    (a) General. A chain ladder is approved by the Coast Guard under the 
procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) Approval testing. Each approval test must be conducted in 
accordance with Sec.  160.017-21.
    (c) Approval of alternatives. A chain ladder that does not meet the 
materials, construction, or performance requirements of this subpart may 
be approved if the application and any approval tests prescribed by the 
Commandant in place of or in addition to the approval tests required by 
this subpart, show that the alternative materials, construction, or 
performance is at least as effective as that specified by the 
requirements of this subpart. The Commandant may also prescribe 
different production tests if the tests required by this subpart are not 
appropriate for the alternative ladder configuration.



Sec.  160.017-11  Materials.

    (a) Suspension members. Each suspension member of a chain ladder 
must be a continuous length of non-kinking chain, such as single loop 
lock link coil chain, with a minimum breaking strength of at least 16 kN 
(3,560 lbs.).
    (b) Metal parts. Each metal part of a ladder must be made of 
corrosion-resistant metal or of steel galvanized by the hot dip process 
after the part is formed. If the ends of galvanized fasteners are peened 
over to lock them in place, a corrosion resisting surface treatment must 
be applied to each peened surface.
    (c) Wooden parts. Each wooden part of a ladder must be made of 
hardwood that is free of defects affecting its strength or durability.
    (d) Wood preservative. After each wooden part is formed and 
finished, it must be treated with water-repellant wood preservative that 
is properly applied.
    (e) Lashing rings. The inside diameter of each lashing ring must be 
at least 75 mm (3 in.). Each lashing ring must have a minimum breaking 
strength of at least 16 kN (3,560 lbs.).



Sec.  160.017-13  Construction.

    (a) General. Each chain ladder must have two suspension members. 
Each step in the ladder must be supported at each end by a suspension 
member.
    (b) Suspension member. The distance between the two suspension 
members must be at least 400 mm (16 in.), but not more than 480 mm (19 
in.). The chain between each top lashing ring and the first step must be 
long enough so that the distance between the center of the lashing ring 
and the top of the first step is approximately 600 mm (24 in.).
    (c) Lashing rings. A lashing ring must be securely attached to the 
top and bottom of each suspension member. The means of attachment must 
be at least as strong as the chain and the lashing ring.
    (d) Thimble or wear plate. A thimble or wear plate must be attached 
to the chain where it can slide on its connections to the lashing rings.
    (e) Steps. Each step of a ladder must have two rungs arranged to 
provide a suitable handhold and stepping surface. The distance between 
steps must be uniform. This distance must be between 300 mm (12 in.) and 
380 mm (15 in.).
    (f) Rungs. Step rungs must meet the following requirements:
    (1) Each rung must be wooden, or a material of equivalent strength, 
durability, handhold, and step surface characteristics.
    (2) In order to provide a suitable handhold and step surface, the 
width of each rung must be at least 40 mm (1\1/2\ in.) and the thickness 
must be at least 25 mm (1 in.), but not more than 40 mm (1\1/2\ in.).
    (3) The distance between the rungs in each step must be uniform. 
This distance must be between 40 mm (1\1/2\ in.) and 65 mm (2\1/2\ in.).
    (4) Each rung must be attached to a spacer ear by a method that 
prevents the rung from rotating and that supports it in a horizontal 
position when the ladder is hung vertically.

[[Page 41]]

    (g) Spacer ears. Spacer ears must meet the following requirements:
    (1) All spacer ears on a ladder must be the same size and shape.
    (2) The top and bottom of each spacer ear must be attached to a 
suspension member.
    (3) The top point of attachment must be at least 100 mm (4 in.) 
above the top surfaces of the rungs attached to the spacer ear.
    (4) Each spacer ear made of sheet metal must have features such as 
formed ribs, rolled flange edges, and stress relief holes at the ends of 
cuts, to prevent the ear from bending or tearing.
    (h) Fasteners. Each fastening device must have a means to prevent 
the device from loosening.
    (i) Workmanship. A ladder must not have splinters, burrs, sharp 
edges, corners, projections, or other defects that could injure a person 
using the ladder.



Sec.  160.017-15  Performance.

    (a) Each chain ladder must be capable of being rolled up for 
storage.
    (b) Each ladder when rolled up must be able to unroll freely and 
hang vertically.



Sec.  160.017-17  Strength.

    (a) Each chain ladder must be designed to pass the approval tests in 
Sec.  160.17-21.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.017-21  Approval tests.

    (a) General. Each approval test must be conducted on a ladder of the 
longest length for which approval has been requested. If a ladder fails 
one of the tests in this section, the cause of the failure must be 
identified and any needed changes made. After a test failure and any 
design change, the failed test, and any other previously completed tests 
affected by the design change, must be rerun.
    (b) Visual examination. Before starting the tests described in this 
section, an assembled chain ladder is examined for evidence of 
noncompliance with the requirements in Sec. Sec.  160.017.11, 160.017-
13, and 160.017-15.
    (c) The following approval tests must be conducted:
    (1) Strength test 1. An assembled ladder is supported so that a 
static load, if placed on any of its steps, would exert a force both on 
the step and each suspension member. A static load of 315 kg (700 lb.) 
is then placed on one step for at least one minute. The load must be 
uniformly distributed over a contact surface that is approximately 100 
mm (4 in.) wide. The center of the contact surface must be at the center 
of the step. This test is performed on six different steps. No step may 
break, crack, or incur any deformation that remains after the static 
load is removed. No attachment between any step and a suspension member 
may loosen or break during this test.
    (2) Strength test 2. A ladder is suspended vertically to its full 
length from its top lashing rings. A static load of 900 kg (2000 lbs.) 
is then applied to the bottom lashing rings so that it is distributed 
equally between the suspension members. The suspension members, lashing 
rings, and spacer ears must not break, incur any elongation or 
deformation that remains after the test load is removed, or be damaged 
in any other way during this test.
    (3) Strength test 3. A rolled-up ladder is attached by its top 
lashing rings to anchoring fixtures in a location away from any wall or 
structure that would prevent it from falling freely, and where it can 
hang to its full length vertically. The ladder when dropped must unroll 
freely. When unrolling the ladder, its steps and attachments must not 
become cracked, broken, or loosened. Other similar damage making the 
ladder unsafe to use must likewise not occur.



Sec.  160.017-25  Marking.

    (a) Each chain ladder step manufactured under Coast Guard approval 
must be branded or otherwise permanently and legibly marked on the 
bottom with--
    (1) The name of the manufacturer;
    (2) The manufacturer's brand or model designation;
    (3) The lot number and date of manufacture; and
    (4) The Coast Guard approval number.
    (b) [Reserved]

[[Page 42]]



Sec.  160.017-27  Production tests and examination.

    (a) General. Each ladder manufactured under Coast Guard approval 
must be tested in accordance with this section and subpart 159.007 of 
this chapter. Steps that fail testing may not be marked with the Coast 
Guard approval number and each assembled ladder that fails testing may 
not be sold as Coast Guard approved.
    (b) Test 1: Steps. Steps must be separated into lots of 100 steps 
or less. One step from each lot must be selected at random and tested as 
described in Sec.  106.017-21(c)(1), except that the step may be 
supported at the points where it would be attached to suspension members 
in an assembled ladder. If the step fails the test, ten more steps must 
be selected at random from the lot and tested. If one or more of the ten 
steps fails the test, each step in the lot must be tested.
    (c) Test 2: Ladders. Assembled ladders must be separated into lots 
of 20 ladders or less One ladder must be selected at random from the 
ladders in the lot. The ladder selected must be at least 3 m (10 ft.) 
long or, if each ladder in the lot is less than 3 m long, a ladder of 
the longest length in the lot must be selected. The ladder must be 
tested as prescribed in Sec.  160.017-21(c)(2), except that only a 3 m 
section of the ladder need be subjected to the static load. If the 
ladder fails the test each other ladder in the lot must be tested.
    (d) Independent laboratory. Each production test must be conducted 
or supervised by an independent laboratory. However, if a test is 
performed more than 4 different times per year, laboratory participation 
is required only 4 times per year. If the laboratory does not 
participate in all tests, the times of laboratory participation must be 
as selected by the laboratory. The times selected must provide for 
effective monitoring throughout the production schedule.
    (e) Visual examination. The visual examination described in Sec.  
160.017-21(b) must be conducted as a part of each production test.



             Subpart 160.021_Hand Red Flare Distress Signals

    Source: CGD 76-048a and 76-048b, 44 FR 73060, Dec. 17, 1979, unless 
otherwise noted.



Sec.  160.021-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) The following is incorporated by reference into this subpart:
    (1) ``The Universal Color Language'' and ``The Color Names 
Dictionary'' in Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of Names, 
National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 440, December 1976.
    (b) NBS Special Publication 440 may be obtained by ordering from the 
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, 
Washington, DC 20402 (Order by SD Catalog No. C13.10:440).
    (c) Approval to incorporate by reference the publication listed in 
this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on 
November 1, 1979. The publication is on file at the Federal Register 
Library.



Sec.  160.021-2  Type.

    (a) Hand red flare distress signals specified by this subpart shall 
be of one type which shall consist essentially of a wooden handle to 
which is attached a tubular casing having a sealing plug at the handle 
end, the casing being filled with a flare composition and having a 
button of ignition material at the top, with a removable cap having a 
friction striking material on its top which may be exposed for use by 
pulling a tear strip. The flare is ignited by scraping the friction 
striker on top of the cap against the igniter button on top of the 
flare. The general arrangement of the flare is shown by Figure No. 
160.021-2(a). Alternate arrangements which conform to all the 
performance requirements of this specification (and other arrangements 
which conform with all performance requirements except candlepower and 
burning time, but provide not less than 3,000 candela-minutes with a 
minimum of \1/3\ minute burning time) will be given special 
consideration.

[[Page 43]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.002


[[Page 44]]


    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.021-3  Materials, workmanship, construction and performance
requirements.

    (a) Materials. The materials shall conform strictly to the 
specifications and drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved 
by the Commandant. The color of the tube shall be red. Flare 
compositions containing sulphur shall not contain more than 2.6 percent 
of potassium chlorate or an equivalent amount of any other chlorate. 
Flare compositions containing chlorates in any quantity shall not 
contain any ammonium salts.
    (b) Workmanship. Hand red flare distress signals shall be of first 
class workmanship and shall be free from imperfections of manufacture 
affecting their appearance or that may affect their serviceability. 
Moistureproof coatings shall be applied uniformly and shall be free from 
pinholes or other visible defects which would impair their usefulness.
    (c) Construction. The casing shall be fitted and secured to the 
handle with not less than a 25 mm (1 in.) overlap and shall be attached 
to the handle in such a manner that failure of the joint will not occur 
during tests, ignition, or operation. The plug shall be securely affixed 
in the casing to separate the flare composition from the wooden handle. 
The flare composition shall be thoroughly mixed and be uniformly 
compressed throughout to preclude variations of density which may 
adversely affect uniformity of its burning characteristics. The cap 
shall have a lap fit of not less than 25 mm (1 in.) over the end of the 
casing and flare composition to entirely and securely protect the 
exposed surface of the igniter button and end of flare composition and 
casing, and shall have an inner shoulder so constructed that it is 
mechanically impossible for the inner surface of the cap to come in 
contact with the igniter button. The cap shall be securely attached to 
the casing in such manner as to preclude its accidental detachment. The 
cap shall be provided on its top with a friction striking material which 
shall, by a pull of the tear strip, be entirely exposed for striking the 
friction igniter button. The igniter button shall be non-water soluble 
or be protected from moisture by a coating of some waterproof substance, 
and shall be raised or exposed in such manner as to provide positive 
ignition by the friction striker. The igniter button shall be firmly 
secured in or on the top of the flare composition; the arrangement shall 
be such that the ignition will be transmitted to the flare composition. 
The assembled flare, consisting of tear strip, cap, casing, and handle, 
shall be sealed and treated to protect the flare from deterioration by 
moisture. The protective waterproof coating shall be applied so none 
adheres to the friction striking surface. Special consideration will be 
given to alternate waterproofing of the signal by means of a water-
resistant coating on the signal plus packaging in a sealed plastic 
waterproof bag satisfactory to the Commandant.
    (d) Performance. Signals shall meet all the inspection and test 
requirements contained in Sec.  160.021-4.



Sec.  160.021-4  Approval and production tests.

    (a) Approval tests. The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 
100 signals from which samples must be taken for testing for approval 
under Sec.  160.021-7. The approval tests are the operational tests and 
technical tests in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section. The approval 
tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the 
Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of this Chapter.
    (b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and 
tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the 
procedures in Sec.  159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot 
must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by 
the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the 
rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by 
the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot 
must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the 
reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and 
the results of the second test.

[[Page 45]]

    (1) Lot size. For the purposes of sampling the production of 
signals, a lot must consist of not more than 30,000 signals. Lots must 
be numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started 
with: (i) Any change in construction details, (ii) any change in sources 
of raw materials, or (iii) the start of production on a new production 
line or on a previously discontinued production line.
    (2) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer's 
quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering 
into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, 
to determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the 
approved plans. Samples from each lot must be tested in accordance with 
the operational tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
    (3) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An 
independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of 
this Chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under 
paragraph (b)(2) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the 
number of lots produced in year is less than four. The inspections and 
tests must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no 
lots are produced during that period. If less than four lots are 
produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspection and 
testing of each lot. In addition, the laboratory must perform or 
supervise the technical tests in paragraph (d) of this section at least 
once for every ten lots of signals produced, except that the number of 
technical tests must be at least one but not more than four per year. If 
a lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the 
laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the 
reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each 
reworked lot and the next lot produced must not be counted for the 
purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections 
and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.
    (c) Operational tests. Each lot of signals must be sampled and 
tested as follows:
    (1) Sampling procedure and accept/reject criteria. A sample of 
signals must be selected at random from the lot. The size of the sample 
must be the individual sample size in Table 160.021-4(c)(1) 
corresponding to the lot size. Each signal in the sample is tested as 
prescribed in the test procedure in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. 
Each signal that has a defect listed in the table of defects (Table 
160.021-4(c)(2)) is assigned a score (failure percent) in accordance 
with that table. In the case of multiple defects, only the score having 
the highest numerical value is assigned to that signal. If the sum of 
all the failure percents (cumulative failure percent) for the number of 
units in the sample is less than or equal to the accept criterion, the 
lot is accepted. If the cumulative failure percent falls between the 
accept and reject criteria, another sample is selected from the 
production lot and the operational tests are repeated. The cumulative 
failure percent of each sample tested is added to that of the previous 
samples to obtain the cumulative failure percent for all the signals 
tested (cumulative sample size). Additional samples are tested and the 
tests repeated until either the accept or reject criterion for the 
cumulative sample size is met. If any signal in the sample explodes when 
fired or ignited in a way that could burn or otherwise injure the person 
firing it, the lot is rejected without further testing. (This procedure 
is diagrammed in figure 160.021-4(c)).
    (2) Test procedure. Each sample signal (specimen) must be tested as 
follows:
    (i) Conditioning of test specimens--water resistance. Immerse 
specimen horizontally with uppermost portion of the signal approximately 
25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 24 hours. 
If the signal is protected by alternate waterproofing consisting of a 
water-resistant coating on the signal plus packaging in a sealed plastic 
waterproof bag, the 24-hour water immersion conditioning will be 
conducted while the signal is in the sealed plastic waterproof bag and 
will be followed by an additional immersion of the bare signal (i.e., 
after removal from the bag) 25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water 
for a period of 10 minutes.

[[Page 46]]

    (ii) Waterproofing of igniter button. Remove the cap from the test 
specimen. Place head of specimen without cap about 25 mm (1 in .) under 
the surface of water for approximately 5 minutes. Remove specimen from 
the water and wipe dry.
    (iii) Ignition and burning characteristics. Test specimens shall 
ignite and burn satisfactorily with uniform intensity when the 
directions on the signal are followed. Test specimens shall not ignite 
explosively in a manner that might be dangerous to the user or persons 
close by. The plug separating the flare composition from the handle 
shall in no case allow flame or hot gases to pass through it or between 
it and the casing in such manner as might burn the hand while holding 
the signal by the handle.
    (iv) Burning time. The burning time of a specimen shall be obtained 
by stop watch measurements from the time a distinct sustained flame is 
emitted until it ceases. Test specimens shall burn in air not less than 
2 minutes.

                  Table 160.021-4(c)(1)--Accept and reject criteria for operational test lots.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Individual                             Cumulative
                   Lot size                      sample              Sample             sample    Accept  Reject
                                                  size                                   size       \1\     \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
280 or                                                  8  First....................         8     (\2\)     400
  less.                                        ..........  Second...................        16       100     500
                                                           Third....................        24       200     600
                                                           Fourth...................        32       300     700
                                                           Fifth....................        40       500     800
                                                           Sixth....................        48       700     900
                                                           Seventh..................        56       950     951
281 to                                                 13  First....................        13         0     400
  500.                                         ..........  Second...................        26       100     600
                                                           Third....................        39       300     800
                                                           Fourth...................        52       500   1,000
                                                           Fifth....................        65       700   1,100
                                                           Sixth....................        78     1,000   1,200
                                                           Seventh..................        91     1,350   1,351
501 to                                                 20  First....................        20         0     500
  1,200.                                       ..........  Second...................        40       300     800
                                                           Third....................        60       600   1,000
                                                           Fourth...................        80       800   1,300
                                                           Fifth....................       100     1,100   1,500
                                                           Sixth....................       120     1,400   1,700
                                                           Seventh..................       140     1,850   1,851
1,201 to                                               32  First....................        32       100     700
  3,200.                                       ..........  Second...................        64       400   1,000
                                                           Third....................        96       800   1,300
                                                           Fourth...................       128     1,200   1,700
                                                           Fifth....................       160     1,700   2,000
                                                           Sixth....................       192     2,100   2,300
                                                           Seventh..................       224     2,550   2,551
More                                                   50  First....................        50       200     900
  than                                         ..........  Second...................       100       700   1,400
  3,201.                                       ..........  Third....................       150     1,300   1,900
                                                           Fourth...................       200     1,900   2,500
                                                           Fifth....................       250     2,500   2,900
                                                           Sixth....................       300     3,100   3,300
                                                           Seventh..................       350     3,750   3,751
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Cumulative failure percent.
\2\ Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.


                          Table 160.021-4(c)(2)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Percentage
                       Kind of defects                        of failure
------------------------------------------------------------------------
a. Failure to ignite........................................        100
b. Ignites or burns dangerously.............................         50
c. Nonuniform burning intensity.............................         50
d. Chimneys so as to materially obscure the flame...........         25
e. Fire flashes down between casing and handle so as to              50
 endanger burning the hand..................................
f. Burning time less than 70 pct of specified time..........        100
g. Burning time at least 70 pct but less than 80 pct of              75
 specified time.............................................
h. Burning time at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct of              50
 specified time.............................................
i. Burning time at least 90 pct but less than 100 pct of             25
 specified time.............................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (d) Technical tests. Three signals must be subjected to each of the 
following tests. Two of the three signals must pass each test in order 
for the lot of signals to be accepted.
    (1) Underwater burning. Condition each sample in accordance with 
paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section. Ignite specimen and let it burn 
about 5 seconds in air. Submerge the burning signal in water in a 
vertical position with head down. Obtain under water burning time by 
stop watch measurement from time of submersion until distinct, sustained 
flame emission ceases. The test specimen shall burn under water not less 
than 5 seconds when subjected to this test.

[[Page 47]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.003

    (2) Bending strength. Place the specimen on supports 15 cm (6 in.) 
apart. Attach a weight of 35 kg (77 lb.) to a length of wire. Hang the 
weight from the supported signal by looping the wire around the signal 
approximately

[[Page 48]]

equidistant from the two points of support. Let the weight hang 
approximately 5 minutes. The test specimen shall not deflect more than 7 
mm (1/4 in.), nor shall the joint between the casing and the handle 
fail, when subjected to this test.
    (3) Tensile strength. Place the specimen in a chuck firmly holding 
it about 13 mm (1/2 in.) below the cap. Attach a weight of 35 kg (77 
lb.) to a length of wire. Hang the weight from the supported signal by 
looping the wire through a hole bored perpendicular to and through the 
axis of the handle. Let the weight hang approximately 5 minutes. The 
test specimen shall not show noticeable distortion, nor shall the joint 
between the casing and handle fail, when subjected to this test.
    (4) Luminous intensity. The luminous intensity of each specimen 
tested shall be measured by a visual photometer or equivalent 
photometric device, while the specimen is supported in a horizontal 
position and the photometer is at right angles to the axis of the 
specimen. Visual luminous intensity readings shall be observed and 
recorded at approximately 20 second intervals during the burning of the 
specimen. The minimum photometric distance shall be 3 m (10 ft.). 
Recording photometers shall have a chart speed of at least 25 mm (1 in.) 
per minute. The luminous intensity of specimen shall be computed as the 
arithmetical average of the readings recorded. The average luminous 
intensity of a test specimen shall be not less than 500 candela. The 
burning time of a specimen shall be obtained by stop watch measurements 
from the time distinct, sustained flame is emitted until it ceases. Test 
specimens shall burn in air not less than 2 minutes.
    (5) Elevated temperature, humidity and storage. Place specimen in a 
thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 [deg]C. 
with not less than 90 percent relative humidity for 72 hours. Remove 
specimen and store at room temperature (20[deg] to 25 [deg]C.) with 
approximately 65 percent relative humidity for 10 days. If for any 
reason it is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72-
hour period, it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity 
for 8 hours out of each 24 during the 72-hour conditioning period. 
(Total of 24 hours on and 48 hours off.) The signal shall not ignite or 
decompose during this conditioning. The signal shall ignite and operate 
satisfactorily following this conditioning.
    (6) Spontaneous ignition. Place the specimen in a thermostatically 
controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 [deg]C. with not more than 
10% relative humidity for 48 consecutive hours. The signals shall not 
ignite or undergo marked decomposition.
    (7) Chromaticity. The color of the burning signal must be vivid red 
as defined by sections 13 and 14 of the ``Color Names Dictionary.'' Two 
identical test plates of white cardboard about 30 cm x 60 cm 
(12 x 24) are used. Except for a negligible amount 
of stray daylight, the first test plate is illuminated by light from the 
specimen placed at a distance of about 1.5 m (5 ft.). The second test 
plate is illuminated only by light from an incandescent lamp operated at 
a color temperature close to 2,848 [deg]K at a distance of about 30 cm 
(1 ft.). The first plate is viewed directly, the second through 
combinations of Lovibond red, yellow, and blue glasses selected so as to 
approximate a chromaticity match. By separating the test plates by a 
wide unilluminated area (subtending at the observer about 45[deg]), it 
is possible to make accurate determinations of chromaticity in terms of 
the 1931 CIE Standard Observer and Coordinate System, in spite of 
fluctuations in luminous intensity of the specimen by factors as high as 
2 or 3. The CIE coordinates are converted to the Munsell notation which 
is cross-referenced to the color name in Section 13 of the ``Color Names 
Dictionary'' (see the discussion in section 10 of ``The Universal Color 
Language'').
    (8) Heptane ignition. (i) A metal pan must be used to hold a layer 
of water at least 12mm (\1/2\ in.) deep with a layer of technical grade 
heptane on top of the water. The pan must be at least 1 m (39 in.) 
square with sides extending between 175 mm (7 in.) and 200 mm (8 in.) 
above the surface of the water. The amount of heptane used to form the 
layer must be 2.0 liters per square

[[Page 49]]

meter of pan area (6.25 fluid ounces per square foot).
    (ii) The test must be conducted in a draft-free location. The 
ambient temperature, the temperature of the water, and the temperature 
of the heptane must all be between 20 [deg]C (68 [deg]F) and 25 [deg]C 
(77 [deg]F) at the time of the test.
    (iii) The signal under test must be held with the flame end pointing 
upward at an angle of approximately 45[deg], 1.2 m (4 ft.) directly 
above the center of the pan. The signal must be ignited as soon as the 
heptane is observed to spread out over the water in continuous layer. 
The signal must be allowed to burn completely, and must remain in 
position until it has cooled.
    (iv) The heptane must not be ignited by the flare or by material 
from the flare.

    Caution: Heptane ignites rapidly and burns vigorously. The flare 
should be remotely ignited and all personnel should stay clear of the 
test pan while the flare is burning and while any part of it remains 
hot.

[CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73060, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by CGD 
80-021, 45 FR 45280, July 3, 1980; USCG-2014-0688, 79 FR 58285, Sept. 
29, 2014]



Sec.  160.021-5  Labeling and marking.

    (a) Labeling. Each hand red flare distress signal shall bear a label 
securely affixed thereto, showing in clear, indelible black lettering on 
a red background, the following wording and information:

                  (Company brand or style designation)

                     Hand Red Flare Distress Signal

                   500 Candela--2 Minutes Burning Time

               Use Only When Aircraft or Vessel Is Sighted

    Directions: Pull tape over top of cap. Remove cap and ignite flare 
by rubbing scratch surface on top of cap sharply across igniter button 
on head of signal.
    Caution: Stand with back to wind and point away from body when 
igniting or flare is burning.
    Service Life Expiration Date (Month and year to be inserted by 
manufacturer) (Month and year manufactured) (Lot No.____). Manufactured 
by (Name and address of manufacturer). U.S. Coast Guard Approval No.____

    (b) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must be not more 
than 42 months from the date of manufacture.
    (c) Other marking. (1) There shall be die-stamped, in the side of 
the wooden handle in figures not less than 3 mm (C\1/8\ in.) high, 
numbers indicating the month and year of manufacture, thus: ``6-54'' 
indicating June, 1954.
    (2) In addition to any other marking placed on the smallest packing 
carton or box containing hand red flare distress signals, such cartons 
or boxes shall be plainly and permanently marked to show the service 
life expiration date, date of manufacture, and lot number.
    (3) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships 
signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: ``Keep 
under cover in a dry place.''

    Note: Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does 
not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the 
label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances 
Act.



Sec.  160.021-6  Container.

    (a) General. Containers for stowage of hand red flare distress 
signals in lifeboats and life rafts on merchant vessels are not required 
to have specific approval or to be of special design, but they shall 
meet the following test for watertightness when closed, and shall be 
capable of being opened and reclosed hand-tight to meet the same 
watertightness test. The materials shall be copper, brass, bronze, or 
equally corrosion-resistant to salt water and spray. The type container 
illustrated by Figure Number 160.021-6(a) is recommended for most 
purposes.
    (b) Watertightness test for containers. Whenever a question arises 
as to the watertightness of a container, the following test may be made 
to determine whether it is satisfactory in this respect. Open the 
container, remove the contents, insert colored blotting paper as a 
lining, re-close container as tightly as possible by hand (no wrenches 
or special tools permitted), submerge container with top about 30 cm (1 
ft.) below the surface of the water for two hours, remove container from 
water, wipe off excess moisture on outside,

[[Page 50]]

then open the container and examine the blotting paper and entire 
interior for evidence of moisture penetration. If any moisture or water 
is evidenced, the container is not satisfactory.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.004


[[Page 51]]


    (c) Marking of container. Containers shall be embossed or bear a 
brass or equivalent corrosion-resistant nameplate, or otherwise be 
suitably and permanently marked, to plainly show in letters not less 
than 13 mm (\1/2\ in.) high the following wording: ``HAND RED FLARE 
DISTRESS SIGNALS''. No additional marking which might cause confusion as 
to the contents shall be permitted. The vessel's name ordinarily is 
painted or branded on equipment such as this container, and nothing in 
this subpart shall be construed as prohibiting same.



Sec.  160.021-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in 
subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]



   Subpart 160.022_Floating Orange Smoke Distress Signals (5 Minutes)

    Source: CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73067, Dec. 17, 1979, unless 
otherwise noted.



Sec.  160.022-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) The following are incorporated by reference into this subpart:
    (1) ``The Color Names Dictionary'' in Color: Universal Language and 
Dictionary of Names, National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 
440, December 1976.
    (2) ``Development of a Laboratory Test for Evaluation of the 
Effectiveness of Smoke Signals,'' National Bureau of Standards Report 
4792, July 1956.
    (b) NBS Special Publication 440 may be obtained by ordering from the 
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, 
Washington, DC 20402 (Order by SD Catalog No. C13.10:440).
    (c) NBS Report 4792 may be obtained from the Coast Guard 
Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire 
Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. 
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.
    (d) Approval to incorporate by reference the materials listed in 
this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on 
November 1 and 29, 1979. The materials are on file in the Federal 
Register Library.

[CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73067, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by CGD 
82-063b, 48 FR 4782, Feb. 3, 1983; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34535, Sept. 7, 
1988; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, 
Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60156, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.022-2  Type.

    (a) Floating orange smoke distress signals, specified by this 
subpart shall be of one type which shall consist essentially of an outer 
container, ballast, an air chamber, an inner container, the smoke 
producing composition, and an igniter mechanism. Alternate arrangements 
which conform to the performance requirements of this specification will 
be given special consideration.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.022-3  Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance
requirements.

    (a) Materials. The materials shall conform strictly to the 
specifications and drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved 
by the Commandant. Metal for containers shall be not less than 0.5 mm 
(0.020 in.) in thickness. Other dimensions or materials may be 
considered upon special request when presented with supporting data. 
Igniter systems shall be corrosion-resistant metal. The combustible 
material shall be of such nature that it will not deteriorate during 
long storage, nor when subjected to frigid or tropical climates, or 
both.
    (b) Workmanship. Floating orange smoke distress signals shall be of 
first class workmanship and shall be free from imperfections of 
manufacture affecting their appearance or that may affect their 
serviceability.
    (c) Construction. The outer container shall be of a size suitable 
for its intended use. All sheet metal seams should be hook-jointed and 
soldered. The whole container shall be covered with two coats of 
waterproof paint or equivalent protection system. The igniter mechanism 
shall be simple to operate and provide ignition in most unfavorable 
weather. The mechanism shall be protected with a watertight

[[Page 52]]

cover having a finish which is corrosion-resistant to salt water and 
spray. The cover shall be easily and quickly removable by hand without 
the use of tools. If attachment of the cover is by formed screw threads, 
it shall be of such construction or material to prevent rusting or 
corrosion and will not back off and loosen under shipboard vibration.
    (d) Performance. Signals shall meet all the inspection and test 
requirements contained in Sec.  160.022-4.



Sec.  160.022-4  Approval and production tests.

    (a) Approval tests. The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 
100 signals from which samples must be taken for testing for approval 
under Sec.  160.022-7. The approval tests are the operational tests and 
technical tests in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section. The approval 
tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the 
Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of this chapter.
    (b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and 
tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the 
procedures in Sec.  159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot 
must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by 
the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the 
rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by 
the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot 
must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the 
reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and 
the results of the second test.
    (1) Lot size. For the purposes of sampling the production of 
signals, a lot must consist of not more than 30,000 signals. Lots must 
be numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started 
with:
    (i) Any change in construction details,
    (ii) Any change in sources of raw materials, or
    (iii) The start of production on a new production line or on a 
previously discontinued production line.
    (2) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer's 
quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering 
into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, 
to determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the 
approved plans. Samples from each lot must be tested in accordance with 
the operational tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
    (3) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An 
independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of 
this chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under 
paragraph (b)(2) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the 
number of lots produced in a year is less than four. The inspections and 
tests must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no 
lots are produced during that period. If less than four lots are 
produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspection and 
testing of each lot. In addition, the laboratory must perform or 
supervise the technical tests in paragraph (d) of this section at least 
once for every ten lots of signals produced, except that the number of 
technical tests must be at least one but not more than four per year. If 
a lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the 
laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the 
reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each 
reworked lot and the next lot of signals must not be counted for the 
purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections 
and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.
    (c) Operational tests. Each lot of signals must be sampled and 
tested as follows:
    (1) Sampling procedure and accept/reject criteria. A sample of 
signals must be selected at random from the lot. The size of the sample 
must be the individual sample size in Table 160.022-4(c)(1) 
corresponding to the lot size. Each signal in the sample is tested as 
prescribed in the test procedure in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. 
Each signal that has a defect listed in the table of defects (Table 
160.022-4(c)(2)) is

[[Page 53]]

assigned a score (failure percent) in accordance with that table. In the 
case of multiple defects, only the score having the highest numerical 
value is assigned to that signal. If the sum of all the failure percents 
(cumulative failure percent) for the number of units in the sample is 
less than or equal to the accept criterion, the lot is accepted. If this 
sum is equal to or more than the reject criterion the lot is rejected. 
If the cumulative failure percent falls between the accept and reject 
criteria, another sample is selected from the production lot and the 
operational tests are repeated. The cumulative failure percent of each 
sample tested is added to that of the previous samples to obtain the 
cumulative failure percent for all the signals tested (cumulative sample 
size). Additional samples are tested and the tests repeated until either 
the accept or reject criterion for the cumulative sample size is met. If 
any signal in the sample explodes when fired or ignited in a way that 
could burn or otherwise injure the person firing it, the lot is rejected 
without further testing. (This procedure is diagrammed in figure 
160.022-4(c).)
    (2) Test Procedure. Each sample signal (specimen) must be tested as 
follows:
    (i) Conditioning of test specimens--water-resistance. Immerse 
specimens horizontally with uppermost portion of the signal 
approximately 25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period 
of 24 hours.
    (ii) Smoke emitting time. Ignite specimen according to the 
directions printed on the signal and place signal in tub or barrel of 
water. The smoke emitting time of a specimen shall be obtained by stop 
watch measurements from the time of distinct, sustained smoke emission 
until it ceases. The watch shall be stopped during periods of flame 
emission. The smoke emitting time for a specimen shall be not less than 
4 minutes.
    (iii) Ignition and smoke emitting characteristics. Test specimens 
shall ignite and emit smoke properly when the directions on the signal 
are followed. Test specimens shall not ignite explosively in a manner 
that might be dangerous to the user or persons close by. Test specimens 
shall emit smoke at a uniform rate while floating in calm to rough 
water. Signals should be so constructed that water submerging the signal 
in moderately heavy seas will not cause it to become inoperative.

                  Table 160.022-4(c)(1)--Accept and reject criteria for operational test lots.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Individual                             Cumulative
                   Lot size                      sample              Sample             sample    Accept  Reject
                                                  size                                   size       \1\     \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
280 or                                                  8  First....................         8     (\2\)     400
  less.                                        ..........  Second...................        16       100     500
                                                           Third....................        24       200     600
                                                           Fourth...................        32       300     700
                                                           Fifth....................        40       500     800
                                                           Sixth....................        48       700     900
                                                           Seventh..................        56       950     951
281 to                                                 13  First....................        13         0     400
  500.                                         ..........  Second...................        26       100     600
                                                           Third....................        39       300     800
                                                           Fourth...................        52       500   1,000
                                                           Fifth....................        65       700   1,100
                                                           Sixth....................        78     1,000   1,200
                                                           Seventh..................        91     1,350   1,351
501 to                                                 20  First....................        20         0     500
  1,200.                                       ..........  Second...................        40       300     800
                                                           Third....................        60       600   1,000
                                                           Fourth...................        80       800   1,300
                                                           Fifth....................       100     1,100   1,500
                                                           Sixth....................       120     1,400   1,700
                                                           Seventh..................       140     1,850   1,851
1,201 to                                               32  First....................        32       100     700
  3,200.                                       ..........  Second...................        64       400   1,000
                                                           Third....................        96       800   1,300
                                                           Fourth...................       128     1,200   1,700
                                                           Fifth....................       160     1,700   2,000
                                                           Sixth....................       192     2,100   2,300
                                                           Seventh..................       224     2,550   2,551
More                                                   50  First....................        50       200     900
  than                                         ..........  Second...................       100       700   1,400
  3,201.                                       ..........  Third....................       150     1,300   1,900
                                                           Fourth...................       200     1,900   2,500
                                                           Fifth....................       250     2,500   2,900
                                                           Sixth....................       300     3,100   3,300
                                                           Seventh..................       350     3,750   3,751
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Cumulative failure percent.
\2\ Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.


                          Table 160.022-4(c)(2)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Percentage
                       Kind of defects                        of failure
------------------------------------------------------------------------
a. Failure to ignite........................................        100
b. Ignites or burns dangerously.............................         50
c. Nonuniform smoke emitting rate...........................         50
d. Smoke-emitting time less than 70 pct of specified time...        100
e. Smoke-emitting time at least 70 pct but less than 30 pct          75
 of specified time..........................................
f. Smoke-emitting time at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct          50
 of specified time..........................................
g. Smoke-emitting time at least 90 pct but less than 100 pct         25
 of specified time..........................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 54]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.005

    (d) Technical tests. Three signals must be subjected to each of the 
following tests. Two of the three signals must pass the test in order 
for the lot of signals to be accepted.

[[Page 55]]

    (1) Smoke emission in waves. The signal shall be ignited and thrown 
overboard under conditions where the waves are at least 30 cm (1 ft.) 
high. The smoke emitting time must be at least 4 minutes and the signal 
shall float in such a manner that the signal shall function properly 
during this test. Failure to pass this test shall be cause for the lot 
to be rejected.
    (2) Underwater smoke emission. Condition each sample in accordance 
with paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section. Ignite specimen and let it 
burn about 15 seconds in air. Submerge the burning signal in water in a 
vertical position with head down. Obtain underwater smoke emission time 
by stop watch measurements from time of submersion until distinct, 
sustained smoke emission ceases. The test specimen shall emit smoke 
underwater not less than 15 seconds when subjected to this test.
    (3) Elevated temperature, humidity, and storage. Place specimen in a 
thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 [deg]C. 
with not less than 90 percent relative humidity for 72 hours. Remove 
specimen and store at room temperature (20[deg] to 25 [deg]C.) with 
approximately 65 percent relative humidity for ten days. If for any 
reason it is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72-
hour period, it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity 
for 8 hours out of each 24 during 72-hour conditioning period. (Total of 
24 hours on and 48 hours off). The signal shall not ignite or decompose 
during this conditioning. The signal shall ignite and operate 
satisfactorily following this conditioning.
    (4) Spontaneous ignition. Place the specimen in a thermostatically 
controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 [deg]C. with not more than 
10% relative humidity for 48 consecutive hours. The signal shall not 
ignite or undergo marked decomposition.
    (5) Susceptibility to explosion. Remove smoke composition from 
signal and punch a small hole in the composition. Insert a No. 6 
commercial blasting cap. Ignite the cap. The test specimen shall not 
explode or ignite.
    (6) Corrosion resistance. Expose the complete specimen with cover 
secured hand-tight to a finely divided spray of 20 percent by weight 
sodium chloride solution at a temperature between 32 [deg]C and 38 
[deg]C (90 [deg]F and 100 [deg]F) for 100 hours. The container and cap 
must not be corroded in any fashion that would impair their proper 
functioning.
    (7) Color of smoke. Ignite specimen in the open air in daytime 
according to the directions printed on the signal, and determine the 
smoke color by direct visual comparison of the unshadowed portions of 
the smoke with a color chart held so as to receive the same daylight 
illumination as the unshadowed portions of the smoke. The color of the 
smoke must be orange as defined by Sections 13 and 14 of the ``Color 
Names Dictionary'' (colors 34-39 and 48-54).
    (8) Volume and density of smoke. The test specimen shall show less 
than 20 percent transmission for not less than 3 minutes when measured 
with apparatus having a light path of 19 cm (7\1/2\ in.), an optical 
system aperture of + 3.7 degrees, and an entrance air flow of 18.4m\3\ 
per minute (650 cu. ft. per minute), such apparatus to be as described 
in National Bureau of Standards Report No. 4792.



Sec.  160.022-5  Marking.

    (a) Directions for use. Each floating orange smoke distress signal 
shall be plainly and indelibly marked in black lettering not less than 3 
mm (\1/8\ in.) high ``Approved for daytime use only'', and in black 
lettering not less than 5 mm (\3/16\ in.) high with the word 
``Directions''. Immediately below shall be similarly marked in black 
lettering not less than 3 mm (\1/8\ in.) high: ``1. Use Only When 
Aircraft or Vessel Is Sighted''. Then in numbered paragraphs, in similar 
lettering, there shall follow in simply and easily understood wording, 
instructions to be followed to make the device operative. Pasted-on 
labels are not acceptable.
    (b) Other markings. (1) There shall be embossed or die-stamped, in 
the outer container in figures not less than 5 mm (\3/16\ in.) high, 
numbers, indicating the month and year of manufacture, thus: ``6-54'' 
indicating June 1954. The outer container shall also be plainly and 
indelibly marked with the commercial designation of the signal, the 
words

[[Page 56]]

``Floating Orange Smoke Distress Signal'', name and address of the 
manufacturer, the Coast Guard Approval No., the service life expiration 
date (month and year to be entered by the manufacturer), the month and 
year of manufacture and the lot number.
    (2) In addition to any other marking placed on the smallest packing 
carton or box containing floating orange smoke distress signals, such 
cartons or boxes shall be plainly and indelibly marked to show the 
service life expiration date, the month and year of manufacture, and the 
lot number.
    (3) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships 
signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: ``Keep 
under cover in a dry place.''
    (c) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must be not more 
than 42 months from the date of manufacture.

    Note: Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does 
not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the 
label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances 
Act.



Sec.  160.022-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in 
subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]



    Subpart 160.023_Hand Combination Flare and Smoke Distress Signals

    Source: CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73070, Dec. 17, 1979, unless 
otherwise noted.



Sec.  160.023-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) The following are incorporated by reference into this subpart:
    (1) Military specifications MIL-S-18655 C, 3 May 1971--Signal, Smoke 
and Illumination, Marine, Mark 13, Mod 0.
    (b) The military specification may be obtained from Military 
Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, 
Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://
assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/. This specification is also on file in 
the Federal Register library.
    (c) Approval to incorporate by reference the materials listed in 
this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on 
November 1, 1979.

[CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73070, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by 
USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60156, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.023-2  Type.

    (a) Hand combination flare and smoke distress signals specified by 
this subpart shall be of the type described in specification MIL-S-
18655.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.023-3  Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance 
requirements.

    (a) The materials, construction, workmanship, general and detail 
requirements shall conform to the requirements of specification MIL-S-
18655, except as otherwise specifically provided by this subpart.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.023-4  Approval and production tests.

    (a) Approval tests. The approval tests are those tests prescribed 
for the preproduction sample in MIL-S-18655. The approval tests must be 
conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under 
Sec.  159.010 of this chapter.
    (b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and 
tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the 
procedures in Sec.  159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot 
must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by 
the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the 
rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by 
the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot 
must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the 
reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and 
the results of the second test.
    (1) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer's 
quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering 
into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, 
to determine that signals are being produced in

[[Page 57]]

accordance with the approved plans. The manufacturer must select samples 
from each lot and test them as specified in the production lot 
procedures in MIL-S-18655.
    (2) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An 
independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of 
this chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under 
paragraph (b)(1) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the 
number of lots is less than four. The inspections and tests must occur 
at least once during each quarterly period, unless no lots are produced 
during this period. If less than four lots are produced, the laboratory 
must perform or supervise the inspection and testing of each lot. If a 
lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the 
laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the 
reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each 
reworked lot and the next lot produced must not be counted for the 
purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections 
and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.



Sec.  160.023-5  Labeling and marking.

    (a) Labeling. A label showing firing instructions in accordance with 
specification MIL-S-18655, and to include the commercial designation of 
the signal, the lot number, Coast Guard approval number, the service 
life expiration date (month and year to be inserted by the 
manufacturer), and month and year of manufacture, shall be applied in a 
neat, workmanlike manner after the paint has become thoroughly dry. The 
label shall be attached to the signal and then protected by a 
transparent moisture impervious coating.
    (b) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must be not more 
than 42 months from the date of manufacture.
    (c) Other marking. (1) In addition to any other marking placed on 
the smallest packing carton or box containing signals, such cartons or 
boxes shall be plainly and indelibly marked to show the service life 
expiration date, the date of manufacture, and the lot number.
    (2) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships 
signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: ``Keep 
under cover in a dry place.''

    Note: Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does 
not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the 
label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances 
Act.



Sec.  160.023-6  Container.

    (a) General. The container for storing the signals on lifeboats and 
liferafts is not required to be of a special design or be approved by 
the Coast Guard. The container must meet the requirements in Subpart 
160.021 (Sec.  160.021-6) except that the wording on the container must 
be: ``HAND COMBINATION FLARE AND SMOKE DISTRESS SIGNALS.''
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.023-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in 
subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]



  Subpart 160.024_Pistol-Projected Parachute Red Flare Distress Signals

    Source: CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73071, Dec. 17, 1979, unless 
otherwise noted.



Sec.  160.024-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) The following is incorporated by reference into this subpart:
    (1) ``The Universal Color Language'' and ``The Color Names 
Dictionary'' in Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of Names, 
National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 440, Dictionary 1976.
    (b) NBS Special Publication 440 may be obtained by ordering from the 
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, 
Washington, DC 20402 (Order by SD Catalog No. C13.10:440).
    (c) Approval to incorporate by reference the publication listed in 
this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on 
November 1, 1979. The publication is on file at the Federal Register 
Library.

[[Page 58]]



Sec.  160.024-2  Type.

    (a) Pistol-projected parachute red flare distress signals specified 
by this subpart shall be of one type which shall consist essentially of 
a cartridge having centered primer, propelling charge, and projectile 
consisting of a case, delay element, expelling charge, and pyrotechnic 
candle attached to a parachute by shroud lines; the cartridge to be of 
such dimensions that it can be fitted into and fired from a signal 
pistol with chamber and bore dimensions within the limits provided by 
Figure 160.028-2(a) of subpart 160.028 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.024-3  Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance
requirements.

    (a) Materials. The materials used in pistol-projected parachute red 
flare distress signals shall conform strictly to the specifications and 
drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant. 
In general, all metallic parts shall be corrosion-resistant or properly 
protected against corrosion.
    (b) Workmanship. Pistol-projected parachute red flare distress 
signals shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from 
imperfections of manufacture affecting their appearance or that may 
affect their serviceability.
    (c) Construction. The exterior case of the cartridge shall be made 
of suitable metal and shall protect against the entrance of moisture. 
The projectile case and delay element shall be so constructed as to 
prevent any possibility of the propelling charge blowing by and causing 
premature ejection of the projectile contents. The shoulder of the base 
of the cartridge shall be between 2.29 mm (0.090 in.) and 2.67 mm (0.015 
in.) in thickness. The centered primer shall be set below the surface of 
the base between 0.25 mm (0.010 in.) and 0.50 mm (0.020 in.).
    (d) Performance. Signals shall meet all of the inspection and test 
requirements contained in Sec.  160.024-4.



Sec.  160.024-4  Approval and production tests.

    (a) Approval tests. The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 
100 signals from which samples must be taken for testing for approval 
under Sec.  160.024-7. The approval tests are the operational tests and 
technical tests in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section. The approval 
tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the 
Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of this chapter.
    (b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and 
tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the 
procedures in Sec.  159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot 
must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by 
the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the 
rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by 
the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot 
must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the 
reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and 
the results of the second test.
    (1) Lot size. For the purposes of sampling the production of 
signals, a lot must consist of not more than 30,000 signals. Lots must 
be numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started 
with: (i) Any change in construction details, (ii) any change in sources 
of raw materials, or (iii) the start of production on a new production 
line or on a previously discontinued production line.
    (2) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer's 
quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering 
into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, 
to determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the 
approved plans. Samples from each lot must be tested in accordance with 
the operational tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
    (3) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An 
independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of 
this chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and

[[Page 59]]

tests under paragraph (b)(2) of this section at least 4 times a year, 
unless the number of lots produced in a year is less than four. The 
inspections and tests must occur at least once during each quarterly 
period, unless no lots are produced during this period. If less than 
four lots are produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the 
inspection and testing of each lot. In addition, the laboratory must 
perform or supervise the technical tests in paragraph (d) of this 
section at least once for every ten lots of signals produced, except 
that the number of technical tests must be at least one but not more 
than four per year. If a lot of signals tested by the independent 
laboratory is rejected, the laboratory must perform or supervise the 
inspections and tests of the reworked lot and the next lot of signals 
produced. The tests of each reworked lot and the next lot produced must 
not be counted for the purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual 
number of inspections and tests performed or supervised by the 
independent laboratory.
    (c) Operational tests. Each lot of signals must be sampled and 
tested as follows:
    (1) Sampling procedure and accept/reject criteria. A sample of 
signals must be selected at random from the lot. The size of the sample 
must be the individual sample size in Table 160.024-4(c)(1) 
corresponding to the lot size. Each signal in the sample is tested as 
prescribed in the test procedure in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. 
Each signal that has a defect listed in the table of defects. (Table 
160.024-4(c)(2)) is assigned a score (failure percent) in accordance 
with the table. In the case of multiple defects, only the score having 
the highest numerical value is assigned to that signal. If the sum of 
all the failure percents (cumulative failure percent) for the number of 
units in the sample is less than or equal to the accept criterion, the 
lot is accepted. If this sum is equal to or more than the reject 
criterion the lot is rejected. If the cumulative failure percent falls 
between the accept and reject criteria, another sample is selected from 
the production lot and the operational tests are repeated. The 
cumulative failure percent of each sample tested is added to that of the 
previous samples to obtain the cumulative failure percent for all the 
signals tested (cumulative sample size). Additional samples are tested 
and the tests repeated until either the accept or reject criterion for 
the cumulative sample size is met. If any signal in the sample explodes 
when fired or ignites in a way that could burn or otherwise injure the 
person firing it, the lot is rejected without further testing. (This 
procedure is diagrammed in figure 160.024-4(c).)
    (2) Test procedure. Each sample signal (specimen) must be tested as 
follows:
    (i) Conditioning of test specimens--water resistance. Immerse 
specimen horizontally with uppermost portion of the signal approximately 
25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 24 hours.
    (ii) Firing and operating characteristics. Signals shall fire and 
operate satisfactorily when shot from a pistol of the type described in 
subpart 160.028. The parachute and pyrotechnic candle shall be ejected 
at approximately the maximum altitude reached by the projectile case. 
The parachute shall open and properly suspend the pyrotechnic candle 
without fouling. The pyrotechnic candle shall burn with uniform 
intensity and without damaging the parachute, shrouds, or leader line.
    (iii) Altitude. The altitude reached by a signal is considered to be 
the height at which the parachute and pyrotechnic candle are ejected 
from the projectile case, as determined by visual observation against an 
object of known height, such as a tower or balloon, or by triangulation 
from two or more points of observation, or by other method satisfactory 
to the Commandant. The altitude reached shall be not less than 45 m (150 
ft.).
    (iv) Rate of descent. The rate of descent of a signal is considered 
to be the calculated average rate obtained by dividing the altitude by 
the time of descent to the surface. The rate of descent shall not exceed 
1.8 m (6 ft.) per second.
    (v) Burning time. The burning time of the pyrotechnic candle shall 
be obtained by stop watch measurement from the time distinct, sustained 
flame is emitted until it ceases. The burning time shall be not less 
than 30 seconds.

[[Page 60]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.006


[[Page 61]]



                  Table 160.024-4(c)(1)--Accept and Reject Criteria for Operational Test Lots.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Individual                    Cumulative sample
    Lot size       sample size       Sample             size              Accept \1\             Reject \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
280 or                       8           First                  8                  (\2\)                    400
  less.          ..............         Second                 16                    100                    500
                                         Third                 24                    200                    600
                                        Fourth                 32                    300                    700
                                         Fifth                 40                    500                    800
                                         Sixth                 48                    700                    900
                                       Seventh                 56                    950                    951
281 to                      13           First                 13                      0                    400
  500.           ..............         Second                 26                    100                    600
                                         Third                 39                    300                    800
                                        Fourth                 52                    500                  1,000
                                         Fifth                 65                    700                  1,100
                                         Sixth                 78                  1,000                  1,200
                                       Seventh                 91                  1,350                  1,351
501 to                      20           First                 20                      0                    500
  1,200.         ..............         Second                 40                    300                    800
                                         Third                 60                    600                  1,000
                                        Fourth                 80                    800                  1,300
                                         Fifth                100                  1,100                  1,500
                                         Sixth                120                  1,400                  1,700
                                       Seventh                140                  1,850                  1,851
1,201 to                    32           First                 32                    100                    700
  3,200.         ..............         Second                 64                    400                  1,000
                                         Third                 96                    800                  1,300
                                        Fourth                128                  1,200                  1,700
                                         Fifth                160                  1,700                  2,000
                                         Sixth                192                  2,100                  2,300
                                       Seventh                224                  2,550                  2,551
More                        50           First                 50                    200                    900
  than           ..............         Second                100                    700                  1,400
  3,201.         ..............          Third                150                  1,300                  1,900
                                        Fourth                200                  1,900                  2,500
                                         Fifth                250                  2,500                  2,900
                                         Sixth                300                  3,100                  3,300
                                       Seventh                350                  3,750                  3,751
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Cumulative failure percent.
\2\ Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.


                          Table 160.024-4(c)(2)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Percentage
                       Kind of defect                         of failure
------------------------------------------------------------------------
a. Failure to fire (when attributable to the primer and not          100
 to the malfunction of the pistol).........................
b. Failure to eject projectile contents....................          100
c. Failure to ignite pyrotechnic candle....................           75
d. Failure of parachute to open completely.................           75
e. Complete carrying away or destruction of parachute......           75
f. Altitude less than 70 pct of that required..............          100
g. Altitude at least 70 pct but less than 80 pct of that              75
 required..................................................
h. Altitude at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct of that              50
 required..................................................
i. Altitude at least 90 pct but less than 100 pct of that             25
 required..................................................
j. Average rate of descent greater than 4 times maximum              100
 permitted.................................................
k. Average rate of descent less than 4 but greater than 3             75
 times maximum permitted...................................
l. Average rate of descent less than 3 but greater than 2             50
 times maximum permitted...................................
m. Average rate of descent less than twice but greater than           25
 maximum permitted.........................................
n. Burning time less than 70 pct of that required..........          100
o. Burning time at least 70 pct but less than 80 pct of               75
 that required.............................................
p. Burning time at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct of               50
 that required.............................................
q. Burning time at least 90 pct but less than 100 pct of              25
 that required.............................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (d) Technical tests. Three signals must be subjected to each of the 
following tests. Two of the three signals must pass each test in order 
for the lot of signals to be accepted.
    (1) Luminous intensity. The luminous intensity of each pyrotechnic 
candle tested shall be measured by a visual photometer or equivalent 
photometric device while the specimen is supported in a horizontal 
position and the photometer is at right angles to the axis of

[[Page 62]]

the specimen. Visual luminous intensity readings shall be observed and 
recorded at approximately 5-second intervals during the burning of the 
specimen. The minimum photometric distance shall be 3 m (10 ft.). 
Recording photometers shall have a chart speed of at least 10 cm (4 in.) 
per minute. The luminous intensity of the specimen shall be computed as 
the arithmetical average of the readings recorded. The average luminous 
intensity of a specimen shall be not less than 20,000 candela.
    (2) Elevated temperature, humidity, and storage. Place specimen in a 
thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 [deg]C. 
with not less than 90 percent relative humidity for 72 hours. Remove 
specimen and store at room temperature (20[deg] to 25 [deg]C.) with 
approximately 65 percent relative humidity for 10 days. If for any 
reason it is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72-
hour period, it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity 
for 8 hours out of each 24 during the 72-hour conditioning period. 
(Total of 24 hours on and 48 hours off.) The signal shall not ignite or 
decompose during this conditioning. The signal shall fire and operate 
satisfactorily following this conditioning.
    (3) Spontaneous ignition. Place the specimen in a thermostatically 
controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 [deg]C. with not more than 
10% relative humidity for 48 consecutive hours. The signal shall not 
ignite or undergo marked decomposition.
    (4) Chromaticity. The color of the burning signal must be vivid red 
as defined by Sections 13 and 14 of the ``Color Names Dictionary.'' Two 
identical test plates of white cardboard about 30 cm x 60 cm 
(12 x 24) are used. Except for a negligible amount 
of stray daylight, the first test plate is illuminated by light from the 
specimen placed at a distance of about 1.5 cm (5 ft.). The second test 
plate is illuminated only by light from an incandescent lamp operated at 
a color temperature close to 2,848[deg] K at a distance of about 30 cm 
(1 ft.). The first plate is viewed directly, the second through 
combinations of lovibond red, yellow, and blue glasses selected so as to 
approximate a chromaticity match. By separating the test plates by a 
wide unilluminated area (subtending at the observer about 45[deg]), it 
is possible to make accurate determinations of chromaticity in terms of 
the 1931 CIE Standard Observer and Coordinate System, in spite of 
fluctuations in luminous intensity of the specimen by factors as high as 
2 or 3. The CIE coordinates are converted to the Munsell notation which 
is cross-referenced to the color name in Section 13 of the ``Color Names 
Dictionary'' (see the discussion in section 10 of ``the Universal Color 
Language'').

[CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73071, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by 
USCG-2014-0668, 79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  160.024-5  Marking.

    (a) Cartridge. Each pistol-projected parachute red flare distress 
signal shall be legibly marked as follows:

          Pistol-Projected Parachute Red Flare Distress Signal

20,000 candela--30 seconds burning time
use only when aircraft or vessel is sighted directions--Fire upward from 
signal pistol
Service Life Expiration Date (date to be inserted by manufacturer) 
(Month and year manufactured) Lot No.______
Manufactured by (Name and address of manufacturer)
U.S. COAST GUARD APPROVAL NO.______.

    (b) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must be not more 
than 42 months from the date of manufacture.
    (c) Other marking. (1) On each pistol-projected parachute red flare 
distress signal there shall be die-stamped, in figures not less than 3mm 
(\1/8\ in.) high, on the cartridge, numbers indicating the month and 
year of manufacture, thus: ``6-54'' indicating June 1954.
    (2) The pyrotechnic candle shall be legibly marked with the month 
and year of manufacture.
    (3) In addition to any other marking placed on the smallest packing 
carton or box containing cartridges, each carton or box shall be plainly 
and permanently marked to show the service life expiration date, the 
date of manufacture, and the lot number.
    (4) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships 
signals must be

[[Page 63]]

marked with the following or equivalent words: ``Keep under cover in a 
dry place.''

    Note: Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does 
not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the 
label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances 
Act.



Sec.  160.024-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in 
subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]

Subpart 160.026 [Reserved]



            Subpart 160.027_Life Floats for Merchant Vessels

    Source: CGD 79-167, 47 FR 41376, Sept. 20, 1982, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.027-2  Type.

    (a) Each life float must meet the requirements in subpart 160.010 of 
this chapter for a peripheral body type buoyant apparatus designed so 
that persons supported are only partially immersed (180 N (40 lb.) of 
buoyancy per person required).
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.027-3  Additional requirements for life floats.

    (a) Each life float must have a platform designed to drop through 
the center of the float, whichever way the life float is floating. A 
typical arrangement is shown in Figure 160.027-3(a).
    (b) The platform must meet the requirements of one of the following 
paragraphs:

[[Page 64]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.008

    (1) A lattice type platform must be of western red cedar, port 
orford cedar, sitka spruce, northern white pine, or southern cypress 
slats constructed on an oak frame. The slats must have nominal cross-
section dimensions not less than 90 mm (3\5/8\ in.) by 9.5 mm (\3/8\ 
in.). The frame members must have

[[Page 65]]

nominal cross-section dimensions not less than 100 mm (4 in.) by 12.5 mm 
(\1/2\ in.). The space between adjacent slats must not exceed the width 
of the slats. The space between each frame member and the adjacent slat 
must not exceed twice the width of the slats. The platform must be 
riveted together at each intersection of--
    (i) Frame members,
    (ii) Slats, and
    (iii) Frame members and slats.
    (2) A plywood platform must be made of exterior or marine type 
plywood with surfaces that are either ``A'' or ``B'' grade as commonly 
designated in the plywood industry. Holes 35 mm (1\3/8\ in.) to 50 mm (2 
in.) in diameter must be drilled through the platform. The number of 
holes must be at least the number equal to (L-25) (W-25)/225, where L is 
the length of the platform in cm and W is the width of the platform in 
cm. (The formula is (L-10)(W-10)/36 where L and W are measured in 
inches.) The thickness of the plywood must be at least--
    (i) 12.5 mm (\1/2\ in.) for life floats of 10 persons capacity and 
under,
    (ii) 16 mm (\5/8\ in.) for life floats between 11 and 25 persons 
capacity inclusive, and
    (iii) 19 mm (\3/4\ in.) for life floats of 26 persons capacity and 
over.
    (3) A platform of construction differing from that described in 
either (1) or (2) of this paragraph will be approved if it has holes to 
permit the passage of water and if it passes the tests in Sec.  160.027-
7. The number of holes must be the same as required for a plywood 
platform. If the platform is netting on a frame, the netting must be 
constructed of cordage with a breaking strength of at least 1600 N (355 
lb.). The netting must be constructed on not more than 5 cm (2 in.) 
centers and must be knotted together at each point where the lines 
intersect.
    (c) Each platform must be of a material that is resistant to 
deterioration by exposure to weather or must have a surface that 
protects it from deterioration by exposure to weather. For a wood 
platform, this surface must be at least two coats of water resistant 
spar varnish, or two coats of marine paint.
    (d) Each part of the platform, including surfaces, edges, and rivets 
must be smooth and must not have cutting edges, points, or splinters 
which would be dangerous for bare feet.
    (e) The platform must be arranged so that under normal stowed 
conditions, it can be retained in the center of the float and can be 
readily released from this position for use.
    (f) The platform must be suspended from the body of the float by a 
net or an equivalent arrangement, which when fully extended, holds the 
top of the platform approximately 900 mm (36 in.) below the center of 
the float body.
    (1) The net must be constructed of cordage with a minimum breaking 
strength of 1600 N (355 lb.). The net must be attached to the platform 
through holes on centers that do not exceed 165 mm (6\1/2\ in.).
    (2) If the platform is suspended from the body of the float by an 
arrangement other than a net as described in paragraph (c)(1) of this 
section, the arrangement must be of equivalent to the net in terms of 
strength, resistance to tangling, and allowing the platform to freely 
pass through the center of the life float body.



Sec.  160.027-7  Pre-approval tests for alternate platform designs.

    (a) The tests in this section are for life float platforms that do 
not meet the requirements of either Sec.  160.027-3(b) (1) or (2).
    (b) The float body must be supported so that the platform is 
suspended in the air by the net or equivalent supporting arrangement. 
The platform must be loaded evenly with a weight equal to 60 percent of 
the weight of the total number of persons for which the float is to be 
rated, assuming a weight of 75 kg (165 lb.) per person. The weight must 
be allowed to remain on the platform for ten minutes after which it is 
removed. The supporting arrangement and platform must not show any 
evidence of damage or permanent deformation as a result of this test.
    (c) The float body must be supported so that the platform is 
suspended in the air by the net or equivalent supporting arrangement. A 
bag of sand, shot or similar granular material weighing 90 kg (200 lb.) 
must be dropped onto the center of the platform

[[Page 66]]

from a height of 3 m (10 ft.). The supporting arrangement and platform 
must not show any damage that would affect the serviceability of the 
float or platform.
    (d) As part of the buoyancy test required in Sec.  160.010-7(e) of 
this chapter, the platform must be loaded with weights equal to \1/2\ 
the rated capacity of the float. There must be no damage to the 
supporting arrangement or platform as a result of this test.

    Note: Since the weights on the platform will be submerged during 
this test, allowance must be made for the displacement of the submerged 
weights. The weight required is calculated by the formula W = (18d)/(d-
4895), where W is the required submerged weight per person (in kg) and d 
is the density of the material (in kg/m\3\). (In customary U.S. units, 
the formula is W = 40d)/(d-63) where W is in lb. and d is in lb./
ft.\3\).



      Subpart 160.028_Signal Pistols for Red Flare Distress Signals

    Source: CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73078, Dec. 17, 1979, unless 
otherwise noted.



Sec.  160.028-2  Type.

    (a) Each signal pistol for launching a parachute distress signal 
that meets subpart 160.024 of this part must be of the center-firing 
type having chamber and bore dimensions within the limits indicated by 
Figure No. 160.028-2(a).
    (b) A signal pistol for launching an aerial flare not under 
paragraph (a) of this section may have any chamber and bore dimensions 
if they are not the dimensions for a conventional round of ammunition.



Sec.  160.028-3  Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance
requirements.

    (a) Materials. The materials used in signal pistols shall conform 
strictly to the specifications and drawings submitted by the 
manufacturer and approved by the Commandant. In general, all parts shall 
be corrosion-resistant or properly protected against corrosion. The 
ejection mechanism shall be of material possessing excellent wearing 
qualities.
    (b) Workmanship. Signal pistols shall be of first class workmanship 
and shall be free from imperfections of manufacture affecting their 
serviceability or appearance.
    (c) Construction and performance requirements. (Pistols intended for 
signals meeting Subpart 160.024). Signal pistols shall be of rugged 
construction and shall operate satisfactorily in firing and ejecting 
pistol-projected parachute red flare distress signals of the type 
covered by Subpart 160.024. The ejection mechanism shall be of sturdy 
design capable of withstanding rough and repeated usage. The overall 
size and weight of signal pistols should be kept to a minimum consistent 
with adequate strength and safety. When the pistol is cocked and the 
trigger is pulled, the firing pin shall project between 1.52 mm and 2.54 
mm (0.060 in. and 0.100 in.) beyond the face plate of the frame. When 
the barrel is locked in the firing position, the barrel chamber shall be 
not more than 0.25 mm (0.010 in.) from the face plate of the frame.



Sec.  160.028-4  Approval and production tests.

    (a) Approval test. An independent laboratory accepted by the 
Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of this chapter must test three pistols 
in accordance with the operational test in paragraph (c) of this 
section.
    (b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and 
tests of each pistol must be conducted under the procedures in Sec.  
159.007 of this chapter. Each pistol which passes the production 
inspections and tests must be stamped with the letters ``P.T.'' Each 
pistol which fails the test must not be represented as meeting this 
subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard.
    (1) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer's 
quality control procedures must include the inspection of the pistols 
during production, and inspection of the finished pistols, to determine 
that the pistols are being produced in accordance with the approved 
plans. Each pistol must be tested in accordance with the operational 
test in paragraph (c) of this section, except that checking of the 
chamber and bore dimensions is not required.
    (2) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An 
independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant

[[Page 67]]

under Sec.  159.010 of this Chapter must inspect and test three pistols 
at least one each year. The inspection must determine that the pistols 
are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. The test must 
be in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.
    (c) Operational test. The operational test must be conducted as 
follows:
    (1) Check the chamber and bore dimensions of the pistol.
    (2) Fire a dummy cartridge simulating a normal signal in size and 
weight, but with a charge double the normal charge.
    (3) Fire a normal signal.

[[Page 68]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.009

    (4) Recheck the chamber and bore dimensions.
    (5) The pistol must fire the signal properly, must not have any 
visible deformation or damage as a result of the test, and must not have 
any change in the chamber and bore dimensions.

[[Page 69]]



Sec.  160.028-5  Marking.

    (a) General. Each signal pistol shall be permanently and legibly 
marked with its serial number, Coast Guard approval number, and the name 
and address of the manufacturer.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.028-6  Container.

    (a) General. Containers for the stowage of signal pistols and pistol 
projected parachute red flare distress signals in lifeboats and life 
rafts on merchant vessels are not required to have specific approval or 
to be of specific design except for certain material, marking, and test 
requirements, which requirements are contained in Sec.  160.024-6 of 
subpart 160.024.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.028-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in 
subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]



    Subpart 160.031_Line-Throwing Appliance, Shoulder Gun Type (and 
                               Equipment)

    Source: CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73080, Dec. 17, 1979, unless 
otherwise noted.



Sec.  160.031-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) The following Federal specification is incorporated by reference 
into this subpart:
    (1) T-R-605 b, December 13, 1963 and Amendment 3, April 17, 1973--
Rope, Manila, and Sisal.
    (b) The Federal specification may be obtained from Military 
Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, 
Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://
assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/. This specification is also on file in 
the Federal Register library.
    (c) Approval to incorporate by reference the material listed in this 
section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on 
September 24, 1979.

[CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73080, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by 
USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60156, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.031-2  Type and size.

    (a) The shoulder gun type line-throwing appliance shall be breech-
loading for the cartridge and muzzle-loading for the projectile, of not 
more than 13 mm (0.50 in.) caliber, chambered for blank rifle 
cartridges, smooth bored, and properly stocked, with shot line canister 
attached in a position below the barrel.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.031-3  Materials, construction, workmanship, and performance
requirements.

    (a) All materials used in the construction of shoulder gun type 
line-throwing appliances and equipment shall be of good quality, 
suitable for the purpose intended, and shall conform to the requirements 
of this specification. The choice of materials shall be such that 
resistance to corrosion by salt water or spray, shock, temperature 
change, and wear will be obtained. The use of dissimilar metals in 
combination shall be avoided wherever possible, but when such contacts 
are necessary, provision shall be made to prevent such deleterious 
effects as galvanic corrosion, freezing or buckling of moving parts, and 
loosening or tightening of joints due to difference in coefficients of 
thermal expansion.
    (b) The design and construction shall be proper and substantial for 
effective and safe operation aboard ship.
    (c) The workmanship shall be first class and free from any 
imperfections of manufacture affecting appearance or serviceability of 
the gun.
    (d) The gun, when loaded and fired in accordance with the 
manufacturer's instructions, shall be capable of propelling through 
relatively still air, the service projectile with service line attached, 
for a distance of not less than 75 m (250 ft.) with deviation from the 
target not to exceed 4.5 m (15 ft.) either side.



Sec.  160.031-4  Equipment for shoulder gun type line-throwing appliance.

    (a) Ten service projectiles, each machined from steel or bronze, 
weighing about 225 g (8 oz.), and having a shank of sufficient length to 
project slightly beyond the muzzle, with an eye at the upper end for 
securing the service line.

[[Page 70]]

    (b) Four service lines, each not less than 180 m (600 ft.) in 
length, of 1.5 mm (\1/16\-in.) or more in diameter, woven or braided 
nylon, very flexible, and having a breaking strength of not less than 
625 N (140 lb.), or equivalent. Each line shall be one continuous length 
without splice, knot, or other weakening features and shall be made up 
or coiled in such way as to render it ready at all times for immediate 
use. The end of the line intended to be attached to projectile shall 
have securely attached thereto a substantial tag bearing a permanent 
legend indicating its purpose, and the other end of the line shall be 
tagged in the same manner to prevent delay in securing proper and 
immediate action with the equipment. The line shall be coiled or reeled 
in such manner that when all the line leaves the canister it 
automatically becomes unattached and free from the canister and the gun. 
The line canister shall be secured by clamps or brackets below the 
barrel of the gun.
    (c) One auxiliary line consisting of at least 150 m (500 ft.) of 7.5 
mm (3 in.) circumference manila complying with federal specification T-
R-605.
    (d) Twenty-five cartridges of the caliber and loading specified in 
the instructions furnished by the manufacturer of the gun. The 
cartridges shall be blank with waterproof paper wad.
    (e) One cleaning rod with brush.
    (f) One can of oil suitable for cleaning the gun and preserving the 
finish of the metal parts.
    (g) Twelve wiping patches of a size suitable for cleaning the bore.
    (h) One set of instructions including a list of the equipment 
furnished with the gun, the proper caliber and loading of the cartridges 
to be used in firing the gun, information as to the proper maintenance 
of the gun and equipment, and directions for loading and firing in 
service use shall be permanently engraved in plastic and mounted 
conspicuously in the case or box required by Sec.  160.031-4(i).
    (i) A suitable case or box, properly compartmented for stowage of 
the appliance and auxiliary equipment, is required for stowage on 
merchant vessels. The auxiliary line need not be stowed in the case.



Sec.  160.031-5  Approval and production tests.

    (a) Approval test. An independent laboratory accepted by the 
Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of this chapter must test an appliance in 
accordance with the operational test in paragraph (c) of this section.
    (b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and 
tests of each appliance must be conducted under the procedures in Sec.  
159.007 of this chapter. Each appliance which fails the inspections and 
tests must not be represented as meeting this Subpart or as being 
approved by the Coast Guard.
    (1) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer's 
quality control procedures must include the inspection of appliances 
during production as well as inspection of finished appliances to 
determine that the appliances are being produced in accordance with the 
approved plans. Each appliance must be tested in accordance with 
paragraph (c) of this section except that the projectile may be fired 
without a service line attached, and the distance and deviation do not 
have to be measured.
    (2) Inspections and test by an independent laboratory. An 
independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of 
this chapter must inspect and test one appliance at least once each 
year. The inspection must determine that the appliances are being 
produced in accordance with the approved plans. The test must be in 
accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.
    (c) Operational test. The operational test must be conducted as 
follows:
    (1) Three rounds must be fired by the gun, at least one of which 
must be with a service line attached to a projectile.
    (2) The projectile must be fired first by aiming it down an open 
course, and measuring the distance and deviation of the projectile.
    (3) After the projectile is fired, the other two rounds must be 
fired.
    (4) The distance and deviation of the projectile must be in 
accordance with Sec.  160.031-3(d) the gun must fire each round properly 
and the gun must not be fractured or damaged by the test.

[[Page 71]]



Sec.  160.031-6  Marking.

    (a) Gun. The gun shall be permanently and legibly marked on the 
barrel with the manufacturer's model or type designation of the gun, the 
serial number for the gun, the official Coast Guard approval number, and 
the name of the manufacturer. The gun stock shall have recessed in it a 
brass or other corrosion-resistant plate showing legible maintenance 
instructions for the care of the gun and its parts to prevent corrosion. 
After the proof test, the gun barrel shall be marked with the letters 
``P.T.'' and the name or mark of the company.
    (b) Projectile. Projectiles shall be permanently and legibly marked 
with the name of the manufacturer.
    (c) Line and container. The end of a service line intended to be 
attached to the projectile shall have securely attached thereto a 
substantial tag bearing a permanent legend indicating its purpose, and 
the other end of the line shall be tagged in the same manner to prevent 
delay in securing proper and immediate action with the equipment. The 
container of new service lines shall bear the name of the manufacturer, 
date of manufacture, and a statement to the effect that in all respects 
the line meets the requirements of this subpart for service lines. Line 
canisters and reels shall bear the name of the manufacturer.

[CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73080, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by 
USCG-2014-0688, 79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  160.031-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Shoulder gun line throwing appliances are approved by the Coast 
Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]

Subpart 160.032-035 [Reserved]



Subpart 160.036_Hand-Held Rocket-Propelled Parachute Red Flare Distress 
                                 Signals

    Source: CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73081, Dec. 17, 1979, unless 
otherwise noted.



Sec.  160.036-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) The following is incorporated by reference into this subpart:
    (1) ``The Universal Color Language'' and ``The Color Names 
Dictionary'' in Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of Names, 
National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 440, December 1976.
    (b) NBS Special Publication 440 may be obtained by ordering from the 
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, 
Washington, DC 20402 (Order by SD Catalog No. C13.10:440).
    (c) Approval to incorporate by reference the material listed in this 
section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on 
November 1, 1979. The material is on file in the Federal Register 
library.



Sec.  160.036-2  Type.

    (a) Handheld rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress signals 
specified by this subpart shall be of one type which shall consist 
essentially of a completely self-contained device which can be fired 
from the hand to provide a rocket-propelled parachute red flare distress 
signal.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.036-3  Materials, workmanship, construction and performance
requirements.

    (a) Materials. The materials used in handheld rocket-propelled 
parachute red flare distress signals shall conform strictly to the 
specifications and drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved 
by the Commandant. In general, all exposed parts shall be corrosion-
resistant or properly protected against corrosion.
    (b) Workmanship. Handheld rocket-propelled parachute red flare 
distress signals shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free 
from imperfections of manufacture affecting their appearance or that may 
affect their serviceability.
    (c) Construction. The exterior case of the cartridge shall be made 
of a suitable metal and shall protect against the entrance of moisture. 
The construction shall be such that the parachute and pyrotechnic candle 
will be

[[Page 72]]

expelled at approximately the maximum altitude reached.
    (d) Performance. Signals shall meet all of the inspection and test 
requirements contained in Sec.  160.036-4.



Sec.  160.036-4  Approval and production tests.

    (a) Approval tests. The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 
100 signals from which samples must be taken for testing for approval 
under Sec.  160.036-7. The approval tests are the operational tests and 
technical tests in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section. The approval 
tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the 
Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of this chapter.
    (b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and 
tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the 
procedures in Sec.  159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot 
must not be represented as meeting this Subpart or as being approved by 
the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the 
rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by 
the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot 
must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the 
reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and 
the results of the second test.
    (1) Lot size. For the purposes of sampling the production of 
signals, a lot must consist of not more than 30,000 signals. Lots must 
be numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started 
with:
    (i) Any change in construction details,
    (ii) Any changes in sources of raw materials, or
    (iii) The start of production on a new production line or on a 
previously discontinued production line.
    (2) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer's 
quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering 
into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, 
to determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the 
approved plans. Samples from each lot must be tested in accordance with 
the operational tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
    (3) Inspections and test by an independent laboratory. An 
independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of 
this chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under 
paragraph (b)(2) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the 
number of lots produced in a year is less than four. The inspections and 
tests must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no 
lots are produced during this period. If less than four lots are 
produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspection and 
testing of each lot. In addition, the laboratory must perform or 
supervise the technical tests in paragraph (d) of this section at least 
once for every ten lots of signals produced, except that the number of 
technical tests must be at least one but not more than four per year. If 
a lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the 
laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the 
reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each 
reworked lot and the next lot produced must not be counted for the 
purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections 
and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.
    (c) Operational tests. Each lot of signals must be sampled and 
tested as follows:
    (1) Sampling procedure and accept/reject criteria. A sample of 
signals must be selected at random from the lot. The size of the sample 
must be the individual sample size in Table 160.036-4(c)(1) 
corresponding to the lot size. Each signal in the sample is tested as 
prescribed in the test procedure in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. 
Each signal that has a defect listed in the table of defects (Table 
160.036-4(c)(2)) is assigned a score (failure percent) in accordance 
with that table. In the case of multiple defects, only the score having 
the highest numerical value is assigned to that signal. If the sum of 
all the failure percents (cumulative failure percent) for the number of 
units in the sample is less than or equal to the accept criterion, the 
lot is accepted. If this sum is equal to or more than the

[[Page 73]]

reject criterion the lot is rejected. If the cumulative failure percent 
falls between the accept and reject criteria, another sample is selected 
from the production lot and the operational tests are repeated. The 
cumulative failure percent of each sample tested is added to that of the 
previous samples to obtain the cumulative failure percent for all the 
signals tested (cumulative sample size). Additional samples are tested 
and the tests repeated until either the accept or reject criterion for 
the cumulative sample size is met. If any signal in the sample explodes 
when fired or ignites in a way that could burn or otherwise injure the 
person firing it, the lot is rejected without further testing. (This 
procedure is diagrammed in figure 160.036-4(c)).
    (2) Test procedure. Each sample signal (specimen) must be tested as 
follows:
    (i) Conditioning of test specimens--water resistant. Immerse 
specimen horizontally with uppermost portion of the signal approximately 
25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 24 hours.
    (ii) Firing and operating characteristics. Signals shall fire and 
operate satisfactorily when the manufacturer's directions are followed. 
The parachute and pyrotechnic candle shall be ejected at approximately 
the maximum altitude reached by the projectile case. The parachute shall 
open and properly suspend the pyrotechnic candle without fouling. The 
pyrotechnic candle shall burn with uniform intensity and without 
damaging the parachute, shrouds, or leader line.
    (iii) Altitude. The altitude reached by a signal is considered to be 
the height at which the parachute and pyrotechnic candle are ejected 
from the projectile case, as determined by visual observation against an 
object of known height, such as a tower or balloon, or by triangulation 
from two or more points of observation, or by other method satisfactory 
to the Commandant. The altitude reached shall be not less than 150 m 
(500 ft.).
    (iv) Rate of descent. The rate of descent of a signal is considered 
to be the calculated average rate obtained by dividing the altitude by 
the time of descent to the surface. The rate of descent shall not exceed 
4.5 m (15 ft.) per second.
    (v) Burning time. The burning time of the pyrotechnic candle shall 
be obtained by stop watch measurement from the time a distinct, 
sustained flame is emitted until it ceases. The burning time shall be 
not less than 30 seconds.

                   Table 160.036-4(c)(1)--Accept and Reject Criteria for Operational Test Lots
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Individual                             Cumulative
                   Lot size                      sample              Sample             sample    Accept  Reject
                                                  size                                   size       \1\     \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
280 or                                                8    First....................         8     ( \2\     400
                                                                                                       )
  less.                                        ..........  Second...................        16       100     500
                                               ..........  Third....................        24       200     600
                                               ..........  Fourth...................        32       300     700
                                               ..........  Fifth....................        40       500     800
                                               ..........  Sixth....................        48       700     900
                                               ..........  Seventh..................        56       950     951
281 to                                               13    First....................        13         0     400
  500.                                         ..........  Second...................        26       100     600
                                               ..........  Third....................        39       300     800
                                               ..........  Fourth...................        52       500   1,000
                                               ..........  Fifth....................        65       700   1,100
                                               ..........  Sixth....................        78     1,000   1,200
                                               ..........  Seventh..................        91     1,350   1,351
501 to                                               20    First....................        20         0     500
  1,200.                                       ..........  Second...................        40       300     800
                                               ..........  Third....................        60       600   1,000
                                               ..........  Fourth...................        80       800   1,300
                                               ..........  Fifth....................       100     1,100   1,500
                                               ..........  Sixth....................       120     1,400   1,700
                                               ..........  Seventh..................       140     1,850   1,851
1,201 to                                             32    First....................        32       100     700
  3,200.                                       ..........  Second...................        64       400   1,000
                                               ..........  Third....................        96       800   1,300
                                               ..........  Fourth...................       128     1,200   1,700
                                               ..........  Fifth....................       160     1,700   2,000
                                               ..........  Sixth....................       192     2,100   2,300
                                               ..........  Seventh..................       224     2,550   2,551
More                                                 50    First....................        50       200     900
  than                                         ..........  Second...................       100       700   1,400
  3,201.                                       ..........  Third....................       150     1,300   1,900
                                               ..........  Fourth...................       200     1,900   2,500
                                               ..........  Fifth....................       250     2,500   2,900
                                               ..........  Sixth....................       300     3,100   3,300
                                               ..........  Seventh..................       350     3,750   3,751
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Cumulative failure percent.
\2\ Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.


                          Table 160.036-4(c)(2)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Percentage
                       Kind of defect                         of failure
------------------------------------------------------------------------
a. Failure to fire.........................................          100
b. Failure to eject projectile contents....................          100
c. Failure to ignite pyrotechnic candle....................          100
d. Failure of parachute to open completely.................           75
e. Complete carrying away or destruction of parachute......           75
f. Altitude less than 70 pct of that required..............          100
g. Altitude less than 70 pct but less than 80 pct of that             75
 required..................................................
h. Altitude at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct of that              50
 required..................................................

[[Page 74]]

 
i. Altitude at least 90 pct but less than 100 pct of that             25
 required..................................................
j. Average rate of descent greater than four times maximum           100
 permitted.................................................
k. Average rate of descent less than 4 but greater than 3             75
 times maximum permitted...................................
l. Average rate of descent less than 3 but greater than 2             50
 times maximum permitted...................................
m. Average rate of descent less than twice but greater than           25
 maximum permitted.........................................
n. Burning time less than 70 pct of that required..........          100
o. Burning time at least 70 pct but less than 80 pct of               75
 that required.............................................
p. Burning time at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct of               50
 that required.............................................
q. Burning time at least 90 pct but less than 100 pct of              25
 that required.............................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 75]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.010

    (d) Technical tests. Three signals must be subjected to each of the 
following tests. Two of the three signals must pass each test in order 
for the lot of signals to be accepted.
    (1) Luminous intensity. The luminous intensity of each pyrotechnic 
candle

[[Page 76]]

tested shall be measured by a visual photometer or equivalent 
photometric device while the specimen is supported in a horizontal 
position and the photometer is at right angles to the axis of the 
specimen. Visual luminous intensity readings shall be observed and 
recorded at approximately 5-second intervals during the burning of the 
specimen. The minimum photometric distance shall be 3 m (10 ft.). 
Recording photometers shall have a chart speed of at least 10 cm (4 in.) 
per minute. The luminous intensity of the specimen shall be computed as 
the arithmetical average of the readings recorded. The average luminous 
intensity of a specimen shall be not less than 20,000 candela.
    (2) Elevated temperature, humidity, and storage. Place specimen in a 
thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 [deg]C. 
with not less than 90 percent relative humidity for 72 hours. Remove 
specimen and store at room temperature (20[deg] to 25 [deg]C.) with 
approximately 65 percent relative humidity for ten days. If for any 
reason it is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72-
hour period, it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity 
for 8 hours out of each 24 during the 72-hour conditioning period. 
(Total of 24 hours on and 48 hours off.) The signal shall not ignite or 
decompose during this conditioning. The signal shall fire and operate 
satisfactorily following this conditioning.
    (3) Spontaneous ignition. Place the specimen in a thermostatically 
controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 [deg]C. with not more than 
10% relative humidity for 48 consecutive hours. The signal shall not 
ignite or undergo marked decomposition.
    (4) Chromaticity. The color of the burning signal must be vivid red 
as defined by Sections 13 and 14 of the ``Color Names Dictionary.'' Two 
identical test plates of white cardboard about 30 cm x 60 cm 
(12 x 24) are used. Except for a negligible amount 
of stray daylight, the first test plate is illuminated by light from the 
specimen placed at a distance of about 1.5 m (5 ft.). The second test 
plate is illuminated only by light from an incandescent lamp operated at 
a color temperature close to 2,848[deg] K at a distance of about 30 cm 
(1 ft.). The first plate is viewed directly, the second through 
combinations of Lovibond red, yellow, and blue glasses selected so as to 
approximate a chromaticity match. By separating the test plates by a 
wide unilluminated area (subtending at the observer about 45[deg]), it 
is possible to make accurate determinations of chromaticity in terms of 
the 1931 CIE Standard Observer and Coordinate System, in spite of 
fluctuations in luminous intensity of the specimen by factors as high as 
2 or 3. The CIE coordinates are converted to the Munsell notation which 
is cross-referenced to the color name in Section 13 of the ``Color Names 
Dictionary'' (see the discussion in Section 10 of ``The Universal Color 
Language'').

[CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73081, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by 
USCG-2014-0688, 79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  160.036-5  Marking.

    (a) General. Each hand-held rocket-propelled parachute red flare 
distress signal shall be legibly marked or labeled as follows:

    (Company brand or style designation) Hand-Held Rocket-Propelled 
Parachute Red Flare Distress Signal--20,000 candela--30 seconds burning 
time. Use Only When Aircraft or Vessel Is Sighted. Directions--(In 
numbered paragraphs, simply worded instructions for firing the device). 
Service Life Expiration Date (date to be inserted by manufacturer) 
(Month and year manufactured) (Lot No. ____) Manufactured by (Name and 
address of manufacturer) U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. ____.

    (b) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must be not more 
than 42 months from the date of manufacture.
    (c) Other marking. (1) On each hand-held rocket propelled parachute 
red flare distress signal there shall be die-stamped in figures not less 
than 3 mm (\1/8\ in.) high, on the signal, numbers indicating the month 
and year of manufacture, thus: ``6-54'' indicating June, 1954.
    (2) The pyrotechnic candle shall be legibly marked with the month 
and year of manufacture.
    (3) In addition to any other marking place on the smallest packing 
carton or box containing signals, each carton or

[[Page 77]]

box shall be plainly and permanently marked to show the service life 
expiration date, date of manufacture, and lot number.
    (4) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships 
signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: ``Keep 
under cover in a dry place.''

    Note: Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does 
not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the 
label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances 
Act.



Sec.  160.036-6  Container.

    (a) General. The container for storing the signals on lifeboats and 
liferafts is not required to be of a special design or be approved by 
the Coast Guard. The container must meet the requirements in Subpart 
160.021 (Sec.  160.021-6) except that the wording on the container must 
be:

     Hand-Held Rocket-Propelled Parachute Red Flare Distress Signals

    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.036-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in 
subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]



           Subpart 160.037_Hand Orange Smoke Distress Signals

    Source: CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73085, Dec. 17, 1979, unless 
otherwise noted.



Sec.  160.037-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) The following are incorporated by reference into this subpart:
    (1) ``The Color Names Dictionary'' in Color: Universal Language and 
Dictionary of Names, National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 
440, December 1976.
    (2) ``Development of a Laboratory Test for Evaluation of the 
Effectiveness of Smoke Signals,'' National Bureau of Standards Report 
4792, July 1956.
    (b) NBS Special Publication 440 may be obtained by ordering from the 
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, 
Washington, DC 20402 (Order by SD Catalog No. C13.10:440).
    (c) NBS Report 4792 may be obtained from Coast Guard Headquarters. 
Contact Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering 
Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue 
SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.
    (d) Approval to incorporate by reference the materials listed in 
this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on 
November 1 and 29, 1979. The materials are on file in the Federal 
Register library.

[CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73085, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by CGD 
82-063b, 48 FR 4782, Feb. 3, 1983; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34535, Sept. 7, 
1988; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, 
Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60156, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.037-2  Type.

    (a) Hand orange smoke distress signals specified by this subpart 
shall be one type which shall consist essentially of a wooden handle to 
which is attached a tubular casing having a sealing plug at the handle 
end, the casing being filled with a smoke producing composition and fuse 
with button of ignition material at the top, and a removable cap having 
a friction striking material on its top which may be exposed for use by 
pulling a tear strip. The signal is ignited by scraping the friction 
striker on top of the cap against the igniter button on top of the body 
of the signal. Alternate arrangements which conform to the performance 
requirements of this specification will be given special consideration.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.037-3  Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance
requirements.

    (a) Materials. The materials shall conform strictly to the 
specifications and drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved 
by the Commandant. The color of the tube shall be orange. The 
combustible materials shall be of such nature as will not deteriorate 
during long storage, nor when subjected to frigid or tropical climates, 
or both.

[[Page 78]]

    (b) Workmanship. Hand orange smoke distress signals shall be of 
first class workmanship and shall be free from imperfections of 
manufacture affecting their appearance or that may affect their 
serviceability. Moisture proof coatings shall be applied uniformly and 
shall be free from pinholes or other visible defects which would impair 
their usefulness.
    (c) Construction. The casing shall be fitted and secured to the 
handle with not less than a 25 mm (1 in.) overlap and shall be attached 
to the handle in such a manner that failure of the joint will not occur 
during tests, ignition, or operation. The plug shall be securely affixed 
in the casing to separate the smoke composition from the wooden handle. 
The smoke composition shall be thoroughly mixed and be uniformly 
compressed throughout to preclude variations of density which may 
adversely affect uniformity of its smoke emitting characteristics. The 
cap shall have a lap fit of not less than 25 mm (1 in.) over the end of 
the casing and smoke composition to entirely and securely protect the 
exposed surface of the igniter button and end of smoke composition and 
casing, and shall have an inner shoulder so constructed that it is 
mechanically impossible for the inner surface of the cap to come in 
contact with the igniter button. The cap shall be securely attached to 
the casing in such manner as to preclude its accidental detachment. The 
cap shall be provided on its top with a friction striking material which 
shall, by a pull of the tear strip, be entirely exposed for striking the 
friction igniter button. The igniter button shall be non-water soluble 
or be protected from moisture by a coating of some waterproof substance, 
and shall be raised or exposed in such manner as to provide positive 
ignition by the friction striker. The igniter button shall be firmly 
secured in or on the top of the smoke composition; the arrangement shall 
be such that the ignition will be transmitted to the smoke producing 
composition. The assembled signal, consisting of tear strip, cap, 
casing, and handle, shall be sealed and treated to protect the signal 
from deterioration by moisture. The protective waterproof coating shall 
be applied so none adheres to the friction striking surface. Special 
consideration will be given to alternate waterproofing of the signal by 
means of a water-resistant coating on the signal plus packaging in a 
sealed plastic waterproof bag satisfactory to the Commandant.
    (d) Performance. Signals shall meet all the inspection and test 
requirements contained in Sec.  160.037-4.



Sec.  160.037-4  Approval and production tests.

    (a) Approval tests. The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 
100 signals from which samples must be taken for testing for approval 
under Sec.  160.037-7. The approval tests are the operational tests and 
technical tests in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section. The approval 
tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the 
Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of this chapter.
    (b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and 
tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the 
procedures in Sec.  159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot 
must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by 
the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the 
rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by 
the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot 
must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the 
reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and 
the results of the second test.
    (1) Lot size. For the purposes of sampling the production of 
signals, a lot must consist of not more than 30,000 signals. Lots must 
be numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started 
with:
    (i) Any change in construction details,
    (ii) Any change in sources of raw materials, or
    (iii) The start of production on a new production line or on a 
previously discontinued production line.
    (2) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer's 
quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering 
into

[[Page 79]]

construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, to 
determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the 
approved plans. Samples from each lot must be tested in accordance with 
the operational tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
    (3) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An 
independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of 
this Chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under 
paragraph (b)(2) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the 
number of lots produced in a year is less than four. The inspections and 
tests must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no 
lots are produced during this period. If less than four lots are 
produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspection and 
testing of each lot. In addition, the laboratory must perform or 
supervise the technical tests in paragraph (d) of this section at least 
once for every ten lots of signals produced, except that the number of 
technical tests must be at least one but not more than four per year. If 
a lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the 
laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the 
reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each 
reworked lot and the next lot produced must not be counted for the 
purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections 
and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.
    (c) Operational tests. Each lot of signals must be sampled and 
tested as follows:
    (1) Sampling procedure and accept/reject criteria. A sample of 
signals must be selected at random from the lot. The size of the sample 
must be the individual sample size in Table 160.037-4(c)(1) 
corresponding to the lot size. Each signal in the sample is tested as 
prescribed in the test procedure in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. 
Each signal that has a defect listed in the table of defeats (Table 
160.037-4(c)(2)) is assigned a score (failure percent) in accordance 
with that table. In the case of multiple defects, only the score having 
the highest numerical value is assigned to that signal. If the sum of 
all the failure percents (cumulative failure percent) for the number of 
units in the sample is less than or equal to the accept criterion, the 
lot is accepted. If the sum is equal to or more than the reject 
criterion the lot is rejected. If the cumulative failure percent falls 
between the accept and reject criteria, another sample is selected from 
the production lot and the operational tests are repeated. The 
cumulative failure percent of each sample tested is added to that of the 
previous samples to obtain the cumulative failure percent for all the 
signals tested (cumulative sample size). Additional samples are tested 
and the tests repeated until either the accept or reject criterion for 
the cumulative sample size is met. If any signal in the sample explodes 
when fired, or ignites in a way that could burn or otherwise injure the 
person firing it, the lot is rejected without further testing. (This 
procedure is diagrammed in figure 160.037-4(c)).
    (2) Test procedure. Each sample signal (specimen) must be tested as 
follows:
    (i) Conditioning of test specimens--water resistance. Immerse 
specimen horizontally with uppermost portion of the signal approximately 
25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 24 hours. 
If the signal is protected by alternate waterproofing consisting of a 
water-resistant coating on the signal plus packaging in a sealed plastic 
waterproof bag, the 24-hour water immersion conditioning will be 
conducted while the signal is in the sealed plastic waterproof bag and 
will be followed by an additional immersion of the bare signal (i.e., 
after removal from the bag) 25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water 
for a period of 10 minutes.
    (ii) Waterproofing of igniter button. Remove the cap from the test 
specimen. Place head of specimen without cap about 25 mm (1 in.) under 
the surface of water for approximately 5 minutes. Remove specimen from 
the water and wipe dry.
    (iii) Smoke emitting time. Ignite specimen according to directions 
printed on the signal. The smoke emitting time of a specimen shall be 
obtained by stop watch measurements from the time of distinct, sustained 
smoke emission until it ceases. The watch shall be

[[Page 80]]

stopped during periods of flame emission. The smoke emitting time for a 
specimen shall be not less than 50 seconds.
    (iv) Ignition and smoke emitting characteristics. Test specimens 
shall ignite and emit smoke properly when the directions on the signal 
are followed. Test specimens shall not ignite explosively in a manner 
that might be dangerous to the user or persons close by. The plug 
separating the smoke producing composition from the handle shall in no 
case allow flame or hot gases to pass through it or between it and the 
casing in such manner as might burn the hand while holding the signal by 
the handle.

                   Table 160.037-4(c)(1)--Accept and reject criteria for operational test lots
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                         Cumula-
                                                 Individual                                tive   Accept  Reject
                    Lot size                       sample              Sample             sample    \1\     \1\
                                                    size                                   size
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
280 or                                                  8    First.....................        8   ( \2\     400
                                                                                                       )
  less.                                          ..........  Second....................       16     100     500
                                                 ..........  Third.....................       24     200     600
                                                 ..........  Fourth....................       32     300     700
                                                 ..........  Fifth.....................       40     500     800
                                                 ..........  Sixth.....................       48     700     900
                                                 ..........  Seventh...................       56     950     951
281 to                                                 13    First.....................       13       0     400
  500.                                           ..........  Second....................       26     100     600
                                                 ..........  Third.....................       39     300     800
                                                 ..........  Fourth....................       52     500   1,000
                                                 ..........  Fifth.....................       65     700   1,100
                                                 ..........  Sixth.....................       78   1,000   1,200
                                                 ..........  Seventh...................       91   1,350   1,351
501 to                                                 20    First.....................       20       0     500
  1,200.                                         ..........  Second....................       40     300     800
                                                 ..........  Third.....................       60     600   1,000
                                                 ..........  Fourth....................       80     800   1,300
                                                 ..........  Fifth.....................      100   1,100   1,500
                                                 ..........  Sixth.....................      120   1,400   1,700
                                                 ..........  Seventh...................      140   1,850   1,851
1,201 to                                               32    First.....................       32     100     700
  3,200.                                         ..........  Second....................       64     400   1,000
                                                 ..........  Third.....................       96     800   1,300
                                                 ..........  Fourth....................      128   1,200   1,700
                                                 ..........  Fifth.....................      160   1,700   2,000
                                                 ..........  Sixth.....................      192   2,100   2,300
                                                 ..........  Seventh...................      224   2,550   2,551
More                                                   50    First.....................       50     200     900
  than                                           ..........  Second....................      100     700   1,400
  3,201.                                         ..........  Third.....................      150   1,300   1,900
                                                 ..........  Fourth....................      200   1,900   2,500
                                                 ..........  Fifth.....................      250   2,500   2,900
                                                 ..........  Sixth.....................      300   3,100   3,300
                                                 ..........  Seventh...................      350   3,750   3,751
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Cumulative failure percent.
\2\ Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.


                          Table 160.037-4(c)(2)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Percentage
                      Kind of defects                         of failure
------------------------------------------------------------------------
a. Failure to ignite.......................................          100
b. Ignites or burns dangerously............................           50
c. Non-uniform smoke-emitting rate.........................           50
d. Smoke-emitting time less than 70 pct of specified time..          100
e. Smoke-emitting time at least 70 pct but less than 80 pct           75
 of specified time.........................................
f. Smoke-emitting time at least 80 pct but less than 90 pct           50
 of specified time.........................................
g. Smoke-emitting time at least 90 pct but less than 100              25
 pct of specified time.....................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 81]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.011

    (d) Technical tests. Three signals must be subjected to each of the 
following tests. Two of the three signals must pass each test in order 
for the lot of signals to be accepted.
    (1) Underwater smoke emission. Condition each sample in accordance 
with

[[Page 82]]

paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section. Ignite specimen and let it burn 
about 15 seconds in air. Submerge the burning signal in water in a 
vertical position with head down. Obtain underwater smoke emission time 
by stop watch measurements from time of submersion until smoke emission 
ceases. The test specimen shall burn underwater not less than 10 seconds 
when subjected to this test.
    (2) Bending strength. Place the specimen on supports 15 cm (6 in.) 
apart. Attach a weight of 35 kg (77 lb.) to a length of wire. Hang the 
weight from the supported signal by looping the wire around the signal 
approximately equidistant from the two points of support. Let the weight 
hang approximately 5 minutes. The test specimen shall not deflect more 
than 7 mm (\1/4\ in.), nor shall the joint between the casing and the 
handle fail when subjected to this test.
    (3) Tensile strength. Place the specimen in a chuck firmly holding 
it about 13 mm (\1/2\ in.) below the cap. Attach a weight of 35 kg (77 
lb.) to a length of wire. Hang the weight from the supported signal by 
looping the wire through a hole bored perpendicular to and through the 
axis of the handle. Let the weight hang approximately 5 minutes. The 
test specimen shall not show noticeable distortion, nor shall the joint 
between the casing and handle fail, when subjected to this test.
    (4) Elevated temperature, humidity and storage. Place specimen in a 
thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 [deg]C. 
with not less than 90 percent relative humidity for 72 hours. Remove 
specimen and store at room temperature (20[deg] to 25 [deg]C.) with 
approximately 65 percent relative humidity for 10 days. If for any 
reason it is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72-
hour period, it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity 
for 8 hours out of each 24 during the 72-hour conditioning period. 
(Total of 24 hours on and 48 hours off.) The signal shall not ignite or 
decompose during this conditioning. The signal shall ignite and operate 
satisfactorily following this conditioning.
    (5) Spontaneous ignition. Place the specimen in a thermostatically 
controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 [deg]C. with not more than 
10% relative humidity for 48 consecutive hours. The signal shall not 
ignite or undergo marked decomposition.
    (6) Susceptibility to explosion. Remove smoke composition from 
signal and punch a small hole in the composition. Insert a No. 6 
commercial blasting cap. Ignite the cap. The test specimen shall not 
explode or ignite.
    (7) Color of smoke. Ignite specimen in the open air in daytime 
according to the directions printed on the signal, and determine the 
smoke color by direct visual comparison of the unshadowed portions of 
the smoke with a color chart held so as to receive the same daylight 
illumination as the unshadowed portions of the smoke. The color of the 
smoke must be orange as defined by Sections 13 and 14 of the ``Color 
Names Dictionary'' (colors 34-39 and 48-54).
    (8) Volume and density of smoke. The test specimen shall show less 
than 70 percent transmission for not less than 30 seconds when measured 
with apparatus having a light path of 19 cm (7\1/2\ in.), an optical 
system aperture of + 3.7 degrees, and an entrance air flow of 18.4m\3\ 
per minute (650 cu. ft. per minute), such apparatus to be as described 
in National Bureau of Standards Report No. 4792.



Sec.  160.037-5  Labeling and marking.

    (a) Labeling. Each hand orange smoke distress signal shall bear a 
label securely affixed thereto, showing in clear, indelible black 
lettering on an orange background, the following wording and 
information:

                  (Company brand or style designation)

                    Hand Orange Smoke Distress Signal

                For daytime use--50 seconds burning time

               Use Only When Aircraft or Vessel is Sighted

    Directions: Pull tape over top of cap. Remove cap and ignite flare 
by rubbing scratch surface on top of cap sharply across igniter button 
on head of signal.
    Caution: Stand with back to wind and point away from body when 
igniting or signal is burning.

[[Page 83]]

    Service Life Expiration Date (Month and year to be inserted by 
manufacturer) (Month and year manufactured) (Lot No. ____). Manufactured 
by (Name and address of manufacturer). U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. 
____.

    (b) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must not be more 
than 42 months from the date of manufacture.
    (c) Other marking. (1) There shall be die-stamped, in the side of 
the wooden handle in figures not less than 3 mm (\1/8\ in.) high, 
numbers indicating the month and year of manufacture, thus: ``6-54'' 
indicating June, 1954.
    (2) In addition to any other marking place on the smallest packing 
carton or box containing hand orange smoke distress signals such cartons 
or boxes shall be plainly and permanently marked to show the service 
life expiration date, date of manufacture, and lot number.
    (3) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships 
signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: ``Keep 
under cover in a dry place.''

    Note: Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does 
not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the 
label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances 
Act.



Sec.  160.037-6  Container.

    (a) General. The container for storing the signals on lifeboats and 
liferafts is not required to be of a special design or be approved by 
the Coast Guard. The container must meet the requirements in subpart 
160.021 (Sec.  160.021-6) except that the wording on the container must 
be: ``Hand Orange Smoke Distress Signals.''
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.037-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in 
subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]



     Subpart 160.038_Magazine Chests, Portable, for Merchant Vessels

    Source: CGFR 49-43, 15 FR 122 Jan. 11, 1950, unless otherwise noted.



Sec.  160.038-1  Applicable specifications.

    (a) There are no other specifications applicable to this subpart.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.038-2  Type.

    (a) Portable magazine chests shall be of a type suitable for stowage 
of pyrotechnic distress signals, rockets, or powder for line-throwing 
guns, and shall be of a size not less than 6 nor more than 40 cubic feet 
capacity. Alternate types of construction to that specified below will 
be given special consideration.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.038-3  Materials, workmanship, and construction.

    (a) Portable magazine chests shall be constructed of metal and lined 
with wood.
    (b) The lining shall be so fitted and finished as to form a smooth 
surface within the interior of the chest. Fastenings shall be recessed 
below the surface to avoid projections within the interior. Construction 
shall be such as to separate all containers of explosives or 
pyrotechnics from contact with metal surfaces.
    (c) The metal shall be \1/8\ inch thick and free from crimps, 
buckles, and rough edges. All metal surfaces shall be wire brushed and 
all oil, grease, rust, loose scale, and other extraneous matter, removed 
before application of any primer. All surfaces of the metal chest and 
fittings shall be given a heavy coat of quick drying red lead, zinc 
chromate, or other suitable primer before painting. The finish shall 
consist of two coats of paint. The interior shall be lined with wood 
sheathing of a minimum thickness of \3/4\ inch. Securing means shall be 
countersunk below the surface of the sheathing. Securing means for the 
cover and 4 lashing rings shall be provided. The lashing rings shall be 
3 I.D. x \3/8\ wire permanently attached to the 
magazine chest. Two runners, not less than 2 inches high shall be 
permanently attached to the bottom of the chest.



Sec.  160.038-4  Inspections and tests.

    (a) Portable magazine chests specified by this subpart are not 
ordinarily

[[Page 84]]

subject to regularly s scheduled factory inspections.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.038-5  Marking.

    (a) Portable magazine chests used for the stowage of pyrotechnic 
signals, rockets, and powder for line-throwing guns shall be marked, in 
letters at least 3 inches high, with the following legend: ``Portable 
Magazine Chest, Inflammable--Keep Lights and Fire Away.''
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.038-6  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Portable magazine chests are not subject to formal approval, but 
will be accepted by the inspector on the basis of this subpart at annual 
inspections and reinspections of vessels.
    (b) [Reserved]

Subpart 160.039 [Reserved]



 Subpart 160.040_Line-Throwing Appliance, Impulse-Projected Rocket Type 
                             (and Equipment)

    Source: CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73089, Dec. 17, 1979, unless 
otherwise noted.



Sec.  160.040-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) The following military specifications are incorporated by 
reference into this subpart:
    (1) MIL-R-23139 B, 16 August 1965--Rocket Motors, Surface Launched, 
Development and Qualification Requirements for.
    (2) MIL-R-45505 A, 2 April 1971--Line Throwing Apparatuses, Rocket 
and Projectile Units.
    (b) The military specifications may be obtained from Military 
Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, 
Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://
assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/. These specifications are also on file 
in the Federal Register library.
    (c) Approval to incorporate by reference the materials listed in 
this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on 
September 24, 1979.

[CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73089, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by 
USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60156, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.040-2  Type and size.

    (a) Impulse-projected rocket type line-throwing appliances required 
by this subpart shall be of a type consisting essentially of a pistol or 
launcher, which can be hand held and hand directed, or suitably 
supported and hand directed.
    (b) Impulse-projected rocket type line-throwing appliances shall 
weigh (complete with one rocket, bridle, and leader) not to exceed 16 kg 
(35 lb.) and shall be of a size easily manageable by one person.
    (c) Alternate arrangements which meet the performance requirements 
of this subpart will be given special consideration. Line-throwing 
appliances meeting the requirements of MIL-L-45505 Type I will be 
considered as meeting the requirements of this subpart subject to 
approval of the Commandant.



Sec.  160.040-3  Materials, construction, workmanship, and performance
requirements.

    (a) Materials. All materials used in the construction of impulse-
projected rocket type line-throwing appliances and equipment shall be of 
good quality suitable for the purpose intended, and shall conform to 
this subpart and to the specifications submitted by the manufacturer and 
approved by the Commandant. The choice of materials, when there is no 
specific requirement, shall be such that maximum safety to operating 
personnel will be maintained, and that resistance to corrosion by salt 
water or spray, shock, temperature change, and wear will be obtained. 
The use of dissimilar materials in combination shall be avoided wherever 
possible, but when such contacts are necessary, provision shall be made 
to prevent such deleterious effects as galvanic corrosion, freezing or 
buckling of moving parts, and loosening or tightening of joints due to 
differences in coefficients of thermal expansion.

[[Page 85]]

    (b) Construction. The design and construction shall be such as to 
obtain effective and safe operation aboard vessels at sea.
    (c) Workmanship. Impulse-projected rocket type line-throwing 
appliances shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from 
imperfections of manufacture affecting their appearance or that may 
affect their serviceability.
    (d) Performance. When the rocket is fired from the appliance in 
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, it shall be capable of 
passing the tests specified by Sec.  160.040-5(c).

[CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73089, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by 
USCG-2014-0688, 79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  160.040-4  Equipment for impulse-projected rocket type line-throwing
appliance.

    (a) Four rocket projectiles, each complete with bridle and leader of 
fire-resistant materials. Two of the projectiles shall be of the buoyant 
type.
    (b) Not less than 4 primer-ejector cartridges which fit the chamber 
of the pistol, gun, or launcher.
    (c) Four service lines, each 4 mm (\5/32\ in.) minimum diameter with 
a minimum breaking strength of at least 2,250 N (500 lb.), and in one 
continual length not less than that specified in the approval of the 
appliance carried, without splice, knot, or other retarding or weaking 
features. The length of each service line will be assigned in the 
approval of the appliance as a round number approximately one-third in 
excess of the average distance the line is carried in the tests required 
by Sec.  160.040-7(c). The line shall be of either natural or synthetic 
fibers suitable for marine usage. The end of the line intended to be 
attached to the projectile shall have securely attached thereto a 
substantial tag bearing a permanent legend indicating its purpose, and 
the other end of the line shall be tagged in the same manner to prevent 
delay in securing proper and immediate action with the equipment. Each 
line shall be coiled, faked, or reeled in its own faking box or reel in 
such manner that when all the line leaves the container, it shall 
automatically become unattached and free from the container. The faking 
box or reel shall be big enough for the line. The reel type container 
shall consist of a reel upon which the line may be readily coiled and a 
canister or container into which the line may be placed that affords a 
fair lead through which the line may pay out. The reel must be so 
designed as to permit easy withdrawal after the line has been coiled. 
Containers of new lines shall bear the name of the manufacturer, date of 
manufacture, and a statement to the effect that in all respects the line 
meets the requirements of this specification.
    (d) [Reserved]
    (e) One cleaning rod with wire brush of non-ferrous metal, prongs 
arranged in a spiral of sufficient rigidity and size to clean the bore.
    (f) One can of oil suitable for cleaning and preserving the 
appliance.
    (g) Twelve flannel wiping patches of sufficient size to cover the 
brush and suitable for wiping the bore clean.
    (h) One set of instructions including a list of the equipment 
furnished with the appliance, information as to the proper maintenance 
of the appliance and equipment, and directions for loading and firing 
the appliance in service use shall be permanently engraved in plastic 
and mounted conspicuously in the case or box required by paragraph (i) 
of this section.
    (i) A suitable case or box, properly compartmented for stowage of 
the appliance and auxiliary equipment, is required for stowage on 
merchant vessels. The service line and auxiliary line need not be stowed 
in the case.

[CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73089, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by 
USCG-2014-0688, 79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  160.040-5  Approval and production tests.

    (a) Approval tests. An independent laboratory accepted by the 
Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of this chapter must perform or supervise 
the performance tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
    (b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and 
tests must be conducted under the procedures in Sec.  159.007 of this 
chapter. Each appliance or lot of rockets which fails the inspections 
and tests must not be represented

[[Page 86]]

as meeting this subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard.
    (1) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer's 
quality control procedures must include the inspection of appliances 
during production as well as inspection of finished appliances, to 
determine that the appliances are being produced in accordance with the 
approved plans. The performance tests in paragraph (c) of this section 
must be performed by the manufacturer.
    (2) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An 
independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of 
this chapter must inspect and test appliances and rockets at least once 
each year. The inspection must determine that the appliances and rockets 
are being produced in accordance with the appropriate plans. The tests 
must be in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.
    (c) Performance tests--(1) Appliances. Each appliance shall be 
tested by firing three rounds. These rounds may be regular rockets or 
buoyant type rockets carrying regular service lines, as provided in 
paragraph (c)(2) of this paragraph or may be dummy projectiles, of the 
same size and weight as the regular rocket projectile, expelled into an 
earthen bank or other resisting medium from a reasonable distance. At 
least one of the rounds shall be fired using a primer-ejector cartridge 
loaded with a charge double the normal charge; the other rounds may be 
fired using regular primer-ejector cartridges. After the firing tests 
have been completed, each appliance shall be fired twice using the 
regular primer-ejector cartridges only, for the purposes of 
demonstrating that the appliance is still in operating condition. The 
entire assembly of the appliance shall then be examined. Results of the 
test firing and the physical examination shall show none of the 
following: Failure to eject cartridge, failure to close breech, trigger 
malfunction, safety lock failure to function, breech catch malfunction, 
broken spring, broken handgrips, cracked barrel or discharge chamber, 
firing pin or plunger broken, distorted or excessively worn or loose 
breech. A single misfire is acceptable if a second cartridge fires on 
repeated test. Misfire of both shall be cause for rejection of the 
appliance. More than one loose screw shall be cause for rejection. If an 
appliance exhibits a single loose screw, it may be retightened.
    (2) Rockets. The rocket shall utilize a solid fuel propellant which 
shall function in accordance with all applicable requirements of MIL-R-
23139. The use of black powder for the rocket motor is not acceptable. 
The ignition of the rocket motor shall occur at such a distance from the 
appliance so as not to spew flame, hot gaseous exhaust, or hot particles 
of propellant in such a manner as to create a hazard to personnel or the 
vessel. The rocket shall have a service line carrier assembly 
permanently attached and made of material, or suitably protected, to 
withstand the heat from the rocket motor's exhaust. From each 200 
rockets manufactured, not less than three must be selected to be tested 
by firing with service line attached. The rockets selected will, over a 
period of time, include representative samples of both the regular and 
buoyant type rockets, except that the approval test must include both 
types. The line shall be carried, under conditions of reasonably still 
atmosphere, a minimum of 230 m (750 ft.), without breaking or fouling 
the line, and the rocket shall alight not more than 15 m (50 ft.) from 
either side of the target line. In no case shall a test rocket be fired 
without a line attached. After a buoyant type rocket is fired, it shall 
demonstrate its ability to float in water for not less than 2 hours. 
Failure to meet any of the test requirements, nose cone cracks, rupture 
in flight, erratic flight, or unusual burning rate, shall be cause for 
rejection of rockets produced until suitable correction has been made. 
If rockets selected from this lot are used for the tests required in 
paragraph (c)(1) of this section this may be accepted as meeting the 
requirements of this paragraph.
    (3) Primer-ejector cartridges. Inasmuch as primer-ejector cartridges 
are used for the tests required by paragraphs (c) (1) and (2) of this 
paragraph, additional tests of primer-ejector cartridges will be made 
only when deemed advisable by the independent laboratory. Misfiring or 
failure of any kind shall be

[[Page 87]]

cause for rejection of cartridges produced until suitable correction has 
been made.



Sec.  160.040-6  Marking and labeling.

    (a) The appliance shall be permanently and legibly marked by die-
stamping or raised letters with the model designation of the appliance, 
the manufacturer's serial number for the appliance, the official Coast 
Guard approval number, and the name of the manufacturer. The rocket-
projectiles shall be legibly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
the model designation, the official Coast Guard approval number, and 
month and year manufactured. Primer-ejector cartridges shall be 
permanently and legibly marked with the name of the manufacturer, and 
the model designation, the official Coast Guard approval number, and the 
month and year manufactured.
    (b) The containers of new service lines shall bear the name of the 
manufacturer, date of manufacture, and a statement to the effect that in 
all respects the line meets the requirements of this subpart for service 
lines. Line faking boxes and reels shall bear the name of the 
manufacturer.

    Note: Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does 
not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the 
label requirements of 15 U.S.C 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances 
Act.



Sec.  160.040-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Rocket type line-throwing appliances are approved by the Coast 
Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]

Subpart 160.041 [Reserved]



          Subpart 160.042_Skids, Liferaft, for Merchant Vessels

    Source: CGFR 50-12, 15 FR 3095, May 20, 1950, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.042-1  Applicable specification.

    (a) The following specification, of the issue in effect on the date 
life raft skids are manufactured, forms a part of this subpart:
    (1) Coast Guard specification:

160.018, Life Rafts.

    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.042-2  General requirements.

    (a) The requirements of this subpart provide for a standard life 
raft skid for use on ocean and coastwise vessels in conjunction with the 
stowage of Type A rafts which may be used on such vessels.
    (b) Life raft skids shall be constructed and arranged so as to 
properly support a Type A life raft in the stowed position and permit 
the launching of the life raft directly into the water without the 
application of any force other than that necessary to release the 
gripping arrangement and operate the release mechanism.
    (c) Arrangements other than those specified by this subpart will be 
given special consideration.



Sec.  160.042-3  Construction.

    (a) The trackways of the skids shall be constructed of 6 
x 3\1/2\ x \1/2\ structural angles, or of material 
of approved shape and equivalent strength, inclined approximately 60 
degrees from the horizontal. The trackways shall be spaced 8[foot]-
4 from the inside of the 3\1/2\ vertical leg of 
one trackway angle to the inside of the 3\1/2\ vertical leg 
of the other trackway angle. The inside of the 6 leg of the 
trackway angles shall form the skid surface for the life raft. The 
trackways shall be supported by a substantial structure suitable for 
stowing a Type A life raft at a 60-degree angle without having the raft 
project over the side of the vessel.
    (b) The lower end of the life raft shall be supported by a base 
plate so arranged as to permit launching of the raft by a quick release 
assembly.
    (c) All bearing surfaces of the quick release mechanism shall be 
constructed of non-corrosive metal. Alemite fittings shall be provided 
to insure positive lubrication of all bearing surfaces.



Sec.  160.042-4  Inspection.

    (a) Life raft skids covered by this subpart are not subject to 
inspection at

[[Page 88]]

the place of manufacture, but are inspected on the basis of this 
specification during the annual or other inspection of the vessel upon 
which they are placed.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.042-5  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Life raft skids are not subject to formal approval by the 
Commandant, but for each merchant vessel on which Type A life rafts are 
to be installed, plans showing the construction and arrangement of the 
life raft stowage and launching device on the vessel are required to be 
submitted for approval to the Commandant through the Commander of the 
Coast Guard District prior to the actual installation. Life raft skids 
should comply with the requirements of this specification in order to be 
acceptable for use in such installations.
    (b) Correspondence pertaining to the subject matter of this 
specification should be addressed to the Commander of the Coast Guard 
District in which the skids are to be installed.

Subparts 160.043-160.044 [Reserved]



                  Subpart 160.046_Emergency Provisions

    Source: USCG-2020-0107, 87 FR 68304, Nov. 14, 2022, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.046-1  Scope.

    This subpart applies to emergency provisions approved to be carried 
in lifeboats and liferafts, in accordance with 46 CFR 199.175(b)(22).



Sec.  160.046-3  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) 
material is available for inspection at the Coast Guard Headquarters. 
Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 
7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; 
email: [email protected]; website: www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. It is 
also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records 
Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this 
material at NARA, email [email protected]; website: 
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. All approved 
material is available from the source(s) listed in this section.
    (b) International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Chemin de 
Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland; phone: +41 22 
749 01 11; email: [email protected]; web: www.iso.org.
    (1) ISO 18813:2006(E), Ships and marine technology--Survival 
equipment for survival craft and rescue boats, First edition, April 1, 
2006; IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.046-5; 160.046-7; 160.046-11.
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.046-5  General requirements for emergency provisions.

    Emergency provisions must meet the requirements found in ISO 
18813:2006(E) paragraph 4.31 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.046-3).



Sec.  160.046-7  Independent laboratory.

    Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent laboratory 
accepted by the Coast Guard under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010, must 
perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, and oversight 
required by ISO 18813:2006(E) paragraph 4.31 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.046-3). Approval and production tests of emergency 
provisions must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for 
independent laboratory inspections in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007, 
and in this section unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests 
and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production 
tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to 
monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.



Sec.  160.046-9  Manufacturer certification and labeling.

    (a) Each provision must be certified by the manufacturer as 
complying with the requirements of this subpart.

[[Page 89]]

    (b) The container should be clearly and permanently marked with:
    (1) The name and address of the approval holder;
    (2) The U.S. Coast Guard Approval number;
    (3) The total food energy value of provisions in the container in 
calories and kiloJoules;
    (4) The lot number;
    (5) The month and year the provision was packed; and
    (6) The month and year of expiration (5 years after the date of 
packing).
    (c) The emergency provision must include waterproof instructions for 
use, assuming consumption of 3350 kiloJoules per person per day.



Sec.  160.046-11  Manufacturer notification.

    (a) Each manufacturer of emergency provisions approved in accordance 
with the specifications of this subpart must send a test report required 
by ISO 18813:2006(E) paragraph 4.31.2 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  160.046-3) to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 
7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509 
or email [email protected]:
    (1) With the application for approval;
    (2) Every year as long as the manufacturer continues to produce 
provisions; and
    (3) Each time the contents of the emergency provisions change.
    (b) [Reserved]



   Subpart 160.047_Specification for a Buoyant Vest, Kapok or Fibrous 
                         Glass, Adult and Child



Sec.  160.047-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to 
the following documents:
    (1) Federal Specification:

L-P-375C--Plastic Film, Flexible, Vinyl Chloride.

    (2) Military specifications:

MIL-W-530--Webbing, Textile, Cotton, General Purpose, Natural or in 
Colors.
MIL-B-2766--Batt, Fibrous Glass, Lifesaving Equipment.

    (3) Federal Standards:

No. 191--Textile Test Methods.
751A--Stitches, Seams, and Stitchings.

    (4) Coast Guard specification:

164.003--Kapok, Processed.

    (b) Plans. The following plans, of the issue in effect on the date 
buoyant vests are manufactured, form a part of this subpart:

Dwg. No. 160.047-1:
    Sheet 1, Rev. 2--Cutting Pattern and General Arrangement, Models AK-
1, and AF-1.
    Sheet 2, Rev. 2--Cutting Pattern and General Arrangement, Models 
CKM-1 and CFM-1.
    Sheet 3, Rev. 2--Cutting Pattern and General Arrangement, Models 
CKS-1 and CFS-1.
    Sheet 4, Rev. 1--Pad Patterns.

    (c) Copies on file. The manufacturer shall keep a copy of each 
specification and plan required by this section on file together with 
the certificate of approval. Plans and specifications may be obtained as 
follows:
    (1) The Coast Guard plans and specifications may be obtained from 
the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, 
U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC 20593-7509 or a recognized laboratory listed in Sec.  
160.047-6b.
    (2) The Federal Specifications and Standard may be purchased from 
the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, 
Washington, DC 20407;
    (3) The military specifications may be obtained from the Military 
Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, 
Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://
assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.

[CGD 65-37, 30 FR 11581, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-90R, 37 FR 
10836, May 31, 1972; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27153, 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 
82-063b, 48 FR 4782, Feb. 3, 1983; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34535, Sept. 7, 
1988; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, 
Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60157, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.047-2  Model.

    Each buoyant vest specified in this subpart is a:
    (a) Model AK-1, adult, kapok (for persons weighing more than 90 
pounds);

[[Page 90]]

    (b) Model AF-1, adult, fibrous glass (for persons weighing more than 
90 pounds);
    (c) Model CKM-1, child medium, kapok (for children weighing from 50 
to 90 pounds);
    (d) Model CFM-1, child medium, fibrous glass (for children weighing 
from 50 to 90 pounds);
    (e) Model CKS-1, child small, kapok (for children weighing less than 
50 pounds); or
    (f) Model CFS-1, child small, fibrous glass (for children weighing 
less than 50 pounds).

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8119, Mar. 23, 1973]



Sec.  160.047-3  Materials.

    (a) General. All components used in the construction of buoyant 
vests must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this 
chapter. The requirements for materials specified in this section are 
minimum requirements, and consideration will be given to the use of 
alternate materials in lieu of those specified. Detailed technical data 
and samples of all proposed alternate materials must be submitted for 
approval before those materials are incorporated in the finished 
product.
    (b) Kapok. The kapok shall be all new material complying with 
Subpart 164.003 of this subchapter and shall be properly processed.
    (c) Fibrous glass. The fibrous glass shall comply with the 
requirements of specification MIL-B-2766.
    (d) Envelope. The buoyant vest envelope, or cover, shall be made 
from 39, 2.85 cotton jeans cloth, with a thread count of 
approximately 96 x 64. The finished goods shall weigh not less than 4.2 
ounces per square yard, shall have a thread count of not less than 94 x 
60, and shall have a breaking strength of not less than 85 pounds in the 
warp and 50 pounds in the filling. Other cotton fabrics having a weight 
and breaking strength not less than the above will be acceptable. There 
are no restrictions as to color, but the fastness of the color to 
laundering, water, crocking and light shall be rated ``good'' when 
tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, Methods 
5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660.
    (e) Pad covering. The covering for the buoyant pad inserts shall be 
flexible vinyl film not less than 0.006 in thickness meeting 
the requirements of Federal Specification L-P-375 for Type I or II, 
class 1, film.
    (f) Tie tapes and body strap loops. The tie tapes and body strap 
loops for an adult or child size buoyant vest specified by this subpart 
must be \3/4\-inch cotton webbing meeting the requirements in military 
specification MIL-T-43566 (Class I) for Type I webbing.
    (f-1) Body straps. The complete body strap assembly, including 
hardware, must have a breaking strength of 150 pounds for an adult size 
and 115 pounds for a child size. The specifications for the webbing are 
as follows:
    (1) For an adult size vest, the webbing must be 1 inch.
    (2) For a child size vest, the webbing must be three-fourth inch and 
meet the requirements of military specification MIL-W-530 for Type IIa 
webbing.
    (f-2) Reinforcing tape. The reinforcing tape around the neck of a 
buoyant vest specified by this subpart must be \3/4\-inch cotton tape 
weighing 0.18 ounce or more per linear yard and having a minimum 
breaking strength of 120 pounds.
    (g) [Reserved]
    (h) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 
164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each 
seam.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11581, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-90R, 37 
FR 10836, May 31, 1972; CGD 73-130R 39 FR 20684, June 13, 1974; CGD 78-
012; 43 FR 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 82-063b, 48 FR 4782, Feb. 3, 1983; 
CGD 84-068, 58 FR 29493, May 20, 1993]



Sec.  160.047-3a  Materials--Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other 
instruments of closure for buoyant vests.

    (a) Specifications. Dee ring and snap lock assemblies and other 
instruments of closure for buoyant vests may have decorative platings in 
any thickness and must meet the following specifications:
    (1) The device must be constructed of inherently corrosion resistant 
materials. As used in this section the term inherently corrosion 
resistant materials includes, but is not limited to, brass, bronze, and 
stainless steel.

[[Page 91]]

    (2) The size of the opening of the device must be consistent with 
the webbing which will pass through the opening.
    (b) Testing requirements. Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and 
other instruments of closure for buoyant vests must--
    (1) Be tested for weathering. The Coast Guard will determine which 
one or more of the following tests will be used:
    (i) Application of a 20 percent sodium-chloride solution spray at a 
temperature of 95 [deg]F (35 [deg]C) for a period of 240 hours in 
accordance with the procedures contained in method 811 of the Federal 
Test Method Standard No. 151.
    (ii) Exposure to a carbon-arc weather-ometer for a period of 100 
hours.
    (iii) Submergence for a period of 100 hours in each of the 
following:
    (a) Leaded gasoline.
    (b) Gum turpentine.
    (iv) Exposure to a temperature of 0[deg] 5 
[deg]F (-17.6 2.775 [deg]C) for 24 hours; and
    (2) Within 5 minutes of completion of the weathering test required 
by paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the assembly must be attached to a 
support and bear 150 pounds for an adult size and 115 pounds for a child 
size for 10 minutes at the ambient temperatures without breaking or 
distorting.

[CGD 73-130R, 39 FR 20684, June 13, 1974]



Sec.  160.047-4  Construction.

    (a) General. This specification covers buoyant vests which 
essentially consist of a vest-cut envelope containing compartments in 
which are enclosed pads of buoyant material arranged and distributed so 
as to provide the proper flotation characteristics and buoyancy required 
to hold the wearer in an upright backward position with head and face 
out of water. The buoyant vests are also fitted with tapes, webbing, and 
hardware to provide for proper adjustment and close and comfortable fit 
to the bodies of various size wearers.
    (b) Envelope. The envelope or cover shall be cut to the pattern 
shown on Dwg. No. 160.047-1, Sheet 1, for adult size, and Sheets 2 and 3 
for child sizes, and sewed with seams and stitching as shown on the 
drawing. Three compartments shall be formed to hold the buoyant pad 
inserts, two front compartments and one back compartment, and 
reinforcing strips of the same material as the cover shall be stitched 
to the inside of the front compartments in way of the strap attachments 
as shown by the drawings. As alternate construction, the front and/or 
back cover panels may be made in two pieces, provided that the two 
pieces are joined by a double stitched seam from the top center of the 
neck hole to the top of the vest as shown in Section J-J of the 
drawings.
    (c) Pad inserts--(1) Forming and sealing. The buoyant pad inserts 
shall each be formed from two pieces of film cut to the patterns shown 
by Dwg. No. 160.047-1, Sheet 4, which shall be heat-sealed tight. The 
heat-sealed pad seams shall show an adhesion of not less than 8 pounds 
when 1 inch strips cut across and perpendicular to the seams are pulled 
apart at a rate of separation of the clamping jaws of the test machine 
of 12 inches per minute.
    (2) Kapok-filled pads for Models AK-1, CKM-1, and CKS-1. The buoyant 
pad inserts for Models AK-1, CKM-1, and CKS-1 buoyant vests shall be 
filled with kapok distributed as provided in Table 160.047-4(c)(2).

                       Table 160.047-4(c)(2)--Distribution of Kapok in Buoyant Pad Inserts
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    Model AK-1      Model CKM-1     Model CKS-1
                                                                     (minimum)       (minimum)       (minimum)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                          Ounces          Ounces          Ounces
Front pad (2) (each)............................................            5.75            3.75            2.50
Back pad........................................................            4.00            2.50            2.00
                                                                 -----------------------------------------------
 Total..........................................................           15.50           10.00            7.00
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (3) Fibrous glass-filled pads for Models AF-1, CFM-1, and CFS-1. The 
buoyant pad inserts for Models AF-1, CFM-1, and CFS-1 buoyant vests 
shall be filled with fibrous glass distributed as provided in Table 
160.047-4(c)(3).

[[Page 92]]



                   Table 160.047-4(c)(3)--Distribution of Fibrous Glass in Buoyant Pad Inserts
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    Model AF-1      Model CFM-1     Model CFS-1
                                                                     (minimum)       (minimum)       (minimum)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                          Ounces          Ounces          Ounces
Front pad (2) (each)............................................           10.25            6.75            4.50
Back............................................................            7.25            4.50            3.50
                                                                 -----------------------------------------------
 Total..........................................................           27.75           18.00           12.50
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (4) Displacement of buoyant pad inserts. The volume of the finished 
individual heat-sealed buoyant pad inserts shall be such as to provide 
buoyancy as set forth in Table 160.047-4(c)(4) when tested in accordance 
with the method set forth in Sec.  160.047-5(e)(1), except that the pad 
covers shall not be slit open and the period of submergence shall be 
only long enough to determine the displacement of the pads.

                                                Table 160.047-4(c)(4)--Volume Displacement of Sealed Pads
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Models AK-1 and AF-1                  Models CKM-1 and CFM-1                Models CKS-1 and CFS-1
                                     -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       Each                                   Each                                  Each
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Front pads..........................  6\1/4\ pounds \1/4\ pound.                        eq>\1/4\ pound.                        eq>\1/4\ pound
Back pads...........................  4\1/4\ pounds \1/4\ pound.                        eq>\1/4\ pound.                        eq>\1/4\ pound
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (d) Tie tapes. The tie tapes at the neck shall finish not less than 
12 inches in length for both adult and child size buoyant vests. They 
shall be arranged and attached to the envelope as shown by the drawings, 
and the free ends shall be doubled over and stitched in accordance with 
section H-H.
    (e) Body strap, hardware, and reinforcing tape. The body strap, 
hardware, and reinforcing tape shall be arranged as shown on the 
drawings and attached to the envelope with the seams and stitching 
indicated.
    (f) Stitching. All stitching shall be a short lock stitch conforming 
to Stitch Type 301 of Federal Standard No. 751, and there shall be not 
less than 7 nor more than 9 stitches to the inch. Both ends of the 
stitching forming the shoulder hinge seams and the top and bottom 
closing seams of the envelope shall be backstitched approximately \1/2\ 
inch.
    (g) Workmanship. Buoyant vests shall be of first-class workmanship 
and shall be free from any defects materially affecting their appearance 
or serviceability.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11581, Sept. 10, 1965]



Sec.  160.047-5  Inspections and tests. \1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ The manufacturer of a personal flotation device must meet 33 CFR 
181.701 through 33 CFR 181.705 which require an instruction pamphlet for 
each device that is sold or offered for sale for use on recreational 
boats.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (a) General. Manufacturers of listed and labeled buoyant vests 
shall--
    (1) Maintain quality control of the materials used, the 
manufacturing methods and the finished product to meet the requirements 
of this subpart by conducting sufficient inspections and tests of 
representative samples and components produced;
    (2) Make available to the recognized laboratory inspector and to the 
Coast Guard inspector, upon request, records of tests conducted by the 
manufacturer and records of materials used during production of the 
device including affidavits from suppliers; and
    (3) Permit any examination, inspection, and test required by the 
recognized laboratory or the Coast Guard for a listed and labeled 
device, either at the place of manufacture, or some other location.
    (b) Lot size and sampling. (1) A lot consists of 500 buoyant vests 
or fewer.
    (2) A new lot begins after any change or modification in materials 
used or manufacturing methods employed;

[[Page 93]]

    (3) The manufacturer of the buoyant vests shall notify the 
recognized laboratory when a lot is ready for inspection;
    (4) The manufacturer shall select samples in accordance with the 
requirements in Table 160.047-5(b)(4) from each lot of buoyant vests to 
be tested by the inspector in accordance with paragraph (e) of this 
section;

            Table 160.047-5(b)(4)--Sample for Buoyancy Tests
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Number of
                          Lot size                             vests in
                                                                sample
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100 and under..............................................            1
101 to 200.................................................            2
201 to 300.................................................            3
301 to 500.................................................            4
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (5) The recognized laboratory must assign an inspector to a plant 
when notified that a lot is ready for inspection, to conduct tests and 
inspections on samples selected in accordance with paragraph (b)(4) of 
this section.
    (6) If a vest fails the buoyancy test, the sample from the next 
succeeding lot must consist of 10 specimen vests or more to be tested 
for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
    (c) Additional tests. An inspector from the recognized laboratory or 
the Coast Guard may conduct an examination, test, and inspection of a 
listed and labeled buoyant device that is obtained from the manufacturer 
or through commercial channels to determine its conformance to the 
applicable requirements.
    (d) Test facilities. The manufacturer shall admit the laboratory 
inspector and the Coast Guard inspector to any part of the premises at 
the place of manufacture of a listed and labeled device to--
    (1) Examine, inspect, or test a sample of a part or a material that 
is included in the construction of the device; and
    (2) Conduct any necessary examination, inspection, or test in a 
suitable place and with appropriate apparatus provided by the 
manufacturer.
    (e) Buoyancy--(1) Buoyancy test method. Remove the buoyant pad 
inserts from the vest and cut three slits each not less than 2 inches in 
length and not less than 2 inches apart on both sides of each pad. 
Securely attach the spring scale in a position directly over the test 
tank. Suspend the weighted wire basket from the scale in such a manner 
that the basket is weighed while it is completely under water. In order 
to measure the actual buoyancy provided by the pads, proceed as follows:
    (i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
    (ii) Place the pads inside the basket and submerge it so that the 
top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water 
for 24 hours. The tank shall be locked or sealed during this 24-hour 
submergence period. It is important that after the pads have once been 
submerged they shall remain submerged for the duration of the test, and 
at no time during the course of the test shall they be removed from the 
tank or otherwise exposed to air.
    (iii) After the 24-hour submergence period unlock or unseal the tank 
and weigh the weighted wire basket with the pads inside while both are 
still under water.
    (iv) The buoyancy is computed as (i) minus (iii).
    (2) Buoyancy required. The pad inserts from adult buoyant vests 
shall provide not less than 16 pounds buoyancy; the pad inserts from 
child medium vests shall provide not less than 11 pounds buoyancy; and 
the pad inserts from child small vests shall provide not less than 7\1/
4\ pounds buoyancy.
    (f) Body strap test. The complete body strap assembly, including 
hardware, shall be tested for strength by attaching the dee ring to a 
suitable support such that the assembly hangs vertically its full 
length. A weight as specified in Sec.  160.047-3(f) shall be attached to 
the other end on the snap hook for 10 minutes. The specified weight 
shall not break or excessively distort the body strap assembly.

[CGFR 65-37; 30 FR 11581, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-90R, 37 
FR 10836, May 31, 1972; CGD 75-008, 43 FR 9772, Mar. 9, 1978]



Sec.  160.047-6  Marking.

    (a) Each buoyant vest must have the following information clearly 
marked in waterproof lettering that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:

    Inspected and tested in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard 
regulations.

[[Page 94]]

    (Kapok or Fibrous glass) buoyant material provides a minimum buoyant 
force of (16 lb., 11 lb., or 7\1/4\ lb.).
    Dry out thoroughly when wet.
    Do not snag or puncture inner plastic cover.
    If pads become waterlogged, replace device.
    Approved for use on all recreational boats and on uninspected 
commercial vessels less than 40 feet in length not carrying passengers 
for hire by persons weighing (over 90 lb., 50 to 90 lb., or less than 50 
lb.).
    U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. 160.047/(assigned manufacturer's No.)/
(Revision No.); (Model No.).
    (Name and address of manufacturer or distributor.).
    (Lot No.).

    (b) Waterproof marking tags. Marking for buoyant vests shall be 
sufficiently waterproof so that after 72 hours submergence in water, it 
will withstand vigorous rubbing by hand while wet without the printed 
matter becoming illegible.

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8119, Mar. 28, 1973, as amended by CGD 75-008, 43 FR 
9770, Mar. 9, 1978; USCG-2013-0263, 79 FR 56499, Sept. 22, 2014]



Sec.  160.047-7  Recognized laboratory.

    (a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under 
this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of 
this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized 
independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under 
Sec.  159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions 
under this subpart:

Underwriters Laboratories, 12 Laboratory Drive, P.O. Box 13995, Research 
Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995, (919) 549-1400.

    (b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory 
that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the 
Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production 
oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory 
that performed the approval testing.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13930, Mar. 28, 1996]



   Subpart 160.048_Specification for a Buoyant Cushion, Fibrous Glass



Sec.  160.048-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to 
the following documents:
    (1) Military specification:

MIL-B-2766--Batt, Fibrous Glass, Lifesaving Equipment.

    (2) Federal Specifications:

CCC-C-700G--Cloth, Coated, Vinyl, Coated (Artificial Leather).
CCC-C-426D--Cloth, Cotton Drill.
L-P-375C--Plastic Film, Flexible, Vinyl Chloride.

    (3) Federal standard:

No. 751--Stitches, Seams, and Stitchings.

    (4) Coast Guard specification:

164.003--Kapok, Processed.

    (b) Plan. The following plan, of the issue in effect on the date 
kapok or fibrous glass buoyant cushions are manufactured, form a part of 
this subpart:
    (1) Coast Guard Dwg. No. 160.048-1.
    (c) Copies on File. Copies of the specifications and plan referred 
to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together 
with the approved plans and certificate of approval. The Coast Guard 
specification and plan may be obtained upon request from Commandant (CG-
ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard 
Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-
7509, or recognized laboratory. The Federal Specifications and the 
Federal Standard may be purchased from the Business Service Center, 
General Services Administration, Washington; DC 20407. The Military 
Specification may be obtained from the Military Specifications and 
Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 
Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://
assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11583, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70-143, 35 
FR 19962, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27153, 27154, June 22, 1978; 
USCG-1999-6216, 64 FR 53227, Oct. 1, 1999; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60157, 
Sept. 30, 2013]

[[Page 95]]



Sec.  160.048-2  Types and sizes.

    (a) Types. Buoyant cushions shall be of the box type, i.e., have 
top, bottom and gusset. Pillow type cushions without a gusset are not 
acceptable.
    (b) Sizes. Buoyant cushions shall have not less than 225 square 
inches top surface area; widths and lengths which fall within the 
dimensions shown in Tables 160.048-4(c)(1)(i) and 160.048-4(c)(1)(ii); 
and thickness not less than 2 nor more than 3 inches, the thickness to 
be considered as the finished width of the gusset between seams.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11583, Sept. 10, 1965]



Sec.  160.048-3  Materials.

    (a) General. All components used in the construction of buoyant 
cushions must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of 
this chapter.
    (b) Kapok. The kapok shall be all new material complying with 
Specification subpart 164.003 of this subchapter and shall be properly 
processed.
    (c) Fibrous glass. The fibrous glass shall comply with the 
requirements of specification MIL-B-2766.
    (d) Cover. Cotton fabrics and coated upholstery cloth meeting the 
minimum requirements set forth in paragraphs (d) (1) and (2) of this 
section are acceptable for use as covers for buoyant cushions, but 
alternate materials will be given special consideration. Pro rata widths 
of like construction will be acceptable.
    (1) Cotton fabrics. Cotton fabrics shall comply with the 
requirements of Federal Specification CCC-C-426 for Type I, Class 3 
material.
    (2) Coated upholstery cloth. Coated upholstery cloth shall comply 
with the requirements of Federal Specification CCC-A-700.
    (e) Pad covering. The covering for the buoyant pad inserts shall be 
flexible vinyl film not less than 0.008 inch in thickness meeting the 
requirements of Federal Specification L-P-375 for Type I or II, Class 1, 
film.
    (f) Grab straps. The grab straps shall be of materials permitted for 
the cover, or approved equivalent.
    (g) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 
164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each 
seam.
    (h) Welting. The welting where used may be any fiber or plastic 
material suitable for the purpose.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11583, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 78-012, 43 
FR 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 84-068, 58 FR 29493, May 20, 1993]



Sec.  160.048-4  Construction and workmanship.

    (a) General. This specification covers buoyant cushions of the box 
type filled with kapok or fibrous glass contained in heat-sealed vinyl 
film pad covers which are inserted in an outer cover fitted with grab 
straps. The primary purpose of such cushions is to provide buoyancy to 
aid a person in keeping afloat in the water. No hooks, snaps, or other 
means shall be included which might facilitate fastening the cushion to 
a boat. Buoyant cushions shall be of such size and volume as to provide 
not less than 20 pounds buoyancy when tested in the manner described in 
Sec.  160.048-5(e), but no cushion providing less than 225 square inches 
of top surface area or measuring less than 2 inches or more than 3 
inches in thickness will be acceptable.
    (b) Cover. One piece of material each for the top and bottom shall 
be stitched together to form the cover except that piecing of the cover 
material will be allowed provided it is for decorative purposes only. 
Gusset or boxing materials shall be of not more than two pieces. If more 
than one piece of material is used for the top, bottom, boxing or 
gusset, they shall be attached by a double row of stitching of the type 
shown in Federal Standard No. 751, for seam types SSw-2 or LS(b)-2. The 
top and bottom may be of any of the materials permitted for the cover, 
but the boxing or gusset shall be a cotton fabric as specified by Sec.  
160.048-3(c)(1) or other equivalent material of a porous nature. 
Nonporous materials will not be permitted for the boxing or gusset, but 
coated upholstery cloth specified by Sec.  160.048-3(d)(2), perforated 
to permit adequate draining and drying will be acceptable.
    (c) Buoyant material. Buoyant cushions shall be filled with the 
minimum amounts of kapok or fibrous glass determined as follows:
    (1) Rectangular buoyant cushions 2 inches thick shall be filled with 
the

[[Page 96]]

amounts of kapok or fibrous glass indicated for the various widths and 
lengths of such cushions by Table 160.048-4(c)(1)(i) or 160.048-
4(c)(1)(ii), as applicable. Trapezoidal buoyant cushions 2 inches thick 
shall be filled with the amounts of kapok or fibrous glass indicated for 
the various widths and lengths of rectangular buoyant cushions by Table 
160.048-4(c)(1)(i) or 160.048-4(c)(1)(ii) as applicable, on the basis 
that the length of a trapezoidal cushion shall be considered as its 
average length in each case.

  Table 160.048-4(c)(1)(i)--Weight of Kapok (in Ounces) for Filling Rectangular Buoyant Cushions 2 Inches Thick
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                       Width (inches)
                                          ----------------------------------------------------------------------
             Length (inches)                                                                                Over
                                            12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   24
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15.......................................  ...  ...  ...   20  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ....
16.......................................  ...  ...  ...   21   23  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ....
17.......................................  ...  ...   21   23   24   26  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ....
18.......................................  ...   21   22   24   26   27   29  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ....
19.......................................   20   22   24   25   27   29   30   32  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ....
20.......................................   21   23   25   27   28   30   32   34   36  ...  ...  ...  ...  ....
21.......................................   22   24   26   28   30   32   34   35   37   39  ...  ...  ...  ....
22.......................................   23   25   27   29   31   33   35   37   39   41   43  ...  ...  ....
23.......................................   25   27   29   31   33   35   37   39   41   43   45   47  ...  ....
24.......................................   26   28   30   32   34   36   38   41   43   45   47   49   51  ....
25.......................................   27   29   31   33   36   38   40   42   44   47   49   51   53  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
26.......................................   28   30   32   35   37   39   42   44   46   49   51   53   55  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
27.......................................   29   31   34   36   38   41   43   46   48   50   53   55   58  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
28.......................................   30   32   35   37   40   42   44   47   50   52   55   57   60  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
29.......................................   31   34   36   39   41   44   46   49   52   54   57   59   62  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
30.......................................   32   35   37   40   43   45   48   51   53   56   59   61   64  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
31.......................................   33   36   39   41   44   47   50   52   55   58   61   63   66  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
32.......................................   34   37   40   43   46   48   51   54   57   60   62   65   68  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
33.......................................   35   38   41   44   47   50   53   56   59   62   64   67   70  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
34.......................................   36   39   42   45   48   51   54   57   60   63   66   69   73  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
35.......................................   37   40   44   47   50   53   56   59   62   65   68   72   75  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
36.......................................   38   42   45   48   51   54   58   61   64   67   70   74   77  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
Over 36..................................  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1\
                                            \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)     )
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Determine amount of kapok from formula (1) contained in Sec.   160.048-4(c)(2).


 Table 160.048-4(c)(1)(ii)--Weight of Fibrous Glass (in Ounces) for Filling Rectangular Buoyant Cushion 2 Inches
                                                      Thick
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                       Width (inches)
                                          ----------------------------------------------------------------------
             Length (inches)                                                                                Over
                                            12   13   14   15   16   17   18   19   20   21   22   23   24   24
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15.......................................  ...  ...  ...   36  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ....
16.......................................  ...  ...  ...   38   41  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ....
17.......................................  ...  ...   38   41   44   46  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ....
18.......................................  ...   37   40   43   46   49   52  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ....
19.......................................   36   40   43   46   49   52   55   58  ...  ...  ...  ...  ...  ....
20.......................................   38   42   45   48   51   54   58   61   64  ...  ...  ...  ...  ....
21.......................................   40   44   47   50   54   57   60   64   67   71  ...  ...  ...  ....
22.......................................   42   46   49   53   56   60   63   67   70   74   77  ...  ...  ....
23.......................................   44   48   52   55   59   63   66   70   74   77   81   85  ...  ....
24.......................................   46   50   54   58   61   65   69   73   77   81   84   88   92  ....
25.......................................   48   52   56   60   64   68   72   76   80   84   88   92   96  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
26.......................................   50   54   58   62   67   71   75   79   83   87   92   96  100  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
27.......................................   52   56   60   65   69   73   78   82   86   91   95   99  104  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
28.......................................   54   58   63   67   72   76   81   85   90   94   99  103  108  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
29.......................................   56   60   65   70   74   79   84   88   93   97  102  107  111  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
30.......................................   58   62   67   72   77   82   86   91   96  101  106  110  115  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
31.......................................   60   64   69   74   79   84   89   94   99  104  109  114  119  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
32.......................................   61   67   72   77   82   87   92   97  103  108  113  118  123  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
33.......................................   63   69   74   79   84   90   95  100  106  111  116  121  127  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
34.......................................   65   71   76   82   87   92   98  103  109  114  120  125  131  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
35.......................................   67   73   78   84   90   95  101  106  112  118  123  129  134  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
36.......................................   69   75   81   86   92   98  104  109  115  121  127  132  138  (\1\
                                                                                                               )
Over 36..................................  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1  (\1\
                                            \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)   \)     )
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Determine amount of fibrous glass from formula (2) contained in Sec.   160.048-4(c)(2).


[[Page 97]]

    (2) All buoyant cushions more than 2 inches thick, and all buoyant 
cushions 2 inches thick which are of shapes different from those covered 
by paragraph (c)(1) of this section, shall be filled with kapok or 
fibrous glass as determined in the following formulas:

Amount of kapok (ounces) = A x t / 22.5 (1)

Amount of fibrous glass (ounces) = A x t / 12.5 (2)

Where:

A = Top surface area of cushion in square inches as determined from 
          measurements taken along finished edges.
t = Thickness of boxing or gusset of finished cushion in inches.

    (d) Pad covers for buoyant material. Before being inserted in the 
outer cover the buoyant material shall be placed in waterproof vinyl 
film pad covers which shall be heat-sealed tight. The heat-sealed pad 
seams shall show an adhesion of not less than 8 pounds when one inch 
strips cut across and perpendicular to the seams are pulled apart at a 
rate of separation of the clamping jaws of the test machine of 12 inches 
per minute. Each cushion shall contain not less than four pads and all 
pads in a cushion shall contain approximately equal portions of the 
total amount of buoyant material in the cushion. The buoyant material 
may be inserted directly into the vinyl film pad covers, or may first be 
packed in bags made of print cloth or other suitable material and then 
inserted into the vinyl film pad covers. The pads shall be of such size 
as to adequately fill the outer cover, and prior to sealing, the pads 
shall be evacuated of air sufficiently that when sat on the pads will 
not ``balloon'' excessively because of the pressure in the pad covers. 
For 15 x 15 x 2 cushions the four vinyl 
film pad covers shall each be cut approximately 12 wide x 
12 long or approximately 8 wide x 18 
long shall have a sealed area of approximately 125 square inches; shall 
contain not less than 5 ounces of kapok or 9 ounces of fibrous glass 
each; and the volume displacement of the individual heat-sealed pad 
inserts shall be 5\1/2\ pounds each, plus or minus \1/2\ pound, when 
tested in accordance with the method set forth in Sec.  160.048-5(e)(1), 
except that the pad covers shall not be slit open, and the period of 
submergence shall be only long enough to determine the displacement of 
the pads.
    (e) Grab straps. Grab straps shall be attached as shown on Dwg. No. 
160.048-1 and shall finish 20 inches long and 1 inch wide at opposite 
ends. The grab straps, if formed from cover material shall be folded and 
stitched together so as to produce a double thickness with raw edges 
turned under. Other means will be given special consideration.
    (f) Seams and stitching. Seams shall be constructed with not less 
than a \3/8\ inch border between the seam and the edge of the cover 
materials. All stitching shall be a lock stitch, 7 to 9 stitches per 
inch, except as follows: Chain stitching 6 to 8 stitches per inch, with 
20/4 thread on top and 40/3 thread on the bottom, will be acceptable in 
constructing straps.
    (g) Workmanship. All cushions shall be of first class workmanship 
and shall be free from defects materially affecting their appearance or 
serviceability. Cushions classified as ``seconds'' or ``irregular'' will 
not be acceptable under this specification.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11583, Sept. 10, 1965]



Sec.  160.048-5  Inspections and tests. \1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ The manufacturer of a personal flotation device must meet 33 CFR 
181.701 through 33 CFR 181.705 which require an instruction pamphlet for 
each device that is sold or offered for sale for use on recreational 
boats.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (a) General. Manufacturers of listed and labeled buoyant cushions 
shall maintain quality control of the materials used, manufacturing 
methods and the finished product so as to meet the applicable 
requirements, and shall make sufficient inspections and tests of 
representative samples and components produced to maintain the quality 
of the finished product. Records of tests conducted by the manufacturer 
and records of materials, including affidavits by suppliers that 
applicable requirements are met, entering into construction shall be 
made available to the recognized laboratory inspector or the Coast Guard 
inspector, or both, for review upon request. Any examinations, 
inspections and test which are required by the recognized laboratory for 
listed and labeled devices produced

[[Page 98]]

will be conducted by the laboratory inspector at the place of 
manufacture or other location at the option of the laboratory.
    (b) Lot size and sampling. (1) A lot shall consist of not more than 
1,000 buoyant cushions. A new lot shall be started with any change or 
modification in materials used or manufacturing methods employed. When a 
lot of buoyant cushions is ready for inspection, the manufacturer shall 
notify the recognized laboratory so that they may, at their discretion, 
assign an inspector to the plant for the purpose of making any tests and 
inspections deemed necessary. From each lot of buoyant cushions, the 
manufacturer or the recognized laboratory or U.S. Coast Guard inspector, 
when assigned, shall select samples in accordance with Table 160.048-
5(b)(1) to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of 
this section.

           Table 160.048-5(b)(1)--Sampling for Buoyancy Tests
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 No. of
                           Lot size                             cushions
                                                               in sample
------------------------------------------------------------------------
200 and under................................................          1
201 to 400...................................................          2
401 to 600...................................................          3
601 to 1,000.................................................          4
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) For a lot next succeeding one from which any sample cushion 
failed the buoyancy test, the sample shall consist of not less than 10 
specimen cushions to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph 
(e) of this section.
    (c) Additional tests. Unannounced examinations, tests and 
inspections of samples obtained either directly from the manufacturer or 
through commercial channels may be made to determine the suitability of 
a product for listing and labeling, or to determine conformance of a 
labeled product to the applicable requirements. These may be conducted 
by the recognized laboratory or the Coast Guard.
    (d) Test facilities. The laboratory inspector, or the Coast Guard 
inspector, or both, shall be admitted to any place in the factory where 
work is being done on listed and labeled products, and either or both 
inspectors may take samples of parts or materials entering into 
construction of final assemblies, for further examinations, inspections, 
or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place and the 
apparatus necessary for the performance of the tests which are done at 
the place of manufacture.
    (e) Buoyancy--(1) Buoyancy test method. Remove the buoyant pad 
inserts from the cushion and cut three slits in the vinyl film, each not 
less than 6 inches in length on both sides of each pad. Securely attach 
the spring scale in a position directly over the test tank. Suspend the 
weighted wire basket from the scale in such a manner that the basket is 
weighed while it is completely under water. In order to measure the 
actual buoyancy provided by the pads, the underwater weight of the empty 
basket should exceed the buoyancy of the pads. To obtain the buoyancy of 
the pads, proceed as follows:
    (i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
    (ii) Place the pads inside the basket and submerge it so that the 
top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water 
for 24 hours. The tank shall be locked or sealed during this 24-hour 
submergence period. It is important that after the pads have once been 
submerged that they shall remain submerged for the duration of the test, 
and at no time during the course of the test shall they be removed from 
the tank or otherwise exposed to air.
    (iii) After the 24-hour submergence period unlock or unseal the tank 
and weigh the weighted wire basket with the pads inside while both are 
still under water.
    (iv) The buoyancy is computed as (i) minus (iii).
    (2) Buoyancy required. The buoyant pads from the cushion shall 
provide not less than 20 pounds total buoyancy.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11585, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70-143, 35 
FR 19963, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 78-008, 43 FR 9772, Mar. 9, 1978; USCG-
2014-0688, 79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  160.048-6  Marking.

    (a) Each buoyant cushion must have the following information clearly 
marked in waterproof lettering:
    (1) In letters that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:


[[Page 99]]


Type IV Personal Flotation Device.
    Inspected and tested in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard 
regulations.
    Dry out thoroughly when wet.
    (Kapok or Fibrous glass) buoyant material provides a minimum buoyant 
force of 20 lb.
    Do not snag or puncture inner plastic cover.
    If pads become waterlogged, replace device.
    Approved for use on recreational boats only as a throwable device.
    U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. 160.048/(assigned manufacturer's No.)/
(Revision No.); (Model No.).
    (Name and address of manufacturer or distributor.).
    (Lot No.).
    (Size; width, thickness, and length, including both top and bottom 
for trapezoidal cushions.).

    (2) In letters that are distinctively set off or larger than all 
other marking, and are at least one-fourth of an inch in height:

                      WARNING: DO NOT WEAR ON BACK

    (b) Waterproofness of marking. Marking for buoyant cushions shall be 
sufficiently waterproof so that after 72 hours submergence in water, it 
will withstand vigorous rubbing by hand while wet without the printed 
matter becoming illegible.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11585, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70-143, 35 
FR 19963, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8119, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 75-
008, 43 FR 9771, Mar. 9, 1978; CGD 92-045, 58 FR 41608, Aug. 4, 1993; 
CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51213, Sept. 30, 1997]



Sec.  160.048-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Group approval. A single group approval will be granted to each 
manufacturer to cover all buoyant cushions which have materials and 
construction strictly in conformance with this subpart, which are 2 
inches thick, and which are filled with kapok or fibrous glass in 
accordance with Sec.  160.048-4(c)(1).
    (b) Special approvals. Special approvals will be granted separately 
to each manufacturer for each kapok or fibrous glass buoyant cushion he 
proposes to manufacture which is not included under the group approval 
provided by paragraph (b) of this section, for example: A kapok or 
fibrous glass buoyant cushion having cover material not specifically 
provided for by this subpart; or any buoyant cushion more than 2 inches 
thick; or any buoyant cushion having a different shape.
    (c) A buoyant cushion is approved when it bears the compliance label 
of the recognized laboratory.

[CGFR 70-143, 35 FR 19963, Dec. 30, 1970, as amended by CGD 72-163R, 38 
FR 8119, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13930, Mar. 28, 1996; 61 FR 
15162, Apr. 4, 1996]



Sec.  160.048-8  Recognized laboratory.

    (a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under 
this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of 
this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized 
independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under 
Sec.  159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions 
under this subpart:

Underwriters Laboratories, 12 Laboratory Drive, P.O. Box 13995, Research 
Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995, (919) 549-1400.

    (b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory 
that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the 
Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performed production 
oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory 
that performed the approval testing.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13930, Mar. 28, 1996]



    Subpart 160.049_Specification for a Buoyant Cushion Plastic Foam



Sec.  160.049-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to 
the following documents:
    (1) Federal Specifications:

CCC-C-700G-Cloth, Coated, Vinyl, Coated (Artificial Leather).
CCC-C-426D-Cloth, Cotton Drill.

    (2) Federal standard:

No. 751--Stitches, Seams, and Stitchings.
    (3) Coast Guard specifications:

160.055--Life Preservers, Unicellular Plastic Foam, Adult and Child.
164.015--Plastic Foam, Unicellular, Buoyant, Sheet and Molded Shapes.

    (4) Military specifications.


[[Page 100]]


MIL-C-43006--Cloth, Laminated, Vinyl-Nylon, High Strength, Flexible.

    (b) Plan. The following plan, of the issue in effect on the date 
unicellular plastic foam buoyant cushions are manufactured, form a part 
of this subpart:
    (1) Coast Guard Dwg. No. 160.049-1.
    (c) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications and plan referred 
to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together 
with the approved plans and certificate of approval. The Coast Guard 
specifications and plan may be obtained upon request from Commandant 
(CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast 
Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 
20593-7509, or recognized laboratory. The Federal Specifications and the 
Federal Standard may be purchased from the Business Service Center, 
General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20407.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11586, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70-143, 35 
FR 19964, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8119, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 78-
012, 43 FR 27153, 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34535, Sept. 
7, 1988; USCG-1999-6216, 64 FR 53228, Oct. 1, 1999; USCG-2013-0671, 78 
FR 60157, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.049-2  Types and sizes.

    (a) Type. Buoyant cushions shall be of the box type, i.e., have top, 
bottom, and gusset. Pillow type cushions without a gusset are not 
acceptable.
    (b) Sizes. Buoyant cushions shall have not less than 225 square 
inches of top surface area, shall contain not less than 630 cubic inches 
of buoyant material, shall not be less than 2 inches thick, and shall 
have width no less than 12 inches and length no less than 15 inches, 
respectively.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11586, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by USCG-1998-4442, 
63 FR 52191, Sept. 30, 1998]



Sec.  160.049-3  Materials.

    (a) General. All components used in the construction of buoyant 
cushions must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019.
    (b) Unicellular plastic foam. The unicellular plastic foam shall be 
all new material complying with the requirements of Specification 
subpart 164.015 for Type A or B foam.
    (c) Cover. Cotton fabrics and coated upholstery cloth meeting the 
minimum requirements set forth in paragraphs (c) (1) and (2) of this 
section, are acceptable for use as covers for buoyant cushions. Vinyl-
dip coating meeting the requirements set forth in paragraph (c)(3) of 
this section will also be acceptable. Alternate materials will be given 
special consideration. Pro rata widths of like construction will be 
acceptable.
    (1) Cotton fabrics. Cotton fabrics shall comply with the 
requirements of Federal Specification CCC-C-426 for Type I, Class 3 
material.
    (2) Coated upholstery cloth. Coated upholstery cloth shall comply 
with the requirements of Federal Specification CCC-A-700.
    (3) Vinyl-dip. The vinyl-dip coating shall comply with the coating 
requirements of Sec.  160.055-5(b)(2) except there are no color 
restrictions.
    (4) Adhesive. The adhesive shall be an all-purpose waterproof vinyl 
type. Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Co. EC-870 or EC-1070, United 
States Rubber Co. M6256, Herculite Protective Fabrics Corp. CVV, 
Pittsburgh Plate Glass Co. R.828, or equal, are acceptable.
    (5) Reinforcing fabric. The reinforcing fabric shall be type II, 
class I, laminated vinyl-nylon high strength cloth in accordance with 
the requirements of Specification MIL-C-43006.
    (d) Grab Straps. The grab straps shall be of materials permitted for 
the cover, or approved equivalent.
    (e) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 
164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each 
seam.
    (f) Welting. The welting where used may be of any fiber or plastic 
material suitable for the purpose.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11586, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70-143, 35 
FR 19964, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 84-
068, 58 FR 29493, May 20, 1993]



Sec.  160.049-4  Construction and workmanship.

    (a) General. This specification covers buoyant cushions of the box 
type filled with unicellular plastic foam buoyant

[[Page 101]]

material. Such cushions consist essentially of a buoyant insert 
contained in an outer cover fitted with grab straps. The primary purpose 
of such cushions is to provide buoyancy to aid a person in keeping 
afloat in the water. Buoyant cushions providing less than 20 pounds 
buoyancy or less than 2 inches in thickness will not be acceptable.
    (b) Cover. One piece of material each for the top and bottom shall 
be stitched together to form the cover except that piecing of the cover 
material will be allowed provided it is for decorative purposes only. 
Gusset or boxing materials shall be of not more than two pieces. If more 
than one piece of material is used for the top, bottom, boxing or 
gusset, they shall be attached by a double row of stitching of the type 
shown in Federal Standard No. 751, for Seam types SSw-2 or LSb-2. The 
top and bottom may be of any of the materials permitted for the cover, 
but the boxing or gusset shall be a cotton fabric as specified by Sec.  
160.049-3(b)(1) or other equivalent material of a porous nature. 
Nonporous materials will not be permitted for the boxing or gusset, but 
coated upholstery cloth specified by Sec.  160.049-3(c)(2), perforated 
to permit adequate draining and drying will be acceptable.
    (c) Buoyant material. A buoyant insert for a buoyant cushion must 
comply with the requirements in paragraph (c) (1) and (2) of this 
section and may be:
    (1) Molded in one piece; or
    (2) Built up from sheet material if it is formed from:
    (i) Three pieces or less in each layer, cemented together with an 
all-purpose vinyl adhesive such as or equivalent to U.S. Rubber No. M-
6256 or Minnesota Mining No. EC-870 and No. EC-1070;
    (ii) Three layers or less that may be cemented; and
    (iii) Staggered butts and seams of adjacent layers.
    (d) Grab Straps. Grab straps shall be attached as shown on Dwg. No. 
160,049-1 and shall finish 20 inches long and 1 inch wide at opposite 
ends. The grab straps, if formed from cover material shall be folded and 
stitched together so as to produce a double thickness with raw edges 
turned under. Other means will be given special consideration.
    (e) Seams and stitching. Seams shall be constructed with not less 
than a \3/8\-inch border between the seam and the edge of the cover 
materials. All stitching shall be a lock stitch, 7 to 9 stitches per 
inch, except as follows: Chain stitching 6 to 8 stitches per inch with 
20/4 thread on top and 40/3 thread on the bottom, will be acceptable in 
constructing grab straps.
    (f) Workmanship. All cushions shall be of first class workmanship 
and shall be free from defects materially affecting their appearance or 
serviceability. Cushions classified as ``seconds'' or ``irregular'' will 
not be acceptable under this specification.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11586, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-163R, 38 
FR 8119, Mar. 28, 1973]



Sec.  160.049-5  Inspections and tests. \1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ The manufacturer of a personal flotation device must meet 33 CFR 
181.701 through 33 CFR 181.705 which require an instruction pamphlet for 
each device that is sold or offered for sale for use on recreational 
boats.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (a) General. Manufacturers of listed and labeled buoyant cushions 
shall maintain quality control of the materials used, manufacturing 
methods and the finished product so as to meet the applicable 
requirements, and shall make sufficient inspections and tests of 
representative samples and components produced to maintain the quality 
of the finished product. Records of tests conducted by the manufacturer 
and records of materials, including affidavits by suppliers that 
applicable requirements are met, entering into construction shall be 
made available to the recognized laboratory inspector or the Coast Guard 
inspector, or both, for review upon request. Any examinations, 
inspections and tests which are required by the recognized laboratory 
for listed and labeled devices produced will be conducted by the 
laboratory inspector at the place of manufacture or other location at 
the option of the laboratory.
    (b) Lot size and sampling. (1) A lot shall consist of not more than 
1,000 buoyant cushions. A new lot shall be started with any change or 
modification in materials used or manufacturing methods employed. When a 
lot

[[Page 102]]

of buoyant cushions is ready for inspection, the manufacturer shall 
notify the recognized laboratory so that they may, at their discretion, 
assign an inspector to the plant for the purpose of making any tests and 
inspections deemed necessary. From each lot of buoyant cushions, the 
manufacturer or the recognized laboratory or U.S. Coast Guard inspector, 
when assigned, shall select samples in accordance with table 160.049-
5(b)(1) to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of 
this section.

           Table 160.049-5(b)(1)--Sampling for Buoyancy Tests
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Number of
                           Lot size                             cushions
                                                               in sample
------------------------------------------------------------------------
200 and under................................................          1
201 to 400...................................................          2
401 to 600...................................................          3
601 to 1,000.................................................          4
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (c) Additional tests. Unannounced examinations, tests and 
inspections of samples obtained either directly from the manufacturer or 
through commercial channels may be made to determine the suitability of 
a product for listing and labeling, or to determine conformance of a 
labeled product to the applicable requirements. These may be conducted 
by the recognized laboratory or the U.S. Coast Guard.
    (d) Test facilities. The laboratory inspector, or the Coast Guard 
inspector, or both, shall be admitted to any place in the factory where 
work is being done on listed and labeled products, and either or both 
inspectors may take samples of parts or materials entering into 
construction of final assemblies, for further examinations, inspections, 
or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place and the 
apparatus necessary for the performance of the tests which are done at 
the place of manufacture.
    (e) Buoyancy--(1) Buoyancy test method. Securely attach the spring 
scale in a position directly over the test tank. Suspend the weighted 
wire basket from the scale in such a manner that the basket is weighed 
while it is completely under water. In order to measure the actual 
buoyancy provided by the cushion, the underwater weight of the empty 
basket should exceed the buoyancy of the cushion. To obtain the buoyancy 
of the cushion, proceed as follows:
    (i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
    (ii) Place the cushion inside the basket and submerge it so that the 
top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water 
for 24 hours. The tank shall be locked or sealed during this 24-hour 
submergence period. It is important that after the cushion has once been 
submerged that it shall remain submerged for the duration of the test, 
and at no time during the course of the test shall it be removed from 
the tank or otherwise exposed to air.
    (iii) After the 24-hour submergence period unlock or unseal the tank 
and weigh the weighted wire basket with the cushion inside while both 
are still under water.
    (iv) The buoyancy is computed as (i) minus (iii).
    (2) Buoyancy required. Each cushion shall provide not less than 20 
pounds buoyancy.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11587, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70-143, 35 
FR 19964, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 75-008, 43 FR 9772, Mar. 9, 1978]



Sec.  160.049-6  Marking.

    (a) Each buoyant cushion must have the following information clearly 
marked in waterproof lettering:
    (1) In letters that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:

Type IV Personal Flotation Device.
    Inspected and tested in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard 
regulations.
    (Name of buoyant material) buoyant material provides a minimum 
buoyant force of 20 lb.
    Dry out thoroughly when wet.
    Approved for use on recreational boats only as a throwable device.
    U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. 160.049/(assigned manufacturer's No.)/
(Revision No.); (Model No.).
    (Name and address of manufacturer or distributor.).
    (Lot No.).
    (Size; width, thickness, and length, including both top and bottom 
for trapezoidal cushions.).

    (2) In letters that are distinctively set off or larger than all 
other marking, and are at least one-fourth of an inch in height:

[[Page 103]]

                      WARNING: DO NOT WEAR ON BACK

    (b) Waterproofness of marking. Marking for buoyant cushions shall be 
sufficiently waterproof so that after 72 hours submergence in water, it 
will withstand vigorous rubbing by hand while wet without the printed 
matter becoming illegible.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11588, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70-143, 35 
FR 19964, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8119, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 75-
008, 43 FR 9771, Mar. 9, 1978; CGD 92-045, 58 FR 41608, Aug. 4, 1993; 
CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51213, Sept. 30, 1997]



Sec.  160.049-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Group approval. A single group approval will be granted to each 
manufacturer to cover all buoyant cushions which have materials and 
construction strictly in conformance with this subpart, and which are in 
accordance with Sec.  160.049-4(c)(1).
    (b) Special approvals. Special approvals will be granted separately 
to each manufacturer for each unicellular plastic foam buoyant cushion 
he proposes to manufacture which is not included under the group 
approval provided for by paragraph (b) of this section, for example: a 
buoyant cushion having cover material not specifically provided for by 
this subpart, or any buoyant cushion having a different shape.
    (c) A buoyant cushion is approved when it bears the compliance label 
of the recognized laboratory.

[CGFR 70-143, 35 FR 19964, Dec. 30, 1970, as amended by CGD 72-163R, 38 
FR 8119, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13930, Mar. 28, 1996]



Sec.  160.049-8  Recognized laboratory.

    (a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under 
this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of 
this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized 
independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under 
Sec.  159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions 
under this subpart:

Underwriters Laboratories, 12 Laboratory Drive, P.O. Box 13995, Research 
Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995, (919) 549-1400.

    (b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory 
that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the 
Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production 
oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory 
that performed the approval testing.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13930, Mar. 28, 1996]



Subpart 160.050_Specification for a Buoy, Life Ring, Unicellular Plastic



Sec.  160.050-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Standard. This subpart makes reference to Federal Standard No. 
595-Colors in Sec.  160.050-3.
    (b) Copies on file. The Federal Standard may be obtained from the 
Business Service Center, General Services Administration, Washington, DC 
20407.

[USCG-1999-6216, 64 FR 53228, Oct. 1, 1999]



Sec.  160.050-2  Types and sizes.

    (a) Type. Life buoys shall be of the annular ring type as described 
in this subpart, but alternate arrangements meeting the performance 
requirements set forth will be given special consideration.
    (b) Sizes. Ring life buoys shall be of the sizes set forth in Table 
160.050-2(b). A tolerance of a plus or minus 5 percent will be allowable 
on the dimensions indicated in Table 160.050-2(b).

       Table 160.050-2(b)--Sizes and Dimensions of Ring Life Buoys
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Dimensions
                                                               (inches)
                            Size                               Finished
                                                                 ring
------------------------------------------------------------------------
30-inch....................................................           30
24-inch....................................................           24
20-inch....................................................           20
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[CGFR 54-46, 19 FR 8707, Dec. 18, 1954, as amended by CGFR 62-17, 27 FR 
9045, Sept. 11, 1962]



Sec.  160.050-3  Materials.

    (a) General. All exposed materials must be resistant to oil or oil 
products, salt water and anticipated weather conditions encountered at 
sea. All components used in construction of buoys and life rings must 
meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter.

[[Page 104]]

    (b) Unicellular plastic. The unicellular plastic material used in 
fabrication of the buoy body shall meet the requirements of subpart 
164.015 of this subchapter for Type C material. The buoy's body shall be 
finished with two coats of vinyl base paint. The ring life buoys shall 
be either international orange (Color No. 12197 of Federal Standard 595) 
or white in color and the colorfastness shall be rated ``good'' when 
tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 191 Methods 
5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660.

    Note: On vessels on an international voyage, all ring life buoys 
shall be international orange in color.)

    (c) Grab line. The grab line shall be \3/8\-inch diameter 
polyethylene, polypropylene, or other suitable buoyant type synthetic 
material having a minimum breaking strength of 1,350 pounds.
    (d) Beckets. The beckets for securing the grab line shall be 2-inch 
polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, saran or other suitable synthetic 
material having a minimum breaking strength of 585 pounds. In addition, 
polyethylene and polypropylene shall be weather-resistant type which is 
stabilized as to heat, oxidation, and ultraviolet light degradation.
    (e) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 
164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each 
seam.

[CGFR 65-9, 30 FR 11477, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by CGFR 65-64, 31 FR 
562, Jan. 18, 1966; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 84-068, 
58 FR 29493, May 20, 1993]



Sec.  160.050-4  Construction and workmanship.

    (a) General. This specification covers ring life buoys which provide 
buoyancy to aid in keeping persons afloat in the water. Each buoy 
consists of a body constructed in the shape of an annular ring, with an 
approximately elliptical body cross section and which is fitted with a 
grab line around the outside periphery. The outside and inside diameters 
of the ring and the length and width of the cross section of the body 
shall be uniform throughout.
    (b) Body. The body shall be made in either one or two pieces. If of 
two pieces, the pieces shall be equal in size and shall be adhesive 
bonded along a center line through an axis passing through the flat area 
dimension of the body. The adhesive shall be a liquid cold setting, 
polymerizable, nonsolvent, containing material of the 
phenolepichlorhydrin type or equivalent having good strength retention 
under outdoor weathering conditions.
    (c) Grab line. The finished length of the grab line shall be four 
times the outside diameter of the buoy. The ends of the grab line shall 
be securely and neatly spliced together, or shall be hand whipped with a 
needle and both ends securely and smoothly seized together. The grab 
line shall encircle the buoy and shall be held in place by the beckets. 
The spliced or seized ends of the grab line shall be placed in the 
center of the width of one of the beckets.
    (d) Beckets. Each ring buoy shall be fitted with four beckets 
located at equidistant points about the body of the buoy. The beckets 
shall be passed around the body of the buoy with the free ends to the 
outside, and shall be securely cemented to the buoy with a suitable 
waterproof adhesive which is compatible with the unicellular plastic 
used in the buoy body. The ends of the beckets shall be turned under at 
least 1 inch, one end to go around the grab line, and the other to be 
laid flat against the first end. The beckets shall then be stitched to 
the grab line with not less than five hand stitches made with two parts 
of thread or machined stitched with not less than three stitches per 
inch. Alternate methods for rigging beckets and grab line will be given 
special consideration.
    (e) Weight. The weight of the completely assembled buoy shall be not 
less than 2.5 pounds and not more than 4.25 pounds for the 20-inch size, 
not less than 3.0 pounds and not more than 5.5 pounds for the 24-inch 
size, and not less than 5.0 and not more than 7.5 pounds for the 30-inch 
size.
    (f) Workmanship. Ring life buoys shall be of first class workmanship 
and free from any defects materially affecting their appearance or 
serviceability.

[CGFR 54-46, 19 FR 8707, Dec. 18, 1954, as amended by CGFR 62-17, 27 FR 
9045, Sept. 11, 1962; CGFR 65-9, 30 FR 11477, Sept. 8, 1965]

[[Page 105]]



Sec.  160.050-5  Sampling, tests, and inspection.

    (a) General. Production tests and inspections must be conducted in 
accordance with this section, subpart 159.007 of this chapter, and if 
conducted by an independent laboratory, the independent laboratory's 
procedures for production inspections and tests as accepted by the 
Commandant. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and 
inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor 
compliance with the requirements of this subchapter.
    (b) Oversight. In addition to responsibilities set out in part 159 
of this chapter and the accepted laboratory procedures for production 
inspections and tests, each manufacturer of a ring life buoy and each 
laboratory inspector shall comply with the following, as applicable:
    (1) Manufacturer. Each manufacturer must--
    (i) Perform all tests and examinations necessary to show compliance 
with this subpart and the subpart under which the ring life buoy is 
approved on each lot before any inspector's tests and inspection of the 
lot;
    (ii) Follow established procedures for maintaining quality control 
of the materials used, manufacturing operations, and the finished 
product; and
    (iii) Allow an inspector to take samples of completed units or of 
component materials for tests required by this subpart and for tests 
relating to the safety of the design.
    (iv) Meet 33 CFR 181.701 through 33 CFR 181.705 which requires an 
instruction pamphlet for each device that is sold or offered for sale 
for use on recreational boats, and must make the pamphlet accessible 
prior to purchase.
    (2) Laboratory. An inspector from the accepted laboratory shall 
oversee production in accordance with the laboratory's procedures for 
production inspections and tests accepted by the Commandant. During 
production oversight, the inspector shall not perform or supervise any 
production test or inspection unless--
    (i) The manufacturer has a valid approval certificate; and
    (ii) The inspector has first observed the manufacturer's production 
methods and any revisions to those methods.
    (3) At least quarterly, the inspector shall check the manufacturer's 
compliance with the company's quality control procedures, examine the 
manufacturer's required records, and observe the manufacturer perform 
each of the required production tests.
    (c) Test facilities. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place 
and apparatus for conducting the tests and inspections necessary to 
determine compliance of ring life buoys with this subpart. The 
manufacturer shall provide means to secure any test that is not 
continuously observed, such as the 48 hour buoyancy test. The 
manufacturer must have the calibration of all test equipment checked in 
accordance with the test equipment manufacturer's recommendation and 
interval but not less than at least once every year.
    (d) Lots. A lot may not consist of more than 1000 life buoys. A lot 
number must be assigned to each group of life buoys produced. Lots must 
be numbered serially. A new lot must be started whenever any change in 
materials or a revision to a production method is made, and whenever any 
substantial discontinuity in the production process occurs. The lot 
number assigned, along with the approval number, must enable the ring 
life buoy manufacturer to determine the supplier's identifying 
information for the component lot.
    (e) Samples. (1) From each lot of ring life buoys, manufacturers 
shall randomly select a number of samples from completed units at least 
equal to the applicable number required by table 160.050-5(e) for 
buoyancy testing. Additional samples must be selected for any tests, 
examinations, and inspections required by the laboratory's production 
inspections and tests procedures.

             Table 160.050-5(e)--Sampling for Buoyancy Tests
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 Number
                                                                 of life
                           Lot size                             buoys in
                                                                 sample
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100 and under.................................................         1
101 to 200....................................................         2
201 to 300....................................................         3
301 to 500....................................................         4
501 to 750....................................................         6
751 to 1000...................................................         8
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 106]]

    (2) For a lot next succeeding one from which any sample ring life 
buoy failed the buoyancy or strength test, the sample shall consist of 
not less than ten specimen ring life buoys to be tested for buoyancy in 
accordance with paragraph (f) of this section.
    (f) Tests--(1) Strength test. The buoy body shall be suspended by a 
2-inch-wide strap. A similar strap shall be passed around the opposite 
side of the buoy and a 200-pound weight suspended by it from the buoy. 
After 30 minutes, the buoy body shall be examined, and there shall be no 
breaks, cracks or permanent deformation.
    (2) Resistance to damage test. The buoy body shall be dropped three 
times from a height of 6 feet onto concrete, and there shall be no 
breaks or cracks in the body.
    (3) Buoyancy test. To obtain the buoyancy of the buoy, proceed as 
follows:
    (i) Weigh iron or other weight under water. The weight shall be more 
than sufficient to submerge the buoy.
    (ii) Attach the iron or other weight to the buoy and submerge with 
the top of the buoy at least 2 inches below the surface for 48 hours.
    (iii) After the 48-hour submergence period, weigh the buoy with the 
weight attached while both are still under water.
    (iv) The buoyancy is computed as paragraph (f)(3)(i) minus paragraph 
(f)(3)(iii) of this section.
    (4) Buoyancy required. The buoys shall provide a buoyancy of not 
less than 16.5 pounds for the 20-and 24-inch sizes, and not less than 32 
pounds for the 30-inch size.
    (g) Lot inspection. On each lot, the laboratory inspector shall 
perform a final lot inspection to be satisfied that the ring life buoys 
meet this subpart. Each lot must demonstrate--
    (1) First quality workmanship;
    (2) That the general arrangement and attachment of all components 
are as specified in the approved plans and specifications; and
    (3) Compliance with the marking requirements in the applicable 
approval subpart.
    (h) Lot acceptance. When the independent laboratory has determined 
that the ring life buoys in the lot are of a type officially approved in 
the name of the company, and that such ring life buoys meet the 
requirements of this subpart, they shall be plainly marked in waterproof 
ink with the independent laboratory's name or identifying mark.
    (i) Lot rejection. Each nonconforming unit must be rejected. If 
three or more nonconforming units are rejected for the same kind of 
defect, lot inspection must be discontinued and the lot rejected. The 
inspector must discontinue lot inspection and reject the lot if 
examination of individual units or the records for the lot shows 
noncompliance with either this subchapter or the laboratory's or the 
manufacturer's quality control procedures. A rejected unit or lot may be 
resubmitted for testing and inspection if the manufacturer first removes 
and destroys each defective unit or, if authorized by the laboratory, 
reworks the unit or lot to correct the defect. A rejected lot or 
rejected unit may not be sold or offered for sale under the 
representation that it meets this subpart or that it is Coast Guard-
approved.

[CGFR 65-9, 30 FR 11478, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by CGD 95-028, 62 FR 
51213, Sept. 30, 1997]



Sec.  160.050-6  Marking.

    (a) Each ring buoy must have the following information in waterproof 
lettering:

Type IV Personal Flotation Device.
    Inspected and tested in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard 
regulations.
    (Name of buoyant material) buoyant material provides a minimum 
buoyant force of (32 lb. or 16\1/2\ lb.).
    Approved for use on recreational boats only as a throwable device.
    U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. 160.050/(assigned manufacturer's No.)/
(Revision No.); (Model No.).
    (Name and address of manufacturer or distributor).
    (Size).
    USCG (Marine Inspection Office identification letters).
    (Lot No.).


[[Page 107]]


    (b) A method of marking that is different from the requirements of 
paragraph (a) of this section may be given consideration by the Coast 
Guard.

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8120, Mar. 28, 1973, as amended by CGD 75-186, 41 FR 
10437, Mar. 11, 1976; CGD 75-008, 43 FR 9771, Mar. 9, 1978; 43 FR 10913, 
Mar. 16, 1978; CGD 92-045, 58 FR 41608, Aug. 4, 1993; CGD 95-028, 62 FR 
51214, Sept. 30, 1997]



Sec.  160.050-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) General. Designs of ring life buoys are approved only by the 
Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard. Manufacturers seeking approval of a ring 
life buoy design shall follow the procedures of this section and subpart 
159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) Each application for approval of a ring life buoy must contain 
the information specified in Sec.  159.005-5 of this chapter. The 
application and, except as provided in paragraphs (c) and (d)(2) of this 
section, a prototype ring life buoy must be submitted to the Commandant 
for preapproval review. If a similar design has already been approved, 
the Commandant may waive the preapproval review under Sec. Sec.  
159.005-5 and 159.005-7 of this chapter.
    (c) If the ring life buoy is of a standard design, the application:
    (1) Must include the following: A statement of any exceptions to the 
standard plans and specifications, including drawings, product 
description, construction specifications, and/or bill of materials.
    (2) Need not include: The information specified in Sec.  159.005-
5(a)(2).
    (d) If the ring life buoy is of a non-standard design, the 
application must include the following:
    (1) Plans and specifications containing the information required by 
Sec.  159.005-12 of this chapter, including drawings, product 
description, construction specifications, and bill of materials.
    (2) The information specified in Sec.  159.005-5(a)(2) (i) through 
(iii) of this chapter, except that, if preapproval review has been 
waived, the manufacturer is not required to send a prototype ring life 
buoy sample to the Commandant.
    (3) Performance testing results of the design performed by an 
independent laboratory that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the 
Coast Guard under Sec.  159.010-7 of this subchapter covering the in-
water testing of personal flotation devices showing equivalence to the 
standard design's performance in all material respects.
    (4) Buoyancy and other relevant tolerances to be complied with 
during production.
    (5) The text of any optional marking to be included on the ring life 
buoy in addition to the markings required by the applicable approval 
subpart.
    (6) For any conditionally approved ring life buoy, the intended 
approval condition(s).
    (e) The description of quality control procedures required by Sec.  
159.005-9 of this chapter may be omitted if the manufacturer's planned 
quality control procedures meet the requirements of those accepted by 
the Commandant for the independent laboratory performing production 
inspections and tests.
    (f) Waiver of tests. A manufacturer may request that the Commandant 
waive any test prescribed for approval under the applicable subpart. To 
request a waiver, the manufacturer must submit to the Commandant and the 
laboratory described in Sec.  159.010, one of the following:
    (1) Satisfactory test results on a ring life buoy of sufficiently 
similar design as determined by the Commandant.
    (2) Engineering analysis demonstrating that the test for which a 
waiver is requested is not appropriate for the particular design 
submitted for approval or that, because of its design or construction, 
it is not possible for the ring life buoy to fail that test.

[CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51214, Sept. 30, 1997]



        Subpart 160.051_Inflatable Liferafts for Domestic Service

    Source: CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25546, May 9, 1997, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.051-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart prescribes requirements for approval by the Coast 
Guard of A, B, and Coastal Service inflatable liferafts for use only in 
domestic service. These liferafts must comply with all of the 
requirements for SOLAS A and SOLAS B liferafts in subpart

[[Page 108]]

160.151 except as specified in this subpart.
    (b) This subpart does not apply to any A, B, and Coastal Service 
inflatable liferaft for use only in domestic service that has been 
approved by the Coast Guard before November 10, 2011, so long as the 
liferaft satisfies the annual servicing requirements set forth in 46 CFR 
160.151-57.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62975, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 76 FR 70062, 
Nov. 10, 2011]



Sec.  160.051-3  Definitions.

    In this subpart, the term:
    A or B liferaft means an inflatable liferaft that meets the 
requirements prescribed in subpart 160.151 for a SOLAS A or SOLAS B 
liferaft, respectively, except that the capacity is less than 6 persons 
and the liferaft cannot contain SOLAS markings.
    Coastal Service liferaft means a liferaft that does not meet the all 
of the requirements prescribed in subpart 160.151 for a SOLAS A or SOLAS 
B liferaft, but that instead meets the requirements of this subpart and 
is approved for use on certain uninspected vessels under subchapter C of 
this chapter.
    Commandant means Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire 
Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. 
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25546, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-2010-0048, 76 
FR 62975, Oct. 11, 2011; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60157, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.051-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) 
material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at 
the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the 
Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email 
[email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For 
information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: 
[email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the source in the 
following paragraph of this section.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publications Section, 
4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 
7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), pages 7-71 (``IMO LSA Code''), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  
160.051-7 and 160.051-9.
    (2) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), Revised recommendation on testing of live-saving appliances, 
pages 79-254 (``IMO Revised recommendation on testing''), IBR approved 
for Sec. Sec.  160.051-7 and 160.051-11.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62975, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60157, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2022-0323, 88 FR 10030, Feb. 16, 
2023]



Sec.  160.051-7  Design and performance of Coastal Service inflatable
liferafts.

    To obtain Coast Guard approval, each Coastal Service inflatable 
liferaft must comply with subpart 160.151, with the following 
exceptions:
    (a) Canopy requirements (IMO LSA Code chapter IV/4.1.1.5, 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.051-5 of this subpart)). The 
canopy may--
    (1) Be of a type that is furled when the liferaft inflates and that 
can be set in place by the occupants. A furled canopy must be secured to 
the buoyancy tubes over 50 percent or more of the liferaft's 
circumference;
    (2) Be of an uninsulated, single-ply design; and
    (3) Have an interior of any color.
    (b) Viewing port (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.1.1.5.5). The liferaft 
need not have the viewing port.
    (c) Rainwater collection (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.1.1.5.6). The 
liferaft need not have the means of rainwater collection.
    (d) Capacity (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.1.2.1). The carrying 
capacity must be not less than four persons.
    (e) Floor insulation (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.2.2). The floor 
may be uninsulated.

[[Page 109]]

    (f) Boarding ramps (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.4.1). The liferaft 
need be provided with boarding ramps only if the combined cross-section 
diameter of the buoyancy chambers is greater than 500 mm (19.5 in).
    (g) Stability (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.5). Each Coastal Service 
inflatable liferaft must either meet the stability criteria in Sec.  
160.151-17(a) or be fitted with water-containing stability pockets 
meeting the following requirements:
    (1) The total volume of the pockets must be not less than 25 percent 
of the minimum required volume of the principal buoyancy compartments of 
the liferaft.
    (2) The pockets must be securely attached and evenly distributed 
around the periphery of the exterior bottom of the liferaft. They may be 
omitted at the locations of inflation cylinders.
    (3) The pockets must be designed to deploy underwater when the 
liferaft inflates. If weights are used for this purpose, they must be of 
corrosion-resistant material.
    (h) Lamp (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.1.3.4). The liferaft need not 
have the manually controlled interior lamp.
    (i) Markings (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.3.6). The words ``COASTAL 
SERVICE'' must appear on the container, and the type of equipment pack 
must be identified as ``Coastal Service''. No ``SOLAS'' markings may 
appear on the container.
    (j) Drop test. The drop test required under paragraph 1/5.1 of IMO 
Revised recommendation on testing (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.051-5 of this subpart) and 160.151-27(a) may be from a lesser 
height, if that height is the maximum height of stowage marked on the 
container.
    (k) Loading and seating test. For the loading and seating test 
required under paragraph 1/5.7 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing 
and Sec.  160.151-27(a), the loaded freeboard of the liferaft must be 
not less than 200 mm (8 in.).
    (l) Cold-inflation test. The cold-inflation test required under 
paragraph 1/5.17.3.3.2 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing and 
Sec.  160.151-27(a) must be conducted at a test temperature of -18 
[deg]C (0 [deg]F).

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25546, May 9, 1997. Redesignated and amended by USCG-
2010-0048, 76 FR 62975, Oct. 11, 2011]



Sec.  160.051-9  Design and performance of A and B inflatable liferafts.

    To obtain Coast Guard approval, each A and B inflatable liferaft 
must comply with the requirements in subpart 160.151, with the following 
exceptions:
    (a) Capacity (IMO LSA Code chapter IV/4.1.2.1). The carrying 
capacity must be not less than four persons.
    (b) Markings (IMO LSA Code, chapter IV/4.2.6.3). The type of 
equipment pack must be identified as ``A'' or ``B'', respectively, 
instead of ``SOLAS A'' or ``SOLAS B''. No ``SOLAS'' markings may appear 
on the container.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25546, May 9, 1997. Redesignated and amended by USCG-
2010-0048, 76 FR 62975, 62976, Oct. 11, 2011]



Sec.  160.051-11  Equipment required for Coastal Service inflatable
liferafts.

    In lieu of the equipment specified in Sec.  160.151-21, the 
following equipment must be provided with a Coastal Service inflatable 
liferaft:
    (a) Rescue quoit and heaving line. One rescue quoit and a heaving 
line as described in Sec.  160.151-21(a).
    (b) Knife. One knife, of a type designed to minimize the chance of 
damage to the inflatable liferaft and secured with a lanyard. In 
addition, an inflatable liferaft that is permitted to accommodate 13 
persons or more must be provided with a second knife that is of the non-
folding type. Any knife may be replaced with a jackknife meeting the 
requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(16).
    (c) Bailer. One bailer as described in Sec.  160.151-21(c).
    (d) Sponge. One sponge as described in Sec.  160.151-21(d).
    (e) Sea anchor. One sea anchor as described in Sec.  160.151-21(e).
    (f) Paddles. Two paddles of the same size and type as used to pass 
the maneuverability test in paragraph 1/5.10 of IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.051-
5 of this subpart).
    (g) Whistle. One whistle as described in Sec.  160.151-21(i) of this 
part.

[[Page 110]]

    (h) Flashlight. One flashlight with spare batteries as described in 
Sec.  160.151-21(m).
    (i) Signalling mirror. One signalling mirror as described in Sec.  
160.151-21(o).
    (j) Survival instructions. Instructions on how to survive as 
described in Sec.  160.151-21(v).
    (k) Instructions for immediate action. Instructions for immediate 
action as described in Sec.  160.151-21(w).
    (l) Repair outfit. One set of sealing clamps or plugs as described 
in Sec.  160.151-21(y)(1).
    (m) Pump or bellows. One pump or bellows as described in Sec.  
160.151-21(z).
    (n) Plugs for pressure-relief valves. Plugs for pressure-relief 
valves as described in Sec.  160.151-21(aa).

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25546, May 9, 1997. Redesignated and amended by USCG-
2010-0048, 76 FR 62975, 62976, Oct. 11, 2011; USCG-2020-0107, 87 FR 
68305, Nov. 14, 2022]



 Subpart 160.052_Specification for a Buoyant Vest, Unicellular Plastic 
                          Foam, Adult and Child



Sec.  160.052-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to 
the following documents.
    (1) [Reserved]
    (2) Military specification:

MIL-W-530F--Webbing, Textile, Cotton, General Purpose, Natural and in 
Colors.

    (3) Federal Standards:

No. 191--Textile Test Methods.
No. 751A--Stitches, Seams, and Stitching.

    (4) Coast Guard specifications:

160.055--Life Preservers, Unicellular Plastic Foam, Adult and Child.
164.015--Plastic Foam, Unicellular, Buoyant Sheet and Molded Shapes.

    (b) Plans. The following plans, of the issue in effect on the date 
buoyant vests are manufactured, form a part of this subpart:

Dwg. No. 160.052-1:
    Sheet 1--Cutting Pattern and General Arrangement, Model AP.
    Sheet 2--Cutting Pattern and General Arrangement, Model CPM.
    Sheet 3--Cutting Pattern and General Arrangement, Model CPS.
    Sheet 4--Insert Patterns.

    (c) Copies on file. The manufacturer shall keep a copy of each 
specification and plan required by this section on file together with 
the certificate of approval. Plans and specifications may be obtained as 
follows:
    (1) The Coast Guard plans and specifications may be obtained upon 
request from the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and 
Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King 
Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509, or a recognized laboratory 
listed in Sec.  160.052-8b.
    (2) The Federal Specifications and Standards may be purchased from 
the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, 
Washington, DC 20407.
    (3) The military specification may be obtained from the Military 
Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, 
Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://
assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11588, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-90R, 37 
FR 10837, May 31, 1972; CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8120, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 78-
012, 43 FR 27153, 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 82-063b, 48 FR 4782, Feb. 3, 
1983; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34536, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, 
Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2009-0702, 
74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60157, Sept. 30, 
2013]



Sec.  160.052-2  Size and model.

    (a) A standard buoyant vest is manufactured in accordance with a 
plan specified in Sec.  160.052-1(b) and is a:
    (1) Model AP, adult (for persons over 90 pounds);
    (2) Model CPM, child, medium (for persons weighing from 50 to 90 
pounds); or
    (3) Model CPS, child, small (for persons weighing less than 50 
pounds).
    (b) A nonstandard buoyant vest is:
    (1) Manufactured in accordance with the manufacturer's approved 
plan;
    (2) Equivalent in performance to the standard buoyant vest; and
    (3) Assigned a model designation by the manufacturer for the 
following sizes:
    (i) Adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds);
    (ii) Child, medium (for persons weighing from 50 to 90 pounds);

[[Page 111]]

    (iii) Child, small (for persons weighing less than 50 pounds).

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8120, Mar. 28, 1973]



Sec.  160.052-3  Materials--standard vests.

    (a) General. All components used in the construction of buoyant 
vests must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this 
chapter. The requirements for materials specified in this section are 
minimum requirements, and consideration will be given to the use of 
alternate materials in lieu of those specified. Detailed technical data 
and samples of all proposed alternate materials shall be submitted for 
approval before those materials are incorporated in the finished 
product.
    (b) Unicellular plastic foam. The unicellular plastic foam shall be 
all new material complying with the requirements of specification 
Subpart 164.015 of this subchapter for Type A or B foam.
    (c) Envelope. The buoyant vest envelope, or cover, shall be made 
from 39, 2.85 cotton jeans cloth, with a thread count of 
approximately 96 x 64. The finished goods shall weigh not less than 4.2 
ounces per square yard, shall have thread count of not less than 94 x 
60, and shall have a breaking strength of not less than 85 pounds in the 
warp and 50 pounds in the filling. Other cotton fabrics having a weight 
and breaking strength not less than the above will be acceptable. There 
are no restrictions as to color, but the fastness of the color to 
laundering, water, crocking, and light shall be rated ``good'' when 
tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, Methods 
5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660.
    (d) Tie tapes and body strap loops. The tie tapes and body strap 
loops for both adult and child sizes must be \3/4\-inch cotton webbing 
meeting the requirements of military specification MIL-T-43566 (Class I) 
for Type I webbing.
    (d-1) Body straps. The complete body strap assembly, including 
hardware, must have a minimum breaking strength of 150 pounds for an 
adult size and 115 pounds for a child size. The specifications for the 
webbing are as follows:
    (1) For an adult size vest, the webbing must be 1 inch;
    (2) For a child size vest, the webbing must be three-quarter inch 
and meet the requirements of military specification MIL-W-530 for Type 
IIa webbing.
    (e) [Reserved]
    (f) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 
164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each 
seam.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11588, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-90R, 37 
FR 10837, May 31, 1972; CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8120, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 73-
130R, 39 FR 20684, June 13, 1974; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27154, June 22, 
1978; CGD 82-063b, 48 FR 4782, Feb. 3, 1983; CGD 84-068, 58 FR 29493, 
May 20, 1993]



Sec.  160.052-3a  Materials--Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and 
other instruments of closure for buoyant vests.

    (a) Specifications. Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other 
instruments of closure for buoyant vests may have decorative platings in 
any thickness and must meet the following specifications:
    (1) The device must be constructed of inherently corrosion resistant 
materials. As used in this section the term inherently corrosion 
resistant materials includes, but is not limited to brass, bronze, and 
stainless steel.
    (2) The size of the opening of the device must be consistent with 
the webbing which will pass through the opening.
    (b) Testing requirements. Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and 
other instruments of closure for buoyant vests must--
    (1) Be tested for weathering. The Coast Guard will determine which 
one or more of the following tests will be used:
    (i) Application of a 20 percent sodium-chloride solution spray at a 
temperature of 95 [deg]F (35 [deg]C) for a period of 240 hours in 
accordance with the procedures contained in method 811 of the Federal 
Test Method Standard No. 151.
    (ii) Exposure to a carbon-arc weatherometer for a period of 100 
hours.
    (iii) Submergence for a period of 100 hours in each of the 
following:
    (a) Leaded gasoline.
    (b) Gum turpentine.
    (iv) Exposure to a temperature of 0[deg] 5 
[deg]F (17.6 2.775 [deg]C) for 24 hours; and

[[Page 112]]

    (2) Within 5 minutes of completion of the weathering test required 
by paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the assembly must be attached to a 
support and bear 150 pounds for an adult size and 115 pounds for a child 
size for 10 minutes at ambient temperatures without breaking or 
distorting.

[CGD 73-130R, 39 FR 20684, June 13, 1974]



Sec.  160.052-4  Materials--nonstandard vests.

    (a) General. All materials used in nonstandard buoyant vests must be 
equivalent to those specified in Sec.  160.052-3 and be obtained from a 
supplier who furnishes an affidavit in accordance with the requirement 
in Sec.  160.052-3(a).
    (b) Cover. A vinyl-dip coating may be allowed for the covering of 
the vest instead of a fabric envelope if the coating meets the 
requirements in Sec.  160.055-5(b)(2) of this chapter except there is no 
color restriction.
    (c) Reinforcing tape. When used, the reinforcing tape around the 
neck shall be \3/4\ cotton tape weighing not less than 0.18 
ounces per linear yard having a minimum breaking strength of not less 
than 120 pounds.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11588, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-90R, 37 
FR 10837, May 31, 1972; 37 FR 11774, June 14, 1972, CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 
8120, Mar. 28, 1973]



Sec.  160.052-5  Construction--standard vests.

    (a) General. This specification covers buoyant vests which 
essentially consist of a fabric envelope in which are enclosed inserts 
of buoyant material arranged and distributed so as to provide the 
flotation characteristics and buoyancy required to hold the wearer in an 
upright or slightly backward position with head and face out of water. 
The buoyant vests are also fitted with straps and hardware to provide 
for proper adjustment and close and comfortable fit to the bodies of 
various size wearers.
    (b) Envelope. The envelope or cover shall be made of three pieces. 
Two pieces of fabric shall be cut to the pattern shown on Dwg. No. 
160.052-1, Sheet 1 for adult size, and Sheets 2 and 3 for child sizes, 
and joined together with a third piece which forms a 2 
finished gusset strip all around. Reinforcing strips of the same 
material as the envelope shall be stitched to the inside of the front 
piece of the envelope in way of the strap attachments as shown by the 
drawings.
    (c) Buoyant inserts. The unicellular plastic foam buoyant inserts 
shall be cut and formed as shown on Dwg. 160.052-1, Sheet 4.
    (d) Tie tapes, body straps, and hardware. The tie tapes, body 
straps, and hardware shall be arranged as shown on the drawings and 
attached to the envelope with the seams and stitching indicated.
    (e) Stitching. All stitching shall be short lock stitch conforming 
to Stitch Type 301 of Federal Standard No. 751, and there shall be not 
less than 7 nor more than 9 stitches to the inch.
    (f) Workmanship. Buoyant vests shall be of first-class workmanship 
and shall be free from any defects materially affecting their appearance 
or service-ability.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11588, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-163R, 38 
FR 8120, Mar. 28, 1973]



Sec.  160.052-6  Construction--nonstandard vests.

    (a) General. The construction methods used for nonstandard buoyant 
vests must be equivalent to those requirements in Sec.  160.052-5 for a 
standard vest and also meet the requirements in this section.
    (b) Size. Each nonstandard vest must contain the following volume of 
plastic foam buoyant material, determined by the displacement method:
    (1) Five hundred cubic inches or more for an adult size;
    (2) Three hundred and fifty cubic inches or more for a child, medium 
size;
    (3) Two hundred and twenty-five cubic inches or more for a child, 
small size.
    (c) Arrangement of buoyant material. The buoyant material in a 
nonstandard vest must:
    (1) Be arranged to hold the wearer in an upright or backward 
position with head and face out of water;
    (2) Have no tendency to turn a wearer face downward in the water; 
and

[[Page 113]]

    (3) Be arranged so that 70 to 75 percent of the total is located in 
the front of the vest.
    (d) Neck opening. Each cloth-covered nonstandard vest must have at 
the neck opening:
    (1) A gusset; or
    (2) Reinforcing tape.
    (e) Adjustment, fit, and donning. Each nonstandard vest must be made 
with adjustments to:
    (1) Fit a range of wearers for the type designed; and
    (2) Facilitate donning time for an uninitiated person.

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8120, Mar. 28, 1973]



Sec.  160.052-7  Inspections and tests--standard and nonstandard vests. \1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ The manufacturer of a personal flotation device must meet 33 CFR 
181.701 through 33 CFR 181.705 which require an instruction pamphlet for 
each device that is sold or offered for sale for use on recreational 
boats.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (a) General. Manufacturers of listed and labeled buoyant vests 
shall--
    (1) Maintain quality control of the materials used, the 
manufacturing methods and workmanship, and the finished product to meet 
the requirements of this subpart by conducting sufficient inspections 
and tests of representative samples and components produced;
    (2) Make available to the recognized laboratory inspector and the 
Coast Guard inspector, upon request, records of tests conducted by the 
manufacturer and records of materials used during production of the 
device, including affidavits by supplier; and
    (3) Permit any examination, inspection, and test required by the 
recognized laboratory or the Coast Guard for a produced listed and 
labeled device, either at the place of manufacture or some other 
location.
    (b) Lot size and sampling. (1) A lot consists of 500 buoyant vests 
or fewer.
    (2) A new lot begins after any change or modification in materials 
used or manufacturing methods employed.
    (3) The manufacturer of the buoyant vests shall notify the 
recognized laboratory when a lot is ready for inspection.
    (4) The manufacturer shall select samples in accordance with the 
requirements in Table 160.052-7(b)(4) from each lot of buoyant vests to 
be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.

             Table 160.052-7(b)(4)--Sample for Buoyant Vests
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Number of
                          Lot size                             vests in
                                                                sample
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100 and under..............................................            1
101 to 200.................................................            2
201 to 300.................................................            3
301 to 500.................................................            4
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (5) The manufacturer shall test--
    (i) At least one vest from each lot for buoyancy in accordance with 
procedures contained in paragraph (e) of this section; and
    (ii) At least one vest in each 10 lots for strength of the body 
strap assembly in accordance with the procedures contained in paragraph 
(f) of this section.
    (6) If a vest fails the buoyancy test, the sample from the next 
succeeding lot must consist of 10 specimen vests or more to be tested 
for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
    (7) The manufacturer shall keep on file and make available to the 
laboratory inspector and Coast Guard inspector the records of 
inspections and tests, together with affidavits concerning the material.
    (c) Additional compliance tests. An inspector from the recognized 
laboratory or Coast Guard may conduct an examination, test and 
inspection of a buoyant device that is obtained from the manufacturer or 
through commercial channels to determine the suitability of the device 
for listing and labeling or to determine its conformance to applicable 
requirements.
    (d) Test facilities. The manufacturer shall admit the laboratory 
inspector and the Coast Guard inspector to any part of the premises at 
the place of manufacture of a listed and labeled device to--
    (1) Examine, inspect, or test a sample of a part or a material that 
is included in the construction of the device; and
    (2) Conduct any necessary examination, inspection, or test in a 
suitable place and with appropriate apparatus provided by the 
manufacturer.
    (e) Buoyancy--(1) Buoyancy test method. Remove the buoyant inserts 
from

[[Page 114]]

the vests. Securely attach the spring scale in a position directly over 
the test tank. Suspend the weighted wire basket from the scale in such a 
manner that the basket can be weighed while it is completely under 
water. In order to measure the actual buoyancy provided by the inserts, 
the underwater weight of the empty basket should exceed the buoyancy of 
the inserts. To obtain the buoyancy of the inserts, proceed as follows:
    (i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
    (ii) Place the inserts inside the basket and submerge it so that the 
top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water. 
Allow the inserts to remain submerged for 24 hours. The tank shall be 
locked or sealed during this 24-hour submergence period. It is important 
that after the inserts have once been submerged they shall remain 
submerged for the duration of the test, and at no time during the course 
of the test shall they be removed from the tank or otherwise exposed to 
air.
    (iii) After the 24-hour submergence period, unlock or unseal the 
tank and weigh the wire basket with the inserts inside while both are 
still under water.
    (iv) The buoyancy is computed as paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section 
minus paragraph (e)(i)(iii) of this section.
    (2) Buoyancy required. The buoyant inserts from adult size buoyant 
vests shall provide not less than 15\1/2\ pounds buoyancy in fresh 
water; the inserts from child medium size vests shall provide not less 
than 11 pounds buoyancy; and the inserts from child small size vests 
shall provide not less than 7 pounds buoyancy.
    (f) Body strap test. The complete body strap assembly including 
hardware, shall be tested for strength by attaching the dee ring to a 
suitable support such that the assembly hangs vertically its full 
length. A weight as specified in Sec.  160.052-3(d) shall be attached to 
the other end of the snap hook for 10 minutes. The specified weight 
shall not break or excessively distort the body strap assembly.
    (g) Additional approval tests for nonstandard vests. Tests in 
addition to those required by this section may be conducted by the 
inspector for nonstandard vests to determine performance equivalence to 
a standard vest. Such additional tests may include determining 
performance in water, suitability of materials, donning time, ease of 
adjustment, and similar equivalency tests. Costs of any additional tests 
must be assumed by the manufacturer.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11588, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-90R, 37 
FR 10837, May 31, 1972; CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8120, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 75-
008, 43 FR 9772, Mar. 9, 1978; USCG-2014-0688, 79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 
2014]



Sec.  160.052-8  Marking.

    (a) Each buoyant vest must have the following information clearly 
marked in waterproof lettering that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:

Inspected and tested in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
(Name of buoyant material) provides a minimum buoyant force of (15\1/2\ 
lb., 11 lb., or 7 lb.).
Dry out thoroughly when wet.
Approved for use on all recreational boats and on uninspected commercial 
vessels less than 40 feet in length not carrying passengers for hire by 
persons weighing (over 90 lb., 50 to 90 lb., or less than 50 lb.).
U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. 160.050/(assigned manufacturer's No.)/
(Revision No.); (Model No.).
(Name and address of manufacturer or distributor).
(Lot No.)

    (b) Waterproof marking. Marking for buoyant vests shall be 
sufficiently waterproof so that after 72 hours submergence in water it 
will withstand vigorous rubbing by hand while wet without the printed 
matter becoming illegible.

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8120, Mar. 28, 1973, as amended by CGD 75-008, 43 FR 
9771, Mar. 9, 1978; USCG-2013-0263, 79 FR 56499, Sept. 22, 2014]



Sec.  160.052-9  Recognized laboratory.

    (a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under 
this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of 
this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized 
independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under 
Sec.  159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions 
under this subpart:


[[Page 115]]


Underwriters Laboratories, 12 Laboratory Drive, P.O. Box 13995, Research 
Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995, (919) 549-1400.

    (b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory 
that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the 
Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production 
oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory 
that performed the approval testing.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13930, Mar. 28, 1996]



          Subpart 160.053_Work Vests, Unicellular Plastic Foam

    Source: CGFR 59-22, 24 FR 4961, June 18, 1959, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.053-1  Applicable specifications.

    (a) Specification. The following specification of the issue in 
effect on the date unicellular plastic foam work vests are manufactured, 
form a part of this subpart:
    (1) Military specification: MIL-L-17653A--Life Preserver, Vest, Work 
Type, Unicellular Plastic.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (b) Copies on file. Copies of the specification referred to in this 
section, as well as the various specifications forming a part thereof, 
shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together with the certificate 
of approval. They shall be kept for a period consisting of the duration 
of approval and 6 months after termination of approval. Federal 
specifications may be purchased from the General Services 
Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS 
Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202, 703-
605-5400. Military specifications may be obtained from the Military 
Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, 
Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://
assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.

[CGFR 59-22, 24 FR 4961, June 18, 1959, as amended by CGFR 65-16, 30 FR 
10899, Aug. 21, 1965; CGD 72-163, 38 FR 8120, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 78-012, 
43 FR 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51215, Sept. 30, 1997; 
USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60157, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.053-2  Type.

    (a) Unicellular plastic foam work vests specified by this subpart 
shall be of the type described in Military Specification MIL-L-17653A, 
but alternate designs equivalent in materials, construction, 
performance, and workmanship will be given consideration.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.053-3  Materials, construction and workmanship.

    (a) General. Except as otherwise specifically provided by this 
subpart and subparts 164.019 and 164.023 of this chapter, the materials, 
construction, and workmanship of unicellular plastic foam work vests 
specified by this subpart shall conform to the requirements of Military 
Specification MIL-L-17653A.
    (b) Color of envelope. Indian Orange, Cable No. 70072, Standard 
Color Card of America, will be acceptable in lieu of the Scarlet-Munsell 
7.5 red \6/10\ color specified for envelopes or covers by paragraph 
3.1.1.1 of Specification MIL-L-17653A.
    (c) Color of webbing and thread. The color of the webbing and thread 
need not match the color of the envelope as specified by paragraphs 
3.1.3 and 3.2.8 of Specification MIL-L-17653A.
    (d) Materials; acceptance and quality. All components used in the 
construction of work vests must meet the applicable requirements of 
subpart 164.019 of this chapter.

[CGFR 59-22, 24 FR 4961, June 18, 1959, as amended by CGD 84-068, 58 FR 
29493, May 20, 1993]



Sec.  160.053-4  Inspections and tests.

    (a) General. Work vests are not inspected at regularly scheduled 
factory inspections; however, the Commander of the Coast Guard District 
may detail a marine inspector at any time to visit any place where work 
vests are manufactured to observe production methods and to conduct any 
inspections or tests which may be deemed advisable. The marine inspector 
shall be admitted to any place in the factory where work is done on work 
vests or component materials, and samples of materials entering into 
construction may be taken by the marine inspector and tests made

[[Page 116]]

for compliance with the applicable requirements.
    (b) Manufacturer's inspections and tests. Manufacturers of approved 
work vests shall maintain quality control of the materials used, 
manufacturing methods, workmanship, and the finished product so as to 
meet the requirements of this specification, and shall make full 
inspections and tests of representative samples from each lot to 
maintain the quality of their product.
    (c) Lot size. A lot shall consist of not more than 500 work vests 
manufactured at the same time. Lots shall be numbered serially by the 
manufacturer, and if at any time during the manufacture of a lot, any 
change or modification in materials or production methods is made, a new 
lot shall be started.
    (d) Test facilities. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place 
and shall have on hand the necessary apparatus for conducting buoyancy 
tests in compliance with this specification. The apparatus shall include 
accurate spring scales of adequate capacity, weighted wire mesh baskets, 
and a test tank or tanks which can be locked or sealed in such a manner 
as to preclude disturbance of work vests undergoing tests or change in 
water level.
    (e) Buoyancy--(1) Buoyancy test method. Remove the buoyant inserts 
from the vest. Securely attach the spring scale in a position directly 
over the test tank. Suspend the weighted wire basket from the scale in 
such a manner that the basket can be weighed while it is completely 
under water. In order to measure the actual buoyancy provided by the 
inserts, the underwater weight of the empty basket should exceed the 
buoyancy of the inserts. To obtain the buoyancy of the inserts, proceed 
as follows:
    (i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
    (ii) Place the inserts inside the basket and submerge it so that the 
top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water. 
Allow the inserts to remain submerged for 24 hours. The tank shall be 
locked or sealed during this 24-hour submergence period.
    (iii) After the 24-hour submergence period, unlock the tank and 
weigh the wire basket with the inserts inside while both are still under 
water.
    (iv) The buoyancy is computed as paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section 
minus paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this section.
    (2) Buoyancy required. The buoyant inserts from work vests shall 
provide not less than 17\1/2\ pounds buoyancy in fresh water.



Sec.  160.053-5  Marking.

    (a) Each work vest must have the following information clearly 
printed in waterproof lettering that can be read at a distance of 2 
feet:

    Inspected and tested in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard 
regulations.
    (Name of buoyant material) buoyant material provides a minimum 
buoyant force of 17\1/2\ lbs.
    Approved for use on Merchant Vessels as a work vest.
    U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. 160.053/(assigned manufacturer's No.)/
(Revision No.); (Model No.).
    (Name and address of manufacturer or distributor.)
    (Lot No.)
    This vest is filled with (name of buoyant material), which will not 
be harmed by repeated wetting. Hang up and dry thoroughly when vest is 
wet.

    (b) Additional marking required. In addition to the wording included 
on the marking tag, on a front compartment of each work vest there shall 
be stenciled in waterproof ink in letters not less than one inch in 
height, the words, ``WORK VEST ONLY.''
    (c) Waterproofness of marking tags. Marking tags shall be 
sufficiently waterproof so that after 48 hours submergence in water, 
they will withstand rubbing by hand with moderate pressure while wet 
without the printed matter becoming illegible.

[CGFR 59-22, 24 FR 4961, June 18, 1959, as amended by CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 
8121, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 75-008, 43 FR 9771, Mar. 9, 1978; USCG-2013-
0263, 79 FR 56499, Sept. 22, 2014]



Sec.  160.053-6  Procedure for approval.

    (a) General. Work vests for use on merchant vessels are approved 
only by the Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard. Manufacturers seeking approval 
of a work vest shall follow the procedures of this section and subpart 
159.005 of this chapter.

[[Page 117]]

    (b) If the work vest is of a standard design, as described by Sec.  
160.053-3, in order to be approved, the work vest must be tested in 
accordance with Sec.  160.053-4 by an independent laboratory accepted by 
the Coast Guard under 46 CFR 159.010.
    (c) If the work vest is of a non-standard design, the application 
must include the following:
    (1) Plans and specifications containing the information required by 
Sec.  159.005-12 of this chapter, including drawings, product 
description, construction specifications, and bill of materials.
    (2) The information specified in Sec.  159.005-5(a)(2) (i) through 
(iii) of this chapter, except that, if preapproval review has been 
waived, the manufacturer is not required to send a prototype work vest 
sample to the Commandant.
    (3) Performance testing results of the design performed by an 
independent laboratory, that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the 
Coast Guard under Sec.  159.010-7 of this subchapter covering the in-
water testing of personal flotation devices, showing equivalence to the 
standard design's performance in all material respects.
    (4) Any special purpose(s) for which the work vest is designed and 
the vessel(s) or vessel type(s) on which its use is intended.
    (5) Buoyancy and other relevant tolerances to be complied with 
during production.
    (6) The text of any optional marking to be included on the work vest 
in addition to the markings required by Sec.  160.053.

[CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51215, Sept. 30, 1997]

Subpart 160.054 [Reserved]



  Subpart 160.055_Life Preservers, Unicellular Plastic Foam, Adult and 
                       Child, for Merchant Vessels



Sec.  160.055-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to 
the following documents:
    (1) Military Specifications:

MIL-W-530F--Webbing, Textile, Cotton, General Purpose, Natural or in 
Colors.
MIL-T-3530E--Thread and Twine; Mildew Resistant or Water Repellant 
Treated.
MIL-W-17337D--Webbing, Woven, Nylon.
MIL-C-43006D--Cloth and Strip Laminated, Vinyl-Nylon High Strength, 
Flexible.

    (2) Federal Specifications:

CCC-C-700G--Cloth, Coated, Vinyl, Coated (Artificial Leather).
CCC-C-426D--Cloth, Drill, Cotton.

    (3) Federal Standards:

No. 191--Textile Test Methods.
No. 595A--Color.
No. 751A--Stitches, Seams, and Stitchings.

    (4) Standards of ASTM:

ASTM D 413-82 (1993), Standard Test Methods for Rubber Property--
Adhesion to Flexible Substrate--160.055-3
ASTM D 570-95, Standard Test Method for Water Absorption of Plastics--
160.055-3
ASTM D 882-97, Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Thin 
Plastic Sheeting--160.055-3
ASTM D 1004-94a, Standard Test Method for Initial Tear Resistance of 
Plastic Film and Sheeting--160.055-3

    (5) Coast Guard specification:

164.015--Plastic Foam, Unicellular, Buoyant, Sheet and Molded Shape.

    (b) Plans. The following plans, of the issue in effect on the date 
unicellular plastic foam life preservers are manufactured, form a part 
of this subpart:

Dwg. No. 160.055-IA:
    Sheet 1--Construction and Arrangement, Vinyl Dip Coated, Model 62, 
Adult.
    Sheet 2--Construction and Arrangement, Vinyl Dip Coated, Model 66, 
Child.
Dwg. No. 160.055-IB:
    Sheet 1--Construction and Arrangement, Cloth Covered, Model 63, 
Adult.
    Sheet 2--Buoyant Inserts, Model 63.
    Sheet 3--Construction and Arrangement, Cloth Covered, Model 67, 
Child.
    Sheet 4--Buoyant Inserts, Model 67.

    (c) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications, standards, and 
plans referred to in this section shall be kept on file by the 
manufacturer, together with the approved plans and certificate of 
approval. The Coast Guard Specification and plans may be obtained upon 
request from the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and 
Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King 
Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.

[[Page 118]]

The Federal standards may be obtained from the General Services 
Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS 
Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202; 
telephone 703-605-5400. The Military Specifications may be obtained from 
the Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents 
Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-
5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/. The ASTM Standards may 
be purchased from ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box 
C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959; telephone 877-909-2786 or Web 
site http://www.astm.org.

[CGFR 66-73, 32 FR 5500, Apr. 4, 1967, as amended by CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 
8121, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27153, 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 
88-070, 53 FR 34536, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 
1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; CGD 97-057, 62 FR 51048, 
Sept. 30, 1997; USCG-1999-5151, 64 FR 67184, Dec. 1, 1999; USCG-2009-
0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671; 78 FR 60157, Sept. 
30, 2013]



Sec.  160.055-2  Type and model.

    Each life preserver specified in this subpart is a:
    (a) Standard, bib type, vinyl dip coated:
    (1) Model 62, adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds); or
    (2) Model 66, child (for persons weighing less than 90 pounds); or
    (b) Standard, bib type, cloth covered;
    (1) Model 63, adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds); or
    (2) Model 67, child (for persons weighing less than 90 pounds); or
    (c) Nonstandard, shaped type:
    (1) Model, \1\ adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds); or
    (2) Model, \1\ child (for persons weighing less than 90 pounds).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ A model designation for each nonstandard life preserver is to be 
assigned by the manufacturer. That designation must be different from 
any standard lifesaving device designation.

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8121, Mar. 28, 1973, as amended by USCG-2014-0688, 
79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  160.055-3  Materials--standard life preservers.

    (a) General. All components used in the construction of life 
preservers must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of 
this chapter. The requirements for materials specified in this section 
are minimum requirements, and consideration will be given to the use of 
alternate materials in lieu of those specified. Detailed technical data 
and samples of all proposed alternate materials must be submitted for 
approval before those materials are incorporated in the finished 
product.
    (b) Unicellular plastic foam. The unicellular plastic foam shall be 
all new material complying with the requirements of Subpart 164.015 of 
this chapter for Type A foam.
    (c) Envelope. The life preserver envelope, or cover, shall be made 
of cotton drill. The color shall be Indian Orange, Cable No. 70072, 
Standard Color Card of America, issued by the Textile Color Association 
of the United States, Inc., 200 Madison Avenue, New York, N.Y., or 
Scarlet Munsell 7.5 Red 6/10. The drill shall be evenly dyed, and the 
fastness of the color to laundering, water, crocking, and light shall be 
rated ``good'' when tested in accordance with Federal Test Method 
Standard No. 191, Methods 5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660. After dyeing, the 
drill shall be treated with a mildew-inhibitor of the type specified in 
paragraph (e) of this section. The finished goods shall contain not more 
than 2 percent residual sizing or other nonfibrous material, shall weigh 
not less than 6.5 ounces per square yard, shall have a thread count of 
not less than 74 in the warp and 56 in the filling, and shall have a 
breaking strength (grab method) of not less than 105 pounds in the warp 
and 70 pounds in the filling. Properly mildew-inhibited drills meeting 
the physical requirements of Federal Specification CCC-C-426 for Type I, 
Class 3 drill will be acceptable. If it is proposed to treat the fabric 
with a fire-retardant substance, full details shall be submitted to the 
Commandant for determination as to what samples will be needed for 
testing.
    (d) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 
164.023 of

[[Page 119]]

this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
    (e) Mildew-inhibitor. The mildew-inhibitor shall be 
dihydroxydichloro-diphenylmethane, known commercially as Compound G-4, 
applied by the aqueous method. The amount of inhibitor deposited shall 
be not more than 1.50 percent and not less than 1 percent of the dry 
weight of the finished goods.
    (f) Adhesive. The adhesive shall be an all-purpose waterproof vinyl 
type. (Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Co. EC-870 or EC-1070, United 
States Rubber Co. M-6256, Herculite Protective Fabrics Corp., CVV, 
Pittsburgh Plate Glass Co. R 828, or equal.)
    (g) Reinforcing fabric. The reinforcing fabric shall be Type III, 
Class I, laminated vinyl-nylon high strength cloth in accordance with 
the requirements of Specification MIL-C-43006.
    (h) Webbing. There are no restrictions as to color, but the fastness 
of the color to laundering, water, crocking, and light shall be rated 
``good'' when tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 
191, Methods 5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660. The complete body strap 
assembly shall have a minimum breaking strength of 360 pounds.
    (1) Nylon webbing. This webbing shall be 1-inch wide nylon webbing 
in accordance with the requirements of Specification MIL-W-17337.
    (2) Cotton webbing. This webbing shall be 1-inch cotton webbing 
meeting the requirements of Specification MIL-W-530 for Type IIb 
webbing. This webbing shall be treated with a mildew-inhibitor of the 
type specified in paragraph (e) of this section.
    (i) Hardware. All hardware shall be brass, bronze, or stainless 
steel, and of the approximate size indicated by the drawings. Steel 
hardware, protected against corrosion by plating, is not acceptable. 
Snap hook springs shall be phosphor bronze or other suitable corrosion-
resistant material. Dee ring, o-ring, slide adjuster and snap hook ends 
shall be welded or brazed, or they may be a one-piece casting. The 
complete body strap assembly shall have a minimum breaking strength of 
360 pounds.
    (j) Coating. The coating for the plastic foam shall be a liquid 
elastomeric vinyl compound. The coating shall be International Orange in 
color (Color No. 12197 of Federal Standard 595) or Scarlet Munsel 7.5, 
Red 6/10 and shall meet the following requirements in Table 160.055-
3(j):

                                               Table 160.055-3(j)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Property                           Test method                          Requirement
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tensile strength......................  ASTM-D882, Method B, \1/2\ in.  1,200 p.s.i., minimum.
                                         dumbbell die.
Ultimate elongation...................  ASTM-D882, Method B, \1/2\ in.  320 percent, minimum.
                                         dumbbell die.
Tear resistance.......................  ASTM-D1004, Constant            90 pounds per inch, minimum.
                                         Elongation Machine.
Abrasion resistance...................  FS CCC-T-191, Method 5304, No.  100,000 double rubs.
                                         8 cotton duck, 6 lb. tension,
                                         2 lb. pressure.
Blocking..............................  FS CCC-T-191, Method 5872, 30   No blocking.
                                         minutes at 180 [deg]F., \1/4\
                                         p.s.i.
Accelerated weathering................  FS CCC-T-191, Method 5670, 120  Color change--very slight.
                                         hours.                         Cracking--None.
                                                                        Flexibility--No change.
Plasticizer heat loss.................  FS CCC-A-700, paragraph 4.4.4,  8 percent, maximum.
                                         48 hours at 221 [deg]F.
Adhesion to foam--Tensile pull........  ASTM-D413, machine method, 12
                                         in. per minute, 1 in. strip.
  Film to foam skin...................  ..............................  4 lb./in., minimum.
  Film to foam (no skin)..............  ..............................  2 lb./in., minimum.
Water absorption......................  ASTM-D570, 24 hours at 70       0.5 percent, maximum.
                                         [deg]F.
Cold crack (unsupported film) 0 [deg]F  Coast Guard, 164.015,           No cracking.
                                         paragraph 164.015-4(j).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[CGFR 66-73, 32 FR 5500, Apr. 4, 1967, as amended by CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 
8121, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27153, 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 
84-068, 58 FR 29493, May 20, 1993]

[[Page 120]]



Sec.  160.055-4  Materials--nonstandard life preservers.

    All materials used in nonstandard life preservers must be equivalent 
to those specified in Sec.  160.055-3 for standard life preservers.

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8121, Mar. 28, 1973]



Sec.  160.055-5  Construction--standard life preservers.

    (a) General. This specification covers life preservers which 
essentially consist of plastic foam buoyant material arranged and 
distributed so as to provide the flotation characteristics and buoyancy 
required to hold the wearer in an upright or slightly backward position 
with head and face clear of the water. The life preservers are also 
arranged so as to be reversible and are fitted with straps and hardware 
to provide proper adjustment and fit to the bodies of various size 
wearers.
    (b) Construction--standard, vinyl dip coated life preserver. This 
device is constructed from one piece of unicellular plastic foam with 
neck hole and the body slit in the front, vinyl dip coating, and fitted 
and adjustable body strap.
    (1) Buoyant material. The buoyant material of the life preserver 
shall be a molded shape or made from one or two sheets of foam finished 
so as to have dimensions after coating in accordance with the pattern 
shown on Dwg. No. 160.055-1A, Sheet 1, for adult size and Sheet 2 for 
child size. The reinforcing fabric shall be cemented on the foam buoyant 
body before coating.
    (2) Coating. After all cutting and shaping of the buoyant body and 
installation of the reinforcing fabric, the entire body of the life 
preserver shall be coated evenly and smoothly to a minimum thickness of 
0.010 with a liquid vinyl coating material of the type 
described in Sec.  160.055-3(j).
    (3) Body strap. After the coating on the buoyant body of the life 
preserver is fully cured, a nylon webbing body strap shall be attached 
as shown on Dwg. No. 160.055-IA.
    (4) Stitching. All stitching shall be a short lock stitch, 
conforming to Stitch Type 301 of Federal Standard 751, with nylon 
thread, and there shall be not less than 9 nor more than 11 stitches to 
the inch. Bar tacking with nylon thread is acceptable as noted on Dwg. 
No. 160-055-IA.
    (c) Construction--standard, cloth covered life preserver. This 
device is constructed from three sections of unicellular plastic foam 
contained in a cloth envelope and has a neck hole, the body slit in the 
front, and a fitted and adjustable body strap.
    (1) Buoyant material. The buoyant material of the life preserver 
shall be three sections of foam cut so as to have finished dimensions in 
accordance with the patterns shown on Dwg. No. 160.055-IB, Sheet 2, for 
adult size and Sheet 4, for child size. One or two layers of foam may be 
used to make up each section.
    (2) Envelope. The envelope shall be cut to the pattern shown on Dwg. 
No. 160.055-IB, Sheet 1, for adult size, and Sheet 3, for child size, 
and joined by seams and stitching as shown on the drawing. Alternate 
finished envelopes are permitted as noted on Dwg. No. 160.055-IB.
    (3) Body strap. The body strap may be cotton or nylon webbing and 
shall be attached by stitching as shown on the Dwg. No. 160.055-IB, 
Sheet 1, for adult size and Sheet 3, for child size.
    (4) Stitching. All stitching shall be a short lock stitch conforming 
to Stitch Type 301 of Federal Standard No. 751, and there shall be not 
less than 7 nor more than 9 stitches to the inch if cotton thread is 
used, and not less than 9 nor more than 11 if nylon thread is used. Bar 
tacking is acceptable as noted on Dwg. No. 160.055-IB.
    (d) Workmanship. Life preservers shall be of first-class workmanship 
and shall be free from any defects materially affecting their appearance 
or service-ability.

[CGFR 66-73, 32 FR 5500, Apr. 4, 1967, as amended by CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 
8121, Mar. 28, 1973]



Sec.  160.055-6  Construction--nonstandard, life preservers.

    (a) General. The construction methods used for a nonstandard life 
preserver must be equivalent to the requirements in Sec.  160.055-5 for 
a standard life preserver and also meet the requirements in this 
section.

[[Page 121]]

    (b) Size. Each nonstandard life preserver must contain the following 
volume of plastic foam buoyant material, determined by the displacement 
method:
    (1) 700 cubic inches or more for an adult size;
    (2) 350 cubic inches or more for a child size.
    (c) Arrangement of buoyant materials. The buoyant material in 
nonstandard life preservers must:
    (1) Be arranged to hold the wearer in an upright or backward 
position with head and face out of water;
    (2) Have no tendency to turn the wearer face downward in the water; 
and
    (3) Be arranged so that 68 to 73 percent of the total is located in 
the front of the life preserver.
    (d) Adjustment, fit, and donning. Each nonstandard life preserver 
must be capable of being:
    (1) Worn reversed;
    (2) Adjusted to fit a range of wearers for the type designed; and
    (3) Donned in a time comparable to that of a standard life 
preserver.

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8121, Mar. 28, 1973]



Sec.  160.055-7  Sampling, tests, and inspections.

    (a) Production tests and inspections must be conducted by the 
manufacturer of a life preserver and the accepted laboratory inspector 
in accordance with this section and Sec.  160.001-5.
    (b) Buoyancy test. The buoyancy of the pad inserts from the life 
preserver shall be determined according to Sec.  160.001-5(f) of this 
part with each compartment of the buoyant pad insert covers slit so as 
not to entrap air. The period of submersion must be at least 48 hours.
    (c) Buoyancy required. The buoyant pad inserts from Model 3 adult 
life preservers shall provide not less than 25 pounds buoyancy in fresh 
water, and the pads from Model 5 child life preservers shall provide not 
less than 16.5 pounds buoyancy.

[CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51215, Sept. 30, 1997]



Sec.  160.055-8  Marking.

    Each life preserver must have the following information clearly 
marked in waterproof lettering:
    (a) In letters three-fourths of an inch or more in height;
    (1) Adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds); or
    (2) Child (for persons weighing less than 90 pounds).
    (b) In letters that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:

    Inspected and tested in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard 
regulations.
    (Name of buoyant material) buoyant material provides a minimum 
buoyant force of (22 lb. or 11 lb.).
    Approved for use on all vessels by persons weighing (90 lb. or more, 
or less than 90 lb.).
    U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. 160.055/(assigned manufacturer's No.)/
(Revision No.); (Model No.).
    (Name and address of manufacturer or distributor).
    (Lot No.)

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8121, Mar. 28, 1973, as amended by CGD 75-008, 43 FR 
9771, Mar. 9, 1978; 43 FR 10913, Mar. 11, 1978; USCG-2013-0263, 79 FR 
56499, Sept. 22, 2014]



Sec.  160.055-9  Procedure for approval--standard and nonstandard life
preservers.

    (a) General. Manufacturers seeking approval of a life preserver 
design shall follow the procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, 
as explained in Sec.  160.001-3 of this part.
    (b) Assignment of inspector; standard life preservers. Upon receipt 
of an approval of a standard life preserver, a Coast Guard inspector is 
assigned to the factory to:
    (1) Observe the production facilities and manufacturing methods;
    (2) Select from a lot of 10 manufactured life preservers or more, 
three or more of each model for examination;
    (3) Test the selected sample for compliance with the requirements of 
this subpart; and
    (4) Forward to the Commandant a copy of his report of the tests and 
the production and manufacturing facilities, a specimen life preserver 
selected from those already manufactured but not tested, and one copy of 
an affidavit for each material used in the life preservers.

[[Page 122]]

    (b-1) Approval number--standard life preserver. An approval number 
is assigned to the manufacturer by the Coast Guard for a standard life 
preserver found to be in compliance with the requirements of this 
subpart.
    (c) Assignment of inspector--nonstandard life preserver. Upon 
receipt of an application from a manufacturer for approval of 
nonstandard life preservers, an inspector is assigned to the factory to:
    (1) Observe the production facilities and manufacturing methods;
    (2) Select three samples of life preservers of each model for which 
approval is desired;
    (3) Forward to the Commandant:
    (i) Three samples of each model of life preserver;
    (ii) A copy of the inspector's report of tests and the production 
and manufacturing facilities; and
    (iii) Four copies each of fully dimensioned, full-scale drawings 
showing all details of construction of the sample life preservers 
submitted, material affidavits, and four copies of a bill of materials 
showing all materials used in construction of the life preservers 
submitted by the manufacturer.
    (c-1) Approval number--nonstandard life preserver. An official 
approval number is assigned to the manufacturer by the Coast Guard for a 
nonstandard life preserver approved after tests.
    (d) Private brand labels. Private brand labels are those bearing the 
name and address of a distributor in lieu of the manufacturer. In order 
for a manufacturer to apply for an approval number to be used on such a 
private brand label, he shall forward a letter of request to the 
Commander of the Coast Guard District in which the factory is located, 
setting forth the life preservers involved, together with a letter from 
his distributor also requesting that approval be issued. The 
manufacturer's request for approval together with that of his 
distributor, will be forwarded to the Commandant, and when deemed 
advisable, an approval number or numbers will be issued in the name of 
the distributor. Approvals issued to a distributor under such an 
arrangement shall apply only to life preservers made by the manufacturer 
named on the certificate of approval, and this manufacturer shall be 
responsible for compliance of the life preservers with the requirements 
of this subpart.

[CGFR 66-73, 32 FR 5500, Apr. 4, 1967, as amended by CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 
8121, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 88-070, 
53 FR 34536, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51215, Sept. 30, 1997]



                       Subpart 160.056_Rescue Boat

    Source: CGFR 61-15, 26 FR 9300, Sept. 30, 1961, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.056-1  General requirements.

    (a) Rescue boats accepted and in use prior to the effective date of 
this subpart may be continued in service if in satisfactory condition.
    (b) All rescue boats must be properly constructed, of such form as 
to be readily maneuverable, and be of the open rowboat type. They shall 
be suitable for use of three persons.
    (c) Rescue boats shall be constructed of materials acceptable to the 
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, having jurisdiction of 
construction.



Sec.  160.056-2  Construction.

    (a) General. Rescue boats shall be square-sterned, of normal 
proportions, not less than 11 feet nor more than 14 feet in length. The 
length shall be the overall horizontal distance from bow to stern.
    (b) Construction. The method of construction shall be such as is 
accepted as good engineering practice in the case of the specific 
material used. The hull shall be suitably stiffened to assure adequate 
strength.
    (c) Weight. The weight of the rescue boat, fully equipped, shall not 
exceed 225 pounds.
    (d) Seats. The rescue boat shall be fitted with three thwarts. The 
middle thwart shall be arranged as the rowing seat.
    (e) Internal buoyancy. Buoyant material of suitable unicellular 
plastic foam shall be installed in the rescue boat. This material shall 
be protected from mechanical damage. It shall be distributed uniformly 
in the boat and such that at least one-quarter of the required volume is 
located at the sides of the boat. The minimum amount of

[[Page 123]]

buoyant material, in cubic feet, shall be determined by the following:

B = 2 + (W - W / d) / 62.4 - c (1)

Where:

B = Volume of buoyant material required in cubic feet.
W = Weight of equipped boat, in pounds.
d = Specific gravity of hull material.
c = Density of buoyant material, in pounds per cubic foot.



Sec.  160.056-3  Fittings and equipment.

    (a) Fittings. (1) The rescue boat shall be fitted with one pair of 
rowlock sockets. Detachable rowlocks shall be permanently attached to 
the boat by chain or other suitable means.
    (2) At least one eyebolt, ring, or other fitting suitable for 
attaching a painter shall be fitted to the bow and stern.
    (b) Equipment. (1) The rescue boat shall be provided with one pair 
of oars of suitable size and material.
    (2) A painter shall be attached to the bow and to the stern 
fittings. Each shall be of suitable material, at least \3/8\-inch in 
diameter, and at least 30 feet long.



Sec.  160.056-4  Approval tests of prototype rescue boat.

    (a) Drop test. The rescue boat, fully equipped, shall be dropped, in 
a free fall, from a ten-foot height into water. No damage which would 
render the rescue boat unserviceable shall result from this drop.
    (b) Stability and freeboard test. The rescue boat shall have 
sufficient stability and freeboard so that the gunwale on the low side 
shall not be submerged with 350 pounds placed nine inches from the side 
in way of and about the level of the middle thwart.
    (c) Rescue boarding test. With one man in the rowing position, a 
second kneeling on the stern thwart facing aft, and a third man balanced 
on the transom, the minimum freeboard of the transom shall be five 
inches. The men should average 165 pounds each. This test simulates the 
rescue of a person over the transom by a two-man boat crew.
    (d) Rowing test. Three men, averaging 165 pounds each, shall be 
seated on the centerline of the boat, one on each thwart. One man, in 
the rowing position, using ordinary rowing technique, shall demonstrate 
the satisfactory course keeping and maneuvering characteristics of the 
boat in the ahead and astern directions.



Sec.  160.056-6  Name plate.

    (a) Each rescue boat shall have permanently fitted at the transom a 
metal name plate, galvanically compatible with the hull material, and 
bearing information relating to the testing and approval of the 
prototype boat. Either raised or indented letters shall be used.
    (b) The following information shall appear on the name plate:

                               RescueBoat

U.S.C.G. Specification 160.056
Prototype approved______________________________________________________
                                                                  (Date)
Approved by OCMI________________________________________________________
                                                                  (Port)
Date of manufacture_____________________________________________________
                                                                  (Date)
Manufacturer's serial No._______________________________________________
Manufacturer's name and address_________________________________________



Sec.  160.056-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) The manufacturer shall submit a request for approval to the 
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, having jurisdiction of the place 
of manufacture of the rescue boat.
    (b) Formal plans will not be required. However, a combined general 
arrangement and construction plan is required, which includes principal 
dimensions, and descriptive data of hull material, buoyant material, and 
equipment.
    (c) When plans and data are satisfactory, the Officer in Charge, 
Marine Inspection, will assign a marine inspector to conduct the tests 
required by Sec.  160.056-4.
    (d) Upon successful completion of the test, the inspector shall 
submit a written report to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection. A 
copy of this report, with plans and photographs, shall be forwarded to 
the Commandant for record purposes. The date of approval and the marine 
inspector's initials shall be indicated in this report.
    (e) The Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, shall issue a letter 
to the manufacturer indicating that approval of the rescue boat has been 
granted, and will include any conditions imposed. A copy of this 
approval letter

[[Page 124]]

shall be forwarded to the District Commander and to the Commandant.
    (f) If a rescue boat is required on short notice, a boat may be 
approved on an individual basis: Provided, That the requirements in this 
subpart are met to the satisfaction of the Officer in Charge Marine 
Inspection. Sketches of the boat showing alterations may be submitted in 
lieu of the manufacturer's general arrangement and construction plan. 
Under these circumstances, the letter indicating that approval of the 
rescue boat has been granted shall be issued to the vessel using the 
boat.

[CGFR 61-15, 26 FR 9300, Sept. 30, 1961, as amended by CGFR 65-9, 30 FR 
11480, Sept. 8, 1965]



   Subpart 160.057_Floating Orange Smoke Distress Signals (15 Minutes)

    Source: CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73091, Dec. 17, 1979, unless 
otherwise noted.



Sec.  160.057-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) The following are incorporated by reference into this subpart:
    (1) ``The Color Names Dictionary'' in Color: Universal Language and 
Dictionary of Names, National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 
440, December 1976.
    (2) ``Development of a Laboratory Test for Evaluation of the 
Effectiveness of Smoke Signals,'' National Bureau of Standards Report 
4792, July 1956.
    (b) NBS Special Publication 440 may be obtained by ordering from the 
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, 
Washington, DC 20402 (Order by SD Catalog No. C13.10:440).
    (c) NBS Report 4792 may be obtained from the Commandant (CG-ENG), 
Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 
7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.
    (d) Approval to incorporate by reference the materials listed in 
this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on 
November 1 and 29, 1979. The materials are on file in the Federal 
Register library.

[CGD 76-048a, CGD 76-048b, 44 FR 73091, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by CGD 
82-063b, 48 FR 4782, Feb. 3, 1983; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34536, Sept. 7, 
1988; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, 
Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60157, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.057-2  Type.

    (a) Floating orange. smoke distress signals specified by this 
subpart shall be of one type which shall consist essentially of an outer 
container, ballast, an air chamber, an inner container, the smoke 
producing composition, and an igniter mechanism. Alternate arrangements 
which conform to the performance requirements of this specification will 
be given special consideration.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.057-3  Materials, workmanship, construction, and performance
requirements.

    (a) Materials. The materials shall conform strictly to the 
specifications and drawings submitted by the manufacturer and approved 
by the Commandant. Metal for containers shall be not less than 0.5 mm 
(0.020 in.) in thickness. Other dimensions or materials may be 
considered upon special request when presented with supporting data. 
Igniter systems shall be of corrosion-resistant metal. The combustible 
material shall be of such nature that it will not deteriorate during 
long storage, nor when subjected to frigid or tropical climates, or 
both.
    (b) Workmanship. Floating orange smoke distress signals shall be of 
first class workmanship and shall be free from imperfections of 
manufacture affecting their appearance or that may affect their 
serviceability.
    (c) Construction. The outer container shall be cylindrical and of a 
size suitable for intended use. All sheet metal seams should be hook 
jointed and soldered. The whole container shall be covered with two 
coats of waterproof paint or other equivalent protection system. The 
igniter mechanism shall operate and provide ignition of the signal 
automatically when the ring life buoy to which it is attached is thrown 
overboard.

[[Page 125]]

    (d) Performance. Signals shall meet all the inspection and test 
requirements contained in Sec.  160.057-4.



Sec.  160.057-4  Approval and production tests.

    (a) Approval tests. The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 
20 signals from which samples must be taken for testing for approval 
under Sec.  160.057-7. The approval tests are the operational tests and 
technical tests in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section. The approval 
tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the 
Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of this chapter.
    (b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and 
tests of each lot of signals produced must be conducted under the 
procedures in Sec.  159.007 of this chapter. Signals from a rejected lot 
must not be represented as meeting this subpart or as being approved by 
the Coast Guard. If the manufacturer identifies the cause of the 
rejection of a lot of signals, the signals in the lot may be reworked by 
the manufacturer to correct the problem. Samples from the rejected lot 
must be retested in order to be accepted. Records shall be kept of the 
reasons for rejection, the reworking performed on the rejected lot, and 
the results of the second test.
    (1) Lot size. For the purposes of sampling the production of 
signals, a lot must consist of not more than 1,200 signals. Lots must be 
numbered serially by the manufacturer. A new lot must be started with: 
(i) Any change in construction details, (ii) any change in sources of 
raw materials, or (iii) the start of production on a new production line 
or on a previously discontinued production line.
    (2) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer's 
quality control procedures must include inspection of materials entering 
into construction of the signals and inspection of the finished signals, 
to determine that signals are being produced in accordance with the 
approved plans. Samples from each lot must be tested in accordance with 
the operational tests in paragraph (c) of this section.
    (3) Inspections and tests by an independent laboratory. An 
independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under Sec.  159.010 of 
this chapter must perform or supervise the inspections and tests under 
paragraph (b)(2) of this section at least 4 times a year, unless the 
number of lots produced in a year is less than four. The inspections and 
tests must occur at least once during each quarterly period, unless no 
lots are produced during that period. If less than four lots are 
produced, the laboratory must perform or supervise the inspection and 
testing of each lot. In addition, the laboratory must perform or 
supervise the technical tests in paragraph (d) of this section at least 
once for every ten lots of signals produced, except that the number of 
technical tests must be at least one but not more than four per year. If 
a lot of signals tested by the independent laboratory is rejected, the 
laboratory must perform or supervise the inspections and tests of the 
reworked lot and the next lot of signals produced. The tests of each 
reworked lot and the next lot produced must not be counted for the 
purpose of meeting the requirement for the annual number of inspections 
and tests performed or supervised by the independent laboratory.
    (c) Operational tests. Each lot of signals must be sampled and 
tested as follows:
    (1) Sampling procedure and accept/reject criteria. A sample of 
signals must be selected at random from the lot. The size of the sample 
must be the individual sample size in Table 160.057-4(c)(1) 
corresponding to the lot size. Each signal in the sample is tested as 
prescribed in the test procedure in paragraph (c)(2) of this section. 
Each signal that has a defect listed in the table of defects (Table 
160.057-4(c)(2)) is assigned a score (failure percent) in accordance 
with that table. In the case of multiple defects, only the score having 
the highest numerical value is assigned to that signal If the sum of all 
the failure percents (cumulative failure percent) for the number of 
units in the sample is less than or equal to the accept criterion, the 
lot is accepted. If this sum is equal to or more than the reject 
criterion the lot is rejected.

If the cumulative failure percent falls between the accept and reject 
criteria, another sample is selected from the

[[Page 126]]

production lot and the operational tests are repeated. The cumulative 
failure percent of each sample tested is added to that of the previous 
samples to obtain the cumulative failure percent for all the signals 
tested (cumulative sample size). Additional samples are tested and the 
tests repeated until either the accept or reject criterion for the 
cumulative sample size is met. If any signal in the sample explodes when 
fired, or ignites in a way that could burn or otherwise injure the 
person firing it, the lot is rejected without further testing. (This 
procedure is diagrammed in figure 160.057-4(c)).
    (2) Test procedure. Each sample signal (specimen) must be tested as 
follows:
    (i) Conditioning of test specimens--water resistance. Immerse 
specimen horizontally with uppermost portion of the signal approximately 
25 mm (1 in.) below the surface of the water for a period of 24 hours.
    (ii) Smoke emitting time. Ignite specimen according to the 
directions printed on the signal and place signal in tub or barrel of 
water. The smoke emitting time of a specimen shall be obtained by stop 
watch measurements from the time of distinct, sustained smoke emission 
until it ceases. There shall be no flame emission during the entire 
smoke emitting time of the signal. The smoke emitting time for a 
specimen shall not be less than 15 minutes. When the tests are performed 
or supervised by an independent laboratory, this test shall be conducted 
with approximately 6 mm (\1/4\ in.) of gasoline covering the water in 
the tub or barrel. The gasoline vapors shall not ignite during the 
entire smoke emitting time of the signal.
    (iii) Ignition and smoke emitting characteristics. Test specimens 
shall ignite and emit smoke properly when the directions on the signal 
are followed. Test specimens shall not ignite explosively in a manner 
that might be dangerous to the user or persons close by. Test specimens 
shall emit smoke at a uniform rate while floating in calm to rough 
water. Signals should be so constructed that water submerging the signal 
in moderately heavy seas will not cause it to become inoperable.

                   Table 160.057-4(c)(1)--Accept and reject criteria for operational test lots
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                         Cumula-
                                                 Individual                                tive   Accept  Reject
                    Lot size                       sample              Sample             sample    \1\     \1\
                                                    size                                   size
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
150 or                                                    2  First.....................        2   ( \2\     200
                                                                                                       )
  less.                                          ..........  Second....................        4   ( \2\     200
                                                                                                       )
                                                 ..........  Third.....................        6       0     200
                                                 ..........  Fourth....................        8       0     300
                                                 ..........  Fifth.....................       10     100     300
                                                 ..........  Sixth.....................       12     100     300
                                                 ..........  Seventh...................       14     299     300
151 to                                                    3  First.....................        3   ( \2\     200
                                                                                                       )
  500.                                           ..........  Second....................        6       0     300
                                                 ..........  Third.....................        9       0     300
                                                 ..........  Fourth....................       12     100     400
                                                 ..........  Fifth.....................       15     200     400
                                                 ..........  Sixth.....................       18     300     500
                                                 ..........  Seventh...................       21     499     500
More                                                      5  First.....................        5   ( \2\     300
                                                                                                       )
  than                                           ..........  Second....................       10       0     300
  501.                                           ..........  Third.....................       15     100     400
                                                 ..........  Fourth....................       20     200     500
                                                 ..........  Fifth.....................       25     300     600
                                                 ..........  Sixth.....................       30     400     600
                                                 ..........  Seventh...................       35     699     700
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Cumulative failure percent.
\2\ Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.


                          Table 160.057-4(c)(2)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Percentage
                      Kind of defects                        of failures
------------------------------------------------------------------------
a. Failure to ignite.......................................          100
b. Ignites or burns dangerously............................          100
c. Nonuniform smoke emitting rate..........................           50
d. Smoke-emitting time less than 70 percent of specified             100
 time......................................................
e. Smoke-emitting time at least 70 percent but less than 80           75
 percent of specified time.................................
f. Smoke-emitting time at least 80 percent but less than 90           50
 percent of specified time.................................
g. Smoke-emitting time at least 90 percent but less than              25
 100 percent of specified time.............................
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 127]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.012

    (d) Technical tests. One signal must be subjected to each of the 
following tests. Each signal must pass the test in order for the lot of 
signals to be accepted.
    (1) Drop test. One signal must be attached to a ring life buoy and 
arranged

[[Page 128]]

to be ignited by the dropping buoy in the same manner as it would be 
when used on a vessel. The signal and buoy must be mounted at least 27 m 
(90 ft.) above the surface of a body of water. The buoy is released and 
must cause the signal to ignite and fall to the water with the buoy. The 
signal must remain afloat and emit smoke at least 15 minutes.
    (2) Wave test. A signal shall be tested in a manner simulating its 
use at sea. The signal shall be ignited and thrown overboard under 
conditions where waves are at least 30 cm (1 ft.) high. The smoke 
emitting time must be for the full 15 minutes and the signal shall float 
in such a manner that it shall function properly during this test. The 
signal shall be attached to a ring life buoy in accordance with the 
manufacturer's instructions.
    (3) Underwater smoke emission. Condition the signal in accordance 
with paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section. Ignite specimen and let it 
burn about 15 seconds in air. Submerge the burning signal in water in a 
vertical position with head down. Obtain underwater smoke emission time 
by stop watch measurements from time of submersion until smoke emission 
ceases. The test specimen shall emit smoke under water not less than 30 
seconds when subjected to this test.
    (4) Elevated Temperature, Humidity and Storage. Place specimen in a 
thermostatically controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 [deg]C. 
with not less than 90 percent relative humidity for 72 hours. Remove 
specimen and store at room temperature (20[deg] to 25 [deg]C.) with 
approximately 65 percent relative humidity for 10 days. If for any 
reason it is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72-
hour period, it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity 
for 8 hours out of each 24 during the 72-hour conditioning period. 
(Total of 24 hours on and 48 hours off.) The signal shall not ignite or 
decompose during this conditioning. The signal shall ignite and operate 
satisfactorily following this conditioning.
    (5) Spontaneous ignition. Place the specimen in a thermostatically 
controlled even-temperature oven held at 75 [deg]C. with not more than 
10% relative humidity for 48 consecutive hours. The signal must not 
ignite or undergo marked decomposition.
    (6) Susceptibility to explosion. Remove smoke composition from 
signal and punch a small hole in the composition. Insert a No. 6 
commercial blasting cap. Ignite the cap. The test specimen shall not 
explode or ignite.
    (7) Corrosion resistance. Expose the complete specimen with cover 
secured hand-tight to a finely divided spray of 20 percent by weight 
sodium chloride solution at a temperature between 32 [deg]C and 38 
[deg]C (90 [deg]F and 100 [deg]F) for 100 hours. The container and cap 
must not be corroded in any fashion that would impair their proper 
functioning.
    (8) Color of smoke. Ignite specimen in the open air in daytime 
according to the directions printed on the signal, and determine the 
smoke color by direct visual comparison of the unshadowed portions of 
the smoke with a color chart held so as to receive the same daylight 
illumination as the unshadowed portions of the smoke. The color of the 
smoke must be orange as defined by sections 13 and 14 of the ``Color 
Names Dictionary'' (colors 34-39 and 48-54).
    (9) Volume and density of smoke. The test specimen shall show less 
than 70 percent transmission for not less than 12 minutes when measured 
with apparatus having a light path of 19 cm (7\1/2\ in.), an optical 
system aperture of + 3.7 degrees, and an entrance air flow of 18.4m\3\ 
per minute (650 cu. ft. per minute), such apparatus to be as described 
in National Bureau of Standards Report No. 4792.



Sec.  160.057-5  Marking.

    (a) Directions for use. Each floating orange smoke distress signal 
shall be plainly and indelibly marked in black lettering not less than 3 
mm (\1/8\ in.) high ``Approved for daytime use only'', and in black 
lettering not less than 5 mm (\3/16\ in.) high with the word 
``Directions''. Immediately below shall be similarly marked in black 
lettering not less than 3 mm (\1/8\ in.) high in numbered paragraphs, 
and in simple and easily understood wording, instructions to be followed 
to make the device operative. Pasted-on labels are not acceptable.

[[Page 129]]

    (b) Other markings. (1) There shall be embossed or die-stamped, in 
the outer container in figures not less than 5 mm (\3/16\ in.) high, 
numbers, indicating the month and year of manufacture, thus: ``6-54'' 
indicating June 1954. The outer container shall also be plainly and 
indelibly marked with the commercial designation of the signal, the 
words ``Floating Orange Smoke Distress Signal (15 minutes)'', name and 
address of the manufacturer, the Coast Guard Approval No., the service 
life expiration date (month and year to be entered by the manufacturer), 
the month and year of manufacture and the lot number.
    (2) In addition to any other marking placed on the smallest packing 
carton or box containing floating orange smoke distress signals, such 
cartons or boxes shall be plainly and indelibly marked to show the 
service life expiration date, the month and year of manufacture, and the 
lot number.
    (3) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships 
signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: ``Keep 
under cover in a dry place.''
    (c) Marking of expiration date. The expiration date must be not more 
than 42 months from the date of manufacture.

    Note: Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does 
not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the 
label requirements of 15 U.S.C. 1263, the Federal Hazardous Substances 
Act.



Sec.  160.057-7  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Signals are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in 
subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]



     Subpart 160.058_Desalter Kits, Sea Water, for Merchant Vessels

    Source: CGFR 65-9, 30 FR 11483, Sept. 8, 1965, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.058-1  Applicable specification.

    (a) Specification. The following specification, of the issue in 
effect on the date the desalter kits are manufactured, forms a part of 
this subpart:
    (1) Military specification. MIL-D-5531D--Desalter Kit, Sea Water, 
Mark 2.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (b) Copies on file. A copy of the specification referred to in this 
section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together with the 
approved plans and certificate of approval. The Military Specification 
may be obtained from the Military Specifications and Standards, 
Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, 
Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.

[CGFR 65-9, 30 FR 11483, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by USCG-2013-0671, 78 
FR 60157, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.058-2  Type.

    (a) Desalter kits specified by this subpart shall be of the type 
described in the specification listed in Sec.  160.058-1(a)(1).
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.058-3  Materials, workmanship, construction and performance
requirements.

    (a) The materials, construction, workmanship, general and detail 
requirements shall conform to the requirements of the specification 
listed in Sec.  160.058-1(a)(1), except as otherwise specifically 
provided by this subpart.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.058-4  Inspections.

    (a) Desalter kits specified by this subpart are not inspected at 
regularly scheduled factory inspections; however, the Commander of the 
Coast Guard District in which the desalter kits are manufactured may 
detail a marine inspector at any time to visit places where desalter 
kits are manufactured to check materials and construction methods and to 
satisfy himself that the desalter kits are being manufactured in 
compliance with the requirements of the specification listed in Sec.  
160.058-1(a)(1) as modified by this specification and are suitable for 
the intended purpose. The manufacturer shall admit the marine inspector 
to his plant and shall provide a suitable place and the necessary 
apparatus for the use of the marine inspector in conducting tests at the 
place of manufacture.
    (b) [Reserved]

[[Page 130]]



Sec.  160.058-5  Labeling and marking.

    (a) In addition to the marking and instructions required by the 
specification listed in Sec.  160.058-1(a)(1), the Coast Guard approval 
number shall be included. The contract number may be omitted.
    (b) [Reserved]



     Subpart 160.060_Specification for a Buoyant Vest, Unicellular 
                   Polyethylene Foam, Adult and Child



Sec.  160.060-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to 
the following documents:
    (1) [Reserved]
    (2) Military Specification:

MIL-W-530F-Webbing, Textile, Cotton, General Purpose, Natural or in 
Colors.

    (3) Federal Standards:

No. 191-Textile Test Methods.
No. 751A-Stitches, Seams, and Stitchings.

    (4) Coast Guard Specification:

164.013--Foam, Unicellular Polyethylene (Buoyant, Slab, Slitted Trigonal 
Pattern)

    (b) Plans. The following plans, of the issue in effect on the date 
buoyant vests are manufacture, form a part of this subpart:

Dwg. No. 160.060-1:
    Sheet 1--Cutting Pattern and General Arrangement, Model AY.
    Sheet 2--Cutting Pattern and General Arrangement, Model CYM.
    Sheet 3--Cutting Pattern and General Arrangement, Model CYS.
    Sheet 4--Insert Pattern, Model AY.
    Sheet 5--Insert Pattern, Model CYM.
    Sheet 6--Insert Pattern, Model CYS.

    (c) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications and plans referred 
to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer together 
with the Certificate of Approval.
    (1) The Coast Guard plans and specifications may be obtained upon 
request from the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and 
Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King 
Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509 or a recognized laboratory 
listed in Sec.  160.060-8b.
    (2) The Federal Specifications and Standard may be purchased from 
the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, 
Washington, DC 20407.
    (3) The Military Specification may be obtained from the Military 
Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, 
Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://
assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11590, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-90R, 37 
FR 10839, May 31, 1972; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27153, 27154, June 22, 1978; 
CGD 82-063b, 48 FR 4782, Feb. 3, 1983; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34536, Sept. 7, 
1988; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, 
Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60158, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.060-2  Type and model.

    Each buoyant vest specified in this subpart is a:
    (a) Standard:
    (1) Model AY, adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds); or
    (2) Model CYM, child, medium (for children weighing from 50 to 90 
pounds); or
    (3) Model CYS, child, small (for children weighing less than 50 
pounds); or
    (b) Nonstandard:
    (1) Model, \1\ adult (for persons weighing over 90 pounds);
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ A model designation for a nonstandard vest is to be assigned by 
the individual manufactured and must be different from any standard 
vest.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) Model, \1\ child, medium (for persons weighing from 50 to 90 
pounds) or
    (3) Model, \1\ child, small (for persons weighing less than 50 
pounds).

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8122, Mar. 28, 1973]



Sec.  160.060-3  Materials--standard vests.

    (a) General. All components used in the construction of buoyant 
vests must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this 
chapter. The requirements for materials specified in this section are 
minimum requirements, and consideration will be given to the use of 
alternate materials in lieu of those specified. Detailed technical data 
and samples of all proposed alternate materials must be submitted for

[[Page 131]]

approval before those materials are incorporated in the finished 
product.
    (b) Unicellular polyethylene foam. The unicellular polyethylene foam 
shall be all new material complying with specification subpart 164.013 
of this subchapter.
    (c) Envelope. The buoyant vest envelope, or cover, shall be made 
from 39, 2.85 cotton jeans cloth, with a thread count of 
approximately 96 x 64. The finished goods shall weigh not less than 4.2 
ounces per square yard, shall have thread count of not less than 94 x 
60, and shall have a breaking strength of not less than 85 pounds in the 
warp and 50 pounds in the filling. Other cotton fabrics having a weight 
and breaking strength not less than the above will be acceptable. There 
are no restrictions as to color, but the fastness of the color to 
laundering, water, crocking, and light shall be rated ``good'' when 
tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 191, Methods 
5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660.
    (d) Tie tapes and body strap loops. The tie tapes and body strap 
loops for both adult and child sizes must be \3/4\-inch cotton webbing 
meeting the requirements of military specification MIL-T-43566 (Class I) 
for Type I webbing.
    (d-1) Body straps. The complete body strap assembly including 
hardware, must have a minimum breaking strength of 150 pounds for an 
adult size and 115 pounds for a child size. The specifications for the 
webbing are as follows:
    (1) For an adult size vest, the webbing must be 1 inch.
    (2) For a child size vest, the webbing must be three-quarter inch 
and meet military specification MIL-W-530 for Type IIa webbing.
    (e) [Reserved]
    (f) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 
164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each 
seam.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11590, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-90R, 37 
FR 10839, May 31, 1972; CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8122, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 73-
130R, 39 FR 20684, June 13, 1974; CGD 78-012, 43 FR 27154, June 22, 
1978; CGD 82-063b, 48 FR 4782, Feb. 3, 1983; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34536, 
Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 84-068, 58 FR 29494, May 20, 1993]



Sec.  160.060-3a  Materials--Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other
instruments of closure for buoyant vests.

    (a) Specifications. Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and other 
instruments of closure for buoyant vests may have decorative platings in 
any thickness and must meet the following specifications:
    (1) The device must be constructed of inherently corrosion resistant 
materials. As used in this section the term inherently corrosion 
resistant materials includes, but is not limited to, brass, bronze, and 
stainless steel.
    (2) The size of the opening of the device must be consistent with 
the webbing which will pass through the opening.
    (b) Testing requirements. Dee ring and snap hook assemblies and 
other instruments of closure for buoyant vests must--
    (1) Be tested for weathering. The Coast Guard will determine which 
one or more of the following tests will be used:
    (i) Application of a 20 percent sodium-chloride solution spray at a 
temperature of 95 [deg]F (35 [deg]C) for a period of 240 hours in 
accordance with the procedures contained in method 811 of the Federal 
Test Method Standard No. 151.
    (ii) Exposure to a carbon-arc weatherometer for a period of 100 
hours.
    (iii) Submergence for a period of 100 hours in each of the 
following:
    (a) Leaded gasoline.
    (b) Gum turpentine.
    (iv) Exposure to a temperature of 0[deg] 5 
[deg]F (17.6 2.775 [deg]C) for 24 hours; and
    (2) Within 5 minutes of completion of the weathering test required 
by paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the assembly must be attached to a 
support and bear 150 pounds for an adult size and 115 pounds for a child 
size for 10 minutes at ambient temperatures without breaking or 
distorting.

[CGD 73-130R, 39 FR 20684, June 13, 1974]



Sec.  160.060-4  Materials--nonstandard vests.

    (a) General. All materials used in nonstandard buoyant vests must be 
equivalent to those specified in

[[Page 132]]

Sec.  160.060-3 and be obtained from a supplier who furnishes an 
affidavit in accordance with the requirements in Sec.  160.060-3(a).
    (b) Reinforcing tape. When used, the reinforcing tape around the 
neck shall be \3/4\ cotton tape weighing not less than 0.18 
ounce per linear yard having a minimum breaking strength of not less 
than 120 pounds.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11590, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-163R, 38 
FR 8122, Mar. 28, 1973]



Sec.  160.060-5  Construction--standard vests.

    (a) General. This specification covers buoyant vests which 
essentially consist of a fabric envelope in which are enclosed inserts 
of buoyant material arranged and distributed so as to provide the 
flotation characteristics and buoyancy required to hold the wearer in an 
upright or slightly backward position with head and face out of water. 
The buoyant vests are also fitted with straps and hardware to provide 
for proper adjustment and close and comfortable fit to the bodies of 
various size wearers.
    (b) Envelope. The envelope or cover shall be made of three pieces. 
Two pieces of fabric shall be cut to the pattern shown on Dwg. No. 
160.060-1, Sheet 1 for the adult size, and Sheets 2 and 3 for child 
sizes, and joined together with a third piece which forms a 2\1/
4\ finished gusset strip all around. Reinforcing strips of 
the same material as the envelope shall be stitched to the inside of the 
front piece of the envelope in way of the strap attachments as shown by 
the drawings.
    (c) Buoyant inserts. The unicellular plastic foam buoyant inserts 
shall be cut and formed as shown on Dwg. No. 160.060-1, Sheets 4, 5, and 
6 for the adult, child medium, and child small sizes, respectively.
    (d) Tie tapes, body straps, and hardware. The tie tapes, body 
straps, and hardware shall be arranged as shown on the drawings and 
attached to the envelope with the seams and stitching indicated.
    (e) Stitching. All stitching shall be short lock stitch conforming 
to Stitch Type 301 of Federal Standard No. 751, and there shall be not 
less than 7 nor more than 9 stitches to the inch.
    (f) Workmanship. Buoyant vests shall be of first-class workmanship 
and shall be free from any defects materially affecting their appearance 
or serviceability.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11590, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-163R, 38 
FR 8122, Mar. 28, 1973]



Sec.  160.060-6  Construction--nonstandard vests.

    (a) General. The construction methods used for a nonstandard buoyant 
vest must be equivalent to the requirements in Sec.  160.060-5 for 
standard vests and also meet the requirements specified in this section.
    (b) Sizes. Each nonstandard vest must contain the following volume 
of unicellular polyethylene foam buoyant material, determined by the 
displacement method:
    (1) Five hundred cubic inches or more for the adult size, for 
persons weighing over 90 pounds.
    (2) Three hundred and fifty cubic inches or more for a child medium 
size, for children weighing from 50 to 90 pounds.
    (3) Two hundred and twenty-five cubic inches or more for children 
weighing less than 50 pounds.
    (c) Arrangement of buoyant material. The buoyant material in a 
nonstandard vest must:
    (1) Be arranged to hold the wearer in an upright or backward 
position with head and face out of water;
    (2) Have no tendency to turn the wearer face downward in the water; 
and
    (3) Be arranged so that 70 to 75 percent of the total is located in 
the front of the vest.
    (d) Neck opening. Each cloth covered nonstandard vest must have at 
the neck opening:
    (1) A gusset; or
    (2) Reinforcing tape.
    (e) Adjustment, fit, and donning. Each nonstandard vest must be made 
with adjustments to:
    (1) Fit a range of wearers for the type designed; and
    (2) Facilitate donning time for an uninitiated person.

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8122, Mar. 28, 1973]

[[Page 133]]



Sec.  160.060-7  Inspections and tests--standard and nonstandard vests. \1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ The manufacturer of a personal flotation device must meet 33 CFR 
181.701 through 33 CFR 181.705 which require an instruction pamphlet for 
each device that is sold or offered for sale for use on recreational 
boats.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (a) General. Manufacturers of listed and labeled buoyant vests 
shall--
    (1) Maintain quality control of the materials used, the 
manufacturing methods, and the finished product to meet the applicable 
requirements of this subpart by conducting sufficient inspections and 
tests of representative samples and components produced;
    (2) Make available to the recognized laboratory inspector and the 
Coast Guard inspector, upon request, records of tests conducted by the 
manufacturer and records of materials used during production of the 
device, including affidavits by suppliers; and
    (3) Permit any examination, inspection and test required by the 
recognized laboratory or the Coast Guard for a produced listed and 
labeled device, either at the place of manufacture or some other 
location.
    (b) Lot size and sampling. (1) A lot shall consist of 500 buoyant 
vests or fewer;
    (2) A new lot begins after any change or modification in materials 
used or manufacturing methods employed;
    (3) The manufacturer of the buoyant vests shall notify the 
recognized laboratory when a lot is ready for inspection;
    (4) The manufacturer shall select samples in accordance with the 
requirements in Table 160.060-7(b)(4) from each lot of buoyant vests to 
be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.

            Table 160.060-7(b)(4)--Sample for Buoyancy Tests
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Number of
                           Lot size                             vests in
                                                                 sample
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100 and under................................................          1
101 to 200...................................................          2
201 to 300...................................................          3
301 to 500...................................................          4
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (5) If a sample vest fails the buoyancy test, the sample from the 
next succeeding lot must consist of 10 specimen vests or more to be 
tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
    (c) Additional compliance tests. An inspector from the recognized 
laboratory or Coast Guard may conduct an examination, test and 
inspection of a buoyant device that is obtained from the manufacturer or 
through commercial channels to determine the suitability of the device 
for listing and labeling, or to determine its conformance to applicable 
requirements.
    (d) Test facilities. The manufacturer shall admit the laboratory 
inspector and the Coast Guard inspector to any part of the premises at 
the place of manufacture of a listed and labeled device to--
    (1) Examine, inspect, or test a sample of a part or a material that 
is included in the construction of the device; and
    (2) Conduct any examination, inspection, or test in a suitable place 
and with appropriate apparatus provided by the manufacturer.
    (e) Buoyancy--(1) Buoyancy test method. Remove the buoyant inserts 
from the vests. Securely attach the spring scale in a position directly 
over the test tank. Suspend the weighted wire basket from the scale in 
such a manner that the basket can be weighed while it is completely 
under water. In order to measure the actual buoyancy provided by the 
inserts, the underwater weight of the empty basket should exceed the 
buoyancy of the inserts. To obtain the buoyancy of the inserts, proceed 
as follows:
    (i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
    (ii) Place the inserts inside the basket and submerge it so that the 
top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water. 
Allow the inserts to remain submerged for 24 hours. The tank shall be 
locked or sealed during this 24-hour submergence period. It is important 
that after the inserts have once been submerged they shall remain 
submerged for the duration of the test, and at no time during the course 
of the test shall they be removed from the tank or otherwise exposed to 
air.
    (iii) After the 24-hour submergence period, unlock or unseal the 
tank and weigh the wire basket with the inserts inside while both are 
still under water.

[[Page 134]]

    (iv) The buoyancy is computed as paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section 
minus paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this section.
    (2) Buoyancy required. The buoyant inserts from adult size buoyant 
vests shall provide not less than 15\1/2\ pounds of buoyancy in fresh 
water; the inserts from the child medium size buoyant vests shall 
provide not less than 11 pounds buoyancy; and the inserts from the child 
small size buoyant vests shall provide not less than 7 pounds buoyancy.
    (f) Body strap test. The complete body strap assembly, including 
hardware shall be tested for strength by attaching the dee ring to a 
suitable support such that the assembly hangs vertically its full 
length. A weight as specified in Sec.  160.060-3(d) shall be attached to 
the other end on the snap hook for 10 minutes. The specified weight 
shall not break or excessively distort the body strap assembly.
    (g) Additional approval tests for nonstandard vests. Tests in 
addition to those required by this section may be conducted by the 
inspector for a nonstandard vest to determine performance equivalence to 
a standard vest. Such additional tests may include determining 
performance in water, suitability of materials, donning time, ease of 
adjustment, and similar equivalency tests. Costs for any additional 
tests must be assumed by the manufacturer.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11590, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72-90R, 37 
FR 10839, May 31, 1972; CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8122, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 75-
008, 43 FR 9772, Mar. 9, 1978]



Sec.  160.060-8  Marking.

    (a) Each buoyant vest must have the following information clearly 
marked in waterproof lettering:

    Inspected and tested in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard 
regulations.
    Polyethylene foam buoyant material provides a minimum buoyant force 
of (15\1/2\ lb., 11 lb., or 7 lb.).
    Dry out thoroughly when wet.
    Approved for use on all recreational boats and on uninspected 
commercial vessels less than 40 feet in length not carrying passengers 
for hire by persons weighing (more than 90 lb., 50 to 90 lb., or less 
than 50 lb.).
    U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. 160.060/(assigned manufacturer's No.)/
(Revision No.); (Model No.).
    (Name and address of manufacturer or distributor).
    (Lot No.).

    (b) Waterproof marking. Marking of buoyant vests shall be 
sufficiently waterproof so that after 72 hours submergence in water it 
will withstand vigorous rubbing by hand while wet without printed matter 
becoming illegible.

[CGD 72-163R, 38 FR 8122, Mar. 28, 1973, as amended by CGD 75-008, 43 FR 
9771, Mar. 9, 1978; USCG-2013-0263, 79 FR 56499, Sept. 22, 2014]



Sec.  160.060-9  Recognized laboratory.

    (a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under 
this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of 
this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized 
independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under 
Sec.  159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions 
under this subpart:

Underwriters Laboratories, 12 Laboratory Drive, P.O. Box 13995, Research 
Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995, (919) 549-1400.

    (b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory 
that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the 
Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production 
oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory 
that performed the approval testing.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13930, Mar. 28, 1996]

Subpart 160.061 [Reserved]



  Subpart 160.062_Releases. Lifesaving Equipment, Hydraulic and Manual

    Source: CGFR 68-32, 33 FR 5721, Apr. 12, 1968, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.062-1  Applicable specifications, and referenced material.

    (a) Specifications and standards. The following specifications of 
the issue in effect on the date releases are manufactured or 
reconditioned shall form a part of the regulations of this subpart

[[Page 135]]

(see Sec. Sec.  2.75-17 through 2.75-19 of subchapter A (Procedures 
Applicable to the Public) of this chapter):
    (1) Military Specifications and Standards:

MIL-R-15041C--Releases, lifesaving equipment, hydraulic and manual.
MIL-STD-105--Sample procedures and tables for inspection by attributes.

    (2) Federal Test Method Standards:

Standard No. 151--Metals, test methods.

    (b) Technical references. For guidance purposes the technical 
reference may be used, which is entitled ``Corrosion Handbook,'' 1948, 
by H. H. Uhlig, and published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 605 Third 
Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10016, and priced at $21 per copy.
    (c) Copies on file. A copy of the specifications and standards 
listed in paragraph (a) of this section shall be kept on file by the 
manufacturer, together with the approved plans, specifications and 
certificate of approval. It is the manufacturer's responsibility to have 
the latest issue, including addenda and changes, of these specifications 
and standards on hand when manufacturing or reconditioning equipment 
under this specification subpart.
    (1) The military specifications and standards may be obtained from 
the Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents 
Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-
5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
    (2) The Federal standards may be obtained from the General Services 
Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS 
Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202; 
telephone 703-605-5400.

[CGFR 68-32, 33 FR 5721, Apr. 12, 1968, as amended by USCG-2013-0671, 78 
FR 60158, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.062-2  Types.

    (a) The hydraulic releases referred to under Sec.  160.062-1(a)(1) 
are of the diaphram-spring plunger type, which releases a buoyant load 
under hydrostatic pressure.
    (b) All hydraulic releases given an approval under this subpart 
shall be designed and tested to operate with spring-tensioned gripes. 
Such gripes shall be considered as a part of each approval.
    (c) Alternate designs will be given special consideration, but the 
expense of their preliminary investigation at a laboratory accepted by 
the Commandant shall be borne by the manufacturer.

[CGFR 68-32, 33 FR 5721, Apr. 12, 1968, as amended by CGD 73-153R, 40 FR 
4422, Jan. 30, 1975]



Sec.  160.062-3  Materials, construction, workmanship, and performance
requirements.

    (a) General. The materials, construction, workmanship, and 
performance requirements shall conform to the requirements of the 
specifications listed in Sec.  160.062-1(a)(1) except as otherwise 
provided by this subpart. In addition, all metals and materials used in 
a hydraulic release must be compatible with each other so that the final 
assembly under conditions of use is not subject to such deleterious 
effects as galvanic corrosion, freezing, or buckling of moving parts, or 
loosening and tightening of joints due to differences in coefficients of 
thermal expansion. Galvanizing or other forms of metallic coating on the 
parts of a hydraulic release are not acceptable. The criteria for 
accepting any combination of materials shall be determined by testing or 
by the data stated in Sec.  160.062-1(b).
    (b) Buoyant load capacity. A hydraulic release working in 
conjunction with its spring-tensioned gripe must demonstrate that it can 
release buoyant loads between the limits of 200 pounds and 3,750 pounds 
and within the range of depths specified by paragraph (c) of this 
section.
    (c) Release depth. A hydraulic release shall automatically release 
the buoyant loads described in paragraph (b) of this section at depths 
between 5 feet to 15 feet prior to being tested for either the 
temperature or the corrosion resistance tests of 160.062-4(c)(2). After 
exposure to these temperature and corrosion tests, a hydraulic release 
shall release the buoyant loads of paragraph (b) of this section between 
the depths of 5 feet to 25 feet.

[[Page 136]]



Sec.  160.062-4  Inspections and tests.

    (a) General. Marine inspectors shall be assigned to make factory 
inspections of hydraulic releases, as described in paragraph (d) of this 
section for sampling and testing. In addition, the Commander of the 
Coast Guard District may detail a marine inspector at any time to visit 
any place where approved hydraulic releases are manufactured or 
reconditioned to observe production methods and to conduct any 
inspections or tests which may be deemed advisable. The marine inspector 
shall be admitted to any place in the factory or place where work is 
done on hydraulic releases or their components. In addition, the marine 
inspector may take samples of assembled hydraulic releases or parts or 
materials used in their construction for further examination, 
inspection, or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place 
and the apparatus necessary for the performance of the tests which are 
conducted at the place of manufacture by the marine inspector.
    (b) Classification of tests. The sampling, inspections, and tests 
conducted upon hydraulic releases shall fall within one of the following 
general classifications, as described hereafter:
    (1) Preapproval tests.
    (2) Factory inspections and tests.
    (3) Spot check tests.
    (4) Periodic servicing tests.
    (c) Preapproval testing. The ``Visual and dimensional examination'' 
referred to in Table 160.062-4(c) shall be conducted by a marine 
inspector at the factory. The ``Physical and operational tests'' of that 
table shall be conducted at a laboratory accepted by the Commandant.

                Table 160.062-4(c)--Preapproval Tests \1\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of
specimens           Name of tests                    Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
        4  Visual and dimensional          Para. 4.2.1, 4.2.2, and 4.3
            examination.                    of MIL-R-15041C.
        4  Physical and operational tests  Para. 4.2.1, 4.2.3, and 4.4
                                            of MIL-R-15041C.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ These tests are called ``Lot acceptance tests,'' in Military
  Specification MIL-R-15041C.

    (1) Visual and dimensional examination. The marine inspector shall 
examine the 4 hydraulic release samples of the preapproval sample for 
their visual and dimensional characteristics. If all 4 of the devices 
are in agreement with the manufacturer's plans previously reviewed by 
the Commandant, the 4 devices will be accepted and are to be assembled 
for further testing under the ``Physical and operational tests'' of 
paragraph (c)(2) of this section.
    (2) Physical and operational tests. Each hydraulic release selected 
under Table 160.062-4(c) for the ``Physical and operational tests'' 
shall undergo each of the tests described in this paragraph without 
renewal of parts or repairs between the tests. The tests shall be 
conducted in the following sequence:
    (i) Submergence test. A hydraulic release shall be tested by 
applying buoyant loads of its designed capacity to its spring-tensioned 
gripe as required under Sec.  160.062-3(b) while the device is submerged 
in water or in a water-filled pressure testing tank. A hydraulic release 
shall show by its submergence test that it meets the buoyant capacity 
and release depth requirements of Sec.  160.062-3 (b) and (c) by 
automatically tripping and releasing its load.
    (ii) Temperature test. After its submergence test, a hydraulic 
release sample shall be placed in a cold box at minus 30 degrees F. for 
4 hours. Upon completion of this conditioning, the sample device shall 
be opened for inspection and shall show no significant change in the 
position of the hydraulic or manual control as a result of the low 
temperature exposure.
    (iii) Corrosion resisting test. After the completion of its 
temperature test, a hydraulic release sample shall be exposed to a 20 
percent salt spray test for 160 continuous hours in accordance with 
Federal Test Method Standard No. 151. At the conclusion of this test, 
the sample device shall be entirely serviceable and shall show a minimal 
amount of corrosion.
    (iv) Second temperature test. After its corrosion resisting test, a 
hydraulic release sample shall undergo a repeat of the temperature test, 
subdivision (ii) of this paragraph.
    (v) Second submergence test. The final test of a hydraulic release 
sample shall be a repeat of the submergence test, paragraph (c)(2)(i) of 
this section.

[[Page 137]]

    (d) Factory inspections and tests. For purposes of sampling, a lot 
shall consist of not more than 500 hydraulic releases of the same model. 
Manufacturers of approved hydraulic releases shall maintain quality 
control of the materials used, manufacturing methods, workmanship, and 
the finished product as to produce hydraulic releases in conformity with 
the approvals previously issued by the Commandant.
    (1) Visual and dimensional examination. A random sample of hydraulic 
releases shall be selected by a marine inspector at the factory in 
accordance with Table 160.062-4(d)(1) from each assembled lot. After the 
samples have been selected, they will undergo an examination of visual 
and dimensional characteristics by referring to their approved drawings 
with their acceptance based on Table 160.062-4(d)(1) and MIL-STD-105, 
and checking for compliance with specific details as described therein.

 Table 160.062-4(d)(1)--Sampling for Visual and Dimensional Examination
                                   \1\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Rejection
     Number of release devices in       Number of release      number
            inspection lot              devices in sample   (defectives)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
15 and under.........................  All................  ............
16 to 25.............................  15.................            1
26 to 40.............................  25.................            1
41 to 110............................  35.................            2
111 to 180...........................  50.................            2
181 to 300...........................  75.................            3
301 to 500...........................  110................            2
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ This table is derived from Table I of Paragraph 4.2.2 of Military
  Specification MIL-R-15041C.

    (2) Physical and operational tests. If the sampling and examination 
of paragraph (d)(1) of this section are satisfactory, the marine 
inspector shall select an additional random sample of hydraulic releases 
from the same assembled lot as described above. This second group of 
samples, of a number determined by Table 160.062-4(d)(2), shall be 
forwarded for testing at the manufacturer's expense to a laboratory 
accepted by the Commandant. Each hydraulic release shall undergo each of 
the tests described in this paragraph without renewal of parts or 
repairs between tests. The tests shall be conducted in the following 
sequence:
    (i) Submergence test. Same test as described in paragraph (c)(2)(i) 
of this section.
    (ii) Temperature test. Same test as described in paragraph 
(c)(2)(ii) of this section.
    (iii) Corrosion resisting test. Same test as described in paragraph 
(c)(2)(iii) of this section.
    (iv) Second temperature test. Same test as described in paragraph 
(c)(2)(iv) of this section.
    (v) Second submergence test. Same test as described in paragraph 
(c)(2)(v) of this section.

 Table 160.062-4(d)(2)--Sampling for Physical and Operational Tests \1\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Rejection
                                                                number
     Number of release devices in          Number release      (failures
            inspection lot                devices in sample     in the
                                                                tests)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
15 and under..........................  4...................           1
16 to 25..............................  5...................           1
26 to 40..............................  7...................           1
41 to 110.............................  10..................           1
111 to 180............................  12..................           1
181 to 300............................  16..................           1
301 to 500............................  20..................           1
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ This table is derived from Table II of Paragraph 4.2.3 of Military
  Specification MIL-R-15041C.

    (3) Lot acceptance at a factory. The submergence test of paragraph 
(c)(2)(i) shall be performed on each of the remaining hydraulic releases 
in a production lot after the selection of the lot samples required by 
paragraph (d)(2) of this section. Such individual submergence tests may 
be performed at the factory in a pressure tank apparatus which simulates 
the hydrostatic pressure and the various tension loads on the hydraulic 
release. Those hydraulic releases which do not pass this submergence 
test shall be removed from the production lot as unacceptable, but may 
be reworked and included in a subsequent lot. After the completion of 
these individual submergence tests and after receipt of the laboratory's 
test report showing that the tests on the lot samples were 
satisfactorily met, the Commander of the Coast Guard District in which 
the factory is located shall have the manufacturer notified that this 
production lot of hydraulic releases meets the requirements of this 
specification subpart. After being marked as required by Sec.  160.062-
5, the

[[Page 138]]

manufacturer may sell such hydraulic releases as approved equipment.
    (i) Hydraulic releases which have been rejected may not, unless 
subsequently accepted, be sold or offered for sale under representation 
as being in compliance with this specification or as being approved for 
use on vessels subject to inspection under this chapter.
    (4) Records and test reports. The manufacturer shall maintain 
records and copies of test reports for each production lot of hydraulic 
releases manufactured for a period of five (5) years from the date 
notified that a production lot meets the requirements in this subpart. 
These records and test reports, upon request, shall be made available to 
the marine inspector. The manufacturer will be provided with a copy of 
the laboratory's test report concerning each production lot of hydraulic 
releases submitted for testing.
    (e) Spot checks. As one of the conditions in granting an approval 
for a hydraulic release under this subpart, the Coast Guard reserves the 
right to spot check at any time and at any place the product, parts, and 
complete assemblies of hydraulic releases covered by the approval. The 
spot check shall be by a marine inspector who shall be admitted to the 
place or places where work may be performed before, during, or after the 
manufacture of hydraulic releases or at any place where hydraulic 
releases may be assembled, reworked, repaired, or reconditioned by the 
manufacturer of any repair facility accepted by the Commandant in 
accordance with the procedure contained in Sec.  160.062-7. A spot check 
includes having a marine inspector compare materials, parts, and 
workmanship and/or complete hydraulic releases with the manufacturer's 
approved plans, records and test reports to ascertain compliance with 
these requirements. The marine inspector may select samples of materials 
or parts used in the construction of hydraulic releases and complete 
hydraulic releases and may order or have performed any or all of the 
tests described in this section conducted on such devices or parts 
thereof. This work and any tests required shall be borne by the 
manufacturer without cost to the Coast Guard.
    (f) Periodic Servicing and Testing. A hydraulic release is inspected 
as follows:
    (1) Inspection for devices not installed after manufacture. A 
hydraulic release, that is not installed after manufacture and is stored 
for period of 24 months or less, is not required to be inspected or 
tested before installation but must be stamped by a marine inspector on 
the inspection tag required in Sec.  160.062-5(b)(2) with--
    (i) The word ``Installed'';
    (ii) The installation date; and
    (iii) The Marine Inspection Office identification letters.
    (2) Inspection for devices that have been installed. A hydraulic 
release that is installed for a period of 12 months or more must pass 
the test contained in paragraph (f)(3) of this section and be marked as 
required in paragraph (f)(5) of this section. If, after passing the 
test, the device is stored for a period of 24 months or less, it must be 
stamped as required in paragraph (f)(1) of this paragraph by the marine 
inspector before reinstallation.
    (3) Devices stored longer than 24 months. A hydraulic release that 
is stored for a period of more than 24 months must be inspected and 
tested by an employee of a repair or test facility, accepted in 
accordance with the requirement contained in Sec.  160.062-7 or Sec.  
160.062-8, as follows:
    (i) The device must be manually operated to determine if it 
releases.
    (ii) If the device releases, it must pass the submergence test 
contained in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section, at a depth between 5 
feet and 15 feet and be marked as required in paragraph (f)(5) of this 
section.
    (iii) If the device fails to release or fails to pass the 
submergence test required in paragraph (f)(3)(ii) of this section, the 
device must be disassembled, repaired, and tested in accordance with the 
requirements contained in paragraph (f)(4) of this paragraph.
    (4) Disassembly and repair tests. If a hydraulic release fails the 
test contained in paragraph (f)(3)(iii) of this section, it must be 
disassembled and repaired by the manufacturer or a repair facility 
accepted in accord with the requirements contained in Sec.  160.062-7 
and be tested as follows:

[[Page 139]]

    (i) A production lot must be formed consisting of 12 or more but not 
exceeding 100 devices.
    (ii) In the presence of a marine inspector, the device must pass the 
submergence test contained in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section at a 
depth between 5 feet and 15 feet.
    (iii) Any device that fails must be--
    (A) Repaired;
    (B) Placed in a subsequent lot; and
    (C) Submitted to the submergence test contained in paragraph 
(c)(2)(i) of this section at a depth between 5 feet and 15 feet.
    (5) Marking of devices. If a hydraulic release passes the 
submergence test required in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section at a 
depth between 5 feet and 15 feet the marine inspector stamps the 
inspection tag with--
    (i) The test date;
    (ii) The Marine Inspection Office identification letters; and
    (iii) The letters ``USCG''.

[CGFR 68-32, 33 FR 5721, Apr. 12, 1968, as amended by CGD 73-153R, 40 FR 
4422, Jan. 30, 1975; CGD 75-186, 41 FR 10437, Mar. 11, 1976]



Sec.  160.062-5  Markings.

    (a) Hydraulic releases manufactured prior to the granting of a 
certificate of approval to the manufacturer may be permitted in service 
only to July 1, 1969. However, such hydraulic releases meeting the type 
and design requirements covered by a current certificate of approval may 
be repaired and/or reconditioned as provided in Sec.  160.062-4(f) and 
be accepted as approved equipment when it bears the following markings:
    (1) Body marking. The name of the manufacturer and the model 
designation are plainly visible.
    (2) Inspection tag markings. Each hydraulic release repaired or 
reconditioned shall be provided with a 2 by 3\1/2\ 
stainless steel tag of a minimum thickness of 0.032 inches. This tag 
shall be permanently attached to a hydraulic release with a single 
stainless steel link made of wire \3/16\ in diameter. This 
link shall provide nonrigid attachment of the tag to the hydraulic 
release. The top of the inspection tag shall be stamped in block 
characters not less than \1/16\ in height with the 
manufacturer's name, Coast Guard approval number, the limits of buoyant 
capacity in pounds, the Marine Inspection Office identification letters, 
and the letters ``USCG.'' The remaining space on the tag will be used 
for the stamping of periodic servicing test dates and the marine 
inspector's initials as described in Sec.  160.062-4(f).
    (b) Hydraulic release manufactured under a certificate of approval 
issued under this subpart shall be provided with 2 sets of markings as 
follows:
    (1) Body marking. The metal body of a hydraulic release shall be 
stamped in block characters not less than \1/8\ in height on 
a plainly visible portion with the name of the manufacturer, the model 
designation, the limits of buoyant capacity in pounds, the method of 
manual release, the notation ``DO NOT PAINT'', Coast Guard approval 
number, the Marine Inspection Office identification letters, and the 
letters ``USCG''.
    (2) Inspection tag markings. Each hydraulic release shall be 
provided at its time of manufacture with a 2 by 3\1/
2\ stainless steel tag of a minimum thickness of 0.032 inch. 
This tag shall be permanently attached to a hydraulic release with a 
single stainless steel link made of wire \3/16\ in diameter. 
This link shall provide nonrigid attachment of the tag to the hydraulic 
release. The top of the inspection tag shall be stamped in block 
characters not less than \1/8\ in height with the original 
lot number of the hydraulic release, its date of manufacture, and its 
release depth range in feet. The remaining space on the tag will be used 
for the stamping of periodic servicing test dates and the Marine 
Inspection Office identification letters as described in Sec.  160.062-
4(f).

[CGFR 68-32, 33 FR 5721, Apr. 12, 1968, as amended by CGD 75-186, 41 FR 
10437, Mar. 11, 1976]



Sec.  160.062-6  Procedure for approval.

    General. Hydraulic releases for use on lifesaving equipment for 
merchant vessels are approved only by the Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard. 
In order to be approved, the hydraulic releases must be tested in 
accordance with Sec.  160.062-4(c) by an independent laboratory accepted 
by the Coast Guard under 46 CFR 159.010. The independent laboratory will 
forward the report to

[[Page 140]]

the Commandant for examination, and if satisfactory an official approval 
number will be assigned to the manufacturer for the model hydraulic 
release submitted.

[CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51215, Sept. 30, 1997]



Sec.  160.062-7  Procedures for acceptance of repair facility.

    (a) Before a repair facility is accepted by the Commandant to 
perform the services required in Sec.  160.062-4(f), it must be 
inspected by the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, to 
determine if it has--
    (1) The testing apparatus to perform all the tests required in Sec.  
160.062-4;
    (2) A source of supply of replacement parts for a hydraulic release, 
evidenced by a signed agreement between the facility and his source of 
supply, or the parts for it; all replacement parts must be in compliance 
with applicable specifications and standards contained in Sec.  160.062-
1; and
    (3) Employees competent to perform the services required in this 
paragraph. Each employee who is engaged in serving a hydraulic release 
must demonstrate his competence to the Officer in Charge, Marine 
Inspection by--
    (i) Disassembling a hydraulic release;
    (ii) Making all necessary repairs to the disassembled unit;
    (iii) Reassembling the unit in conformance with the specifications 
and standards contained in Sec.  160.062-1(a); and
    (iv) Showing that the reassembled unit meets the buoyant capacity 
and release depth requirements contained in Sec.  160.062-3 (b) and (c) 
after being inspected and tested in conformance with the requirements 
contained in Sec.  160.062-4(f).
    (b) Based on the report of the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, 
regarding the inspection required in paragraph (a) of this section, the 
Commandant notifies the facility that--
    (1) It is an accepted repair facility for the reconditioning and 
testing of hydraulic releases; or
    (2) It is not accepted as a repair facility, lists each discrepancy 
noted by the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, and describes the 
procedure for reinspection if applicable corrections are made.

[CGD 73-153R, 40 FR 4422, Jan. 30, 1975]



Sec.  160.062-8  Procedures for acceptance of testing facility.

    (a) The Commandant may consider the acceptance of a facility that 
conducts only the submergence test contained in Sec.  160.062-
4(c)(2)(i). Before a facility is accepted by the Commandant to conduct 
this test, it must be inspected by the cognizant Officer in Charge, 
Marine Inspection, to determine if it has--
    (1) The testing apparatus to perform the test required in Sec.  
160.062-4(c)(2)(i); and
    (2) Employees competent to perform the test required in Sec.  
160.062-4(c)(2)(i). Each employee who is engaged in testing a device 
must demonstrate his competence to the Officer in Charge, Marine 
Inspection by conducting a submergence test.
    (b) Based on the report of the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, 
regarding the inspection required in paragraph (a) of this section, the 
Commandant notifies each applicant, in accordance with the procedures 
described in Sec.  160.062-7(b), whether or not it is an accepted 
testing facility.

[CGD 73-153R, 40 FR 4422, Jan. 30, 1975]



                 Subpart 160.064_Marine Buoyant Devices



Sec.  160.064-1  Applicable specifications.

    (a) Specifications. There are no other Coast Guard specifications 
applicable to this subpart.
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGFR 64-30, 29 FR 7388, June 6, 1964]



Sec.  160.064-2  Types and models.

    (a) Types. Water safety buoyant devices covered by this subpart 
shall be of two general types, viz, those intended to be worn on the 
body and those intended to be thrown.
    (b) Models. Water safety buoyant devices may be of different models 
which incorporate characteristics considered valuable for safety in 
various fields of water sports or boating activities.

[[Page 141]]

    (c) Sizes. Water safety buoyant devices designed to be worn shall be 
of sizes suitable for adults or children, as intended and marked on the 
device. Water safety buoyant devices intended to be thrown in water 
shall be of a minimum size intended for adults.
    (d) Dimensions. A foam cushion designed to be thrown must be 2 
inches or more in thickness and must have 225 or more square inches of 
top surface area.

[CGFR 64-30, 29 FR 7388, June 6, 1964, as amended by CGD 73-246R, 39 FR 
36967, Oct. 16, 1974]



Sec.  160.064-3  Requirements. \1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ The manufacturer of a personal flotation device must meet 33 CFR 
181.701 through 33 CFR 181.705 which require an instruction pamphlet for 
each device that is sold or offered for sale for use on recreational 
boats.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (a) General. Every water safety buoyant device shall conform to the 
requirements as accepted by the Commandant for listing and labeling by a 
recognized laboratory, and shall be of such design, materials, and 
construction as to meet the requirements specified in this section.
    (b) Designs and constructions. Water safety buoyant devices shall be 
of designs suitable for the purposes intended. A design intended to be 
worn on the body shall be capable of being adjusted and secured to fit 
the range of wearers for which designed with as few fastenings or 
adjustments as are consistent with the purpose of the device. Designs 
may be varied, but shall not provide means intended for fastening or 
securing the device to a boat. The arrangement of the buoyancy of 
devices intended to be worn on the body shall provide for flotation of 
the wearer in an upright, slightly backward position in the water to as 
great a degree as is consistent with the special purpose intended, and 
in no case shall the device have a tendency to turn the wearer face 
downward in the water. Devices intended to be thrown shall not provide 
means for adjustment or close fitting to the body. Methods of 
construction shall provide strengths, with reinforcements where 
necessary, to be adequate for the intended use and purpose of the 
device.
    (c) Materials. All materials used in any device covered by this 
subpart must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this 
chapter and shall be all new materials and shall be suitable for the 
purpose intended and shall be at least equivalent to corresponding 
materials specified for standard buoyant vests or buoyant cushions. 
Hardware or fastenings shall be of sufficient strength for the purpose 
of the device and shall be of inherently corrosion-resistant material, 
such as stainless steel, brass, bronze, certain plastics, etc. 
Decorative platings of any thickness are permissible. Fabrics, coated 
fabrics, tapes, and webbing shall be selected with a view to the 
purposes of the device and shall be either mildew resistant or treated 
for mildew resistance. Buoyancy shall be provided by inherently buoyant 
material and shall not be dependent upon loose, granulated material, gas 
compartments or inflation. So long as the minimum required buoyancy is 
provided by inherently buoyant material, the use of supplementary gas 
compartments, or inflation, will be permitted to supply additional 
buoyancy.
    (d) Buoyancy. (1) Buoyancy for devices to be worn is as follows:
    (i) Devices for persons weighing more than 90 pounds must have 15\1/
2\ pounds or more of buoyancy.
    (ii) Devices for persons weighing 50 to 90 pounds must have 11 
pounds or more of buoyancy.
    (iii) Devices for persons weighing less than 50 pounds must have 7 
pounds or more of buoyancy.
    (2) Buoyancy for devices to be thrown is as follows:
    (i) Ring life buoys must have 16\1/2\ pounds or more of buoyancy.
    (ii) Foam cushions must have 18 pounds or more of buoyancy.
    (iii) A device other than those specified in paragraph (d)(2) (i) or 
(ii) of this section must have 20 pounds or more of buoyancy.
    (3) The buoyancy values required in paragraphs (d) (1) and (2) of 
this section must be as follows:

[[Page 142]]

    (i) For each device containing foam buoyant materials, the required 
buoyancy value must remain after the device has been submerged in fresh 
water for 24 or more continuous hours.
    (ii) For each device containing kapok, the required buoyancy value 
must remain after the device has been submerged in fresh water for 48 or 
more continuous hours.
    (e) Workmanship. Water safety buoyant devices covered by this 
subpart shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from any 
defects materially affecting their appearance or serviceability.

[CGFR 64-30, 29 FR 7388, June 6, 1964, as amended by CGD 73-246R, 39 FR 
36967, Oct. 16, 1974; CGD 75-008, 43 FR 9772, Mar. 9, 1978; CGD 84-068, 
58 FR 29494, May 20, 1993]



Sec.  160.064-4  Marking.

    (a) Labels. Each water safety buoyant device must be marked in 
accordance with the recognized laboratory's listing and labeling 
requirements in accordance with Sec.  160.064-3(a). At a minimum, all 
labels must include--
    (1) Size information, as appropriate;
    (2) The Coast Guard approval number;
    (3) Manufacturer's contact information;
    (4) Model name/number;
    (5) Lot number, manufacturer date; and
    (6) Any limitations or restrictions on approval or special 
instructions for use.
    (b) Durability of marking. Marking must be of a type which will be 
durable and legible for the expected life of the device.

[USCG-2013-0263, 79 FR 56499, Sep. 22, 2014]



Sec.  160.064-6  Examinations, tests and inspections.

    (a) Manufacturer's inspection and tests. Manufacturers of listed and 
labeled water safety buoyant devices shall maintain quality control of 
the materials used, manufacturing methods and the finished product so as 
to meet the applicable requirements, and shall make sufficient 
inspections and tests of representative samples and components produced 
to maintain the quality of the finished product. Records of tests 
conducted by the manufacturer and records of materials, including 
affidavits by suppliers that applicable requirements are met, entering 
into construction shall be made available to the recognized laboratory 
inspector or to the Coast Guard marine inspector, or both, for review 
upon request.
    (b) Laboratory inspections and tests. Such examinations, inspections 
and tests as are required by the recognized laboratory for listed and 
labeled devices produced will be conducted by the laboratory inspector 
at the place of manufacture or other location at the option of the 
laboratory.
    (c) Test facilities. The laboratory inspector, or the Coast Guard 
marine inspector assigned by the Commander of the District in which the 
factory is located, or both, shall be admitted to any place in the 
factory where work is being done on listed and labeled products, and 
either or both inspectors may take samples of parts or materials 
entering into construction or final assemblies, for further 
examinations, inspections, or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a 
suitable place and the apparatus necessary for the performance of the 
tests which are done at the place of manufacture.
    (d) Additional tests, etc. Unannounced examinations, tests, and 
inspections of samples obtained either directly from the manufacturer or 
through commercial channels may be made to determine the suitability of 
a product for listing and labeling, or to determine conformance of a 
labeled product to the applicable requirements. These may be conducted 
by the recognized laboratory or the United States Coast Guard.

[CGFR 64-30, 29 FR 7388, June 6, 1964, as amended by CGD 73-246R, 39 FR 
36967, Oct. 16, 1974]



Sec.  160.064-7  Recognized laboratory.

    (a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under 
this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of 
this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized 
independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under 
Sec.  159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions 
under this subpart:


[[Page 143]]


Underwriters Laboratories, 12 Laboratory Drive, P.O. Box 13995, Research 
Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995, (919) 549-1400.

    (b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory 
that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the 
Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production 
oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory 
that performed the approval testing.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13931, Mar. 28, 1996]



 Subpart 160.066_Distress Signal for Boats, Red Aerial Pyrotechnic Flare

    Source: CGD 76-183a, 44 FR 73050, Dec. 17, 1979, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.066-1  Type.

    (a) Red aerial pyrotechnic distress signals specified by this 
subpart must be either self-contained or pistol launched, and either 
meteor or parachute assisted type.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.066-5  Design, construction, and manufacturing requirements.

    (a) Each signal must be either:
    (1) A self-contained unit with all necessary components for firing 
the signal, or
    (2) A cartridge intended for firing from a signal pistol that is 
approved under Subpart 160.028 of this chapter.
    (b) Each signal unit must have an interior chamber which contains 
the main propulsion charge and which is constructed so that it is 
capable of withstanding the forces generated by ignition without 
rupture, crack, or deformation of any kind.
    (c) Signals must be constructed in lots numbered serially by the 
manufacturer. A new lot must be started when:
    (1) Any change in construction details occurs;
    (2) Any change in sources of raw materials occurs;
    (3) Production is started on a new production line or on a 
previously discontinued production line; or
    (4) A lot exceeds 30,000 units.



Sec.  160.066-7  Performance requirements.

    (a) Each signal must:
    (1) Burn ``vivid red'' when tested as specified in Sec.  160.021-
4(d)(7) for at least 5.5 seconds.
    (2) Have a peak luminous intensity of at least 10,000 candela.
    (3) Burn a total of not less than 1,000 candleminutes (Cm) using the 
formula

I x T = Cm

Where:

I = the luminous intensity measured as in subsection (c);
T = the total burn time of the device in minutes; and
Cm = the candle-minute rating of the device.

    (4) Burn out completely before falling back to the level of launch.
    (5) Function in a manner that would not cause burns or injury to an 
unprotected person firing the signal in accordance with the 
manufacturer's instructions.
    (6) Not malfunction in a manner that would cause burns or injury to 
an unprotected person firing the signal in accordance with the 
manufacturer's instructions.
    (b) Each signal must meet the requirements of paragraph (a) after:
    (1) Submersion in water for 24 hours, or
    (2) If protected by a sealed container, submersion in water for 24 
hours inside the sealed container immediately followed by submersion for 
10 minutes without the container, and
    (3) Being exposed to the Elevated Temperature, Humidity, and Storage 
Test in Sec.  160.066-13(b).
    (c) Testing for burn time and luminous intensity pursuant to 
paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2), respectively, shall be conducted in 
conformity with the following requirements and procedures:
    (1) The chart speed of the light measuring equipment shall not be 
slower than 5 seconds per inch;
    (2) The chart sweep of the light measuring equipment shall not be 
slower than .5 seconds for full scale;
    (3) The first and last seconds of the burn shall be eliminated in 
measuring luminous intensity;
    (4) The time during which the candle burns (excluding first and last 
seconds of burn) is to be used to determine the

[[Page 144]]

luminous intensity by averaging the readings taken during the burning; 
and
    (5) Burn time is to be measured from first light of the signal to 
dark.



Sec.  160.066-9  Labeling.

    (a) Each signal must be legibly and indelibly marked with the 
following information:
    (1) The manufacturer's name,
    (2) The designed burning time of the pyrotechnic candle(s),
    (3) The specific signal pistol for which the signal is designed, if 
any,
    (4) The lot number,
    (5) The Coast Guard approval number,
    (6) Operation and storage instructions,
    (7) The month and year of expiration determined by Sec.  160.066-10, 
and
    (8) The words:
    ``Aerial Flare. Acceptable as a Day and Night Visual Distress Signal 
for boats as required by 33 CFR 175.110. For Emergency Use Only''.
    (b) If the signal is too small to contain all of the information 
required by paragraph (a) and any labeling which may be required by 
paragraph (d), the information required by paragraphs (a) (2), (6), and 
(8) may be printed on a separate piece of paper packed with each signal 
or with the smallest container in which several signals are packed.
    (c) The largest carton or box in which the manufacturer ships 
signals must be marked with the following or equivalent words: ``Keep 
under cover in a dry place.''
    (d) Compliance with the labeling requirements of this section does 
not relieve the manufacturer of the responsibility of complying with the 
label requirements of the Federal Hazardous Substances Act, 15 U.S.C. 
1263.



Sec.  160.066-10  Expiration date.

    Each approved signal must have an expiration date marked on it. That 
date must not be more than forty-two months from date of manufacture.



Sec.  160.066-11  Approval procedures.

    (a) Red aerial pyrotechnic flare distress signals are approved under 
the procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) The manufacturer must produce a lot of at least 100 signals from 
which samples for approval testing must be drawn. Approval testing must 
be conducted in accordance with the operational tests in Sec.  160.066-
12 and the technical tests in Sec.  160.066-13. In order for the signal 
to be approved, the samples must pass both the operational and the 
technical tests.
    (c) The approval tests must be performed by an independent 
laboratory accepted by the Commandant under Subpart 159.010 of this 
chapter.

[CGD 76-183a, 44 FR 73050, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by CGD 93-055, 61 
FR 13931, Mar. 28, 1996]



Sec.  160.066-12  Operational tests.

    (a) The procedure for conducting operational tests is described in 
figure (1).
    (1) An ``accept lot'' decision must be reached in order to pass the 
operational tests.
    (2) If a ``reject lot'' decision is reached, the entire lot is 
rejected.
    (3) Signals from ``reject lots'' may be reworked by the manufacturer 
to correct the deficiency for which they were rejected and be 
resubmitted for inspection. Records shall be kept of the reasons for 
rejection, the reworking performed on the ``reject lot'', and the result 
of the second test. Signals from ``reject lots'' may not, unless 
subsequently accepted, be sold or offered for sale as being in 
compliance with this specification.
    (b) Each signal selected for the operational tests must be 
conditioned by:
    (1) Being submerged under at least 25 mm (1 in.) of water for 24 
hours without any protection other than its waterproofing; or
    (2) If waterproofing is provided by a sealed plastic bag or other 
waterproof packaging, submersion under 25 mm (1 in.) of water for 24 
hours in the packaging, followed immediately by submersion under 25 mm 
(1 in.) of water for 10 minutes with the signal removed from the 
packaging.
    (c) After each signal selected has undergone the conditioning 
required by paragraph (b) of this section it must be

[[Page 145]]

fired as described by the manufacturer's operating instructions. The 
following data as observed must be recorded for each signal:
    (1) Burning time of the pyrotechnic candle;
    (2) Color;
    (3) Whether the pyrotechnic candle burns out above, at, or below the 
level of launch.
    (d) A signal fails the operational tests if:
    (1) It fails to fire,
    (2) The pyrotechnic candle fails to ignite,
    (3) The pyrotechnic candle continues to burn after it falls back to 
the level of launch,
    (4) The observed color is other than vivid red, or
    (5) The burning time is less than 5.5 seconds.
    (e) A lot is rejected if a ``reject lot'' decision is reached using 
Figure (1) and Table 1 after completion of the operational tests.

[[Page 146]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.016


[[Page 147]]



                                              Table 1--Accept and Reject Criteria for Operational Test Lots
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                Individual                                     Cumulative sample
                   Lot size                    sample size               Sample                      size             Accept \1\          Reject \1\
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
280 or                                                   8  First...........................                   8               (\2\)                   4
  less.                                        ...........  Second..........................                  16                   1                   5
                                                            Third...........................                  24                   2                   6
                                                            Fourth..........................                  32                   3                   7
                                                            Fifth...........................                  40                   5                   8
                                                            Sixth...........................                  48                   7                   9
                                                            Seventh.........................                  56                   9                  10
281 to                                                  13  First...........................                  13               (\2\)                   4
  500.                                         ...........  Second..........................                  26                   1                   6
                                                            Third...........................                  39                   3                   8
                                                            Fourth..........................                  52                   5                  10
                                                            Fifth...........................                  65                   7                  11
                                                            Sixth...........................                  78                  10                  12
                                                            Seventh.........................                  91                  13                  14
501 to                                                  20  First...........................                  20               (\2\)                   5
  1,200.                                       ...........  Second..........................                  40                   3                   8
                                                            Third...........................                  60                   6                  10
                                                            Fourth..........................                  80                   8                  13
                                                            Fifth...........................                 100                  11                  15
                                                            Sixth...........................                 120                  14                  17
                                                            Seventh.........................                 140                  18                  19
1,201 to                                                32  First...........................                  32                   1                   7
  3,200.                                       ...........  Second..........................                  64                   4                  10
                                                            Third...........................                  96                   8                  13
                                                            Fourth..........................                 128                  12                  17
                                                            Fifth...........................                 160                  17                  20
                                                            Sixth...........................                 192                  21                  23
                                                            Seventh.........................                 224                  25                  26
More                                                    50  First...........................                  50                   2                   9
  than                                         ...........  Second..........................                 100                   7                  14
  3,200.                                       ...........  Third...........................                 150                  13                  19
                                                            Fourth..........................                 200                  19                  25
                                                            Fifth...........................                 250                  25                  29
                                                            Sixth...........................                 300                  31                  33
                                                            Seventh.........................                 350                  37                  38
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Cumulative number of failures.
\2\ Lot may not be accepted. Next sample must be tested.



Sec.  160.066-13  Technical tests.

    (a) The following conditions apply to technical tests as described 
in this section:
    (1) A total of nine signals must be selected at random from the lot 
being tested;
    (2) If the signals are protected by sealed packaging, then the 
conditioning for the technical tests must be conducted with the signal 
in the sealed packaging;
    (3) If signals in the test sample fail to pass one of the technical 
tests, the entire lot is rejected;
    (4) Signals from ``reject lots'' may be reworked by the manufacturer 
to correct the deficiency for which they were rejected and be 
resubmitted for inspection. Records shall be kept of the reasons for 
rejection, the reworking performed on the ``reject lot'', and the result 
of the second test. Signals from ``reject lots'' may not, unless 
subsequently accepted, be sold or offered for sale as being in 
compliance with this specification.
    (b) The Elevated Temperature, Humidity, and Storage Test must be 
conducted in the following manner:
    (1) Select three signals from the nine;
    (2) Place each signal in a thermostatically controlled even-
temperature oven held at 55 Degrees C (131 Degrees F), and at not less 
than 90% relative humidity, for at least 72 hours (If for any reason it 
is not possible to operate the oven continuously for the 72 hour period, 
it may be operated at the required temperature and humidity for 8 hours 
of each 24 during the 72 hour conditioning period.);
    (3) After removal from the oven immediately place each signal in a 
chamber:

[[Page 148]]

    (i) At a temperature of at least 20 degrees C (68 degrees F) but not 
more than 25 degrees C (77 degrees F);
    (ii) At not less than 65% relative humidity;
    (iii) For ten days;
    (4) Then remove each signal from any sealed packaging and fire it.
    (5) The test sample fails the test if:
    (i) Any signal ignites or decomposes before firing;
    (ii) Any signal when fired malfunctions in a manner that would cause 
burns or injury to an unprotected person firing the signal, or;
    (iii) Two or more of the signals fail to project and ignite the 
pyrotechnic candle.
    (c) The Spontaneous Combustion Test must be performed in the 
following manner:
    (1) Select three signals from the remaining six signals and place 
them in a thermostatically controlled even temperature over for 48 hours 
at a temperature of 75 degrees C (167 degrees F).
    (2) The test sample fails the test if any signal ignites or 
decomposes during the test.
    (d) The Luminous Intensity and Chromaticity Test must be performed 
in the following manner:
    (1) Remove the pyrotechnic candle from the remaining three signals.
    (2) Ignite, measure, and record the intensity of the burning candle 
with a visual photometer or equivalent photometric device or automatic 
recorder:
    (i) While the specimen is supported in a horizontal position and the 
photometer is at right angles to the axis of the specimen,
    (ii) At a distance of at least 3 m (10 ft.).
    (3) Calculate the intensity of the candle as in Sec.  160.066-7(c).
    (4) Measure and record the chromaticity of the burning candle as 
specified in Sec.  160.021-4(d)(4).
    (5) The test sample fails the test if more than one signal has a 
luminous intensity of less than 10,000 candela, or more than one signal 
is not ``vivid red''.

[CGD 76-183a, 44 FR 73050, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by USCG-2014-0688, 
79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  160.066-15  Production testing.

    (a) Production tests must be performed under the procedures in 
Subpart 159.007 of this chapter.
    (b) The operational tests in Sec.  160.066-12 must be performed for 
every lot of signals produced.
    (c) The technical tests in Sec.  160.066-13 must be performed at 
least once every twelve months, or at least once every 10 lots, 
whichever occurs first.
    (d) If a lot is rejected on the basis of the technical tests, then 
each subsequent lot produced must be tested according to the technical 
tests until samples from a lot pass these tests.
    (e) An independent laboratory acceptable to the Commandant must 
perform or directly supervise:
    (1) Each technical test, and
    (2) All operational tests for at least four lots in a 12 month 
period, unless fewer than four lots are produced in a 12 month period. 
If less than four lots are produced in a 12 month period, each 
operational test must be performed or directly supervised by the 
independent laboratory.
    (f) If a lot selected by the independent laboratory for an 
operational test is rejected, then the operational tests for the next 
lot produced, and the rejected lot, if reworked, must be performed or 
directly supervised by the independent laboratory. The tests required by 
this paragraph must not be counted for the purpose of meeting the 
requirements of paragraph (e).
    (g) The independent laboratory selects the lots upon which technical 
tests are performed.
    (h) If the manufacturer produces more than four lots within a 12 
month period, the independent laboratory selects the lots for which it 
performs or directly supervises the operational tests.
    (i) The operational test performed or directly supervised by the 
independent laboratory must occur at least once during each quarterly 
period, unless no lots are produced during that period.
    (j) The independent laboratory, when it performs or directly 
supervises the technical tests required by paragraph (c) or (d) of this 
section, must inspect the signals selected for testing and compare them 
with the approved plans.

[[Page 149]]

Each signal inspected must conform to the plans.

[CGD 76-183a, 44 FR 73050, Dec. 17, 1979,, as amended by USCG-2014-0688, 
79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]

Subpart 160.071 [Reserved]



         Subpart 160.072_Distress Signals for Boats, Orange Flag

    Source: CGD 76-183a, 44 FR 73054, Dec. 17, 1979, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.072-1  Applicability.

    (a) This subpart establishes standards for distress flags for boats.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.072-3  General performance requirements.

    (a) Each flag must:
    (1) Be a square or rectangle at least 90 cm (36 inches) wide and at 
least 90 cm (36 inches) long. If the flag is a rectangle, the shorter 
side cannot be less than \2/3\ the length of the longer side;
    (2) Have no less than 70% of the total area colored a bright red-
orange color;
    (3) Display a black disc and a black square on the red-orange 
background on both sides arranged as follows:
    (i) The diameter of the disc and the length of one side of the 
square shall be equal, and shall each be \1/3\ of the length of the 
longest side of the flag, or 30 cm (12 inches), whichever is greater.
    (ii) The disc and square must be centered on one axis of the flag 
parallel to the longest side of the flag as shown in Figure 160.072-3. 
If the flag is a square, the axis may be parallel to any side.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.017

                            Figure 160.072-3
    (iii) The disc and square shall be separated by a distance of \1/6\ 
the length of the longest side of the flag or 15 cm (6 inches), 
whichever is greater.
    (4) Be capable of passing the accelerated weathering test of Sec.  
160.072-5;
    (5) Have reinforced corners, each with a grommet; and,
    (6) Be packaged with 4 pieces of line, with a tensile strength of at 
least 225 N (Newtons) (50 lbs) no less than 30 cm (12 inches) long, 
capable of passing through the grommets freely.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.072-5  Accelerated weathering test.

    (a) Condition the flag, folded to \1/16\th its size or as packaged, 
whichever is smaller, by submersion in 5% by weight sodium chloride 
solution for 2 hours followed immediately by storage at 95% (5) related humidity and 40 [deg]C (3[deg]) (100 [deg]F 5[deg]) for at 
least 15 days.
    (b) Unfold and suspend flag by the lines provided, secured through 
each grommet.
    (c) Subject the flag to alternate 3 minute cycles of 5% by weight 
sodium chloride solution at 55 degrees (5[deg]) C 
and air blasts of 40 knots at 55 degrees (5[deg]) 
C, perpendicular to and over the entire surface of one side of the flag, 
without interruption for a period of not less than 24 hours.
    (d) The flag fails the accelerated weathering test if
    (1) After conditioning, the flag cannot be unfolded without damage,

[[Page 150]]

    (2) There is any tearing,
    (3) The flag does not retain its bright red/orange color,
    (4) The disc and square images no longer meet the requirements of 
Sec.  160.072-3(a)(3) or,
    (5) There is any visible rot over more than 3% of the flag's 
surface.



Sec.  160.072-7  Manufacturer certification and labeling.

    (a) Each distress flag intended as a Day Visual Distress Signal 
required by 33 CFR Part 175 must be certified by the manufacturer as 
complying with the requirements of this subpart.
    (b) Each distress flag must be legibly and indelibly marked with:
    (1) The manufacturer's name; and
    (2) The following words--
    ``Day Visual Distress Signal for Boats. Complies with U.S. Coast 
Guard Requirements in 46 CFR 160.072. For Emergency Use Only''.



Sec.  160.072-09  Manufacturer notification.

    (a) Each manufacturer certifying flags in accordance with the 
specifications of this subpart must send written notice to the 
Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, 
U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., 
Washington, DC 20593-7509;
    (1) Within 30 days after first certifying a flag,
    (2) Every five years as long as the manufacturer continues to 
produce flags, and
    (3) Each time the design or construction material of the flag 
changes.
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGD 76-183a, 44 FR 73054, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by CGD 88-070, 53 
FR 34536, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 
95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 
1996; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 
60158, Sept. 30, 2013]



  Subpart 160.073_Float-Free Link or Life Floats and Buoyant Apparatus

    Source: CGD 79-167, 47 FR 41378, Sept. 20, 1982, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.073-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart contains requirements for a float-free link used 
for connecting a life float or buoyant apparatus painter to a vessel. 
The float-free link is designed to be broken by the buoyant force of the 
life float or buoyant apparatus so that the float or apparatus breaks 
free of a vessel that sinks in water deeper than the length of the 
painter.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.073-5  Certification.

    (a) The float-free link is not approved by the Coast Guard. The 
manufacturer of the link must certify that it meets all of the 
requirements of this subpart by application of the markings required in 
Sec.  160.073-20.
    (b) If the manufacturer wants the link to be listed in the Coast 
Guard publication COMDTINST M16714.3 (Series), ``Equipment Lists,'' the 
manufacturer must send a letter requesting the listing to Commandant 
(CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast 
Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 
20593-7509..

[CGD 79-167, 47 FR 41378, Sept. 20, 1982, as amended by CGD 88-070, 53 
FR 34536, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 
96-041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 
25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60158, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.073-10  Construction and performance.

    (a) The link must be constructed essentially as shown in figure 
160.073-10. The link must be formed from a single salt water corrosion-
resistant wire. A loop at least 50 mm (2 in.) in diameter must be 
provided at each end of the wire. Each loop must be permanently secured.
    (b) The breaking strength of each link must be between:
    (1) 450 N (100 lb.) and 600 N (134 lb.) for links intended for life 
floats and buoyant apparatus of 10 persons and less capacity.
    (2) 900 N (200 lb.) and 1200 N (268 lb.) for links intended for life 
floats and buoyant apparatus of 11 to 20 persons capacity.
    (3) 1800 N (400 lb.) and 2400 N (536 lb.) for links intended for 
life floats and

[[Page 151]]

buoyant apparatus of 21 persons and more capacity.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.018



Sec.  160.073-15  Tests.

    (a) The manufacturer shall perform a tensile test on the first three 
links made from a particular spool of wire. The test must be done by 
slowly loading the link until it breaks. The link must break between the 
limits specified in Sec.  160.073-10(b). The break must occur in the 
length of wire at or between the points where the loops are secured (see 
Figure 160.073-10).
    (b) If each of the three links passes the test, each link 
constructed in the same manner from the same spool of wire may be 
certified by the manufacturer as meeting the requirements of this 
subpart.
    (c) If one or more of the three links fails the test, no link 
manufactured in the same manner and from the same spool of wire as the 
test links may be certified as meeting the requirements of this subpart.



Sec.  160.073-20  Marking.

    (a) Each link certified by the manufacturer to meet the requirements 
of this subpart must have a corrosion resistant, waterproof tag attached 
to it that has the following information on it (the manufacturer must 
make the appropriate entries in the indicated space):

FLOAT-FREE LINK FOR LIFE FLOATS AND BUOYANT APPARATUS
Of (10 or less) (11 to 20) (21 or more) persons capacity.
Normal breaking strength ____________________.
Meets U.S. coast guard
Requirements--46 CFR 160.073.
Made by: (name and address) 
______________________________________________
(Date) ____________________________

    (b) [Reserved]



   Subpart 160.076_Inflatable Recreational Personal Flotation Devices

    Source: CGD 94-110, 60 FR 32848, June 23, 1995, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.076-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart contains structural and performance standards for 
approval of inflatable recreational personal flotation devices (PFDs), 
as well as requirements for production follow-up inspections, associated 
manuals, information pamphlets, and markings.
    (b) Inflatable PFDs approved under this subpart rely entirely upon 
inflation for buoyancy.

[CGD 94-110, 60 FR 32848, June 23, 1995, as amended by USCG-2011-0076, 
77 FR 19942, Apr. 3, 2012]



Sec.  160.076-3  Applicability.

    Inflatable PFDs approved under this subpart may be used to meet the 
carriage requirements of 33 CFR 175.15 and 175.17 on the following types 
of vessels only:
    (a) Recreational vessels.
    (b) Uninspected recreational submersible vessels.



Sec.  160.076-5  Definitions.

    As used in this part:
    Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety 
Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and 
Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 
or fax 202-372-1924.
    Conditional approval means a PFD approval which has condition(s) 
with which the user must comply in order for the PFD to be counted 
toward meeting the carriage requirements for the vessel on which it is 
being used.
    First quality workmanship means construction which is free from any 
defect materially affecting appearance or serviceability.

[[Page 152]]

    Inflation medium means any solid, liquid, or gas that, when 
activated, provides inflation for buoyancy.
    Inspector means a recognized laboratory representative assigned to 
perform, supervise or oversee the duties described in Sec. Sec.  
160.076-29 and 160.076-31 of this subpart or any Coast Guard 
representative performing duties related to the approval.
    MOU means memorandum of understanding which describes the approval 
functions a recognized independent laboratory performs for the Coast 
Guard, and the recognized independent laboratory's working arrangements 
with the Coast Guard.
    Performance type means the in-water performance classification of 
the PFD.
    PFD means personal flotation device as defined in 33 CFR 175.13.
    Plans and specifications means the drawings, product description, 
construction specifications, and bill of materials submitted in 
accordance with Sec.  160.076-13 for approval of a PFD design.

[CGD 94-110, 60 FR 32848, June 23, 1995, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 FR 
50466, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 94-110, 61 FR 13945, Mar. 28, 1996; CGD 96-
041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2006-25697; 71 FR 55747, Sept. 
25, 2006; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 
78 FR 60158, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2013-0263, 79 FR 56500, Sept. 22, 
2014]



Sec.  160.076-7  [Reserved]



Sec.  160.076-9  Conditional approval.

    (a) A conditionally approved inflatable PFD may be used to meet the 
Coast Guard PFD carriage requirements of 33 CFR part 175 only if the PFD 
is used in accordance with any requirements on the approval label. PFDs 
marked ``Approved only when worn'' must be worn whenever the vessel is 
underway and the intended wearer is not within an enclosed space if the 
PFD is intended to be used to satisfy the requirements of 33 CFR part 
175. Note: Additional approved PFDs may be needed to satisfy the 
requirements of 33 CFR part 175 if ``Approved only when worn'' PFDs are 
not worn.
    (b) PFDs not meeting the performance specifications in UL 1180 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.076-11) may be conditionally 
approved when the Commandant determines that the performance or design 
characteristics of the PFD make such classification appropriate.

[CGD 94-110, 60 FR 32848, June 23, 1995, as amended by CGD 94-110, 61 FR 
13945, Mar. 28, 1996; USCG-2011-0076, 77 FR 19942, Apr. 3, 2012; USCG-
2013-0263, 79 FR 56500, Sept. 22, 2014]



Sec.  160.076-11  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) 
material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at 
the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the 
Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email 
[email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For 
information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: 
[email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the source in the 
following paragraph of this section.
    (b) Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., 
333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062-2096 (Phone (847) 272-8800; 
Facsimile: (847) 272-8129; Web site: www.ul.com).
    (1) UL 1123, UL Standard for Safety for Marine Buoyant Devices, 
Seventh Edition including revisions through February 14, 2011, (dated 
October 1, 2008), (``UL 1123''), incorporation by reference approved for 
Sec.  160.076-35.
    (2) UL 1180, UL Standard for Safety for Fully Inflatable 
Recreational Personal Flotation Devices, Second Edition including 
revisions through December 3, 2010, (dated February 13, 2009), (``UL 
1180''), incorporation by reference approved for Sec. Sec.  160.076-7; 
160.076-9; 160.076-21; 160.076-23; 160.076-25; 160.076-31; 160.076-37; 
and 160.076-39.
    (3) UL 1191, UL Standard for Safety for Components for Personal 
Flotation Devices, Fourth Edition including revisions through August 24, 
2011, (dated December 12, 2008), (``UL 1191''), incorporation by 
reference approved for

[[Page 153]]

Sec. Sec.  160.076-21; 160.076-25; 160.076-29; and 160.076-31.

[CGD 94-110, 60 FR 32848, June 23, 1995, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 FR 
50467, Sept. 29, 1995, CGD 94-110, 61 FR 13945, Mar. 28, 1996; CGD 96-
041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; CGD 97-057, 62 FR 51048, Sept. 30, 
1997; USCG-1999-5151, 64 FR 67184, Dec. 1, 1999; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 
49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2011-0076, 77 FR 19942, Apr. 3, 2012; USCG-
2013-0671, 78 FR 60158, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2022-0323, 88 FR 10030, 
Feb. 16, 2023]



Sec.  160.076-13  Approval procedures for inflatable PFDs.

    (a) Manufacturers seeking approval of an inflatable PFD design shall 
follow the procedures of this section and subpart 159.005 of this 
chapter.
    (b) Each application for approval of an inflatable PFD must contain 
the information specified in Sec.  159.005-5 of this chapter. The 
application must be submitted to a recognized laboratory. One copy of 
the application and, except as provided in paragraph (c)(2) of this 
section, a prototype PFD must be submitted to the Commandant for 
preapproval review. If a similar design has already been approved, the 
Commandant may authorize the recognized laboratory to waive the 
preapproval review under Sec. Sec.  159.005-5 and 159.005-7 of this 
chapter.
    (c) The application must include the following:
    (1) Plans and specifications containing the information required by 
Sec.  159.005-12 of this chapter, including drawings, product 
description, construction specifications, and bill of materials.
    (2) The information specified in Sec.  159.005-5(a)(2) (i) through 
(iii) of this chapter must be included in the application, except that, 
if preapproval review has been waived, the manufacturer is not required 
to send a prototype PFD sample to the Commandant.
    (3) Any special purpose(s) for which the PFD is designed and the 
vessel(s) or vessel type(s) on which its use is intended.
    (4) Buoyancy, torque, and other relevant tolerances to be met during 
production.
    (5) The text of any optional marking to be included on the PFD in 
addition to the markings required by Sec.  160.076-39.
    (6) A draft of the information pamphlet required by Sec.  160.076-
35.
    (7) A draft of the owner's manual required by Sec.  160.076-37.
    (8) For any conditionally approved PFD, the intended approval 
condition(s).
    (d) The description required by Sec.  159.005-9 of this chapter of 
quality control procedures may be omitted if the manufacturer's planned 
quality control procedures meet the requirements of Sec. Sec.  160.076-
29 and 160.076-31.
    (e) Manual and pamphlet. Before granting approval of a PFD design, 
the Commandant may require changes to the manual and information 
pamphlet submitted for review to ensure compliance with the requirements 
of Sec. Sec.  160.076-35 and 160.076-37.
    (f) Waiver of tests. A manufacturer may request that the Commandant 
waive any test prescribed for approval under this subpart. To request a 
waiver, the manufacturer must submit to the Commandant and the 
recognized laboratory, one of the following:
    (1) Satisfactory test results on a PFD of sufficiently similar 
design as determined by the Commandant.
    (2) Engineering analysis demonstrating that the test for which a 
waiver is requested is not appropriate for the particular design 
submitted for approval or that, because of its design or construction, 
it is not possible for the PFD to fail that test.
    (g) Alternative requirements. A PFD that does not meet the 
requirements of this subpart may be approved by the Commandant if the 
device--
    (1) Meets other requirements prescribed by the Commandant in place 
of or in addition to the requirements of this subpart; and
    (2) As determined by the Commandant, provides at least the same 
degree of safety provided by other PFDs that meet the requirements of 
this subpart.

[CGD 94-110, 60 FR 32848, June 23, 1995, as amended by CGD 94-110, 61 FR 
13946, Mar. 28, 1996; USCG-2013-0263, 79 FR 56500, Sept. 22, 2014]



Sec.  160.076-15  Suspension or termination of approval.

    As provided in Sec.  159.005-15 of this chapter, the Commandant may 
suspend

[[Page 154]]

or terminate the approval of an inflatable PFD design if the 
manufacturer fails to comply with this subpart or the recognized 
laboratory's accepted procedures or requirements.



Sec.  160.076-17  Approval of design or material changes.

    (a) The manufacturer must submit any proposed changes in design, 
material, or construction to the recognized laboratory and the 
Commandant for approval before changing PFD production methods.
    (b) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials may be made only by the Commandant or a designated 
representative.



Sec.  160.076-19  Recognized laboratories.

    The approval and production oversight functions that this subpart 
requires to be conducted by a recognized laboratory must be conducted by 
an independent laboratory recognized by the Coast Guard under subpart 
159.010 of part 159 of this chapter to perform such functions. A list of 
recognized independent laboratories is available from the Commandant and 
online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.

[USCG-2011-0076, 77 FR 19942, Apr. 3, 2012]



Sec.  160.076-21  Component materials.

    Each component material used in the manufacture of an inflatable PFD 
must--
    (a) Meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this 
chapter, UL 1191 and UL 1180 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.076-11), and this section; and
    (b) Be of good quality and suitable for the purpose intended.

[USCG-2011-0076, 77 FR 19942, Apr. 3, 2012]



Sec.  160.076-23  Construction and performance requirements.

    (a) Each inflatable PFD design must--
    (1) Meet the requirements in UL 1180 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  160.076-11); and
    (2) Meet any additional requirements that the Commandant may 
prescribe to approve unique or novel designs.
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGD 94-110, 60 FR 32848, June 23, 1995, as amended by CGD 94-110, 61 FR 
13946, Mar. 28, 1996; USCG-2011-0076, 77 FR 19942, Apr. 3, 2012; USCG-
2013-0263, 79 FR 56500, Sept. 22, 2014]



Sec.  160.076-25  Approval testing.

    (a) To obtain approval of an inflatable PFD design, approval tests 
specified in UL 1180 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.076-11) 
and this section must be conducted or supervised by a recognized 
laboratory using PFDs that have been constructed in accordance with the 
plans and specifications submitted with the application for approval.
    (b) Each PFD design must pass the tests required by UL 1180 and this 
section.
    (c) [Reserved]
    (d) Each PFD design must be visually examined for compliance with 
the construction and performance requirements of Sec. Sec.  160.076-21 
and 160.076-23 and UL 1180 and UL 1191 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  160.076-11).
    (e) Additional tests. The Commandant may prescribe additional tests 
for approval of novel or unique designs.

[CGD 94-110, 60 FR 32848, June 23, 1995, as amended by CGD 94-110, 61 FR 
13946, Mar. 28, 1996; USCG-2000-7790, 65 FR 58463, Sept. 29, 2000; USCG-
2011-0076, 77 FR 19942, Apr. 3, 2012; USCG-2013-0263, 79 FR 56500, Sept. 
22, 2014]



Sec.  160.076-27  [Reserved]



Sec.  160.076-29  Production oversight.

    (a) Production tests and inspections must be conducted in accordance 
with this section and subpart 159.007 of this chapter unless the 
Commandant authorizes alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant 
may prescribe additional production tests and inspections necessary to 
maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements 
of this subpart.
    (b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory 
that performs the approval tests unless the Commandant determines that 
the employees of an alternative laboratory have received training and 
have access to the same information as the inspectors of the laboratory 
that conducted the approval testing.

[[Page 155]]

    (c) In addition to responsibilities set out in part 159 of this 
chapter and the accepted Laboratory Follow-up Procedures, each 
manufacturer of an inflatable PFD and each recognized laboratory 
inspector shall comply with the following, as applicable:
    (1) Manufacturer. Each manufacturer must--
    (i) Except as provided in paragraph (e)(2) of this section, perform 
all required tests and examinations on each PFD lot before any required 
inspector's tests and inspection of the lot;
    (ii) Follow established procedures for maintaining quality control 
of the materials used, manufacturing operations, and the finished 
product;
    (iii) Implement a continuing program of employee training and a 
program for maintaining production and test equipment;
    (iv) Admit the inspector to any place in the factory where work is 
done on PFDs or component materials, and where parts or completed PFDs 
are stored;
    (v) Have an inspector observe the production methods used in 
producing the first PFD lot and observe any revisions in production 
methods made thereafter; and
    (vi) Allow the inspector to take samples of completed PFDs or of 
component materials for tests required by this subpart and for tests 
relating to the safety of the design.
    (2) Recognized laboratory oversight. An inspector from a recognized 
laboratory shall oversee production in accordance with the MOU. During 
production oversight, the inspector shall not perform or supervise any 
production test or inspection unless--
    (i) The manufacturer has a valid approval certificate; and
    (ii) The inspector has first observed the manufacturer's production 
methods and any revisions to those methods.
    (3) The inspector must perform or supervise testing and inspection 
of at least one in each five lots of PFDs produced.
    (4) During each inspection, the inspector must check for compliance 
with the manufacturer's quality control procedures.
    (5) Except as provided in paragraph (c)(6) of this section, at least 
once each calendar quarter, the inspector must examine the 
manufacturer's records required by Sec.  160.076-33 and observe the 
manufacturer perform each of the tests required by Sec.  160.076-31(c).
    (6) If less than six lots are produced during a calendar year, only 
one lot inspection and one records' examination and test performance 
observation are required during that year. Each lot tested and inspected 
under paragraph (c)(3) of this section must be within seven lots of the 
previous lot inspected.
    (d) PFD lots. A lot number must be assigned to each group of PFDs 
produced. Lots must be numbered serially. A new lot must be started 
whenever any change in materials or a revision to a production method is 
made, and whenever any substantial discontinuity in the production 
process occurs. Changes in lots of component materials must be treated 
as changes in materials. The lot number assigned, along with the 
approval number, must enable the PFD manufacturer, by referring to the 
records required by this subpart, to determine the supplier of the 
components used in the PFD and the component supplier's identifying 
information for the component lot.
    (e) Samples. For the tests, examinations, and inspections required 
by Sec.  160.076-31, inspectors and manufacturers shall select samples 
as provided in this paragraph.
    (1) Samples shall be selected at random from a lot in which all PFDs 
or materials in the lot are available for selection. Except as provided 
in Sec.  160.076-31(c), samples must be selected from completed PFDs.
    (2) Different samples must be selected for the manufacturer's and 
inspector's tests, except, if the total production for any five 
consecutive lots does not exceed 250 PFDs, the manufacturer's and 
inspector's tests may be run on the same sample(s) at the same time.
    (3) The number of samples selected per lot must be at least equal to 
the applicable number required by Table 160.076-29A for manufacturers or 
Table 160.076-29B for inspectors.
    (4) The following additional requirements apply as indicated in 
Table

[[Page 156]]

160.076-29A to individual sample selections by manufacturers:
    (i) Samples must be selected from each lot of incoming material. The 
tests required under paragraphs 160.076-25(d)(2)(i) through 160.076-
25(d)(2)(iv) prescribe the number of samples to select.
    (i) Samples must be selected from each lot of incoming material. 
Unless otherwise specified, Table 29.1 of UL 1191 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.076-11) prescribes the number of samples to 
select.
    (iii) If a sample fails the over-pressure test, the number of 
samples to be tested in the next lot produced must be at least two 
percent of the total number of PFDs in the lot or 10 PFDs, whichever is 
greater.
    (iv) The indicated test must be conducted at least once each 
calendar quarter or whenever a new lot of material is used or a 
production process is revised.
    (5) The following additional requirements apply as indicated in 
Table 160.076-29B to individual sample selections by inspectors:
    (i) Samples selected for the indicated tests may not be used for 
more than one test.
    (ii) The indicated test may be omitted if it was conducted by the 
manufacturer on the materials used and by the inspector on a previous 
lot within the past 12 months.
    (iii) One sample of each means of marking on each type of fabric or 
finish used in PFD construction must be tested at least every six months 
or whenever a new lot of materials is used.

                                 Table 160.076-29A--Manufacturer's Sampling Plan
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    Number of Samples Per Lot
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Lot size:                      1-100     101-200    201-300    301-500    501-750    751-1000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tests:
    Inflation Chamber Materials...............                           See Note \(a)\
    Seam Strength.............................          1          1          2          2          3          4
    Over-pressure \(b)\\(c)\..................          1          2          3          4          6          8
    Air Retention.............................                       EVERY DEVICE IN THE LOT
    Buoyancy and Inflation Medium Retention...          1          2          3          4          6          8
    Tensile Strength..........................                           See Note \(d)\
Detailed Product Examination..................          2          2          3          4          6          8
Retest Sample Size \(b)\......................  .........  .........         13         13         20         20
Final Lot Inspection..........................                       EVERY DEVICE IN THE LOT
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes to Table: \(a)\ See Sec.   160.076-29(e)(4)(i). \(b)\ See Sec.   160.076-29(e)(4)(ii). \(c)\ See Sec.
  160.076-29(e)(4)(iii). \(d)\ See Sec.   160.076-29(e)(4)(iv).


                                  Table 160.076-29B--Inspector's Sampling Plan
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    Number of Samples Per Lot
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Lot size:                      1-100     101-200    201-300    301-500    501-750    751-1000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tests:
    Over-pressure \(a)\.......................          1          1          2          2          3          4
    Air Retention.............................          1          1          2          2          3          4
    Buoyancy & Inflation Medium Retention.....          1          1          2          2          3          4
    Tensile Strength..........................                           See Note \(b)\
    Waterproof marking........................                           See Note \(c)\
Detailed Project Examination..................          1          1          1          2          2          3
Retest Sample Size \(a)\......................         10         10         13         13         20         20
Final Lot Inspection..........................         10         15         20         25         27         30
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes to Table: \(a)\ See Sec.   160.076-29(e)(5)(i). \(b)\ See Sec.   160.076-29(e)(5)(ii). \(c)\ See Sec.
  160.076-29(e)(5)(iii).

    (f) Accept/reject criteria: manufacturer testing. (1) A PFD lot 
passes production testing if each sample passes each test.
    (2) In lots of 200 or less PFDs, the lot must be rejected if any 
sample fails one or more tests.
    (3) In lots of more than 200 PFDs, the lot must be rejected if--
    (i) One sample fails more than one test;
    (ii) More than one sample fails any test or combination of tests; or

[[Page 157]]

    (iii) One sample fails one test and in redoing that test with the 
number of samples specified for retesting in Table 160.076-29A, one or 
more samples fail the retest.
    (4) A rejected PFD lot may be retested only if allowed under Sec.  
160.076-31(e).
    (g) Accept/reject criteria: independent laboratory testing. (1) A 
lot passes production testing if each sample passes each test.
    (2) A lot must be rejected if--
    (i) A sample fails more than one test;
    (ii) More than one sample fails any test or combination of tests; or
    (iii) One sample fails one test and in redoing that test with the 
number of samples specified for retesting in Table 160.076-29B, one or 
more samples fail the test.
    (3) A rejected lot may be retested only if allowed under Sec.  
160.076-31(e).
    (h) Facilities and equipment--(1) General. The manufacturer must 
provide the test equipment and facilities necessary for performing 
production tests, examinations, and inspections, unless Commandant has 
accepted testing at a location other than the manufacturer's facility.
    (2) Calibration. The manufacturer must have the calibration of all 
test equipment checked at least every six months by a weights and 
measures agency or the equipment manufacturer, distributor, or dealer.
    (3) Facilities. The manufacturer must provide a suitable place and 
the necessary equipment for the inspector to use in conducting or 
supervising tests. For the final lot inspection, the manufacturer must 
provide a suitable working environment and a smooth-top table for the 
inspector's use.

[CGD 94-110, 60 FR 32848, June 23, 1995, as amended by CGD 94-110, 61 FR 
13946, Mar. 28, 1996; 61 FR 15868, Apr. 9, 1996; USCG-2011-0076, 77 FR 
19942, Apr. 3, 2012]



Sec.  160.076-31  Production tests and examinations.

    (a) Samples used in testing must be selected in accordance with 
Sec.  160.076-29(e).
    (b) On each sample selected--
    (1) The manufacturer must conduct the tests in paragraphs (c)(2) 
through (c)(8) of this section;
    (2) The recognized laboratory inspector must conduct or supervise 
the tests in paragraphs (c)(4) through (c)(8) of this section; and
    (3) In addition to meeting the requirements of this section, each 
test result must meet the requirements, if any, contained in the 
approved plans and specifications.
    (c) When conducting the tests specified by this paragraph, the 
following conditions must be met:
    (1) Inflation chamber materials. The materials in each inflatable 
chamber must comply with the requirements in Table 29.1 of UL 1191 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.076-11) for permeability, grab 
strength, and tear strength. Lots not meeting this requirement must be 
rejected and, unless authorized by the Commandant, may not be subdivided 
and retested.
    (2) Seam strength. The seams in each inflation chamber of each 
sample must be tested in accordance with Table 29.1 of UL 1191.
    (3) Over-pressure. Each sample must be tested in accordance with and 
meet UL 1180 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.076-11) section 
41. Prior to initiating the test at the specified values, samples may be 
prestressed by inflating them to a greater pressure than the required 
test pressure.
    (4) Air retention. Each sample must be tested in accordance with and 
meet UL 1180 section 42. Prior to initiating the test at the specified 
values, test samples may be prestressed by inflating to a pressure 
greater than the design pressure, but not exceeding 50 percent of the 
required pressure for the tests in paragraph (c)(3) of this section. No 
alternate test method may be used that decreases the length of the test 
unless authorized by the Commandant. Such alternative test must require 
a proportionately lower allowable pressure loss and the same percentage 
sensitivity and accuracy as the standard allowable loss measured with 
the standard instrumentation.
    (5) Buoyancy and inflation medium retention. Each sample must be 
tested in accordance with and meet UL 1180 section 29. Each buoyancy 
value must fall within the tolerances specified in the approved plans 
and specifications.

[[Page 158]]

    (6) Tensile strength. Each sample primary closure system must be 
tested in accordance with and meet UL 1180 section 31.
    (7) Detailed product examination. Each sample PFD must be 
disassembled to the extent necessary to determine compliance with the 
following:
    (i) All dimensions and seam allowances must be within tolerances 
prescribed in the approved plans and specifications.
    (ii) The torque of each screw type mechanical fastener must be 
within its tolerance as prescribed in the approved plans and 
specifications.
    (iii) The arrangement, markings, and workmanship must be as 
specified in the approved plans and specifications and this subpart.
    (iv) The PFD must not contain any apparent defects.
    (8) Waterproof Marking Test. Each sample must be completely 
submerged in fresh water for at least 30 minutes. The sample must then 
be removed, immediately placed on a hard surface, and the markings 
vigorously rubbed with the fingers for 15 seconds. If the printing 
becomes illegible, the sample must be rejected.
    (d) Final lot examination and inspection--(1) General. On each PFD 
lot that passes production testing, the manufacturer shall perform a 
final lot examination and, on every fifth lot, a laboratory inspector 
shall perform a final lot inspection. Samples must be selected in 
accordance with paragraph Sec.  160.076-29(e). Each final lot must 
demonstrate--
    (i) First quality workmanship;
    (ii) That the general arrangement and attachment of all components, 
such as body straps, closures, inflation mechanisms, tie tapes, and 
drawstrings, are as specified in the approved plans and specifications;
    (iii) Compliance with the marking requirements in Sec.  160.076-39; 
and
    (iv) That the information pamphlet and owner's manual required by 
Sec.  160.076-35 and 160.076-37, respectively, are securely attached to 
the device, with the pamphlet selection information visible and 
accessible prior to purchase.
    (2) Accept/reject criteria. Each nonconforming PFD must be rejected. 
If three or more nonconforming PFDs are rejected for the same kind of 
defect, lot examination or inspection must be discontinued and the lot 
rejected.
    (3) Manufacturer examination. This examination must be conducted by 
a manufacturer's representative who is familiar with the approved plans 
and specifications, the functioning of the PFD and its components, and 
the production testing procedures. This person must not be responsible 
for meeting production schedules or be supervised by someone who is. 
This person must prepare and sign the record required by 159.007-13(a) 
of this chapter and 160.076-33(b).
    (4) Independent laboratory inspection. (i) The inspector must 
discontinue lot inspection and reject the lot if examination of 
individual PFDs or the records for the lot shows noncompliance with 
either this section or the laboratory's or the manufacturer's quality 
control procedures.
    (ii) If the inspector rejects a lot, the inspector must advise the 
Commandant or the recognized laboratory within 15 days.
    (iii) The inspector must prepare and sign the inspection record 
required by 159.007-13(a) of this chapter and 160.076-33(b). If the lot 
passes, the record must include the inspector's certification that the 
lot passed inspection and that no evidence of noncompliance with this 
section was observed.
    (e) Disposition of rejected PFD lot or PFD. (1) A rejected PFD lot 
may be resubmitted for testing, examination or inspection if the 
manufacturer first removes and destroys each defective PFD or, if 
authorized by the Commandant, reworks the lot to correct the defect.
    (2) Any PFD rejected in a final lot examination or inspection may be 
resubmitted for examination or inspection if all defects have been 
corrected and reexamination or reinspection is authorized by the 
Commandant.
    (3) A rejected lot or rejected PFD may not be sold or offered for 
sale under the representation that it meets this subpart or that it is 
Coast Guard-approved.

[CGD 94-110, 60 FR 32848, June 23, 1995, as amended by CGD 94-110, 61 FR 
13946, Mar. 28, 1996; USCG-2011-0076, 77 FR 19942, Apr. 3, 2012]

[[Page 159]]



Sec.  160.076-33  Manufacturer records.

    (a) Each manufacturer of inflatable PFDs shall keep the records of 
production inspections and tests as required by Sec.  159.007-13 of this 
chapter, except that they must be retained for at least 120 months after 
the month in which the inspection or test was conducted.
    (b) In addition to the information required by Sec.  159.007-13 of 
this chapter, the manufacturer's records must also include the following 
information:
    (1) For each test, the serial number of the test instrument used if 
more than one test instrument was available.
    (2) For each test and inspection, the identification of the samples 
used, the lot number, the approval number, and the number of PFDs in the 
lot.
    (3) For each lot rejected, the cause for rejection, any corrective 
action taken, and the final disposition of the lot.
    (4) For all materials used in production the--
    (i) Name and address of the supplier;
    (ii) Date of purchase and receipt;
    (iii) Lot number; and
    (iv) Where required by Sec.  164.019-5 of this chapter, the 
certification received with standard components.
    (5) A copy of this subpart.
    (6) Each document incorporated by reference in Sec.  160.076-11.
    (7) A copy of the approved plans and specifications.
    (8) The approval certificate obtained in accordance with Sec.  2.75-
1 and 2.75-5 of this chapter.
    (9) Certificates evidencing calibration of test equipment, including 
the identity of the agency performing the calibration, date of 
calibration, and results.
    (c) A description or photographs of procedures and equipment used in 
testing required by Sec.  159.007-13(a)(4) of this chapter, is not 
required if the manufacturer's procedures and equipment meet the 
requirements of this subpart.
    (d) The records required by paragraph (b)(4) of this section must be 
kept for at least 120 months after preparation. All other records 
required by paragraph (b) of this section must be kept for at least 60 
months after the PFD approval expires or is terminated.



Sec.  160.076-35  Information pamphlet.

    A pamphlet that is consistent in format to that specified in UL 1123 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.076-11) must be attached to 
each inflatable PFD sold or offered for sale in such a way that a 
prospective purchaser can read the pamphlet prior to purchase. The 
pamphlet text and layout must be submitted to the Commandant for 
approval. The text must be printed in each pamphlet exactly as approved 
by the Commandant. Additional information, instructions, or 
illustrations must not be included within the approved text and layout. 
Sample pamphlet text and layout may be obtained by contacting the 
Commandant. This pamphlet may be combined with the manual required by 
Sec.  160.076-37 if PFD selection and warning information is provided on 
the PFD packaging in such a way that it remains visible until purchase.

[CGD 94-110, 60 FR 32848, June 23, 1995, as amended by USCG-2011-0076, 
77 FR 19943, Apr. 3, 2012]



Sec.  160.076-37  Owner's manual.

    (a) General. The manufacturer must provide an owner's manual with 
each inflatable PFD sold or offered for sale. A draft of the manual for 
each model must be submitted for approval in accordance with Sec.  
160.076-13.
    (b) Manual contents. Each owner's manual must contain the 
information specified in UL 1180 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.076-11), and, if the PFD is conditionally approved, an explanation 
of the meaning of, and reasons for, the approval conditions.

[CGD 94-110, 60 FR 32848, June 23, 1995, as amended by CGD 94-110, 61 FR 
13947, Mar. 28, 1996; USCG-2011-0076, 77 FR 19943, Apr. 3, 2012]



Sec.  160.076-39  Marking.

    Each inflatable PFD must be marked as specified in UL 1180 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.076-11). At a minimum, all 
labels must include--
    (a) Size information, as appropriate;
    (b) The Coast Guard approval number;
    (c) Manufacturer's contact information;
    (d) Model name/number;

[[Page 160]]

    (e) Lot number, manufacturer date; and
    (f) Any limitations or restrictions on approval or special 
instructions for use.

[USCG-2013-0263, 79 FR 56500, Sept. 22, 2014]



      Subpart 160.077_Hybrid Inflatable Personal Flotation Devices

    Source: CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.077-1  Scope.

    (a) This specification contains requirements for approving hybrid 
inflatable personal flotation devices (hybrid PFDs).
    (b) Under this chapter and 33 CFR part 175, certain commercial 
vessels and recreational boats may carry Type I, II, or III hybrid PFDs 
to meet carriage requirements. Type V hybrid PFDs may be substituted for 
other required PFDs if they are worn under conditions prescribed in 
their manual as required by Sec.  160.077-29 and on their marking as 
prescribed in Sec.  160.077-31. For recreational boats or boaters 
involved in a special activity, hybrid PFD approval may also be limited 
to that activity.
    (c) Unless approved as a Type I SOLAS Lifejacket, a hybrid PFD on an 
inspected commercial vessel will be approved only--
    (1) As work vest; or
    (2) For the special purpose stated on the approval certificate and 
PFD marking.
    (d) A hybrid PFD may be approved for adults, weighing over 40 kg (90 
lb); youths, weighing 23-40 kg (50-90 lb); small children, weighing 14-
23 kg (30-50 lb); or for the size range of persons for which the design 
has been tested, as indicated on the PFD's label.
    (e) This specification also contains requirements for--
    (1) Manufacturers and sellers of recreational hybrid PFD's to 
provide an information pamphlet and owner's manual with each PFD; and
    (2) Manufacturers of commercial hybrid PFD's to provide a user's 
manual.

[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78-174, 60 FR 
2486, Jan. 9, 1995]



Sec.  160.077-2  Definitions.

    (a) Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety 
Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and 
Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 
or fax 202-372-1924.
    (b) Commercial hybrid PFD means a hybrid PFD approved for use on 
commercial vessels identified on the PFD label.
    (c) First quality workmanship means construction which is free from 
any defect materially affecting appearance or serviceability.
    (d) Hybrid PFD means a personal flotation device that has at least 
one inflation chamber in combination with inherently buoyant material.
    (e) Inflation medium means any solid, liquid, or gas, that, when 
activated, provides inflation for buoyancy.
    (f) Inspector means an independent laboratory representative 
assigned to perform duties described in Sec.  160.077-23.
    (g) PFD means a personal flotation device of a type approved under 
this subpart.
    (h) Recreational hybrid PFD means a hybrid PFD approved for use on a 
recreational boat as defined in 33 CFR 175.3.
    (i) [Reserved]
    (j) Reference vest means a model AK-1, adult PFD; model CKM-1, child 
medium PFD; or model CKS-2, child small PFD, meeting the requirements of 
subpart 160.047 of this chapter, except that, in lieu of the weight and 
displacement values prescribed in Tables 160.047-4(c)(2) and 160.047-
4(c)(4), each insert must have the minimum weight of kapok and 
displacement as shown in Table 160.077-2(j). To achieve the specified 
volume displacement, front and back insert pad coverings may be larger 
than the dimensions prescribed by Sec.  160.047-1(b) and the width of 
the front fabric envelope and height of the back fabric envelope may be 
increased to accommodate a circumference no greater than 1/4 
larger than the filled insert circumference. As an alternative, 
unicellular plastic foam inserts of the

[[Page 161]]

specified displacement and of an equivalent shape, as accepted by the 
Commandant, may be substituted for kapok inserts.

                 Table 160.077-2(j)--Reference Vest Minimum Kapok Weight and Volume Displacement
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         Front insert (2 each)                         Back insert
                               ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Reference PFD type          Minimum kapok     Volume displacement    Minimum kapok   Volume displacement N
                                  weight g (oz)           N (lb)           weight g (oz)            (lb)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Devices for adults, weighing
 over 40 kg (90 lb):
    Type II, III, and V         234 (8.25).......  401 (9.01 (6.00.2                     minus0.25
                                                    5)                                      )
Devices for youths, weighing
 23-40 kg (50-90 lb):
    Type I....................  184 (6.5)........  311 (7.01 (6.50.2                     minus0.25
                                                    5)                                      )
    Type II, III, and V \1\...  156 (5.5)........  261 (5.751 (5.50.2                     minus0.l2
                                                    5)                                      5)
Devices for small children,
 weighing 14-23 kg (30-50 lb):
    Type I....................  128 (4.5)........  211 (4.751 (6.50.2                     minus0.25
                                                    5)                                      )
    Type II...................  100 (3.5)........  171 (3.751 (5.00.2                     minus0.25
                                                    5)                                      )
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Both Recreational and Commercial.

    (k) Second stage donning means adjustments or steps necessary to 
make a PFD provide its intended flotation characteristics after the 
device has been properly donned and then inflated.
    (l) SOLAS lifejacket, in the case of a hybrid inflatable PFD, means 
a PFD approved as meeting the requirements for lifejackets in the 1983 
Amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at 
Sea, 1974 (SOLAS 74/83), in addition to the requirements of this 
subpart.

[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78-174A, 51 
FR 4351, Feb. 4, 1986; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34536, Sept. 7, 1988. 
Redesignated and amended by CGD 78-174, 60 FR 2486, Jan. 9, 1995; 60 FR 
7131, Feb. 7, 1995; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50466, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 
61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 
2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60158, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.077-3  Required to be worn.

    (a) A Type V hybrid PFD may be used to meet the Coast Guard PFD 
carriage requirements of subpart 25.25 of this chapter, and 33 CFR part 
175, only if the PFD is used in accordance with any requirements on the 
approval label. PFDs marked ``REQUIRED TO BE WORN'' must be worn 
whenever the vessel is underway and the intended wearer is not within an 
enclosed space.
    (b) If hybrid PFD's with the marking ``REQUIRED TO BE WORN'' are not 
worn under the conditions stated in paragraph (a) of this section, other 
approved PFD's will have to be provided to comply with the applicable 
carriage requirements in 33 CFR part 175 and subpart 25.25 of this 
chapter.
    (c) The following PFD's must be marked ``REQUIRED TO BE WORN'' as 
specified in Sec.  160.077-31:
    (1) Each Type V recreational hybrid PFD.
    (2) Each Type V commercial hybrid PFD.

[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985. Redesignated and amended by CGD 
78-174, 60 FR 2486, Jan. 9, 1995]



Sec.  160.077-4  Type.

    (a) A hybrid PFD that successfully passes all applicable tests may 
be approved as a Type I, II, III, or V for various size ranges of 
persons weighing over 23 kg (50 lb), as Type I or II for persons 
weighing 14-23 kg (30-50 lb) or as Type I or II for other sizes. A Type 
V PFD has limitations on its approval.
    (b) The approval tests in this subpart require each Type V hybrid 
PFD to have at least the same performance as a Type I, II, or III PFD 
for adult and youth sizes or Type I or II PFD for child sizes.
    (c) A hybrid PFD may be approved for use on recreational boats, 
commercial vessels or both if the applicable requirements are met.

[CGD 78-174, 60 FR 2486, Jan. 9, 1995]



Sec.  160.077-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal

[[Page 162]]

Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved 
incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at 
Coast Guard Headquarters and at the National Archives and Records 
Administration (NARA). Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-
4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email [email protected] or visit 
https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For information on the availability 
of this material at NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: 
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The material 
may be obtained from the sources in the following paragraphs of this 
section.
    (b) ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West 
Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, 877-909-2786, http://www.astm.org.
    (1) ASTM B 117-97, Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) 
Apparatus, into Sec.  160.077-11.
    (2) ASTM D 751-95, Standard Test Methods for Coated Fabrics, 
incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  160.077-19.
    (3) ASTM D1434-82 (Reapproved 2009) [egr]1, Standard Test 
Method for Determining Gas Permeability Characteristics of Plastic Film 
and Sheeting (approved May 1, 2009), incorporation by reference approved 
for Sec.  160.077-19.
    (c) DLA Document Services, 700 Robbins Avenue, Building 4/D, 
Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, 215-697-6396, http://assistdocs.com.
    (1) In Federal Test Method Standard No. 191 the following test 
methods:
    (i) Method 5100, Strength and Elongation, Breaking of Woven Cloth; 
Grab Method.
    (ii) Method 5132, Strength of Cloth, Tearing; Falling-Pendulum 
Method.
    (iii) Method 5134, Strength of Cloth, Tearing; Tongue Method.
    (iv) Method 5804.1, Weathering Resistance of Cloth; Accelerated 
Weathering Method.
    (v) Method 5762, Mildew Resistance of Textile Materials; Soil Burial 
Method.
    (2) Federal Standard No. 751, Stitches, Seams, and Stitching.
    (3) MIL-L-24611(SH), Life Preserver Support Package for Life 
Preserver, MK 4.
    (d) National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) (formerly 
National Bureau of Standards), 100 Bureau Drive, Stop 1070, 
Gaithersburg, MD 20899-1070, 301-975-6478, http://www.nist.gov.
    (1) ``The Universal Color Language'' and ``The Color Names 
Dictionary'' in Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of Names, 
National Institute of Standards Special Publication 440.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (e) Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), 12 Laboratory Drive, 
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995, 919-549-1400, http://www.ul.com.
    (1) UL 1191, Components for Personal Flotation Devices.
    (2) UL 1517, Standard for Hybrid Personal Flotation Devices 
(November 12, 1984), incorporation by reference approved for 46 CFR 
160.077-5(e)(2); 160.077-11(a)(5)(ii) and(g)(1); 160.077-15(b)(12); 
160.077-17(b)(9); 160.077-19(a)(5) and (b)(1) through (18); 160.077-
21(c)(1) through (5); 160.077-23(h)(4) through (7); 160.077-27(e)(1) and 
(4); and 160.077-29(c)(5), (7), and (9), and (d)(1) and (5).

[USCG-2012-0866, 78 FR 13251, Feb. 27, 2013, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60158, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2022-0323, 88 FR 10030, Feb. 16, 
2023]



Sec.  160.077-6  Approval procedures.

    (a) General. Subpart 159.005 of this chapter contains the approval 
procedures. Those procedures must be followed, excepted as modified in 
this paragraph.
    (1) Preapproval review under Sec. Sec.  159.005-5 and 159.005-7 may 
be omitted if a similar design has already been approved.
    (2) The information required in all three subparagraphs of Sec.  
159.005-5(a)(2) must be included in the application.
    (3) The application must also include the following:
    (i) The type of performance (i.e. Donned Type I, Type II or Type 
III) that the PFD is designed to provide.
    (ii) Any special purpose(s) for which the PFD is designed and the 
vessel(s) or type(s) of vessel on which its use is planned.

[[Page 163]]

    (iii) Buoyancy and torque tolerances to be allowed in production.
    (iv) The text of any optional marking to be provided in addition to 
required text.
    (v) The manual required by Sec.  160.077-29 (UL 1517 text may be 
omitted in this submission).
    (vi) The size range of wearers that the device is intended to fit.
    (4) The description of quality control procedures required by Sec.  
159.005-9 of this chapter to be submitted with the test report may be 
omitted as long as the manufacturer's planned quality control procedures 
comply with Sec.  160.077-23.
    (b) Waiver of tests. If a manufacturer requests that any test in 
this subpart be waived, one of the following must be provided to the 
Commandant as justification for the waiver:
    (1) Acceptable test results on a PFD of sufficiently similar design.
    (2) Engineering analysis showing that the test is not applicable to 
the particular design or that by design or construction the PFD cannot 
fail the test.
    (c) Alternative Requirements. A PFD that does not meet requirements 
in this subpart may still be approved if the device--
    (1) Meets other requirements prescribed by the Commandant in place 
of or in addition to requirements in this subpart; and
    (2) Provides at least the same degree of safety provided by other 
PFD's that do comply with this subpart.

[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78-174A, 51 
FR 4351, Feb. 4, 1986. Redesignated and amended by CGD 78-174, 60 FR 
2491, Jan. 9, 1995]



Sec.  160.077-7  Procedure for approval of design or material revision.

    (a) Each change in design, material, or construction of an approved 
PFD must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any 
production of PFDs.
    (b) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials may be made only by the Commandant.

[CGD 78-174, 60 FR 2492, Jan. 9, 1995]



Sec.  160.077-9  Recognized laboratory.

    (a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under 
this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of 
this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized 
independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under 
Sec.  159.010-7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions 
under this subpart: Underwriters Laboratories, 12 Laboratory Drive, P.O. 
Box 13995, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995, (919) 549-1400.
    (b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory 
that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the 
Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production 
oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory 
that performed the approval testing.

[CGD 93-055, 61 FR 13931, Mar. 28, 1996; 61 FR 15868, Apr. 9, 1996]



Sec.  160.077-11  Materials--Recreational Hybrid PFD's.

    (a) General--(1) Application. This section contains requirements for 
materials used in recreational hybrid PFD's.
    (2) Condition of Materials. All materials must be new.
    (3) Acceptance, certification, and quality. All components used in 
the construction of hybrid PFDs must meet the applicable requirements of 
subpart 164.019 of this chapter.
    (4) Temperature range. Unless otherwise specified in standards 
incorporated by reference in this section, all materials must be 
designed for use in all weather conditions throughout a temperature 
range of -30 [deg]C to + 65 [deg]C (-22 [deg]F to + 150 [deg]F).
    (5) Weathering Resistance. Each non-metallic component which is not 
suitably covered to shield against ultraviolet exposure must be designed 
to--
    (i) Retain at least 40% of its strength after being subjected to 300 
hours of sunshine carbon arc weathering as specified by Method 5804.1 of 
Federal Test Method Standard Number 191; or
    (ii) Meet UL 1517, section 4.3.
    (6) Fungus Resistance. Each non-metallic component must be designed 
to retain at least 90% of its strength after being subjected to the 
mildew resistance test specified by Method 5762 of Federal Test Method 
Standard 191 when untreated cotton is used as the

[[Page 164]]

control specimen. Also, the gas transmission rate of inflation chamber 
materials must not be increased by more than 10% after being subjected 
to this test. Materials that are covered when used in the PFD may be 
tested with that covering.
    (7) Corrosion resistance. Each metal component must be--
    (i) Galvanically compatible with each other metal part in contact 
with it; and
    (ii) Unless it is expendable (such as an inflation medium 
cartridge), 410 stainless steel or have salt water and salt air 
corrosion characteristics equal or superior to 410 stainless steel or 
perform its intended function, and have no visible pitting or other 
damage on any surface, after 720 hours of salt spray testing according 
to ASTM B 117 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.077-5).
    (8) Materials not covered. Materials not covered in this section 
must be of good quality and suitable for the purpose intended.
    (b) Flotation material. Inherent buoyancy must be provided by--
    (1) Plastic foam meeting--
    (i) Subpart 164.013 of this chapter;
    (ii) Subpart 164.015 of this chapter; or
    (iii) UL 1191 and having a V factor of 89 except that foam with a 
lower V factor may be used if it provides buoyancy which, after a normal 
service life, is at least equal to that of a PFD made with material 
having a V factor of 89 and the required minimum inherent buoyancy when 
new; or
    (2) Kapok meeting subpart 164.003 of this chapter.
    (c) Fabric--(1) All fabric. All fabric, except inner envelope 
fabric, must--
    (i) Be of a type accepted for use on Type I PFD's approved under 
subpart 160.002 of this chapter; or
    (ii) Meet the Type V requirements for ``Fabrics for Wearable 
Devices'' in UL 1191, except that its breaking strength must be at least 
400 N (90 lb.) in both the directions of greater and lesser thread 
count.
    (2) Rubber coated fabric. Rubber coated fabric must be of a copper-
inhibiting type.
    (3) Inner envelope fabric. Inner envelope fabric must--
    (i) Meet the requirements in paragraph (c)(i) of this section; or
    (ii) Be of a type accepted for use on Type II PFD's approved under 
subpart 160.047 of this chapter.
    (d) Inflation chamber materials--(1) All materials. The average 
permeability of inflation chamber material must not be more than 110% of 
the permeability of materials determined in approval testing prescribed 
in Sec.  160.077-19(d). The average grab breaking strength and tear 
strength of the material must be at least 90% of the grab breaking 
strength and tear strength determined from testing prescribed in Sec.  
160.077-19(d). No individual sample result for breaking strength or tear 
strength may be more than 20% below the results obtained in approval 
testing.
    (2) Fabric covered chambers. Each material used in the construction 
of inflation chambers that are covered with fabric must meet the 
requirements specified for--
    (i) Bladder materials in section 3.2.6 of MIL-L-24611(SH) if the 
material is an unsupported film, except that any color or finish may be 
used; or
    (ii) Coated fabric in section 3.1.1 of TSO-C13 if the material is a 
coated fabric.
    (3) Uncovered chambers. Each material used in the construction of 
inflation chambers that are not covered with fabric must meet the 
requirements specified in paragraph (d)(2)(ii) and (a)(5)(i) of this 
section.
    (e) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 
164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each 
seam. Thread and fabric combinations must have similar elongation and 
durability characteristics.
    (f) Webbing. Webbing used as a body strap, tie tape or drawstring, 
or reinforcing tape must meet Sec.  160.002-3(e), Sec.  160.002-3(f), 
and Sec.  160.002-3(h) of this chapter respectively. Webbing used for 
tie tape or drawstring must be capable of easily holding a knot and 
being easily tied and untied. Webbing used as reinforcing tape must be 
smooth enough to prevent chafing the wearer.
    (g) Closures--(1) Strength. Each closure such as a buckle, snap hook 
and dee ring, or other type of fastening must comply with UL 1517, 
section 4.1. The width of each closure opening through which body strap 
webbing

[[Page 165]]

passes must be the same as the width of that webbing.
    (2) Means of Locking. Each closure used to secure a PFD to the body, 
except a zipper, must have a quick and positive means of locking, such 
as a snap hook and dee ring.
    (3) Zipper. If a zipper is used to secure a PFD to the wearer it 
must be--
    (i) Easily initiated;
    (ii) Non-jamming;
    (iii) Right handed; and
    (iv) Of a locking type.
    (h) Inflation medium. If a hybrid PFD has an automatic or manual 
inflation mechanism--
    (1) The inflation medium must not contain or produce compounds more 
toxic than CO2 in sufficient quantity to cause an adverse 
reaction if inhaled through any of its oral inflation mechanisms; and
    (2) Any chemical reaction during inflation must not leave a toxic 
residue.
    (i) [Reserved]
    (j) Kapok pad covering. If kapok flotation material is used, pad 
covering that meets Sec.  160.047-3(e) of this chapter must be provided 
to enclose the material in at least three separate pads.

[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 84-068, 58 FR 
29494, May 20, 1993; CGD 78-174, 60 FR 2486, Jan. 9, 1995; USCG-2000-
7790, 65 FR 58463, Sept. 29, 2000]



Sec.  160.077-13  Materials--Type I and Commercial Hybrid PFD.

    (a) General. All commercial hybrid PFD materials must meet Sec.  
160.077-11 and this section.
    (b) Closures. Each closure other than a zipper must have a minimum 
breaking strength of 1000 N (225 lbs). If a zipper is used to secure the 
PFD to the body, it must be used in combination with another closure 
that has a quick and positive means of locking.
    (c) Retroreflective Material. Each PFD must have at least 200 sq. 
cm. (31 sq. in.) of retroreflective material on its front side, at least 
200 sq. cm. on its back side and at least 200 sq. cm. of material on 
each reversible side, if any. The material must be Type I material that 
is approved under Subpart 164.018 of this chapter. The material attached 
on each side must be divided equally between the upper quadrants of the 
side. The material, as attached, must not impair PFD performance.

[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78-174, 60 FR 
2487, Jan. 9, 1995]



Sec.  160.077-15  Construction and Performance--Recreational Hybrid PFD.

    (a) Performance. (1) Each recreational hybrid PFD must be able to 
pass the tests in Sec.  160.077-19.
    (2) Each recreational hybrid PFD must--
    (i) If second stage donning is required, have an obvious method for 
doing it;
    (ii) If it is to be marked as Type II or Type V providing Type I or 
II performance, not require second stage donning to achieve that 
performance;
    (iii) Be capable of being worn while inflated at 60 N (13 lb.) of 
buoyancy without significantly changing its appearance from, or making 
it significantly less comfortable than, the uninflated condition;
    (iv) Not cause significant discomfort to the wearer during and after 
inflation; and
    (v) If it has a manual or automatic inflation mechanism and can be 
put on inside out, not restrict breathing when donned inside out, 
adjusted to fit, and inflated.
    (b) Construction; General. Each recreational hybrid PFD must--
    (1) Have one or more inflation chambers;
    (2) Have at least one oral means of inflation on each inflation 
chamber;
    (3) Have at least one automatic inflation mechanism that inflates at 
least one chamber, if marked as providing Type I or II performance;
    (4) Be constructed so that the intended method of donning is obvious 
to an untrained wearer;
    (5) Not have a channel that can direct water to the wearer's face to 
any greater extent than that of the reference vest defined in Sec.  
160.077-3(j).
    (6) Have a retainer for each adjustable closure to prevent any part 
of the closure from being easily removed from the PFD;
    (7) If marked as universally sized for wearers weighing over 40 kg 
(90

[[Page 166]]

pounds), have a chest size range of at least 76 to 120 cm (30 to 52 
in.);
    (8) Not have means of access to any inherently buoyant inserts;
    (9) Not have edges, projections, or corners, either external or 
internal, that are sufficiently sharp to damage the PFD or cause injury 
to anyone using or maintaining the PFD;
    (10) Be of first quality workmanship;
    (11) Unless otherwise allowed by the approval certificate--
    (i) Not incorporate means obviously intended for attaching the PFD 
to the vessel; and
    (ii) Not have any instructions indicating that attachment is 
intended;
    (12) Except as otherwise required by this section, meet UL Standard 
1517, sections 6.14, 6.20, 7.1, 7.3, 7.8, 8.4, and 9; and
    (13) Provide the minimum buoyancies specified in Table 160.077-
15(b)(13).

                         Table 160.077-15(b)(13)--Buoyancy for Recreational Hybrid PFDs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           Adult                      Youth                   Small child
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inherent buoyancy (deflated
 condition):
    Type II...................  45 N (10 lb)..............  40 N (9 lb)..............  30 N (7 lb)
    Type III..................  45 N (10 lb)..............  40 N (9 lb)..............  N/A
    Type V....................  33 N (7.5 lb).............  34 N (7.5 lb)............  N/A
Total buoyancy (inflated
 condition):
    Type II...................  100 N (22 lb).............  67 N (15 lb).............  53 N (12 lb)
    Type III..................  100 N (22 lb).............  67 N (15 lb).............  N/A
    Type V....................  100 N (22 lb).............  67 N (15 lb).............  N/A
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (14) Meet any additional requirements that the Commandant may 
prescribe, if necessary, to approve unique or novel designs.
    (c) Inflation mechanism. (1) Each inflation mechanism on a 
recreational hybrid PFD must--
    (i) Not require tools to activate it or replace its inflation medium 
cartridge or water sensitive element;
    (ii) Have an intended method of operation that is obvious to an 
untrained wearer; and
    (iii) Be located outside of its inflation chamber.
    (2) Each oral inflation mechanism must--
    (i) Be designed to operate without pulling on the mechanism;
    (ii) Not be capable of locking in the open or closed position except 
that, a friction-fit dust cap that only locks in the closed position may 
be used; and
    (iii) Have a non-toxic mouthpiece.
    (3) Each automatic and manual inflation mechanism must--
    (i) Have a simple method for replacing the inflation medium 
cartridge; and
    (ii) Be in a ready-to-use condition or be conspicuously marked to 
indicate that the inflation mechanism is not in a ready-to-use condition 
and that the purchaser must assemble it.
    (4) Each manual inflation mechanism must--
    (i) Provide an easy means of inflation that requires only one 
deliberate action on the part of the wearer to actuate it; and
    (ii) Be operated by pulling on an inflation handle that is marked 
``Jerk to Inflate'' at two visible locations.
    (5) Each automatic inflation mechanism must--
    (i) Have an obvious method for indicating whether the mechanism has 
been activated; and
    (ii) Be incapable of assembly without its water sensitive element.
    (6) The marking required for the inflation handle of a manual 
inflation mechanism must be waterproof, permanent, and readable from a 
distance of 2.5 m (8 ft.).
    (d) Deflation mechanism. (1) Each inflation chamber must have its 
own deflation mechanism.
    (2) Each deflation mechanism must--
    (i) Be readily accessible to either hand when the PFD is worn while 
inflated;
    (ii) Not require tools to operate it;
    (iii) Have an intended method of operation that is obvious to an 
untrained wearer, and
    (iv) Not be able to be locked in the open or closed position.

[[Page 167]]

    (3) The deflation mechanism may be the oral inflation mechanism.
    (e) Sewn seams. Stitching used in each structural seam of a PFD must 
provide performance equal to or better than a Class 300 Lockstitch 
meeting Federal Standard No. 751.

[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78-174A, 51 
FR 4351, Feb. 4, 1986; CGD 78-174, 60 FR 2487, Jan. 9, 1995]



Sec.  160.077-17  Construction and Performance--Type I and Commercial
Hybrid PFD.

    (a) General. Each commercial hybrid PFD must meet--
    (1) Paragraph (b) of this section; and
    (2) Section 160.077-15, except Sec.  160.077-15(a)(2)(iii) and Sec.  
160.077-15(c)(1)(i).
    (b) Additional requirements. Each commercial hybrid PFD must--
    (1) Be able to pass the tests in Sec.  160.077-21;
    (2) Not present a snag hazard when properly worn;
    (3) When worn inflated, have a visible external surface area of at 
least 1300 sq. cm (200 sq. in.) in front and 450 sq. cm (70 sq. in.) in 
back that are primarily vivid reddish orange as defined by sections 13 
and 14 of the ``Color Names Dictionary'';
    (4) Have at least one inflation chamber, except that a hybrid PFD 
approved as a SOLAS lifejacket must have at least two inflation 
chambers;
    (5) Have at least one manual inflation mechanism.
    (6) Have at least one automatic inflation mechanism that inflates at 
least one chamber; and
    (7) Not require second stage donning after inflation.
    (8) If approved for adults, be universally sized as specified in 
Sec.  160.077-15(b)(7).
    (9) Commercial hybrid PFDs employing closures with less than 1600 N 
(360 lb) strength, must have at least two closures that meet UL 1517, 
Section 22.1.
    (10) Each commercial hybrid PFD must have an attachment for a PFD 
light securely fastened to the front shoulder area. The location should 
be such that if the light is attached it will not damage or impair the 
performance of the PFD.
    (11) In the deflated and the inflated condition, provide buoyancies 
of at least the values in Table 160.077-17(b)(11).

                 Table 160.077-17(b)(11)--Minimum Buoyancy of Type I and Commercial Hybrid PFDs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                           Adult                      Youth                   Small child
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inherent buoyancy (deflated
 condition):
    Type I....................  70 N (15.5 lb)............  50 N (11 lb).............  40 N (9 lb)
    Type V....................  60 N (13 lb)..............  34 N (7.5 lb)............  N/A
Total buoyancy (inflated
 condition):
    Type I....................  130 N (30 lb).............  80 N (18 lb).............  67 N (15 lb)
    Type V....................  100 N (22 lb).............  67 N (15 lb).............  N/A
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78-174, 60 FR 
2487, Jan. 9, 1995]



Sec.  160.077-19  Approval Testing--Recreational Hybrid PFD's.

    (a) General. (1) This section contains approval tests and 
examinations for recreational hybrid PFD's. Each test and examination 
must be conducted or supervised by an independent laboratory. The tests 
must be done using PFD's that have been constructed in accordance with 
the plans and specifications in the application for approval. In each 
test only one PFD is required to be tested unless otherwise specified or 
needed to complete the tests in paragraph (d) of this section.
    (2) All data relating to buoyancy and pressure must be taken at, or 
corrected to, standard atmospheric pressure of 760 mm (29.92 inches) of 
mercury and temperature of 20 [deg]C (68 [deg]F).
    (3) The tests in paragraph (b) of this section must be completed 
before doing the tests in paragraph (d) of this section.
    (4) In each test that specifies inflation by an automatic inflation 
mechanism and either or both of the other

[[Page 168]]

mechanisms, the automatic inflation mechanism must be tested first.
    (5) Some tests in this section require PFD's to be tested while 
being worn. The number and characteristics of the test subjects must be 
as prescribed in section 11 of UL 1517.
    (b) Tests. Each PFD design must be tested according to the 
procedures in the following tests and meet the requirements in those 
tests:
    (1) Donning and Operability, UL 1517, section 12.
    (2) Jump Test, UL 1517, section 13.
    (3) Flotation Stability and Inflation.
    (i) Uninflated Flotation Stability, UL 1517, section 14.

    Note: If the freeboard of a test subject is close to zero, caution 
must be taken to prevent the subject from inhaling water. The subject 
may use lightweight breathing aids to avoid inhaling water.

    (ii) Inflation, UL 1517, section 14.3 through 14.5 using a PFD with 
each automatic inflation mechanism disabled.
    (iii) Inflated flotation stability, UL 1517, section 15, for Type II 
and Type III performance except comparisons are to be made to the 
appropriate size and Type reference vest as defined in Sec.  160.077-
2(j).
    (4) Water Emergence, UL 1517, section 16.
    (5) Operation Force Test, UL 1517, section 17.
    (6) Buoyancy, buoyancy distribution, and inflation medium retention 
test, UL 1517, sections 18 and 19, except:
    (i) Recreational hybrid inflatables must provide minimum buoyancy as 
specified in Table 160.077-15(b)(13):
    (ii) The buoyancy and volume displacement of kapok buoyant inserts 
must be tested in accordance with the procedures prescribed in Sec.  
160.047-4(c)(4) and Sec.  160.047-5(e)(1) in lieu of the procedures in 
UL 1517, section 18 and 19.
    (7) Inflation Chamber Tests.
    (i) Over-pressure Test, UL 1517, section 28.
    (ii) Air Retention Test, UL 1517, section 29.
    (8) Temperature Cycling Tests, UL 1517, section 23.
    (9) Solvent Exposure Test, UL 1517, section 24.
    (10) Environmental Tests, UL 1517, section 31.1.
    (i) Humidity Exposure, UL 1517, section 31.4.
    (ii) Rain Exposure, UL 1517, section 31.2 and 31.3.
    (11) Abrasion/Compression Test, UL 1517, section 26.
    (12) Water Entrapment Test, UL 1517, section 20.
    (13) Tensile Tests, UL 1517, section 22.
    (14) Strength of Attachment of Inflation Mechanism, UL 1517, section 
30.
    (15) Flame Exposure Test, UL 1517, section 25.
    (16) Impact Test, UL 1517, section 21.
    (17) Seam Strength Test, UL 1517, section 33.
    (18) Puncture Test, UL 1517, section 27.
    (c) Visual Examination. One complete PFD must be visually examined 
for compliance with the requirements of Sec.  160.077-15.
    (d) Inflation Chamber Properties--(1) General. The tests in this 
paragraph must be run if the tests in paragraph (b) of this section are 
successfully completed. The results of these tests will be used to check 
the quality of incoming PFD components and the production process. Test 
samples must come from one of more PFD's that were each used in all of 
the tests in paragraphs (b)(2), (b)(6), (b)(7), (b)(16), and (b)(18) of 
this section.
    (2) Grab breaking strength. Grab breaking strength of chamber 
materials must be determined according to Method No. 5100 of Federal 
Test Method Standard 191, or ASTM D 751 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  160.077-5).
    (3) Tear strength. Tear strength of chamber materials must be 
determined according to Method No. 5132 or 5134 of Federal Test Method 
Standard 191, or ASTM D 751 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.077-5).
    (4) Permeability. The permeability of chamber materials must be 
determined according to ASTM D 1434 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  160.077-5) using CO2 as the test gas.
    (5) Seam strength. The seam strength of the seams in each inflation 
chamber of at least one PFD must be determined according to ASTM D 751 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.077-5), except that 25 mm by 
200 mm (1 in. by 8 in.) samples may be used where insufficient length of 
straight seam is available.

[[Page 169]]

    (e) The Commandant may prescribe additional tests, if necessary, to 
approve unique or novel designs.

[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78-174, 60 FR 
2487, Jan. 9, 1995; USCG-2000-7790, 65 FR 58463, Sept. 29, 2000]



Sec.  160.077-21  Approval Testing--Type I and Commercial Hybrid PFD.

    (a) General. This section contains commercial hybrid PFD approval 
tests. The provisions of Sec.  160.077-19(a) apply to each test in this 
section.
    (b) Tests. Each test prescribed in Sec.  160.077-19(b), except the 
tests in paragraphs (b)(2), (b)(3)(i), (b)(3)(ii), and (b)(6), must be 
conducted and passed.
    (c) Additional tests. Each PFD design must also be tested according 
to the procedures in the following tests and meet the requirements in 
these tests:
    (1) Jump test, UL 1517, section S6 for Adult size. Youth and Small 
Child sizes are exempt from this test.
    (2) In-water removal, UL 1517, section S9 for Adult and Youth sizes. 
The Small Child size is exempt from this test.
    (3) Buoyancy and inflation medium retention test, UL 1517, Section 
S10, except the minimum buoyancies must be as specified in the Table 
160.077-17(b)(11):
    (4) Flotation stability.
    (i) Uninflated flotation stability, UL 1517, section S7, except that 
for Type I devices the requirements of paragraph S7.1.A apply to all 
subjects regardless of their in-water weight. For Type V adult-size 
devices the requirements of paragraph S7.1.A apply to all adult subjects 
having an in-water weight of 13 lb or less, and the requirements of 
paragraph S7.1.B apply to all other adult subjects.

    Note: --If the freeboard of a test subject is close to zero, caution 
must be taken to prevent the subject from inhaling water. The subject 
may use lightweight breathing aids to avoid inhaling water.

    (ii) Righting action test, 46 CFR 160.176-13(d)(2) through (d)(5) 
for Type I hybrid PFDs. UL 1517, Section S8, for Type V hybrid PFDs.
    (5) Flotation stability--youths and small children.
    (i) Uninflated flotation stability, UL 1517, section S7, except that 
the requirements of paragraph S7.1.A apply to all subjects regardless of 
their in-water weight.
    (ii) Righting action test, UL 1517, Section 15.3 through 15.13, for 
Youth and Small Child hybrid PFDs except comparisons are to be made to 
the appropriate size and type reference vest as defined in Sec.  
160.077-2(j).
    (d) Flotation Stability Criteria. At the end of the righting action 
test--
    (1) At least 75% of the PFD's retroreflective material on the 
outside of the PFD, and the PFD light, must be above the water when the 
subject is floating in the stable flotation attitude; and
    (2) The subject when floating in the stable flotation position and 
looking to the side, must be able to see--
    (i) The water no more than 3 m (10 ft.) away; or
    (ii) A mark on a vertical scale no higher than the lowest mark which 
can be viewed when floating in the same position in the reference vest 
defined in Sec.  160.077-3(j).
    (3) Each adult test subject must have a freeboard of at least:
    (i) 100 mm (4 inches) if the PFD being tested is to be approved as a 
Type I hybrid PFD; or
    (ii) 120 mm (4.75 inches) if the PFD being tested is to be approved 
as a SOLAS lifejacket.
    (e) Visual Examination. One complete PFD must be visually examined 
for compliance with the requirements of Sec.  160.077-15 and Sec.  
160.077-17.
    (f) Inflation Chamber Properties. If the tests in paragraphs (b) and 
(c) of this section are completed successfully, the tests in Sec.  
160.077-19(d) must be run.
    (g) The Commandant may prescribe additional tests, if necessary, to 
approve unique or novel designs.

[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78-174, 60 FR 
2488, Jan. 9, 1995; 60 FR 7131, Feb. 7, 1995; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50466, 
Sept. 29, 1995]



Sec.  160.077-23  Production tests and inspections.

    (a) General. (1) Production tests and inspections must be conducted 
in accordance with this section and subpart 159.007 of this chapter.

[[Page 170]]

    (2) The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and 
inspections if needed to maintain quality control and check for 
compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
    (b) Test and Inspection Responsibilities. In addition to 
responsibilities set out in part 159 of this chapter, each manufacturer 
of a hybrid PFD and each independent laboratory inspector must comply 
with the following, as applicable:
    (1) Manufacturer. Each manufacturer must--(i) Perform all required 
tests and examinations on each PFD lot before the independent laboratory 
inspector tests and inspects the lot, except as provided in Sec.  
160.077-23(d)(5);
    (ii) Perform required testing of each incoming lot of inflation 
chamber material before using that lot in production;
    (iii) Have procedures for maintaining quality control of the 
materials used, manufacturing operations, and the finished product;
    (iv) Have a continuing program of employee training and a program 
for maintaining production and test equipment;
    (v) Have an inspector from the independent laboratory observe the 
production methods used in producing the first PFD lot produced and 
observe any revisions made thereafter in production methods;
    (vi) Admit the inspector and any Coast Guard representative to any 
place in the factory where work is done on hybrid PFD's or component 
materials, and where completed PFD's are stored; and
    (vii) Allow the inspector and any Coast Guard representative to take 
samples of completed PFD's or of component materials for tests 
prescribed in this subpart.
    (2) Independent Laboratory. (i) An inspector may not perform or 
supervise any production test or inspection unless--
    (A) The manufacturer has a current approval certificate; and
    (B) The inspector has first observed the manufacturer's production 
methods and any revisions to those methods.
    (ii) Except as specified in paragraph (b)(2)(v) of this section, an 
inspector must perform or supervise testing and inspection of at least 
one PFD lot in each five lots produced.
    (iii) During each inspection, the inspector must check for 
noncompliance with the manufacturer's quality control procedures.
    (iv) Except as specified in paragraph (b)(2)(v) of this section, at 
least once each calendar quarter, the inspector must, as a check on the 
manufacturer's compliance with this section, examine the manufacturer's 
records required by Sec.  160.077-25 and observe the manufacturer 
perform each of the tests required by paragraph (h) of this section.
    (v) If less than six lots are produced during any calendar year, 
only one lot inspection in accordance with paragraph (b)(2)(ii) of this 
section, and one records examination and test performance observation in 
accordance with paragraph (b)(2)(iv) of this section is required during 
that year. Each lot tested and inspected must be within seven lots of 
the previous lot inspected.
    (c) PFD Lots. A lot number must be assigned to each group of PFD's 
produced. No lot may exceed 1000 PFD's. A new lot must be started 
whenever any change in materials or a production method is made, or 
whenever any substantial discontinuity in the production process occurs. 
Changes in lots of component materials must be treated as changes in 
materials. Lots must be numbered serially. The lot number assigned, 
along with the approval number, must enable the PFD manufacturer, by 
referring to the records required by this subpart, to determine who 
produced the components used in the PFD.
    (d) Samples. (1) Samples used in testing and inspections must be 
selected at random. Sampling must be done only when all PFD's or 
materials in the lot are available for selection.
    (2) Each sample PFD selected must be complete, unless otherwise 
specified in paragraph (h) of this section.
    (3) Each adult test subject must have a freeboard of at least:
    (i) 100 mm (4 inches) if the PFD being tested is to be approved as a 
Type I hybrid PFD; or
    (ii) 120 mm (4.75 inches) if the PFD being tested is to be approved 
as a SOLAS lifejacket.

[[Page 171]]

    (4) The number of samples selected per lot must be at least the 
number listed in Table 160.077-23A or Table 160.077-23B, as applicable, 
except as allowed in paragraph (d)(5) of this section.
    (5) If the total production for any five consecutive lots does not 
exceed 250 devices, the manufacturer's and inspector's tests can be run 
on the same sample(s) at the same time.

                                   Table 160.077-23A--Manufacturer's Sampling
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                       Number of samples per lot
                                                     -----------------------------------------------------------
                                                                               Lot size
                                                     -----------------------------------------------------------
                                                       1-100   101-200   201-300   301-500   501-750   751-1000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tests:
  Inflation chamber materials.......................
                                                   See note 1
  Seam strength.....................................       1         1         2         2         3           4
  Over-pressure(2), (3).............................       1         2         3         4         6           8
  Air retention.....................................
                                             Every device in the lot
  Buoyancy and inflation media retention............       1         2         3         4         6           8
  Tensile strength(4)...............................       1         1         1         1         1           1
  Detailed product examination......................       2         2         3         4         6           8
Retest sample size(2)...............................  ......  ........        13        13        20          20
Final lot examination...............................
                                             Every device in the lot
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes to Table:
(1) Samples must be selected from each lot of incoming material. The tests referenced in Sec.   160.077-19(d)(2)
  through Sec.   160.077-19(d)(4) prescribe the number of samples to select.
(2) Samples selected for this test may not be the same samples selected for other tests.
(3) If any sample fails this test, the number of samples to be tested in the next lot produced must be at least
  2% of the total number of PFD's in the lot or 10 PFD's, whichever is greater.
(4) This test is required only when a new lot of materials is used and when a revised production process is
  used. However, the test must be run at least once every calendar quarter regardless of whether a new lot of
  materials or revised process is started in that quarter.


                                     Table 160.077-23B--Inspector's Sampling
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                       Number of samples per lot
                                                     -----------------------------------------------------------
                                                                               Lot size
                                                     -----------------------------------------------------------
                                                       1-100   101-200   201-300   301-500   501-750   751-1000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tests:
  Over-pressure 1...................................       1         1         2         2         3           4
  Air retention.....................................       1         1         2         2         3           4
  Buoyancy and inflation media retention............       1         1         2         2         3           4
  Tensile strength 2................................       1         1         1         1         1           1
  Waterproof marking................................
                                             See note 3 for sampling
  Detailed product examination......................       1         1         1         2         2           3
Retest sample size 1................................      10        10        13        13        20          20
Final Lot Inspection................................      10        15        20        25        27          30
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes to Table:
(1) Samples selected for this test may not be the same PFD's selected for other tests.
(2) This test may be omitted if the manufacturer has previously conducted it and the inspector has conducted the
  test on a previous lot within the past year.
(3) One sample of each means of marking on each type of fabric or finish used in PFD construction must be tested
  whenever a new lot of materials is used or at least every six months regardless of whether a new lot of
  materials was used within the past six months.

    (e) Accept/Reject Criteria: Manufacturer Testing. (1) A PFD lot 
passes production testing if each sample passes each test.
    (2) In lots of 200 or less PFD's the lot must be rejected if any 
sample fails one or more tests.
    (3) In lots of more than 200 PFD's, the lost must be rejected if--
    (i) One sample fails more than one test;
    (ii) More than one sample fails; or
    (iii) One sample fails one test and in redoing that test with the 
number of samples specified for retesting in Table

[[Page 172]]

160.077-23A, one or more samples fail the test.
    (4) A rejected PFD lot may be retested only if allowed under 
paragraph (k) of this section.
    (5) In testing inflation chamber materials, a lot is accepted only 
if the average of the results of testing the minimum number of samples 
prescribed in the reference tests in Sec.  160.077-19(d) is within the 
tolerances specified in Sec.  160.077-11(d)(1). Any lot that is rejected 
may not be used in production.
    (f) Accept/Reject Criteria: Independent Laboratory Testing. (1) A 
lot passes production testing if each sample passes each test.
    (2) A lot must be rejected if--
    (i) One sample fails more than one test;
    (ii) More than one sample fails; or
    (iii) One sample fails one test and in redoing that test with the 
number of samples specified for retesting in Table 160.077-23B, one or 
more samples fail the test.
    (3) A rejected lot may be retested only if allowed under paragraph 
(k) of this section.
    (g) Facilities and Equipment--(1) General. The manufacturer must 
provide the test equipment and facilities described in this section for 
performing production tests, examinations, and inspections.
    (2) Calibration. The manufacturer must have the calibration of all 
test equipment checked at least annually by a weights and measures 
agency or the equipment manufacturer, distributor, or dealer.
    (3) Equipment. The following equipment is required:
    (i) A Sample Basket for buoyancy tests. It must be made of wire mesh 
and be of sufficient size and durability to hold a complete inflated 
PFD. The basket must be heavy enough or be sufficiently weighted to 
become submerged when holding a test sample.
    (ii) A Tank Filled with Fresh Water for buoyancy tests. The height 
of the tank must be sufficient to allow a water depth of at least 5 cm 
(2 inches) from the water surface to the top of the basket when the 
basket is not touching the bottom. The length and width of the tank must 
be sufficient to prevent each submerged basket from contacting another 
basket or the tank sides and bottom. Means for locking or sealing the 
tank must be provided to prevent disturbance of any samples or a change 
in water level during testing.
    (iii) A Scale that has sufficient capacity to weigh a submerged 
sample basket. The scale must be sensitive to 14 g (0.5 oz) and must not 
have an error exceeding 14 g (0.5 oz).
    (iv) Tensile Test Equipment that is suitable for applying pulling 
force in conducting body strap assembly strength subtests. The equipment 
assembly may be (A) a known weight and winch, (B) a scale, winch, and 
fixed anchor, or (C) a tensile test machine that is capable of holding a 
given tension. The assembly must provide accuracy to maintain a pulling 
force within 2 percent of specified force. 
Additionally, if the closed loop test method is used, two cylinders of 
the type described in that method must be provided.
    (v) A Thermometer that is sensitive to 0.5 [deg]C (1 [deg]F) and 
does not have an error exceeding 0.25 [deg]C (0.5 
[deg]F).
    (vi) A Barometer that is capable of reading mm (inches) of mercury 
with a sensitivity of 1 mm (0.05 in.) Hg and an error not exceeding 
0.05 mm (0.02 in.) Hg.
    (vii) A Regulated Air Supply that is capable of supplying the air 
necessary to conduct the tests specified in paragraphs (h)(4) and (h)(5) 
of this section.
    (viii) A Pressure Gauge that is capable of measuring air pressure 
with a sensitivity of 1 kPa (0.1 psig) and an error not exceeding 0.5 kPa (0.05 psig).
    (ix) A Torque Wrench if any screw fasteners are used. The wrench 
must be sensitive to, and have an error of less than, one-half the 
specified tolerance for the torque values of the fasteners.
    (x) Inflation chamber materials test equipment. If the required 
tests in paragraph (h)(2) of this section are performed by the PFD 
manufacturer, test equipment suitable for conducting Grab Breaking 
Strength, Tear Strength, Permeability, and Seam Strength tests must be 
available at the PFD manufacturer's facility.
    (4) Facilities. The manufacturer must provide a suitable place and 
the necessary apparatus for the inspector to use in conducting or 
supervising tests.

[[Page 173]]

For the final lot inspection, the manufacturer must provide a suitable 
working environment and a smooth-top table for the inspector's use.
    (h) Production Tests and Examinations--(1) General. (i) Samples used 
in testing must be selected according to paragraph (d) of this section.
    (ii) On the samples selected for testing--
    (A) The manufacturer must conduct the tests in paragraph (h)(2) 
through (h)(8) of this section; and
    (B) The independent laboratory inspector must conduct or supervise 
the tests in paragraph (h)(4) through (h)(9) of this section.
    (iii) Each individual test result must, in addition to meeting the 
requirements in this paragraph, comply with the requirements, if any, 
set out in the approved plans and specifications.
    (2) Inflation Chamber Materials. Each sample must be tested 
according to Sec.  160.077-19(d)(1) through Sec.  160.077-19(d)(4). The 
average and individual results of testing the minimum number of samples 
prescribed in Sec.  160.077-19(d) must comply with the requirements in 
Sec.  160.077-11(d)(1).
    (3) Seam Strength. The seams in each inflation chamber of each 
sample must be tested according to Sec. Sec.  160.077-19(d)(1) and 
160.077-19(d)(5). The results for each inflation chamber must be at 
least 90% of the results obtained in approval testing.
    (4) Over-pressure. Each sample must be tested according to and meet 
UL 1517, section 28. Test samples may be prestressed by inflating them 
to a greater pressure than the required test pressure prior to 
initiating the test at the specified values.
    (5) Air Retention. Each sample must be tested according to and meet 
UL 1517, section 36. Prior to initiating the test at the specified 
values, test samples may be prestressed by inflating to a pressure 
greater than the design pressure, but not exceeding 50 percent of the 
required pressure for the tests in paragraph (h)(4) of this section. Any 
alternate test method that decreases the length of the test must be 
accepted by the Commandant and must require a proportionately lower 
allowable pressure loss and the same percentage sensitivity and accuracy 
as the standard allowable loss measured with the standard 
instrumentation.
    (6) Buoyancy and Inflation Medium Retention. Each sample must be 
tested according to and meet Sec.  160.077-19(b)(6), except that the UL 
1517 section 19 test is not required unless specified on the approved 
plans and specifications. In addition to meeting the minimum values 
required by Sec.  160.077-19(b)(6), each buoyancy value must fall within 
the tolerances specified in the approved plans and specifications.
    (7) Tensile Strength. Each sample must be tested according to and 
meet UL 1517, section 22.
    (8) Detailed Product Examination. Each sample must be disassembled 
to the extent necessary to determine compliance with the following:
    (i) All dimensions and seam allowances must be within tolerances 
prescribed in the approved plans and specifications.
    (ii) The torque of each screw type mechanical fastener must be 
within its tolerance as prescribed in the approved plans and 
specifications.
    (iii) The arrangement, markings, and workmanship must be as 
specified on the approved plans and specifications and this subpart.
    (iv) The PFD must not otherwise be defective.
    (9) Waterproof Marking Test. Each sample is completely submerged in 
fresh water for at least 30 min. and then removed and immediately placed 
on a hard surface. The markings are vigorously rubbed with the fingers 
for 15 seconds. If the printing becomes illegible, the sample is 
rejected.
    (i) [Reserved]
    (j) Final Lot Examination and Inspection--(1) General. On each PFD 
lot that passes production testing, the manufacturer must perform a 
final lot examination and an independent laboratory inspector must 
perform a final lot inspection. Samples must be selected according to 
paragraph (d) of this section. Each final lot examination and inspection 
must show--
    (i) First quality workmanship;
    (ii) That the general arrangement and attachment of all components 
such as body straps, closures, inflation mechanisms, tie tapes, 
drawstrings,

[[Page 174]]

etc. are as specified in the approved plans and specifications; and
    (iii) Compliance with the marking requirements in Sec.  160.077-31.
    (2) Accept/Reject Criteria. Each nonconforming PFD must be rejected. 
If three or more nonconforming PFD's are rejected for the same kind of 
defect, lot examination or inspection must be discontinued and the lot 
rejected.
    (3) Manufacturer Examination. This examination must be done by a 
manufacturer's representative who is familiar with the approved plans 
and specifications, the functioning of the PFD and its components, and 
the production testing procedures. This person must not be responsible 
for meeting production schedules or be supervised by someone who is. 
This person must prepare and sign the inspection record required by 
Sec.  159.077-13 of this chapter and Sec.  160.077-25(b).
    (4) Independent Laboratory Inspection. (i) The inspector must 
discontinue lot inspection and reject the lot if observation of the 
records for the lot or of individual PFD's shows noncompliance with this 
section or the manufacturer's quality control procedures.
    (ii) An inspector may not perform a final lot inspection unless the 
manufacturer has a current approval certificate.
    (iii) If the inspector rejects a lot, the inspector shall notify the 
Commandant immediately.
    (iv) The inspector must prepare and sign the record required by 
Sec.  159.077-13 of this chapter and Sec.  160.077-25(b). If the lot 
passes, the record must also include the inspector's certification to 
that effect and a certification that no evidence of noncompliance with 
this section was observed.
    (k) Disposition of PFD's Rejected in Testing or Inspections. (1) A 
rejected PFD lot may be resubmitted for testing, examination, or 
inspection if the manufacturer first removes and destroys each PFD 
having the same type of defect or, if authorized by the Commandant or an 
authorized representative of the Commandant, reworks the lot to correct 
the defect.
    (2) Any PFD rejected in a final lot examination or inspection may be 
resubmitted for examination or inspection if all defects have been 
corrected and reexamination or reinspection is authorized by the 
Commandant or an authorized representative of the Commandant.
    (3) A rejected lot or rejected PFD may not be sold or offered for 
sale with the representation that it meets this subpart or that it is 
Coast Guard approved.

[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78-174A, 51 
FR 4351, Feb. 4, 1986; CGD 78-174, 60 FR 2488, Jan. 9, 1995]



Sec.  160.077-25  Manufacturer records.

    (a) Each manufacturer of hybrid PFD's must keep the records required 
by Sec.  159.007-13 of this chapter, except that they must be retained 
at least 120 months after the month in which the inspection or test was 
conducted.
    (b) Each record required by Sec.  159.007-13 of this chapter must 
also include the following information:
    (1) For each test, the serial number of the test instrument used if 
there is more than one available.
    (2) For each test and inspection, the identification of the samples 
used, the lot number, the approval number, and the number of PFD's in 
the lot.
    (3) For each lot rejected, the cause for rejection, any corrective 
action taken, and the final disposition of the lot.
    (c) The description or photographs of procedures and apparatus used 
in testing is not required for the records prescribed in Sec.  159.077-
13 of this chapter as long as the manufacturer's procedures and 
apparatus meet the requirements of this subpart.
    (d) Each manufacturer of hybrid PFD's must also keep the following 
records:
    (1) Records for all materials used in production including the 
following:
    (i) Name and address of the supplier.
    (ii) Date of purchase and receipt.
    (iii) Lot number.
    (iv) Certification meeting Sec.  160.077-11(a)(4).
    (2) A copy of this subpart.
    (3) Each document incorporated by reference in Sec.  160.077-9.
    (4) A copy of the approved plans and specifications.
    (5) The approval certificate.

[[Page 175]]

    (6) Calibration of test equipment, including the identity of the 
agency performing the calibration, date of calibration, and results.
    (e) The records required by paragraph (d)(1) of this section must be 
kept for at least 120 months after preparation. All other records 
required by paragraph (d) of this section must be kept for at least 60 
months.

    Effective Date Note: At 50 FR 33935, Aug. 22, 1985, Sec.  160.077-
25(a) and (e) were added. These paragraphs contain information 
collection and recordkeeping requirements that will not become effective 
until approval has been given by the Office of Management and Budget.



Sec.  160.077-27  Pamphlet.

    (a) Each recreational hybrid PFD sold or offered for sale must be 
provided with a pamphlet that a prospective purchaser can read prior to 
purchase. The required pamphlet text must be printed verbatim and in the 
sequence set out in paragraph (e) of this section. Additional 
information, instructions, or illustrations must not be included within 
the required text. The type size shall be no smaller than 8-point.
    (b) Each pamphlet must be prominently marked ``Seller, do not remove 
pamphlet.''
    (c) No person may sell or offer for sale any recreational hybrid PFD 
unless the pamphlet required by this section is provided with it.
    (d) The text specified in paragraphs (e)(2) of this section must be 
accompanied by illustrations of the types of devices being described. 
The illustrations provided must be either photographs or drawings of the 
manufacturer's own products or illustrations of other Coast Guard-
approved PFDs.
    (e) For a Type I hybrid PFD intended for recreational use or a Type 
II, III, or V recreational hybrid PFD, the pamphlet contents must be as 
follows:
    (1) The text in UL 1517, Section 39, item A;
    (2) The following text and illustrations:

           There Are Five Types of Personal Flotation Devices

    This is a Type [insert approved Type] Hybrid Inflatable PFD.

    Note: The following types of PFDs are designed to perform as 
described in calm water and when the wearer is not wearing any other 
flotation material (such as a wetsuit).
    Type I--A Type I PFD has the greatest required inherent buoyancy and 
turns most unconscious persons in the water from a face down position to 
a vertical and slightly backward position, therefore greatly increasing 
one's chances of survival. The Type I PFD is suitable for all waters, 
especially for cruising on waters where rescue may be slow coming, such 
as large bodies of water where it is not likely that boats will be 
nearby. This type PFD is the most effective of all types in rough water. 
It is reversible and available in only two sizes--Adult (over 40 kg (90 
lb)) and child (less than 40 kg (90 lb)) which are universal sizes 
(designed for all persons in the appropriate category).

[Insert illustration of Type I PFD]

    Type II--A Type II PFD turns most wearers to a vertical and slightly 
backward position in the water. The turning action of a Type II PFD is 
less noticeable than the turning action of a Type I PFD and the Type II 
PFD will not turn as many persons under the same conditions as the Type 
I. The Type II PFD is usually more comfortable to wear than the Type I. 
This type of PFD is designed to fit a wide range of people for easy 
emergency use, and is available in the following sizes: Adult (over 40 
kg (90 lb)), Medium Child (23-40 kg (50-90 lb)), and two categories of 
Small Child (less than 23 kg (50 lb) or less than 14 kg (30 lb). 
Additionally, some models are sized by chest sizes. You may prefer to 
use the Type II where there is a good chance of fast rescue, such as 
areas where it is common for other persons to be engaged in boating, 
fishing and other water activities.

[Insert illustration of Type II PFD]

    Type III--The Type III PFD allows the wearer to tilt backwards in 
the water, and the device will maintain the wearer in that position and 
will not turn the wearer face down. It is not designed to turn the 
wearer face up. A Type III is generally more comfortable than a Type II, 
comes in a variety of styles which should be matched to the individual 
use, and is often the best choice for water sports, such as skiing, 
hunting, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. This type PFD normally comes 
in many chest sizes and weight ranges; however, some universal sizes are 
available. You may also prefer to use the Type III where there is a 
probability of quick rescue such as areas where it is common for other 
persons to be engaged in boating, fishing, and other water activities.

[Insert illustration of Type III PFD]

    Hybrid Inflatable Type I, II, or III--A Type I, II, or III Hybrid 
PFD is an inflatable device which is the most comfortable PFD to

[[Page 176]]

wear and has a minimal amount of buoyancy when deflated and 
significantly increased buoyancy when inflated (See accompanying table 
for actual buoyancy for your Type of hybrid). When inflated it turns the 
wearer with the action of a Type I, II, or III PFD as indicated on its 
label. Boaters taking advantage of the extra comfort of hybrid 
inflatable PFDs must take additional care in the use of these devices. 
Boaters should test their hybrid PFDs in the water, under safe, 
controlled conditions to know how well the devices float them with 
limited buoyancy. Approximately 90 percent of boaters will float while 
wearing a Type II or III hybrid inflatable PFD when it is not inflated. 
However, hybrid inflatable PFDs are not recommended for non-swimmers 
unless worn with enough additional inflation to float the wearer. Almost 
all boaters will float while wearing a Type I hybrid inflatable PFD that 
is not inflated. The PFD's `performance type' indicates whether it 
should be used only where help is nearby, or if it also may be used 
where help may be slow coming. Type I hybrids are suitable where rescue 
may be slow coming, while Types II and III are good only when there is a 
chance of fast rescue. Type I hybrids are approved in three weight 
ranges, adult, for persons weighing over 40 kg (90 lb); youth, for 
persons weighing 23-40 kg (50-90 lb); and small child, for persons 
weighing 14-23 kg (30-50 lb). Type II hybrid PFDs are approved in the 
same size ranges as Type I hybrids but may be available in a number of 
chest sizes and in universal adult sizes. Type III hybrids are only 
approved in adult and youth sizes but may also be available in a number 
of chest sizes and in universal adult sizes.

[For a pamphlet provided with a Type I, II or III hybrid PFD, insert 
illustration of the Type Hybrid PFD being sold]

    Type IV--A Type IV PFD is normally thrown or tossed to a person who 
has fallen overboard so that the person can grasp and hold the device 
until rescued. Until May 15, 1995 (or May 1, 1996 at commercial 
liveries), the Type IV is acceptable in place of a wearable device in 
certain instances. However, this type is suitable only where there is a 
good chance of quick rescue, such as areas where it is common for other 
persons to be nearby engaged in boating, fishing, and other water 
activities. It is not recommended for use by non-swimmers and children.

[Insert illustration of Type IV PFD]

    Type V (General)--A Type V PFD is a PFD approved for restricted uses 
or activities such as boardsailing, or commercial white water rafting. 
These PFDs are not suitable for other boating activities. The label on 
the PFD indicates the kinds of activities for which the PFD may be used 
and whether there are limitations on how it may be used.
    Type V Hybrid--A Type V Hybrid PFD is an inflatable device which can 
be the most comfortable and has very little buoyancy when it is not 
inflated, and considerably more buoyancy when it is inflated. In order 
for the device to count toward carriage requirements on recreational 
boats, it must be worn except when the boat is not underway or when the 
user is below deck. When inflated it turns the wearer similar to the 
action provided by a Type I, II, or III PFD (the type of performance is 
indicated on the label). This type of PFD is more comfortable because it 
is less bulky when it is not inflated. Boaters taking advantage of the 
extra comfort of hybrid inflatable PFDs must take additional care in the 
use of these devices. Boaters should test their hybrid PFDs in the 
water, under safe, controlled conditions to know how well the devices 
float them with limited buoyancy. Approximately 70 percent of boaters 
will float while wearing a Type V hybrid PFD when the device is not 
inflated. Therefore, it is not recommended for non-swimmers unless worn 
with enough additional inflation to float the wearer. The PFD's 
``performance type'' indicates whether it should be used only where help 
is nearby, or if it may also be used where help may be slow coming. This 
type of PFD is approved in two sizes, adult, for persons weighing over 
40 kg (90 lb); and youth, for persons weighing 23-40 kg (50-90 lb), and 
may be available in a number of chest sizes and in universal adult 
sizes.

[For a pamphlet provided with a Type V hybrid PFD, insert illustration 
of TYPE V Hybrid PFD]

    (3) A table with the applicable PFD Type, size, and buoyancy values 
from Table 160.077-15(b)(13) or 160.077-17(b)(11), as applicable; and
    (4) The text in UL 1517, Section 39, items D, E, and F.

[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78-174, 60 FR 
2489, Jan. 9, 1995]



Sec.  160.077-29  PFD Manuals.

    (a) Approval. The text of each manual required by this section is 
reviewed with the application for approval. Changes may be required if 
needed to comply with this section.
    (b) Required Manuals. An owner's manual must be provided with each 
recreational and commercial hybrid PFD sold or offered for sale as 
follows:
    (1) The manual text for a recreational hybrid PFD must be printed 
verbatim and in the sequence set out in

[[Page 177]]

paragraph (c) or (d) of this section, as applicable.
    (2) The manual for a commercial hybrid PFD must meet the 
requirements of paragraph (f) of this section except that the manual for 
a commercial Type I PFD which is also labeled for recreational use must 
meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section.
    (3) Additional information, instructions, or illustrations may be 
included within the specified text of the manuals required by this 
section if there is no contradiction to the required information.
    (c) Type I, II or III Hybrid PFD. For a Type I, II and III hybrid 
PFD the manual contents must be as follows:
    (1) The following text:

                           Hybrid Limitations

    This PFD has limited inherent buoyancy which means YOU MAY HAVE TO 
INFLATE THIS PFD TO FLOAT, and its inflatable portion requires 
maintenance. While these PFDs are not required to be worn, if you have 
an accident or fall overboard, you are much more likely to survive if 
you are already wearing a PFD.
    There is only one way to find out if you will float while wearing 
the PFD when it is not inflated. That is to try this PFD in the water as 
explained in [insert reference to the section of the manual that 
discusses how to test the PFD]. If you have not tested this device in 
accordance with these guidelines, the Coast Guard does not recommend its 
use.

    (2) Instructions on use including instructions on donning, 
inflation, replenishing inflation mechanisms, and recommended practice 
operation;
    (3) Instructions on how to properly inspect and maintain the PFD, 
and recommendations concerning frequency of inspection;
    (4) Instructions on how to get the PFD repaired;
    (5) The text in UL 1517, Section 40, items B and D;
    (6) The following text:

                         Why Do You Need a PFD?

    A PFD provides buoyancy to help keep your head above water and to 
help you stay face up. The average in-water-weight of an adult is only 
about 5 to 10 pounds. The buoyancy provided by most PFDs will support 
that weight in water. However, the hybrid Type I, II, or III PFD may be 
an exception. The uninflated buoyancy provided by this PFD may only 
float 90 percent of the boating public. This is because the inherent 
buoyancy has been reduced to make it more comfortable to wear. So, you 
may not float adequately without inflating the device. Once the device 
is inflated you will have a minimum of 22 lb of buoyancy for adult 
sizes, which should be more than enough to float everyone. (See table 
above [below] for the actual minimum buoyancy for different Types of 
hybrids.) Your body weight alone does not determine your in-water-
weight. Since there is no simple method of determining your weight in 
water, you should try the device in the water in both its deflated and 
inflated condition.

    (7) The text in UL 1517, Section 40, item G;
    (8) The following text:

                              Wear Your PFD

    Your PFD won't help you if you don't have it on. It is well-known 
that most boating accidents occur on calm water during a clear sunny 
day. It is also true that in approximately 80 percent of all boating 
accident fatalities, the victim did not use a PFD. Don't wait until it's 
too late. Non-swimmers and children especially should wear their PFD at 
all times when on or near the water. Hybrid Type I, II, III or V PFDs 
are not recommended for non-swimmers unless inflated enough to float the 
wearer.

    (9) The text in UL 1517, Section 40, items I, J, K, and L; and
    (10) A table with the applicable PFD Type, size, and buoyancy values 
from Table 160.077-15(b)(13) or 160.077-17(b)(11), as applicable, or 
provide a reference to appropriate pamphlet table, if the pamphlet is 
combined with the manual.
    (d) Type V Recreational Hybrid PFD. For a Type V recreational hybrid 
PFD the manual contents must be as follows:
    (1) The text in UL 1517, Section 40, item A;
    (2) Instructions on use including instructions on donning, 
inflation, replenishing inflation mechanisms, and recommended practice 
operation;
    (3) Instructions on how to properly inspect and maintain the PFD, 
and recommendations concerning frequency of inspection;
    (4) Instructions on how to get the PFD repaired; and
    (5) The text in UL 1517, section 40, that is not included under 
paragraph (d)(1) of this section.

[[Page 178]]

    (e) Commercial Hybrid PFD. (1) For a commercial hybrid PFD that is 
``REQUIRED TO BE WORN'' the manual must meet the requirements of 
paragraph (d) of this section.
    (2) For a commercial hybrid PFD approved as a ``Work Vest Only'' or 
Type I PFD the manual must meet the requirements of either paragraphs 
(e) (3) and (4) or of paragraph (c) of this section. The manual for a 
commercial Type I hybrid PFD which is also labeled for use on 
recreational boats must meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this 
section.
    (3) Each commercial hybrid PFD approved with special purpose 
limitation must have a user's manual that--
    (i) Explains in detail the proper care, maintenance, stowage, and 
use of the PFD; and
    (ii) Includes any other safety information as prescribed by the 
approval certificate.
    (4) If the manual required in paragraph (e)(3) of this section calls 
for inspection or service by vessel personnel, the manual must--
    (i) Specify personnel training or qualifications needed;
    (ii) Explain how to identify the PFDs that need to be inspected; and
    (iii) Provide a log in which inspections and servicing may be 
recorded.
    (5) If a PFD light approved under subpart 161.012 is not provided at 
time of sale, the manual must specify the recommended type of light to 
be used.
    (6) Notwithstanding the requirements of paragraph (b) of this 
section, manufacturers that make shipments to purchasers that do not 
redistribute the PFDs, must provide at least one manual in each carton 
of PFDs shipped.

[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78-174, 60 FR 
2490, Jan. 9, 1995]



Sec.  160.077-30  Spare operating components and temporary marking.

    (a) Spare operating components. Each recreational and commercial 
hybrid PFD must--
    (1) If it has a manual or automatic inflation mechanism and is 
packaged and sold with one inflation medium cartridge loaded into the 
inflation mechanism, have at least two additional spare inflation 
cartridges packaged with it. If it is sold without an inflation medium 
cartridge loaded into the inflation mechanism, it must be packaged and 
sold with at least three cartridges; and
    (2) If it has an automatic inflation mechanism and is packaged and 
sold with one water sensitive element loaded into the inflation 
mechanism, have at least two additional spare water sensitive elements 
packaged with it. If it is sold without a water sensitive element loaded 
into the inflation mechanism, it must be packaged and sold with at least 
three water sensitive elements.
    (b) Temporary marking. Each recreational and commercial hybrid PFD 
which is sold--
    (1) In a ready-to-use condition but which has covers or restraints 
to inhibit tampering with the inflation mechanism prior to sale, must 
have any such covers or restraints conspicuously marked ``REMOVE 
IMMEDIATELY AFTER PURCHASE.''; or
    (2) Without an inflation medium cartridge, a water sensitive 
element, or both pre-loaded into the inflation mechanism, must include 
the markings required in Sec.  160.077-15(c)(3)(ii).

[CGD 78-174, 60 FR 2491, Jan. 9, 1995]



Sec.  160.077-31  PFD Marking.

    (a) General. Each hybrid PFD must be marked with the applicable 
information required by this section. Each marking must be waterproof, 
clear, permanent, and readable from a distance of three feet.
    (b) Prominence. Each marking, other than the text in paragraphs (c) 
and (d) of this section, must be significantly less prominent and in 
smaller print than paragraph (c) and (d) text.
    (c) Recreational Hybrid PFD. Each recreational hybrid PFD must be 
marked with the following text using capital letters where shown and be 
presented in the exact order shown:

[See paragraph (k) of this section for exact text to be used here]

    Recreational hybrid inflatable--Approved for use only on 
recreational boats. [For Type V only] REQUIRED TO BE WORN to meet Coast 
Guard carriage requirements (except for persons in enclosed spaces as 
explained in owner's manual).

[[Page 179]]

[For Type V only] When inflated this PFD provides performance equivalent 
to a [see paragraph (h) of this section for exact test to be used here].

    A Pamphlet and Owner's Manual must be provided with this PFD.

            WARNING--TO REDUCE THE RISK OF DEATH BY DROWNING

--YOU MAY HAVE TO INFLATE THIS PFD TO FLOAT.
--TRY THIS PFD IN THE WATER EACH SEASON TO SEE IF IT WILL FLOAT YOU 
WITHOUT INFLATION.
--CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE PFD AND WEAR IT--FASTEN ALL CLOSURES AND ADJUST 
FOR SNUG FIT.
--THIS PFD REQUIRES MAINTENANCE. FOLLOW MANUFACTURER'S USE AND CARE 
INSTRUCTIONS.
--REMOVE HEAVY OBJECTS FROM POCKETS IN AN EMERGENCY.
--[Unless impact tested at high speed as noted on the approval 
certificate] DO NOT USE IN HIGH-SPEED ACTIVITIES.
--DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL WHILE BOATING.

    (d) Type I and Commercial Hybrid PFD. Each Type I hybrid PFD 
intended for recreational use and each commercial hybrid PFD must be 
marked with the following text using capital letters where shown and be 
presented in the exact order shown:

[See paragraph (k) of this section for exact text to be used here]

    Commercial hybrid inflatable--Approved for use on [see paragraph (j) 
of this section for exact text to be used here].
[For Type V only] When inflated this PFD provides performance equivalent 
to a [see paragraph (h) of this section for exact test to be used here].
[For Type I devices intended for recreational use] A Pamphlet and 
Owner's Manual must be provided with this PFD.

            WARNING--TO REDUCE THE RISK OF DEATH BY DROWNING

--YOU MAY HAVE TO INFLATE THIS PFD TO FLOAT.
--TRY THIS PFD IN THE WATER EACH SEASON TO SEE IF IT WILL FLOAT YOU 
WITHOUT INFLATION.
--[For Type I devices intended for recreational use] CHOOSE THE RIGHT 
SIZE PFD AND WEAR IT.
--FASTEN ALL CLOSURES AND ADJUST FOR SNUG FIT.
--THIS PFD MUST BE MAINTAINED, STOWED, AND USED ONLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH 
THE OWNER'S MANUAL.
--REMOVE HEAVY OBJECTS FROM POCKETS IN AN EMERGENCY.
--[Unless impact tested at high speed as noted on the approval 
certificate For Type I devices intended for recreational use] DO NOT USE 
IN HIGH-SPEED ACTIVITIES.
--[For Type I devices intended for recreational use] DO NOT DRINK 
ALCOHOL WHILE BOATING.

    (e) All PFD's. Each hybrid PFD must also be marked with the 
following information below the text required by paragraph (c) or (d) of 
this section:
    (1) U.S. Coast Guard Approval Number (insert assigned approval 
number).
    (2) Manufacturer's or private labeler's name and address.
    (3) Lot Number.
    (4) Date, or year and calendar quarter, of manufacture.
    (5) Necessary vital care or use instructions, if any, such as the 
following:
    (i) Warning against dry cleaning.
    (ii) Size and type of inflation medium cartridges required.
    (iii) Specific donning instructions.
    (f) Identification of User. Each hybrid PFD must have adequate space 
within which to mark the name or other identification of the intended 
user.
    (g) Flotation material buoyancy loss. When kapok flotation material 
is used, the statement ``--REPLACE PFD IF PADS BECOME STIFF OR 
WATERLOGGED.'' must follow the warning ``--TRY THIS PFD IN THE WATER 
EACH SEASON TO SEE IF IT WILL FLOAT YOU WITHOUT INFLATION.'' required by 
paragraph (c) or (d) of this section.
    (h) Type equivalence. The exact text to be inserted for Type V 
hybrid PFDs will be one of the following type equivalents as noted on 
the Approval Certificate.
    (i) [Reserved]
    (j) Approved use. Unless the Commandant has authorized omitting the 
display of approved use, the exact text to be inserted will be one or 
more of the following statements as noted on the approval certificate:
    (1) ``all recreational boats and on uninspected commercial vessels''
    (2) ``all recreational boats and on uninspected commercial vessels. 
REQUIRED TO BE WORN to meet Coast Guard carriage requirements (except 
for persons in enclosed spaces as explained in owner's manual)''

[[Page 180]]

    (3) ``inspected commercial vessels as a WORK VEST only.''
    (4) ``[Insert exact text of special purpose or limitation and 
vessel(s) or vessel type(s), noted on approval certificate].''
    (k) Size Ranges. The exact text to be inserted will be one of the 
following statements as noted on the approval certificate:
    (1) ADULT--For persons weighing more than 40 kg (90 lb).
    (2) YOUTH--For persons weighing 23-40 kg (50-90 lb).
    (3) CHILD SMALL--For persons weighing 14-23 kg (30-50 lb).
    (4) ``[Other text noted on approval certificate].''

[CGD 78-174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78-174A, 51 
FR 4351, Feb. 4, 1986; CGD 78-174, 60 FR 2491, Jan. 9, 1995; 60 FR 7131, 
Feb. 7, 1995; USCG-2013-0263, 79 FR 56500, Sept. 22, 2014]



              Subpart 160.115_Launching Appliances_Winches

    Source: USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62976, Oct. 11, 2011, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.115-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for seeking 
Coast Guard approval of a winch used in conjunction with a davit 
approved under subpart 160.132 of this part for lifeboats approved under 
subpart 160.135 of this part, liferafts approved under subparts 160.051 
or 160.151 of this part, and rescue boats approved under subparts 
160.056 or 160.156 of this part.



Sec.  160.115-3  Definitions.

    In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.115-5 of this subpart), in this subpart, the 
term:
    Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety 
Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and 
Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 
or fax 202-372-1924.
    Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A 
list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the 
Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
    Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the 
Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the 
duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The ``cognizant OCMI'' is the 
OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for 
the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
    SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at 
Sea, 1974, as amended.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62976, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60158, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.115-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) 
material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at 
the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the 
Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email 
[email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For 
information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: 
[email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the source in the 
following paragraph of this section.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publications Section, 
4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 
7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving 
Appliances and Arrangements, (adopted November 4, 1993), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.115-19 (``IMO Res. A.760(18)'').
    (2) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), pages 7-71 (``IMO LSA Code''), IBR approved for Sec.  160.115-7.
    (3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), Revised

[[Page 181]]

recommendation on testing of live-saving appliances, pages 79-254 (``IMO 
Revised recommendation on testing''), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  
160.115-7, 160.115-13, and 160.115-15.
    (4) MSC/Circular 980, Standardized Life-saving Appliance Evaluation 
and Test Report Forms, (February 13, 2001), IBR approved for Sec.  
160.115-13 (``IMO MSC Circ. 980'').
    (5) MSC.1/Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and 
Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, (May 26, 2006), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.115-21 (``IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205'').

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62976, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60158, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2022-0323, 88 FR 10030, Feb. 16, 
2023]



Sec.  160.115-7  Design, construction, and performance of winches.

    (a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a winch, a manufacturer must 
comply with, and each winch must meet, the requirements of the 
following--
    (1) IMO LSA Code, chapter I/1.2.2 and chapter VI/6.1. (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  160.115-5 of this subpart) applicable to the 
design and intended service of the winch;
    (2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1/8.1 (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  160.115-5 of this subpart) applicable to the 
winch;
    (3) 46 CFR part 159; and
    (4) This subpart.
    (b) Each winch must meet each of the following requirements:
    (1) Materials. (i) All gears must be machine cut and made of steel, 
bronze, or other suitable materials properly keyed to shafts. The use of 
cast iron is not permitted for these parts.
    (ii) Metals in contact with each other must be either galvanically 
compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. Provisions 
must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening resulting from 
differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of parts, galvanic 
corrosion, or other incompatibilities.
    (iii) Screws, nuts, bolts, pins, keys, and other similar hardware, 
securing moving parts must be fitted with suitable lock washers, cotter 
pins, or locks to prevent them from coming adrift.
    (2) Bearings and gears. (i) Positive means of lubrication must be 
provided for all bearings.
    (ii) When worm gears are used, the worm wheel must operate in an oil 
bath. Means to easily check the oil level in the gear case must be 
provided.
    (iii) The manufacturer must furnish a lubrication chart and a plate 
attached to the winch indicating the lubricant recommended for extremes 
in temperature.
    (3) Guards. All moving parts must have suitable guards.
    (4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the 
Commandant, a classification society recognized by the Commandant in 
accordance with 46 CFR 8.220, the U.S. Navy, or the national body where 
the winch is constructed or the national body's designated recognized 
organization. Only electrodes intended for use with the material being 
welded may be used. All welds must be checked using appropriate non-
destructive tests.
    (5) Winch drums.
    (i) Winch drums must either be grooved or otherwise designed to wind 
the falls evenly on and off each drum.
    (ii) The diameter of the drums must be at least 16 times the 
diameter of the falls.
    (iii) Drums must be so arranged as to keep the falls separate, and 
to pay out the falls at the same rate. Clutches between drums are not 
permitted unless bolted locking devices are used.
    (6) Winch motors. For a winch powered by electric or hydraulic 
motors, or portable power units such as air or electric drills--
    (i) Positive means must be provided for controlling the power to the 
winch, arranged so that the operator must hold the master switch or 
controller in the ``on'' or ``hoist'' position for hoisting, and when 
released, will immediately shut off the power;
    (ii) A clutch must be fitted to disengage the power installation 
during the lowering operation;
    (iii) A means must be provided to disconnect power to the winch 
before a hand crank can be engaged with the winch operating shaft, and 
this interruption of power must be maintained while the hand crank is so 
engaged;

[[Page 182]]

    (iv) The air or electric power outlet for a portable power unit must 
be located adjacent to the winch where the unit is to be coupled, and 
the outlet must be interconnected with, and protected by, the same 
system of safety devices as required for a winch with built-in-motors;
    (v) A main line emergency disconnect switch, the opening of which 
disconnects all electrical potential to the winch, must be provided. 
This switch must be located in a position accessible to the person in 
charge of the boat stowage and must be in a position from which the 
movement of both davit arms can be observed as they approach the final 
stowed position;
    (vi) Limit switches, one for each davit arm, must be provided to 
limit the travel of the davit arms as they approach the final stowed 
position. These switches must--
    (A) Be so arranged that the opening of either switch will disconnect 
all electrical potential of the circuit in which the switches are 
connected;
    (B) Be arranged to stop the travel of the davit arms not less than 
0.3m (12 in) from their final stowed position; and
    (C) Remain open until the davit arms move outboard beyond the 
tripping position of the switches;
    (vii) Motor clutches, when used, must be of either frictional or 
positive engaging type. When one motor is used for two winches, the 
clutch must be so arranged that only one winch may be engaged at any one 
time. The clutch operating lever must be capable of remaining in any 
position when subject to vibration and must be so arranged that when in 
neutral position both lifeboats may be lowered simultaneously;
    (viii) Motors, switches, controls, and cables must be waterproof if 
installed on an open deck. Controls may be of the drip-proof type if 
installed in a deck house or under deck;
    (ix) Hydraulic systems must be in accordance with 46 CFR part 58, 
subpart 58.30; and
    (x) Electrical installations must comply with 46 CFR 111.01-9, 
111.01-11, 111.01-19, 111.25, 111.55, 111.70, and 111.95.
    (7) Quick return. For a winch used to launch an inflatable liferaft 
means must be provided for rapidly retrieving the falls by hand power.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials will be made by the Commandant only.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62976, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 79 FR 44139, 
July 30, 2014]



Sec.  160.115-9  Preapproval review.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the 
Commandant must conduct the preapproval review required by this section, 
in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
    (b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a 
winch, the manufacturer must submit an application to the Commandant 
meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval review. To 
meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the manufacturer must 
submit in triplicate--
    (1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other 
documentation submitted, with each document identified by number, title, 
revision number, and issue date;
    (2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal 
dimensions;
    (3) Stress calculations for all load carrying parts;
    (4) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in 
Sec. Sec.  160.115-19 and 160.115-21 of this subpart;
    (5) A description of the quality control procedures and 
recordkeeping that will apply to the production of the winch, which must 
include, but is not limited to--
    (i) The system for checking material certifications received from 
suppliers;
    (ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
    (iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication and joints, 
including welding inspection procedures; and
    (iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of 
fabrication to assure that the approved winch complies with the approved 
plans and the requirements of this subpart;
    (6) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the winch complies 
with the requirements of this subpart;
    (7) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including 
the

[[Page 183]]

name and address of any subcontractors, where the winch will be 
constructed; and
    (8) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the 
duties prescribed in Sec.  160.115-15 of this subpart.
    (c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the 
Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review 
required by this section; so long as the preapproval review is conducted 
in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent 
laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
    (d) Plan quality. All plans and specifications submitted to the 
Commandant under this section must--
    (1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and 
designations for configuration control;
    (2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this 
section in sufficient detail to show that the winch meets the 
construction requirements of this subpart;
    (3) Accurately depict the proposed winch;
    (4) Be internally consistent;
    (5) Be legible; and
    (6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of 
this section, include the independent laboratory's attestation that the 
plans meet the quality requirements of this section.
    (e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or construction, 
and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly indicated as 
such in the plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under 
this section.
    (f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not comply 
with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be 
suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.



Sec.  160.115-11  [Reserved]



Sec.  160.115-13  Approval inspections and tests for prototype winches.

    (a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted 
in accordance with Sec.  160.115-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to 
the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the 
prototype winch and the approval inspections and tests required under 
this section.
    (b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast 
Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval 
tests required under this section.
    (c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections 
and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must--
    (1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine 
Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required 
under this section will take place, and such notifications must be in 
sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
    (2) Arrange a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard 
inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;
    (3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or 
testing is performed on winches or their component parts and materials 
for the purpose of--
    (i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the 
prototype--
    (A) Conforms with the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.115-9 of this 
subpart;
    (B) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified 
in the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.115-9 of this subpart; and
    (C) When welding is part of the construction process, is constructed 
by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans reviewed under 
Sec.  160.115-9 of this subpart and the welders are appropriately 
qualified;
    (ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the manufacturer 
is satisfactory;
    (iii) Witnessing tests; and
    (iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections 
or tests; and
    (4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or 
invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the 
production of winches, together with records identifying the lot or 
serial numbers of the winches in which such materials were used.
    (d) Tests. (1) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype 
winch of

[[Page 184]]

each design must pass each of the tests described in IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, part 1, paragraph 8.1 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.115-5 of this subpart) applicable to winches.
    (2) Visual inspection. Each winch must be visually inspected to 
confirm--
    (i) Compliance with this subpart;
    (ii) Conformance with the examined plans; and
    (iii) Ease of operation and maintenance.
    (3) Hydraulic controls. If the winch motor includes a fluid power 
and control system, a test of the hydraulic controls must be conducted 
in accordance with 46 CFR 58.30-35.
    (4) Winch drum. Each winch designed without grooved drums must 
demonstrate during prototype testing that the falls wind evenly on and 
off each drum.
    (e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a winch 
similar in construction to a winch that has successfully completed the 
tests.
    (f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the 
Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections 
and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the 
inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with the 
procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant 
under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
    (g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by 
this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46 
CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for 
review--
    (1) The prototype approval test report containing the same 
information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.115-5). The report must include a signed statement by the 
Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as permitted under 
paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the testing, indicating 
that the report accurately describes the testing and its results; and
    (2) The final version of the plans required under Sec.  160.115-9 of 
this subpart in triplicate.
    (h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under 
paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant, 
will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62976, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 79 FR 44139, 
July 30, 2014]



Sec.  160.115-15  Production inspections, tests, quality control, and
conformance of winches.

    (a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, 
and oversight required by this section. Production inspections and tests 
of a winch must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for 
independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 
and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests 
and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production 
tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to 
monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
    (b) Manufacturer's responsibility. The manufacturer must--
    (1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all 
production winches are produced to the same standard, and in the same 
manner, as the prototype winch approved by the Commandant. The 
manufacturer's quality control personnel must not work directly under 
the department or person responsible for either production or sales;
    (2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or 
Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) 
to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;
    (3) Submit to the Commandant a yearly report that contains the 
following--
    (i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each winch 
constructed;
    (ii) The name of the representative of the independent laboratory 
(or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this 
section); and
    (iii) Name of the vessel and company receiving the winch, if known;

[[Page 185]]

    (4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the 
construction of the winch are in accordance with plans approved under 
Sec.  160.115-13(h) of this subpart;
    (5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if 
required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where 
materials are stored for the winch, work or testing is performed on 
winches or their component parts and materials, or records are retained 
to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section, below, for 
the purpose of--
    (i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer is 
satisfactory;
    (ii) Witnessing tests; or
    (iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional 
inspections or tests; and
    (6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector 
if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the 
inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e) of this 
section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the 
winches are being made in accordance with the plans approved under Sec.  
160.115-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements of this subpart.
    (c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in 
accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records of 
all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date of 
termination of approval of each winch. The records must include--
    (1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this 
subpart, and each document listed in Sec.  160.115-5 of this subpart;
    (2) A copy of the approved plans, documentation, and certifications;
    (3) A current certificate of approval for each approved winch;
    (4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers 
identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved 
winches, together with records identifying the serial numbers of the 
winches in which such materials were used;
    (5) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
    (6) Records of welder certificates, training, and qualifications;
    (7) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name 
and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
    (8) The serial number of each production winch, along with records 
of its inspections and tests carried out under this section; and
    (9) The original purchaser of each winch and the vessel on which it 
was installed, if known.
    (d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, the inspections and 
tests under this section for each Coast Guard-approved winch to be 
installed on a U.S. flag vessel. If the manufacturer also produces 
winches for approval by other maritime safety administrations, the 
inspections may be coordinated with inspection visits for those 
administrations.
    (e) Production inspections and tests. (1) Each approved winch must 
be inspected and tested in accordance with the procedures in 46 CFR part 
159, subpart 159.007 and the brake test described in IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, part 2, paragraph 6.1.1 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.115-5 of this subpart).
    (2) The lowering tests described in IMO Revised recommendation on 
testing, Part 2, paragraph 6.1 may be performed if the installation 
height is known. If these tests are performed, the results must be in 
accordance with 46 CFR 199.153(h) through (j).



Sec.  160.115-17  Marking and labeling.

    (a) Each winch must be marked with a plate or label permanently 
affixed in a conspicuous place readily accessible for inspection and 
sufficiently durable to withstand continuous exposure to environmental 
conditions at sea for the life of the winch.
    (b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other 
languages.
    (c) The plate or label must contain the--
    (1) Name and address of the manufacturer;
    (2) Manufacturer's model identification;

[[Page 186]]

    (3) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype 
or production tests;
    (4) Serial number of the winch;
    (5) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
    (6) Month and year of manufacture;
    (7) Safe working load of the winch; and
    (8) Word ``SOLAS''.



Sec.  160.115-19  Operating instructions and information for the ship's
training manual.

    (a) Each winch must have instructions and information for the ship's 
training manual that use the symbols from IMO Res. A.760(18) 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.115-5 of this subpart) to 
describe the location and operation of the winch.
    (b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of 
this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft 
and rescue boats, and their complete launching systems.
    (c) The winch manufacturer must make operating instructions and 
information required by paragraph (a) of this section available in 
English to the purchaser of a winch approved by the Coast Guard.



Sec.  160.115-21  Operation and maintenance instructions.

    (a) Each winch must have operation and maintenance instructions 
that--
    (1) Follows the general format and content specified in IMO MSC.1 
Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.115-5 of this 
subpart); and
    (2) Includes a checklist for use in monthly, external visual 
inspections of the winch.
    (b) The winch manufacturer must make the manual required by 
paragraph (a) of this section available in English to the purchaser of a 
winch approved by the Coast Guard.
    (c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by paragraph 
(a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival 
craft and rescue boats, and their complete launching systems.



Sec.  160.115-23  Procedure for approval of design or material change.

    (a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans 
approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.115-13(h) of this subpart 
must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any production 
winch. The manufacturer must submit any such change following the 
procedures in Sec.  160.115-9 of this subpart, but documentation on 
items that are unchanged from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 
and Sec.  160.115-13(h) of this subpart need not be resubmitted.
    (b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a 
prototype winch with each change described in paragraph (a) of this 
section must be made and tested according to the procedures for new 
approvals in Sec. Sec.  160.115-9 through 160.115-13 of this subpart.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials will be made by the Commandant only.



               Subpart 160.132_Launching Appliances_Davits

    Source: USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62979, Oct. 11, 2011, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.132-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for seeking 
Coast Guard approval of a davit used in conjunction with a winch 
approved under subpart 160.115 of this part for lifeboats approved under 
subpart 160.135 of this part, liferafts approved under subparts 160.051 
or 160.151 of this part, and rescue boats approved under subparts 
160.056 or 160.156 of this part.



Sec.  160.132-3  Definitions.

    In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.132-5 of this subpart), in this subpart, the 
term:
    Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety 
Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and 
Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 
or fax 202-372-1924.

[[Page 187]]

    Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A 
list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the 
Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
    Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the 
Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the 
duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The ``cognizant OCMI'' is the 
OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for 
the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
    SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at 
Sea, 1974, as amended.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62979, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60158, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.132-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) 
material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at 
the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the 
Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email 
[email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For 
information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: 
[email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the 
following paragraphs of this section.
    (b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr 
Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA, 19428-2959.
    (1) ASTM A 36/A 36M-08, Standard Specification for Carbon Structural 
Steel, (approved May 15, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.132-7 (``ASTM 
A 36'').
    (2) ASTM A 216/A 216M-08, Standard Specification for Steel Castings, 
Carbon, Suitable for Fusion Welding, for High-Temperature Service, 
(approved November 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.132-7 (``ASTM A 
216'').
    (c) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publications Section, 
4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 
7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving 
Appliances and Arrangements, (adopted November 4, 1993), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.132-19 (``IMO Res. A.760(18)'').
    (2) International Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 
Edition, (2010), pages 7-71 (``IMO LSA Code''), IBR approved for 
Sec. Sec.  160.132-3 and 160.132-7.
    (3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), Revised recommendation on testing of live-saving appliances, 
pages 79-254 (``IMO Revised recommendation on testing''), IBR approved 
for Sec. Sec.  160.132-7, 160.132-13, and 160.132-15.
    (4) MSC/Circular 980, Standardized Life-Saving Appliance Evaluation 
and Test Report Forms, (February 13, 2001), IBR approved for Sec.  
160.132-13 (``IMO MSC Circ. 980'').
    (5) MSC.1/Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and 
Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, (May 26, 2006), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.132-21 (``IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205'').

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62979, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2022-0323, 88 FR 10030, Feb. 16, 
2023]



Sec.  160.132-7  Design, construction, and performance of davits.

    (a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a davit, a manufacturer must 
comply with, and each davit must meet, the requirements of following--
    (1) IMO LSA Code chapter I/1.2.2 and Chapter VI/6.1 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.132-5 of this subpart) applicable to the design 
and intended service of the davit;
    (2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1/8.1 (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  160.132-5 of this subpart) applicable to the 
design and intended service of the davit;
    (3) 46 CFR part 159; and
    (4) This subpart.
    (b) Each davit must meet the following requirements--

[[Page 188]]

    (1) Materials. Each major structural component of each davit must be 
constructed of steel. Other materials may be used if accepted by the 
Commandant as equivalent or superior--
    (i) Structural steel made by the open-hearth or electric furnace 
process must be in accordance with ASTM A 36 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.132-5 of this subpart);
    (ii) Steel castings not intended for fusion welding must be in 
accordance with ASTM A 36, Grades U-60-30, 60-30, 65-30, 65-35, and 70-
36;
    (iii) Steel castings intended to be fabricated by fusion welding 
must be in accordance with ASTM A 216 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  160.132-5 of this subpart), Grades WCA and WCB;
    (iv) Cast iron must not be used in the construction of a davit; and
    (v) Metals in contact with each other must be either galvanically 
compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. Provisions 
must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening resulting from 
differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of parts, galvanic 
corrosion, or other incompatibilities;
    (2) Bearings. (i) Bearings must be of non-ferrous metal, or must be 
of the roller or ball-bearing type;
    (ii) Positive means of lubrication must be provided; and
    (iii) The manufacturer must furnish a lubrication chart for each 
davit together with a plate attached to the davit indicating the 
lubricants recommended for extremes in temperature;
    (3) Guards. All moving parts must have guards;
    (4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the 
Commandant, a classification society recognized by the Commandant in 
accordance with 46 CFR 8.220, the U.S. Navy, or the national body where 
the davit is constructed or the national body's designated recognized 
organization. Only electrodes intended for use with the material being 
welded may be used. All welds must be checked using appropriate non-
destructive tests; and
    (5) Hydraulic systems, if installed, must be in accordance with 46 
CFR part 58, subpart 58.30.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials will be made by the Commandant only.



Sec.  160.132-9  Preapproval review.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the 
Commandant must conduct the preapproval review required by this section, 
in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
    (b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a 
davit, the manufacturer must submit an application to the Commandant 
meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval review. To 
meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the manufacturer must 
submit in triplicate--
    (1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other 
documentation submitted, with each document identified by number, title, 
revision issue, and date;
    (2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal 
dimensions;
    (3) Stress calculations for all load carrying parts;
    (4) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in 
Sec. Sec.  160.132-19 and 160.132-21 of this subpart;
    (5) A description of the quality control procedures and 
recordkeeping that will apply to the production of the davit, which must 
include, but is not limited to--
    (i) The system for checking material certifications received from 
suppliers;
    (ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
    (iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication and joints, 
including welding inspection procedures; and
    (iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of 
fabrication to assure that the approved release mechanism complies with 
the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
    (6) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the davit complies 
with the requirements of this subpart;
    (7) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including 
the name and address of any subcontractors, where the davit will be 
constructed; and

[[Page 189]]

    (8) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the 
duties prescribed in Sec.  160.132-15 of this subpart.
    (c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the 
Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review 
required by this section; so long as the preapproval review is conducted 
in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent 
laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR subpart 159.010.
    (d) Plan quality. All plans and specifications submitted to the 
Commandant under this section must--
    (1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and 
designations for configuration control;
    (2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this 
section in sufficient detail to show that the davit meets the 
construction requirements of this subpart;
    (3) Accurately depict the proposed davit;
    (4) Be internally consistent;
    (5) Be legible; and
    (6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of 
this section, include the independent laboratory's attestation that the 
plans meet the quality requirements of this section.
    (e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or construction, 
and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly indicated as 
such in the plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under 
this section.
    (f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not comply 
with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be 
suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.



Sec.  160.132-11  [Reserved]



Sec.  160.132-13  Approval inspections and tests for prototype davits.

    (a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted 
in accordance with Sec.  160.132-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to 
the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the 
prototype davit, and the approval inspections and tests required under 
this section.
    (b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast 
Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval 
tests required under this section.
    (c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections 
and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must--
    (1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine 
Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required 
under this section will take place, and such notifications must be in 
sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
    (2) Arrange a testing schedule with the cognizant OCMI that allows 
for a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the testing is 
to be performed;
    (3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or 
testing is performed on davits or their component parts and materials 
for the purpose of--
    (i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the 
prototype--
    (A) Conforms with the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.132-9 of this 
subpart;
    (B) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified 
in the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.132-9 of this subpart; and
    (C) When welding is part of the construction process, is constructed 
by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans reviewed under 
Sec.  160.132-9 of this subpart and the welders are appropriately 
qualified;
    (ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the manufacturer 
is satisfactory;
    (iii) Witnessing tests; and
    (iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections 
or tests; and
    (4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or 
invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the 
production of davits, together with records identifying the lot or 
serial numbers of the davits in which such materials were used.
    (d) Tests. (1) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype 
davit of each design must pass each of the tests

[[Page 190]]

described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, paragraph 
8.1 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.132-5 of this subpart) 
applicable to the design and service of the davit.
    (2) Visual inspection. Each davit must be visually inspected to 
confirm--
    (i) Compliance with this subpart;
    (ii) Conformance with the examined plans; and
    (iii) Ease of operation and maintenance.
    (3) Hydraulic controls. If the davit design includes a fluid power 
and control system, a test of the hydraulic controls must be conducted 
in accordance with 46 CFR 58.30-35.
    (e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a davit 
similar in construction to a davit that has successfully completed the 
tests.
    (f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the 
Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections 
and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the 
inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with the 
procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant 
under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
    (g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by 
this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46 
CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for 
review--
    (1) The prototype approval test report containing the same 
information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.132-5 of this subpart). The report must include a signed 
statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as 
permitted by paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the testing, 
indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its 
results; and
    (2) The final version of the plans required under Sec.  160.132-9 of 
this subpart in triplicate.
    (h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under 
paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant, 
will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.



Sec.  160.132-15  Production inspections, tests, quality control, and 
conformance of davits.

    (a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, 
and oversight required by this section. Production inspections and tests 
of davits must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for 
independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 
and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests 
and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production 
tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to 
monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
    (b) Manufacturer's responsibility. The manufacturer must--
    (1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all 
production davits are produced to the same standard, and in the same 
manner, as the prototype davit approved by the Commandant. The 
manufacturer's quality control personnel must not work directly under 
the department or person responsible for either production or sales;
    (2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or 
Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section), 
to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;
    (3) Submit to the Commandant a yearly report that contains the 
following--
    (i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each davit 
constructed;
    (ii) The name of the representative of the independent laboratory 
(or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this 
section); and
    (iii) Name of the vessel and company receiving the davit, if known;
    (4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the 
construction of the davit are in accordance with plans approved under 
Sec.  160.132-13(h) of this subpart;
    (5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if 
required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where 
materials are stored for the davit, work or testing is

[[Page 191]]

performed on davits or their component parts and materials, or records 
are retained to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section, 
below, for the purpose of--
    (i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer is 
satisfactory;
    (ii) Witnessing tests; or
    (iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional 
inspections or tests; and
    (6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector 
if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the 
inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e) of this 
section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the 
davits are being made in accordance with the plans approved under Sec.  
160.132-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements of this subpart.
    (c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in 
accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records of 
all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date of 
termination of approval of each davit. The records must include--
    (1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this 
subpart, and each document listed in Sec.  160.132-5 of this subpart;
    (2) A copy of the approved plans, documentation, and certifications;
    (3) A current certificate of approval for each approved davit;
    (4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers 
identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved 
davits, together with records identifying the serial numbers of davits 
in which such materials were used;
    (5) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
    (6) Records of welder certificates, training, and qualifications;
    (7) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name 
and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
    (8) The serial number of each production davit, along with records 
of its inspections and tests carried out under this section; and
    (9) The original purchaser of each davit and the vessel on which it 
was installed, if known.
    (d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, the inspections and 
tests under this section for each Coast Guard-approved davit to be 
installed on a U.S.-flagged vessel. If the manufacturer also produces 
davits for approval by other maritime safety administrations, the 
inspections may be coordinated with inspection visits for those 
administrations.
    (e) Production inspections and tests. Each approved davit must be 
inspected and tested in accordance with the procedures in 46 CFR part 
159, subpart 159.007 and the load test described in IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, Part 2, paragraph 6.1.1 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.132-5 of this subpart).



Sec.  160.132-17  Marking and labeling.

    (a) Each davit must be marked with a plate or label permanently 
affixed in a conspicuous place readily for inspection and sufficiently 
durable to withstand continuous exposure to environmental conditions at 
sea for the life of the davit.
    (b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other 
languages.
    (c) The plate or label must contain the--
    (1) Name and address of the manufacturer;
    (2) Manufacturer's model identification;
    (3) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype 
or production tests;
    (4) Serial number of the davit;
    (5) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
    (6) Month and year of manufacture;
    (7) Safe working load of the davit; and
    (8) Word ``SOLAS''.



Sec.  160.132-19  Operating instructions and information for the ship's
training manual.

    (a) Each davit must have instructions and information for the ship's 
training manual that use the symbols from IMO Res. A.760(18) 
(incorporated

[[Page 192]]

by reference, see Sec.  160.132-5 of this subpart) to describe the 
location and operation of the davit.
    (b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of 
this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft 
and rescue boats, and their complete launching systems.
    (c) The davit manufacturer must make operating instructions and 
information required by paragraph (a) of this section available in 
English to the purchaser of a davit approved by the Coast Guard.



Sec.  160.132-21  Operation and maintenance instructions.

    (a) Each davit must have operation and maintenance instructions 
that--
    (1) Follows the general format and content specified in IMO MSC.1 
Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.132-5 of this 
subpart); and
    (2) Includes a checklist for use in monthly, external visual 
inspections of the davit.
    (b) The davit manufacturer must make the manual required by 
paragraph (a) of this section available in English to the purchaser of a 
davit approved by the Coast Guard.
    (c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by paragraph 
(a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival 
craft and rescue boats, and their complete launching systems.



Sec.  160.132-23  Procedure for approval of design or material change.

    (a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans 
approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.132-13(h) of this subpart 
must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any production 
davit. The manufacturer must submit any such change following the 
procedures in Sec.  160.132-9 of this subpart, but documentation on 
items that are unchanged from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 
and Sec.  160.115-13(h) of this subpart need not be resubmitted.
    (b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a 
prototype davit with each change described in paragraph (a) of this 
section must be made and tested according to the procedures for new 
approvals in Sec. Sec.  160.132-9 through 160.132-13 of this subpart.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials will be made by the Commandant only.



    Subpart 160.133_Release Mechanisms for Lifeboats and Rescue Boats

    Source: USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62983, Oct. 11, 2011, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.133-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for seeking 
Coast Guard approval of a release mechanism used for davit-launched and 
free-fall lifeboats approved under subpart 160.135 of this part, and 
rescue boats approved under subpart 160.156 of this part.



Sec.  160.133-3  Definitions.

    In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code, as amended by 
Resolution MSC.320(89) (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.133-5 
of this subpart), in this subpart, the term:
    Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety 
Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and 
Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 
or fax 202-372-1924.
    Full load means the weight of the complete lifeboat or rescue boat 
including all required equipment, provisions, fuel, and the number of 
persons for which it is approved. This is also known as the ``condition 
B'' weight.
    Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A 
list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the 
Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
    Light load means the weight of the complete lifeboat or rescue boat 
empty and does not include fuel, required equipment, or the equivalent 
weight of persons. This is also known as the ``condition A'' weight.
    Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the 
Coast

[[Page 193]]

Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the duties 
described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The ``cognizant OCMI'' is the OCMI who 
has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for the 
purpose of performing the duties previously described.
    SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at 
Sea, 1974, as amended.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62983, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013; 79 FR 44139, July 30, 2014]



Sec.  160.133-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) 
material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at 
the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the 
Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email 
[email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For 
information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: 
[email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the 
following paragraphs of this section.
    (b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr 
Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA, 19428-2959.
    (1) ASTM A 276-08a, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars 
and Shapes, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.133-7 
(``ASTM A 276'').
    (2) ASTM A 313/A 313M -08, Standard Specification for Stainless 
Steel Spring Wire, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  
160.133-7 (``ASTM A 313'').
    (3) ASTM A 314-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel 
Billets and Bars for Forging, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.133-7 (``ASTM A 314'').
    (4) ASTM F 1166-07, Standard Practice for Human Engineering Design 
for Marine Systems, Equipment, and Facilities, (approved January 1, 
2007), IBR approved for Sec.  160.133-7 (``ASTM F 1166'').
    (c) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 
4 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 
7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving 
Appliances and Arrangements, (adopted November 4, 1993), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.133-19 (``IMO Res. A.760(18)'').
    (2) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), pages 7-71 , IBR approved for Sec.  Sec.  160.133-3 and 160.133-
7 (``IMO LSA Code'') .
    (3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances, 
pages 79-254, IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.133-7 and 160.133-13 
(``IMO Revised recommendation on testing'').
    (4) MSC/Circular 980, Standardized Life-saving Appliance Evaluation 
and Test Report Forms, (February 13, 2001), IBR approved for Sec.  
160.133-13 (``IMO MSC Circ. 980'').
    (5) MSC.1/Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and 
Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, (May 26, 2006), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.133-21 (``IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205'').
    (6) Annex 4 to MSC 89/25, Report of the Maritime Safety Committee on 
its Eighty-Ninth Session, ``Resolution MSC.320(89), Adoption of 
Amendments to the International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code,'' 
(adopted May 20, 2011), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.133-3, 160.133-
5(c)(6), 160.133-7(d)(1), 160.133-7(b)(8), and 160.133-7(b)(9) 
(``Resolution MSC.320(89)'').
    (7) Annex 5 to MSC 89/25, Report of the Maritime Safety Committee on 
its Eighty-Ninth Session, ``Resolution MSC.321(89), Adoption of 
Amendments to the Revised Recommendation on Testing of Life-Saving 
Appliances (Resolution MSC.81(70)),'' (adopted May 20, 2011), IBR 
approved for Sec. Sec.  160.133-5(c)(7), 160.133-7(a)(2), and 160.133-
13(d)(2) (``Resolution MSC.321(89)'').

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62983, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013; 79 FR 44139, July 30, 2014; USCG-
2022-0323, 88 FR 10031, Feb. 16, 2023]

[[Page 194]]



Sec.  160.133-7  Design, construction, and performance of release
mechanisms.

    (a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a release mechanism, a 
manufacturer must comply with, and each release mechanism must meet, the 
requirements of the following--
    (1) IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.320(89), chapter IV/
4.4.7.6 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.133-5 of this 
subpart), and a release mechanism for free-fall lifeboats must also meet 
the applicable provisions of chapter VI/6.1.4;
    (2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.321(89), Part 1/6.9 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.133-5 
of this subpart);
    (3) 46 CFR part 159; and
    (4) This subpart.
    (b) Each release mechanism must meet the following requirements--
    (1) Design. All functions of the release mechanism, including 
removal of interlocks, operation of the release handle, resetting the 
hooks, and reattaching the falls to the hooks, must be designed to be 
operable by persons wearing immersion suits;
    (2) Each release mechanism should be designed following standard 
human engineering practices described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.133-5 of this subpart). Design limits should be 
based on a range from the fifth percentile female to the ninety-fifth 
percentile male values for critical body dimensions and functional 
capabilities as described in ASTM F 1166. The dimensions for a person 
wearing an immersion suit correspond to the arctic clothed dimensions of 
ASTM F 1166;
    (3) Steel. Each major structural component of each release mechanism 
must be constructed of corrosion-resistant steel. Corrosion-resistant 
steel must be a type 302 stainless steel per ASTM A 276, ASTM A 313 or 
ASTM A 314 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.133-5 of this 
subpart). Other corrosion-resistant materials may be used if accepted by 
the Commandant as having equivalent or superior corrosion-resistant 
characteristics;
    (4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the 
Commandant, a classification society recognized by the Commandant in 
accordance with 46 CFR 8.220, the U.S. Navy, or the national body where 
the release mechanism is constructed or the national body's designated 
recognized organization. Only electrodes intended for use with the 
material being welded may be used. All welds must be checked using 
appropriate non-destructive tests;
    (5) Metals in contact with each other must be either galvanically 
compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. Provisions 
must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening resulting from 
differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of parts, galvanic 
corrosion, or other incompatibilities;
    (6) Screws, nuts, bolts, pins, keys, and other similar hardware, 
securing moving parts must be fitted with suitable lock washers, cotter 
pins, or locks to prevent them from coming adrift;
    (7) The on-load operation of the release mechanism must require two 
separate, deliberate actions by the operator;
    (8) The mechanical protection required by ``IMO'', LSA Code, as 
amended by Resolution MSC.320(89), Chapter IV/4.4.7.6.2.2 must only be 
able to be engaged when the release mechanism is properly and completely 
reset. Proper engagement of the mechanical protection must be visually 
indicated;
    (9) The release and recovery procedures required by ``IMO'' LSA 
Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.320(89),Chapter IV/4.4.7.6.5 must be 
included as an illustrated operation instruction plate or placard. The 
plate or placard must be corrosion resistant and weatherproof and must 
be marked with the word ``Danger''. The illustrations must correspond 
exactly to those used in the instruction and maintenance manual provided 
by the manufacturer;
    (10) The release lever or control must be red in color, and the area 
immediately surrounding the control must be a sharply contrasting light 
color;
    (11) The release lever and its connection to the release mechanism 
must be of sufficient strength so that there is no deformation of the 
release lever or the release control assembly during on-load release;

[[Page 195]]

    (12) Positive means of lubrication must be provided for each bearing 
which is not permanently lubricated. Points of lubrication must be so 
located that they are clearly visible and accessible in the installed 
position in the boat;
    (13) A hydraulic system, if used to activate the release mechanism, 
must be in accordance with 46 CFR part 58, subpart 58.30, with hose and 
fittings in accordance with 46 CFR part 56, subpart 56.60, except that--
    (i) Push-on type fittings such as Aeroquip 1525-X, 25156-X, and 
FC332-X are not permitted;
    (ii) The length of nonmetallic flexible hose is limited to 760 mm 
(30 in); and
    (iii) If a hand pump is provided, adequate space must be provided 
for the hand pump or hand operation;
    (14) Each release mechanism designed to launch a boat by free-fall 
must not be able to carry any weight until the release mechanism is 
properly reset, and each of the two independent activation systems 
required to be operated from inside the boat must require at least two 
independent actions from different locations inside the boat to release 
the hook; and
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials will be made by the Commandant only.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62983, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 79 FR 44139, 
July 30, 2014]



Sec.  160.133-9  Preapproval review.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the 
Commandant must conduct the preapproval review, required by this 
section, in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
    (b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a 
release mechanism, the manufacturer must submit an application to the 
Commandant meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval 
review. To meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the 
manufacturer must submit in triplicate--
    (1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other 
documentation submitted, with each document identified by number, title, 
revision issue, and date;
    (2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal 
dimensions;
    (3) Stress calculations for all load carrying parts, including the 
release hooks, release mechanisms, and connections;
    (4) Hydraulic systems drawings and specifications, if installed;
    (5) Drawings of all signs and placards showing actual inscription, 
format, color, and size;
    (6) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in 
Sec. Sec.  160.133-19 and 160.133-21 of this subpart;
    (7) A description of the quality control procedures and 
recordkeeping that will apply to the production of the release 
mechanism, which must include but is not limited to--
    (i) The system for checking material certifications received from 
suppliers;
    (ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
    (iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication and joints, 
including welding inspection procedures; and
    (iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of 
fabrication to assure that the approved release mechanism complies with 
the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
    (8) Full details of any other unique capability;
    (9) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the release 
mechanism complies with the requirements of this subpart;
    (10) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including 
the name and address of any subcontractors, where the release mechanism 
will be constructed; and
    (11) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the 
duties prescribed in Sec.  160.133-15 of this subpart.
    (c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the 
Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review 
required by this section, so long as the preapproval review is conducted 
in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent 
laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.

[[Page 196]]

    (d) Plan quality. The plans and specifications submitted to the 
Commandant under this section must--
    (1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and 
designations for configuration control;
    (2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this 
section in sufficient detail to show that the release mechanism meets 
the construction requirements of this subpart;
    (3) Accurately depict the proposed release mechanism;
    (4) Be internally consistent;
    (5) Be legible; and
    (6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of 
this section, include the independent laboratory's attestation that the 
plans meet the quality requirements of this section.
    (e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or construction, 
and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly indicated as 
such in the plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under 
this section.
    (f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not comply 
with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be 
suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.



Sec.  160.133-11  [Reserved]



Sec.  160.133-13  Approval inspections and tests for prototype release
mechanisms.

    (a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted 
in accordance with Sec.  160.133-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to 
the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the 
prototype release mechanism, and the approval inspections and tests 
required under this section.
    (b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast 
Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval 
tests required under this section.
    (c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections 
and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must--
    (1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine 
Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required 
under this section will take place, and such notification must be in 
sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
    (2) Arrange a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard 
inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;
    (3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or 
testing is performed on release mechanisms or their component parts and 
materials for the purpose of--
    (i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the 
prototype--
    (A) Conforms with the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.133-9 of this 
subpart;
    (B) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified 
in the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.133-9 of this subpart; and
    (C) When welding is part of the construction process, is constructed 
by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans reviewed under 
Sec.  160.133-9 of this subpart and the welders are appropriately 
qualified;
    (ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the manufacturer 
is satisfactory;
    (iii) Witnessing tests; and
    (iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections 
or tests; and
    (4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or 
invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the 
production of release mechanisms, together with records identifying the 
lot or serial numbers of the release mechanisms in which such materials 
were used.
    (d) Tests--(1) Prototype release mechanism readiness. All tests must 
be conducted on a complete release mechanism.
    (2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype release 
mechanism of each design must pass each of the tests described in IMO 
Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.321(89), 
part 1, paragraph 6.9 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.133-5 of 
this subpart) applicable to davit-launched or free-fall lifeboats. Tests 
must be conducted in accordance with these paragraphs of IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution

[[Page 197]]

MSC.321(89),Part 1, with the following modifications--
    (i) Visual inspection. Each release mechanism must be visually 
inspected to confirm--
    (A) Compliance with this subpart;
    (B) Conformance with the examined plans; and
    (C) Ease of operation and maintenance;
    (ii) Operation. Operation of the off-load control, for a davit-
launched boat, must be tested to confirm that the release lever cannot 
be shifted to release the boat in either the full load or light load 
condition. For a free-fall boat, the operation of the hook release must 
be demonstrated using both activation systems and may be tested without 
launching the boat;
    (iii) Tensile tests. The release mechanism hook assembly and 
supporting structure must be tensile tested in a jig built to load the 
hook assembly in the same way it would be loaded when installed in a 
boat. The hook assembly will be approved for a maximum of one-sixth of 
the highest load applied without failure;
    (iv) Universal joints. This test is required if the release 
mechanism employs universal joints to transmit the release power from 
the control to the hook release. One of each type and size of universal 
joint must be set up in a jig with the angles of leads set at 0 (zero), 
30, and 60 degrees, respectively. A torque of 540 Nm (400 ft lb) must be 
applied. This torque must be applied with the connecting rod secured 
beyond the universal and with the lever arm in the horizontal position. 
There must be no permanent set, or undue stress, as a result of this 
test; and
    (v) Hydraulic controls. If the release mechanism includes a fluid 
power and control system, a test of the hydraulic controls must be 
conducted in accordance with 46 CFR 58.30-35.
    (e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a 
release mechanism identical in construction to smaller and larger 
release mechanisms that have successfully completed the tests. However, 
stress calculations in accordance with Sec.  160.133-9(b)(3) of this 
subpart must still be submitted. Tests associated with release mechanism 
components that have already been accepted by the Commandant are not 
required to be repeated.
    (f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the 
Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections 
and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the 
inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with the 
procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant 
under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
    (g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by 
this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46 
CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for 
review--
    (1) The prototype approval test report containing the same 
information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.133-5 of this subpart). The report must include a signed 
statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as 
permitted under paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the 
testing, indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and 
its results; and
    (2) The final plans of the release mechanism as built, in 
triplicate. The plans must include the instructions for training and 
maintenance described in Sec. Sec.  160.133-19 and 160.133-21 of this 
subpart, respectively.
    (h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under 
paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant, 
will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62983, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 79 FR 44140, 
July 30, 2014]



Sec.  160.133-15  Production inspections, tests, quality control, and 
conformance of release mechanisms.

    (a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, 
and oversight required by this section. Production inspections and tests 
of release mechanisms must be carried out in accordance with the 
procedures for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, 
subpart 159.007 and in this section, unless the Commandant

[[Page 198]]

authorizes alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may 
prescribe additional production tests and inspections necessary to 
maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements 
of this subpart.
    (b) Manufacturer's responsibility. The manufacturer must--
    (1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all 
production release mechanisms are produced to the same standard, and in 
the same manner, as the prototype release mechanism approved by the 
Commandant. The manufacturer's quality control personnel must not work 
directly under the department or person responsible for either 
production or sales;
    (2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or 
Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) 
to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;
    (3) Submit to the Commandant, a yearly report that contains the 
following--
    (i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each release 
mechanism constructed;
    (ii) The name of the representative of the independent laboratory 
(or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this 
section); and
    (iii) Serial number and model of the lifeboat or rescue boat in 
which the release mechanism is installed, if known;
    (4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the 
construction of the release mechanism are in accordance with plans 
approved under Sec.  160.133-13(h) of this subpart;
    (5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if 
required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where 
materials are stored for the release mechanism, work or testing is 
performed on release mechanism or their component parts and materials, 
or records are retained to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of 
this section, for the purpose of--
    (i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer is 
satisfactory;
    (ii) Witnessing tests; or
    (iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional 
inspections or tests; and
    (6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector 
if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the 
inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e) of this 
section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the 
release mechanisms are being made in accordance with the approved plans 
approved under Sec.  160.133-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements 
of this subpart.
    (c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in 
accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records of 
all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date of 
termination of approval of each release mechanism. The records must 
include--
    (1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this 
subpart, and each document listed in Sec.  160.133-5 of this subpart;
    (2) A copy of the approved plans, documentation, and certifications;
    (3) A current certificate of approval for each approved release 
mechanism;
    (4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers 
identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved 
release mechanisms, together with records identifying the serial numbers 
of the release mechanisms in which such materials were used;
    (5) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
    (6) Records of welder certificates, training, and qualifications;
    (7) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name 
and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
    (8) The serial number of each production release mechanism, along 
with records of its inspections and tests carried out under this 
section; and
    (9) The original purchaser of each release mechanism and the vessel 
on which it was installed, if known.
    (d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, the inspections and 
tests under paragraph (e) of this section for each Coast Guard-approved 
release mechanism to be installed on a U.S.-flagged vessel. If the 
manufacturer also produces release

[[Page 199]]

mechanisms for approval by other maritime safety administrations, the 
inspections may be coordinated with inspection visits for those 
administrations.
    (e) Production inspections and tests. Each finished release 
mechanism must be visually inspected. The manufacturer must develop and 
maintain a visual inspection checklist designed to ensure that all 
applicable requirements have been met.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62983, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 79 FR 44140, 
July 30, 2014]



Sec.  160.133-17  Marking and labeling.

    (a) Each hook body of a release mechanism must be marked with a 
plate or label permanently affixed in a conspicuous place readily 
accessible for inspection and sufficiently durable to withstand 
continuous exposure to environmental conditions at sea for the life of 
the release mechanism.
    (b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other 
languages.
    (c) The plate or label must contain the--
    (1) Manufacturer's name and model identification;
    (2) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype 
or production tests;
    (3) Serial number of the release mechanism;
    (4) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
    (5) Month and year of manufacture;
    (6) Safe working load of the release mechanism; and
    (7) Word ``SOLAS.''



Sec.  160.133-19  Operating instructions and information for the ship's
training manual.

    (a) Each release mechanism must have instructions and information 
for the ship's training manual that use the symbols from IMO Res. 
A.760(18) (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.133-5 of this 
subpart) to describe the location and operation of the release 
mechanism.
    (b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of 
this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft 
and rescue boats, and their launching systems.
    (c) The release mechanism manufacturer must make the instructions 
and information required by paragraph (a) of this section available--
    (1) In English to purchasers of release mechanisms approved by the 
Coast Guard; and
    (2) In the form of an instruction placard providing simple 
procedures and illustrations for operation of the release mechanism. The 
placard must be not greater than 36 cm (14 in) by 51 cm (20 in), and 
must be made of durable material and suitable for display inside a 
lifeboat and rescue boat and/or near launching appliances on vessels.



Sec.  160.133-21  Operation and maintenance instructions.

    (a) Each release mechanism must have operation and maintenance 
instructions that--
    (1) Follows the general format and content specified in IMO MSC.1 
Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.133-5 of this 
subpart); and
    (2) Includes a checklist for use in monthly, external visual 
inspections of the release mechanism.
    (b) The release mechanism manufacturer must make the manual required 
by paragraph (a) of this section available in English to purchasers of a 
release mechanism approved by the Coast Guard.
    (c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by paragraph 
(a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival 
craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.



Sec.  160.133-23  Procedure for approval of design, material, or
construction change.

    (a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans 
approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.133-13(h) of this subpart 
must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any production 
release mechanism. The manufacturer must submit any such change 
following the procedures set forth in Sec.  160.133-9 of this subpart, 
but documentation on items that are unchanged from the plans approved 
under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.133-13(h) of this subpart need not 
be resubmitted.

[[Page 200]]

    (b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a 
prototype release mechanism with each change described in paragraph (a) 
of this section must be made and tested according to the procedures for 
new approvals in Sec. Sec.  160.133-9 through 160.133-13 of this 
subpart.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, material, or 
construction will be made by the Commandant only.



                        Subpart 160.135_Lifeboats

    Source: USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62987, Oct. 11, 2011, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.135-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for seeking 
Coast Guard approval of a lifeboat.



Sec.  160.135-3  Definitions.

    In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart), in this subpart, the 
term:
    Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety 
Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and 
Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 
or fax 202-372-1924.
    Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) means a composite structural 
material formed by electrical-grade glass fibers in Coast Guard accepted 
catalyst activated resin.
    Full load means the weight of the complete lifeboat including all 
required equipment, provisions, fuel, and the number of persons for 
which it is approved. This is also known as the ``condition B'' weight.
    Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A 
list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the 
Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
    Light load means the weight of the complete lifeboat empty and does 
not include fuel, required equipment, or the equivalent weight of 
persons. This is also known as the ``condition A'' weight.
    Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the 
Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the 
duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The ``cognizant OCMI'' is the 
OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for 
the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
    Positive Stability means the condition of a lifeboat such that when 
it is displaced a small amount in any direction from upright, it returns 
on its own to the position before displacement.
    SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at 
Sea, 1974, as amended.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62987, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.135-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) 
material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at 
the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the 
Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email 
[email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For 
information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: 
[email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the 
following paragraphs of this section.
    (b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr 
Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA, 19428-2959.
    (1) ASTM A 36/A 36M-08, Standard Specification for Carbon Structural 
Steel, (approved May 15, 2008), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.135-7 
and 160.135-15 (``ASTM A 36'').
    (2) ASTM A 276-08a, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars 
and Shapes, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.135-7 
(``ASTM A 276'').

[[Page 201]]

    (3) ASTM A 313/A 313M-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel 
Spring Wire, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.135-
7 (``ASTM A 313'').
    (4) ASTM A 314-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel 
Billets and Bars for Forging, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.135-7 (``ASTM A 314'').
    (5) ASTM A 653/A 653M-08, Standard Specification for Steel Sheet, 
Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) or Zinc-Iron Alloy-Coated (Galvannealed) by the 
Hot-Dip Process, (approved July 15, 2008), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  
160.135-7, 160.135-11, and 160.135-15 (``ASTM A 653'').
    (6) ASTM B 127-05 (Reapproved 2009), Standard Specification for 
Nickel-Copper Alloy (UNS N04400) Plate, Sheet, and Strip, (approved 
October 1, 2009), IBR approved for Sec.  160.135-7 (``ASTM B 127'').
    (7) ASTM B 209-07, Standard Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-
Alloy Sheet and Plate, (approved August 1, 2007), IBR approved for Sec.  
160.135-7 (``ASTM B 209'').
    (8) ASTM D 638-08, Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of 
Plastics, (approved April 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.135-11 
(``ASTM D 638'').
    (9) ASTM D 790-07e1, Standard Test Methods for Flexural Properties 
of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating 
Materials, (approved September 1, 2007), IBR approved for Sec.  160.135-
11 (``ASTM D 970'').
    (10) ASTM D 2584-08, Standard Test Method of Ignition Loss for Cured 
Reinforced Resins, (approved May 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  
160.135-11 and 160.135-15 (``ASTM D 2584'').
    (11) ASTM D 4029-09, Standard Specification for Finished Woven Glass 
Fabrics, (approved January 15, 2009), IBR approved for Sec.  160.135-7 
(``ASTM D 4029'').
    (12) ASTM F 1166-07, Standard Practice for Human Engineering Design 
for Marine Systems, Equipment, and Facilities, (approved January 1, 
2007), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.135-7 and 160.135-13 (``ASTM F 
1166'').
    (c) General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, 
Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, 
Arlington, VA 22202, 703-605-5400.
    (1) Federal Standard 595C, Colors Used in Government Procurement, 
(January 16, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.135-7 (``FED-STD-595C'').
    (2) [Reserved]
    (d) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 
4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 
7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) IMO Resolution A.658(16), Use and Fitting of Retro-Reflective 
Materials on Life-Saving Appliances, (adopted October 19, 1989), IBR 
approved for Sec.  160.135-7 (``IMO Res. 658(16)'').
    (2) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving 
Appliances and Arrangements, (adopted November 4, 1993), IBR approved 
for Sec. Sec.  160.135-7 and 160.135-19 (``IMO Res. A.760(18)'').
    (3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), pages 7-71 (``IMO LSA Code''), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  
160.135-3, 160.135-7, and 160.135-13.
    (4) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances, 
pages 79-254 (``IMO Revised recommendation on testing''), IBR approved 
for Sec. Sec.  160.135-7, 160.135-13, and 160.135-15.
    (5) MSC/Circular 980, Standardized life-saving Appliance Evaluation 
and Test Report Forms, (February 13, 2001), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  
160.135-7 and 160.135-13 (``IMO MSC Circ. 980'').
    (6) MSC.1/Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and 
Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, (May 26, 2006), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.135-21 (``IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205'').
    (e) International Organization for Standardization (ISO): ISO 
Central Secretariat [ISO Copyright Office], Case Postale 56, CH-1211 
Geneve 20, Switzerland.
    (1) ISO 527-1:1993(E), Plastics--Determination of tensile 
properties, part 1: General Principles, First Edition (June 15, 1993), 
IBR approved for Sec.  160.135-11 (``ISO 527'').
    (2) ISO 1172:1996(E), Textile-glass-reinforced plastics--Prepregs, 
moulding compounds and laminates--Determination of the textile-glass and 
mineral-filler content--Calcination methods, Second Edition (December 
15, 1996), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.135-11 and 160.135-15 (``ISO 
1172'').

[[Page 202]]

    (3) ISO 14125:1998(E), Fibre-reinforced plastic composites--
Determination of flexural properties, First Edition (March 1, 1998), IBR 
approved for Sec.  160.135-11 (``ISO 14125'').
    (f) Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents 
Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-
5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
    (1) A-A-55308, Commercial Item Description, Cloth And Strip, 
Laminated Or Coated, Vinyl Nylon Or Polyester, High Strength, Flexible, 
(May 13, 1997), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.135-7 and 160.135-15. 
(``A-A-55308'').
    (2) MIL-C-19663D, Military Specification, Cloth, Woven Roving, For 
Plastic Laminate, (August 4, 1988), IBR approved for Sec.  160.135-7 
(``MIL-C-19663D'').
    (3) MIL-P-17549D(SH), Military Specification, Plastic Laminates, 
Fibrous Glass Reinforced, Marine Structural, (August 31, 1981), IBR 
approved for Sec.  160.135-11 (``MIL-P-17549D(SH)'').
    (4) MIL-R-21607E(SH), Military Specification, Resins, Polyester, Low 
Pressure Laminating, Fire-Retardant, (May 25, 1990), IBR approved for 
Sec.  160.135-11,

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62987, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 79 FR 44140, 
July 30, 2014; USCG-2022-0323, 88 FR 10031, Feb. 16, 2023]



Sec.  160.135-7  Design, construction, and performance of lifeboats.

    (a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a lifeboat, a manufacturer must 
comply with, and each lifeboat must meet, the requirements of the 
following--
    (1) IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.135-5 of this subpart) applicable to the type of lifeboat;
    (2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1/6 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart) applicable to the type 
of lifeboat;
    (3) 46 CFR part 159; and
    (4) This subpart.
    (b) Each lifeboat must meet the following requirements:
    (1) Design. (i) Each lifeboat, other than a totally enclosed 
lifeboat, must be designed to be operable by persons wearing immersion 
suits.
    (ii) Each lifeboat should be designed following standard human 
engineering practices described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart). Design limits should be 
based on a range from the fifth percentile female to the ninety-fifth 
percentile male values for critical body dimensions and functional 
capabilities as described in ASTM F 1166. The dimensions for a person 
wearing an immersion suit correspond to the arctic clothed dimensions of 
ASTM F 1166.
    (2) Visibility from operator's station. (i) The operator's station 
must be designed such that the operator, when seated at the control 
station, has visibility 360 degrees around the lifeboat, with any areas 
obstructed by the lifeboat structure or its fittings visible by moving 
the operator's head and torso.
    (ii) The operator, while still being able to steer and control the 
speed of the lifeboat, must be able to see the water--
    (A) Over a 90 degree arc within 3 m (9 ft, 10 in) of each side of 
the lifeboat;
    (B) Over a 30 degree arc within 1 m (3 ft, 3 in) of each side of the 
lifeboat; and
    (C) Within 0.5 m (1 ft, 8 in) of the entrances designated for 
recovering persons from the water.
    (iii) In order to see a person in the water during recovery or 
docking operations, a hatch must be provided so that the operator can 
stand with his or her head outside the lifeboat for increased 
visibility, provided the operator can still steer and control the speed 
of the lifeboat.
    (3) Construction. Each major rigid structural component of each 
lifeboat must be constructed of steel, aluminum, Fiber Reinforced 
Plastic (FRP), or materials accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or 
superior.
    (i) General. Metals in contact with each other must be either 
galvanically compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. 
Provisions must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening 
resulting from differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of 
parts, galvanic corrosion, or other incompatibilities.
    (ii) Steel. Sheet steel and plate must be low carbon, commercial 
quality, either corrosion resistant or galvanized as per ASTM A 653, 
coating designation G90 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 
of this subpart). Structural steel plates and shapes must be carbon 
steel as per ASTM A 36 (incorporated

[[Page 203]]

by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart), or an equivalent or 
superior steel accepted by the Commandant. All steel products, except 
corrosion resistant steel, must be galvanized to provide high quality 
zinc coatings suitable for the intended service life in a marine 
environment. Corrosion resistant steel must be a type 302 stainless 
steel per ASTM A 276, ASTM A 313 or ASTM A 314 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart) or another corrosion 
resistant stainless steel of equal or superior corrosion resistant 
characteristics.
    (iii) Aluminum. Aluminum and aluminum alloys must conform to ASTM B 
209 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart) and 
be high purity for good marine corrosion resistance, free of iron, and 
containing not more than 0.6 percent copper.
    (iv) Fiber Reinforced Plastic.
    (A) Resin. Any resin used for the hull, canopy, hatches, rigid 
covers, and enclosures for the engine, transmission, and engine 
accessories, must be fire retardant and accepted by the Commandant in 
accordance with 46 CFR part 164, subpart 164.120.
    (B) Glass reinforcement. Any glass reinforcement used must have good 
laminated wet strength retention and must meet the appropriate 
specification in this paragraph. Glass cloth must be a finished fabric 
woven from ``E'' electrical glass fiber yarns meeting ASTM D 4029 
commercial style designation 1564 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.135-5 of this subpart). Woven roving must conform to MIL-C-19663D 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart). Other 
glass materials equivalent or superior in strength, design, wet out, and 
efficiency will be given consideration on specific request to the 
Commandant.
    (C) Laminate. All exposed surfaces of any finished laminate must 
present a smooth finish, and there must be no protruding surface fibers, 
open voids, pits, cracks, bubbles, or blisters. The laminate must be 
essentially free from resin-starved or overimpregnated areas, and no 
foreign matter must remain in the finished laminate. The entire laminate 
must be fully cured and free of tackiness, and must show no tendency to 
delaminate, peel, or craze in any overlay. The laminate must not be 
released from the mold until a Barcol hardness reading of not less than 
40-55 is obtained from at least 10 places on the non-gel coated surface, 
including all interior inner and outer hull surfaces and built-in 
lockers. The mechanical properties of the laminate must meet the 
requirements for a Grade 3 laminate as specified in Table I of MIL-P-
17549D(SH) (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this 
subpart). Other grades will be given consideration on specific request 
to the Commandant.
    (4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the 
Commandant, a classification society recognized by the Commandant in 
accordance with 46 CFR 8.220, the U.S. Navy, or the national body where 
the lifeboat is constructed or the national body's designated recognized 
organization. Only electrodes intended for use with the material being 
welded may be used. All welds must be checked using appropriate non-
destructive tests.
    (5) Lifeboat buoyancy. (i) The buoyancy material must be accepted by 
the Commandant as meeting the performance requirements of the IMO 
Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, 6.2.2 to 6.2.7, with a 
density of 32 8 kg/m\3\ (2 0.5 lb/ft\3\). The buoyancy foam or lifeboat 
manufacturer must certify the results of the testing to IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, part 1, 6.2.2 to 6.2.7 and submit those 
results to the Commandant. A list of accepted buoyancy foams may be 
obtained from the Commandant upon request and online at http://
cgmix.uscg.mil.
    (ii) All voids in the hull and canopy required to provide buoyancy 
for positive stability and self righting must be completely filled with 
Coast Guard accepted buoyancy material.
    (6) Engines. (i) In order to be accepted by the Commandant, any 
compression ignition engine fitted to an approved lifeboat must meet the 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency emission requirements in 40 CFR 
part 89, part 94, or part 1042, as applicable, and have reports 
containing the same information as recommended by MSC Circ. 980 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart) 
certified and witnessed

[[Page 204]]

by a U.S. Coast Guard inspector or an independent laboratory.
    (ii) A hydraulic system, if used to start the engine, must be in 
accordance with 46 CFR part 58, subpart 58.30, with hose and fittings in 
accordance with 46 CFR part 56, subpart 56.60, except that--
    (A) Push-on type fittings such as Aeroquip 1525-X, 25156-X, and 
FC332-X are not permitted; and
    (B) The length of nonmetallic flexible hose is limited to 760 mm (30 
in). Longer, nonmetallic flexible hoses may be allowed in emergency 
steering systems at the discretion of the Commandant.
    (iii) If a hand pump is provided, or if the engine has a manual 
starting system, adequate space must be provided for the hand pump or 
hand start operation.
    (7) Fuel system. (i) The fuel system must meet 46 CFR 56.50-75(b) 
and, except as specified in this paragraph, the fuel tank must meet 46 
CFR 58.50-10.
    (ii) Tanks constructed with--
    (A) Aluminum must be at least 5 mm (0.20 in) thick of ASTM B 209 or 
5086 alloy;
    (B) Nickel-copper must be at least 0.9 mm (0.0375 in) thick of ASTM 
B 127 hot-rolled sheet or plate;
    (C) Steel or iron must be at least 1.9 mm (0.0747 in) thick. Diesel 
tanks of steel or iron must not have interior galvanizing;
    (D) Fiberglass reinforced plastic must be at least 5 mm (0.187 in) 
thick; be sealed against porosity by at least one ply of chopped strand 
mat; be reinforced in the way of tank openings; be fitted with 
corrosion-resistant fittings; have each joint at the top of the tank; 
and have each joint bonded and through-bolted; or
    (E) Roto-molded plastic must be at least 5 mm thick; must meet the 
requirements of 33 CFR 183.510 (a), (b), and (e) regardless of tank 
capacity; must be able to pass all static pressure tests as required in 
33 CFR 183.510 at a minimum pressure of 5 psi; and be fitted with 
corrosion-resistant fittings.
    (iii) Each fuel tank over 0.75 m (30 in) long must be baffled at 
intervals not exceeding 0.45 m (18 in).
    (iv) A fuel level indicator must be provided for each fuel tank.
    (v) Any fuel tank vent piping must be at least 6 mm (0.25 in) 
outside diameter tubing.
    (vi) A shut-off valve must be provided at the fuel tank and must not 
be provided at the fuel pump. The valve must be clearly labeled. The 
position of the valve must be clearly indicated by a permanent marking 
inside the lifeboat. The marking must be an arrow pointing in the 
direction of the valve, and the words ``Fuel Shut-Off Valve'' must be in 
a color that contrasts with their background. The marking must be 
legible to a person within the vicinity of the engine.
    (8) Starting system batteries. Any battery fitted in a totally 
enclosed lifeboat must be stored in a sealed compartment with exterior 
venting. If the lifeboat has more than one engine, then only one 
starting battery is required per engine.
    (9) Exhaust. Engine exhaust must be routed away from bilge and 
potential oil drips. Any paint used on engines, manifolds, or exhaust 
must not give off fumes when heated. All exhaust lagging must be non-
absorbent.
    (10) Propeller guard. Each propeller on a lifeboat must be fitted 
with a propeller guard with a maximum opening of 76 mm (3 in) on all 
sides on which a person is likely to be exposed.
    (11) Control and steering station. The operator's control and 
steering station must have complete lifeboat lowering and launching, 
hook release, engine throttle, steering controls, and if applicable, an 
air system and water spray system.
    (i) The throttle must be a continuous manual control and must be 
able to be set and locked at any position.
    (ii) The control and steering station must be designed and laid out 
in accordance with ASTM F 1166 sections 9 and 10, so that controls and 
displays are unambiguous, accessible, and easy to reach and use from the 
operator's normal seated position, while wearing an immersion suit or a 
lifejacket.
    (iii) Each control, gauge, or display must be identified by a 
marking posted on, above, or adjacent to the respective item. Each 
control must operate in a logical manner and be marked with an arrow to 
show direction of movement

[[Page 205]]

of control which will cause an increased response. Each gauge must be 
marked with the normal operating range and indicate danger or abnormal 
conditions. Each marking must be permanent and weatherproof.
    (iv) Gauges, and audio and visual alarms must be provided to monitor 
at least the following parameters--
    (A) Coolant temperature, for a liquid cooled engine;
    (B) Oil pressure, for an engine with an oil pump;
    (C) Tachometer, for an engine not provided with over-speed 
protection; and
    (D) State of charge, or rate of charge, for each rechargeable engine 
starting power source.
    (12) Hull drain plug. The position of each drain plug must be 
clearly indicated by a permanent marking inside the lifeboat. The 
marking must be an arrow pointing in the direction of the plug, and the 
words ``Drain Plug'' must be 76 mm (3 in) high and have letters of a 
color that contrast with their background. The marking must be clearly 
visible to a person within the vicinity of the drain plug.
    (13) Remote steering. The procedure to change over from remote to 
local steering must be simple, not require the use of tools, and be 
clearly posted. There must be sufficient clear space to install, 
operate, remove, and stow the removable tiller arm. The tiller arm and 
its connection to the rudder stock must be of sufficient strength so 
that there is no slippage or bending of the tiller arm. Rudder stops or 
other means must be provided to prevent the rudder from turning too far 
on either side.
    (14) Lifelines. Buoyant lifelines must be of ultraviolet resistant 
material.
    (15) Rails provided as handholds. Rails provided as handholds to 
cling when the lifeboat is overturned must extend for half the length of 
the lifeboat on both sides of the hull, and the clearance between the 
rail and hull must also be at least 38 mm (1.5 in). The rails must be 
attached to the hull below the chine or turn of the bilge, must be 
faired to prevent any fouling, and not project beyond the widest part of 
the lifeboat.
    (16) Storage compartments and collection and storage of rainwater. 
(i) Each storage compartment must be supported and secured against 
movement. It must have adequate hand access for removing and storing the 
required equipment, provisions, or water, and for cleaning the inside of 
the compartment.
    (ii) The rain water collecting device may be incorporated into the 
design of the canopy or may be a separate unit to be mounted outside the 
lifeboat. The device must have a projected horizontal area of at least 1 
m\2\ (10.7 ft\2\) collection area and be designed to function 
unattended.
    (iii) Provision must be made to continue to collect water in the 
storage compartment while drawing water to fill a cup. The compartment 
must have a means of drainage and adequate access to allow filling the 
graduated drinking cup required to be carried as part of the lifeboat 
equipment.
    (17) Release mechanism. Each release mechanism must be identified at 
the application for approval of the prototype lifeboat and must be 
approved under 46 CFR part 160, subpart 160.133. The release lever or 
control in the lifeboat must be red in color, and the area immediately 
surrounding the control must be a sharply contrasting light color. An 
illustrated operating instruction plate or placard showing the correct 
off-load and emergency on-load release procedure and recovery procedure 
must be posted so that it is visible and legible from the helmsman's 
normal operating position. The plate or placard must be corrosion 
resistant and weatherproof and must be marked with the word ``Danger''.
    (18) Painter release. Any painter release must be located such that 
the lifeboat operator can readily release the painter from the 
operator's control and steering station.
    (19) Canopy lamp. Any exterior lifeboat position-indicating light 
must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 161.101.
    (20) Manually-controlled interior light. Any interior light must be 
approved by the Commandant under approval series 161.101.
    (21) Lifeboat equipment. Each lifeboat must be designed to 
accommodate and

[[Page 206]]

carry the equipment as specified in 46 CFR 199.175.
    (22) Oars. Oars are not required on a lifeboat with more than one 
engine, provided one engine can be operated while the other is disabled.
    (23) Bilge pump. Each lifeboat that is not automatically self-
bailing must be fitted with a manual bilge pump that meets the 
requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(2). Each such lifeboat with a capacity 
of 100 persons or more must carry an additional manual bilge pump or an 
engine-powered bilge pump.
    (24) Exterior color. The primary color of the exterior of the canopy 
and interior of partially enclosed lifeboats visible from the air must 
be a highly visible color equivalent to vivid reddish orange color 
number 12197 of FED-STD-595C (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.135-5 of this subpart), or a durable fluorescent color of a similar 
hue.
    (25) Self-contained air supply system and fire protection system 
operating instructions. Each compressed gas air cylinder must meet the 
requirements in 46 CFR 147.60. The cylinders must be accessible for 
removal and charging in place. Water-resistant instructions for starting 
the water spray and air supply, if fitted, must be provided and mounted 
in a conspicuous place near the system controls.
    (26) Navigating lights. Each lifeboat must have navigation lights 
that are in compliance with the applicable sections of the International 
and Inland Navigation Rules and meet 46 CFR 111.75-17.
    (27) Retroreflective material. The exterior of each lifeboat and its 
canopy must be marked with Type II retroreflective material approved 
under 46 CFR part 164, subpart 164.018. The arrangement of the 
retroreflective material must comply with IMO Res. A.658(16) 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart).
    (28) Permanently attached foldable canopy. For a partially enclosed 
lifeboat, the foldable canopy cloth material must meet the 
specifications for Type II, Class 1 requirements of A-A-55308 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart), or be 
accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or superior.
    (29) Labels and notices. Any labels, caution and danger notices, and 
operating, maintenance, or general instructions, must be in accordance 
with ASTM F 1166, Section 15, in terms of format, content, lettering 
size and spacing, color, and posted location. They must be illustrated 
with symbols in accordance with IMO Res. A.760(18) (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart), as applicable. 
Information and instruction plates, not specifically mentioned in this 
section, must not be posted in the vicinity of the control and steering 
station without prior approval from the Commandant. Identification label 
plates, if required, must be posted on or above the component or 
equipment to be identified.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials will be made by the Commandant only.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62987, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2020-
0107, 87 FR 68305, Nov. 14, 2022]



Sec.  160.135-9  Preapproval review.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the 
Commandant must conduct the preapproval review, required by this 
section, in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
    (b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a 
lifeboat, the manufacturer must submit an application to the Commandant 
meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval review. To 
meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the manufacturer must 
submit in triplicate--
    (1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other 
documentation submitted, with each document identified by number, title, 
revision issue, and date;
    (2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal 
dimensions;
    (3) Seating arrangement plan, including a dimensioned seat form to 
scale;
    (4) A complete material list, with each material referenced to a 
U.S. national standard or, if a copy is provided in English, an 
equivalent international standard;
    (5) Plans for carriage and, in detail, stowage of equipment;

[[Page 207]]

    (6) Hull, canopy, and critical parts lay-up schedule for a Fiber 
Reinforced Plastic (FRP) lifeboat;
    (7) Hull and canopy construction drawings, including particulars of 
joints, welds, seams, and other fabricating details;
    (8) Weights and thickness of each major FRP structural component, 
including the hull, canopy, and inner liners, before outfitting;
    (9) Specification and identification of materials such as steel, 
aluminum, resin, foam, fiberglass, cloth, and plastic used in the 
lifeboat's manufacture;
    (10) Fabrication details for each major structural component, 
including details of each welded joint;
    (11) Lines plans;
    (12) Propulsion system specifications and arrangement and 
installation drawings;
    (13) Steering system drawings and specifications;
    (14) Release mechanism installation drawings and the mechanism's 
Coast Guard approval number;
    (15) Air and water spray systems drawings and specifications, if 
installed;
    (16) Plans for critical subassemblies;
    (17) Hydraulic systems drawings and specifications, if installed;
    (18) Electrical system schematics and specifications;
    (19) Stability data, including righting arm curves in the light and 
loaded condition for both intact and flooded stability;
    (20) Drawings of all signs and placards, showing actual inscription, 
format, color, size, and location on the lifeboat;
    (21) Complete data pertinent to the installation and use of the 
proposed lifeboat, including the light load (condition A) and full load 
(condition B) weights;
    (22) Specifications for the required launching ramp length and 
angle, and the height of free-fall lifeboat installation above the 
water;
    (23) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in 
Sec. Sec.  160.135-19 and 160.135-21 of this subpart;
    (24) A description of the quality control procedures and record 
keeping that will apply to the production of the lifeboat, which must 
include but is not limited to--
    (i) The system for checking material certifications received from 
suppliers;
    (ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
    (iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication, seams, and 
joints, including welding inspection procedures; and
    (iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of 
fabrication to assure that the approved lifeboat complies with the 
approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
    (25) Full details of any other unique capability;
    (26) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the lifeboat 
complies with the requirements of this subpart;
    (27) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including 
the name and address of any subcontractors, where the lifeboat will be 
constructed; and
    (28) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the 
duties prescribed in Sec. Sec.  160.135-11 and 160.135-15 of this 
subpart.
    (c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the 
Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review 
required by this section so long as the preapproval review is conducted 
in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent 
laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
    (d) Plan quality. The plans and specifications submitted to the 
Commandant under this section must--
    (1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and 
designations for configuration control;
    (2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this 
section in sufficient detail to show that the lifeboat meets the 
construction requirements of this subpart;
    (3) Accurately depict the proposed lifeboat;
    (4) Be internally consistent;
    (5) Be legible; and
    (6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of 
this section, include the independent laboratory's attestation that the 
plans meet

[[Page 208]]

the quality requirements of this section.
    (e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or construction, 
and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly indicated as 
such in the plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under 
this section.
    (f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not comply 
with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be 
suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.



Sec.  160.135-11  Fabrication of prototype lifeboats for approval.

    (a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted 
in accordance with Sec.  160.135-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to 
the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the 
prototype lifeboat as set forth in this section.
    (b) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, 
and oversight required by this section. Prototype inspections and tests 
of a lifeboat must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for 
independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 
and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests 
and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional prototype tests 
and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor 
compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
    (c) Fabrication of a lifeboat must proceed in the following 
sequence:
    (1) The manufacturer must arrange for an independent laboratory (or 
Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (b) of this section) 
to inspect, test, and oversee the lifeboat during its fabrication and 
prepare an inspection and test report meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 
159.005-11.
    (2) The independent laboratory must make such inspections as are 
necessary to determine that the prototype is constructed by the methods 
and with the materials specified in the plans reviewed under Sec.  
160.135-9 of this subpart. By conducting at least one inspection during 
its construction, the independent laboratory must determine the 
prototype lifeboat conforms with those plans by inspecting--
    (i) Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Construction. (A) FRP components 
of each prototype lifeboat outer hull and any FRP inner hull or liner 
components that are bonded or bolted to the outer hull must have a layup 
made of unpigmented clear resins so that details of construction are 
visible for inspection. Test panels representative of each prototype 
layup must be tested in accordance with MIL-P-17549D(SH) (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart). If an accepted MIL-
R-21607E(SH) (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this 
subpart) Grade B resin is used for the prototype lifeboat, additives for 
fire retardancy must not be used so that the laminate is translucent for 
inspection purposes. Any prototype test lifeboat with Grade B resins 
will not be marked in accordance with Sec.  160.135-17 of this subpart 
for use as a production lifeboat regardless of the outcome of the 
performance tests. Whichever accepted resin the manufacturer decides to 
use for the prototype lifeboat, the same resin must be used in the 
production lifeboats.
    (B) The hull, canopy, and major structural laminates of each 
prototype FRP lifeboat must be tested for resin content, ultimate 
flexural strength, and tensile strength. The test samples must be cut 
out from the prototype lifeboat, or be laid up at the same time, using 
the same procedures and by the same operators as the laminate used in 
the lifeboat. The number of samples used for each test, and the 
conditions and test methods used, must be as per the applicable test 
specified in this paragraph. The resin content must be determined as per 
ASTM D 2584 or ISO 1172 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 
of this subpart). The flexural ultimate strength must be determined by 
ASTM D 790 method I (test condition ``A'', flatwise, dry) or the 
corresponding ISO 14125 test method (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart). The tensile strength, lengthwise, must 
be determined as per ASTM D 638 or ISO 527 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart).
    (C) Each major FRP component, such as the hull, canopy, and inner 
liner(s),

[[Page 209]]

of each prototype FRP lifeboat must be examined and weighed after it is 
completed but before it is assembled. If the lifeboat is constructed by 
the spray lay-up technique, the hull and canopy thicknesses must be 
measured using ultrasonic or equivalent techniques;
    (ii) Steel construction. Steel sheet and plate used for the hull, 
floors, and other structural components of a prototype steel lifeboat 
must meet the bend tests requirement specified under ASTM A 653 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart) after 
galvanizing or other anti-corrosion treatment has been applied. This may 
be demonstrated through a supplier's certification papers or through 
witnessing actual tests;
    (iii) Coated cloth for partially enclosed lifeboats. Cloth material 
used in the construction of each prototype lifeboat must be confirmed to 
have met the requirements specified under Sec.  160.135-7(b)(28) of this 
subpart. This may be demonstrated through a supplier's certification 
papers or through witnessing actual tests;
    (iv) Welding. Structural components of each prototype lifeboat 
joined by welding must be welded by the welding procedures and materials 
as per the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.135-9 of this subpart and by 
welders appropriately qualified;
    (v) Buoyancy foam. Each major subassembly of a prototype lifeboat, 
such as the hull with liner and canopy with liner, must be weighed after 
the buoyancy foam is installed and before it is further assembled;
    (vi) Installation of the propulsion system;
    (vii) Installation of the steering system; and
    (viii) Installation of the water spray fire-protection and air 
support system(s), if fitted.
    (3) The independent laboratory must submit the inspection report to 
the Commandant.



Sec.  160.135-13  Approval inspections and tests for prototype lifeboats.

    (a) After the Commandant notifies the manufacturer that the 
prototype lifeboat is in compliance with the requirements of Sec.  
160.135-11 of this subpart, the manufacturer may proceed with the 
prototype approval inspections and tests required under this section. 
The prototype lifeboat, the construction of which was witnessed under 
Sec.  160.135-11 of this subpart, must be used for the tests in this 
section.
    (b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast 
Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval 
tests required under this section.
    (c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections 
and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must--
    (1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine 
Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required 
under this section will take place, and such notification must be in 
sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
    (2) Arrange a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard 
inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;
    (3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or 
testing is performed on lifeboats or their component parts and materials 
for the purpose of--
    (i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the 
prototype is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified 
in the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.135-9 of this subpart and the 
inspection report under Sec.  160.135-11 of this subpart;
    (ii) Assuring that the quality assurance program of the manufacturer 
is satisfactory;
    (iii) Witnessing tests; and
    (iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections 
or test; and
    (4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or 
invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the 
production of lifeboats, together with records identifying the lot or 
serial numbers of the lifeboats in which such materials were used.
    (d) Tests. (1) Prototype lifeboat readiness. All tests must be 
conducted on a completely outfitted lifeboat, including fixed equipment 
such as compass, searchlight, and navigating lights.

[[Page 210]]

Loose equipment may be substituted by weights.
    (2) Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) prototype lifeboat lay-up. For 
the prototype of each design of an FRP lifeboat, the lay-up must be made 
of unpigmented resins and clear gel coat.
    (3) Fuel tank. Each non-portable fuel tank must be tested by a 
static head above the tank top of 3 m (10 ft) of water without showing 
any leaks or signs of permanent distortion.
    (4) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype lifeboat 
of each design must pass each of the tests for davit-launched or free-
fall lifeboats, as applicable, described in the IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, part 1, paragraphs 6.1 through 6.17 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart). Tests 
must be conducted in accordance with these paragraphs of IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, Part 1, with the following modifications:
    (i) Fire retardancy/release mechanism and engine tests (Paragraphs 
1/6.2, 6.9, 6.10, 6.14). The tests in the following IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing paragraphs may be accomplished independent of 
the lifeboat, and may be considered completed and need not be repeated 
if the tests have been previously shown to meet the necessary 
requirements--
    (A) Paragraph 6.2;
    (B) Paragraphs 6.9.3 through 6.9.6;
    (C) Paragraph 6.10.2 through 6.10.6; and
    (D) Paragraphs 6.14.6 through 6.14.8.
    (ii) Lifeboat overload test (Paragraph 1/6.3). For a davit launched 
lifeboat, the overload test must be conducted with the lifeboat 
suspended from the lifting hooks. During this test, the canopy of a 
free-fall lifeboat must not deform so as to harm any potential 
occupants.
    (iii) Impact test (Paragraph 1/6.4). The rigid vertical surface must 
not be displaced or deformed as a result of the test.
    (iv) Lifeboat seating space test (Paragraph 1/6.7). The average mass 
of persons used to test the lifeboat seating space must be determined by 
weighing as a group or individually. Each person must wear an inherently 
buoyant SOLAS lifejacket with at least 150 N of buoyancy or a Coast 
Guard-approved lifejacket approved under approval series 160.155. For 
other than a totally enclosed lifeboat, the operator(s) must demonstrate 
that the lifeboat can be operated while wearing a Coast Guard approved, 
insulated-buoyant immersion suit approved under approval series 160.171. 
The Commandant will give consideration to requests to test at, and 
designate lifeboats for, a heavier occupant weight than that stated in 
the IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV (incorporated by reference, Sec.  160.135-5 
of this subpart).
    (v) Flooded stability test (Paragraph 1/6.8). Any materials used to 
raise the test weights representing the lifeboat occupants above the 
seat pan must be at least as dense as fresh water.
    (vi) Lifeboat operational test, Operation of engine (Paragraph 1/
6.10.1). For the 4-hour lifeboat maneuvering period, the lifeboat must 
not (except for a short period to measure towing force and to 
demonstrate towing fixture durability) be secured, and must be run 
through its full range of speeds and full range of all controls 
throughout the period.
    (vii) Survival recovery test (Paragraph 1/6.10.8). The recovery 
demonstration must show that no more than two crewmembers are required 
to recover a helpless person of ninety-fifth percentile by weight 
described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 
of this subpart) while the crewmembers and helpless person are each 
wearing a lifejacket.
    (viii) Flooded capsizing test (Paragraph 1/6.14.3-.5). For any 
lifeboat also approved as a rescue lifeboat, the lifeboat must return to 
an upright position and, without undue delay, the crew must be able to 
use the lifeboat again as a lifeboat.
    (ix) Fire test (Paragraph 1/6.16.4). The locations where 
temperatures are measured along with the rationale for the proposed 
locations must be provided to the Commandant for approval prior to the 
testing.
    (x) Water spray tests (Paragraph 1/6.16.9). The delivery rate of 
water, or the sprayed water film thickness over the lifeboat, must be at 
least equivalent to that used to achieve passing results for the fire 
test. Full coverage must be obtained without the need to

[[Page 211]]

rock the lifeboat or induce wetting by wiping or applying any agent.
    (xi) Measuring and evaluating acceleration forces (Paragraph 1/
6.17.5). For free-fall lifeboats, the selection, placement, and mounting 
of the accelerometers along with the rationale for the proposed 
selection, placement, and mounting must be provided to the Commandant 
for approval prior to the testing.
    (xii) Evaluation acceleration forces with the dynamic response model 
(Paragraph 1/6.17.9). For free-fall lifeboats only, sections 6.17.9 thru 
6.17.12 must be used along with the displacement limits for lifeboats in 
Table 2 under ``Evaluation with the dynamic response model''.
    (5) Visual inspection. Each lifeboat must be visually inspected to 
confirm--
    (i) Compliance with this subpart;
    (ii) Conformance with plans reviewed under Sec.  160.135-9 of this 
subpart; and
    (iii) Ease of operation and maintenance.
    (e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a 
lifeboat identical in construction to smaller and larger lifeboats that 
have successfully completed the tests. Tests associated with lifeboat 
components that have already been approved by the Commandant are not 
required to be repeated.
    (f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the 
Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections 
and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the 
inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with the 
procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant 
under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
    (g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by 
this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46 
CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for 
review--
    (1) The prototype approval test report containing the same 
information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart). The report must include a signed 
statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as 
permitted by paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the testing, 
indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its 
results; and
    (2) The final plans of the lifeboat as built. The plans must 
include, in triplicate--
    (i) The instructions for training and maintenance described in 
Sec. Sec.  160.135-19 and 160.135-21 of this subpart; and
    (ii) The final version of the plans required under Sec.  160.135-9 
of this subpart.
    (h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under 
paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant, 
will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.



Sec.  160.135-15  Production inspections, tests, quality control, and
conformance of lifeboats.

    (a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, 
and oversight required by this section. Production inspections and tests 
of lifeboats must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for 
independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 
and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests 
and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production 
tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to 
monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
    (b) Manufacturer's responsibility. The manufacturer must--
    (1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all 
production lifeboats are produced to the same standard, and in the same 
manner, as the prototype lifeboat approved by the Commandant. The 
manufacturer's quality control personnel must not work directly under 
the department or person responsible for either production or sales;
    (2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or 
Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) 
to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;

[[Page 212]]

    (3) Submit to the Commandant, a yearly report that contains the 
following--
    (i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each lifeboat 
constructed;
    (ii) Name of the representative of the independent laboratory (or 
Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section); 
and
    (iii) Name of the vessel and company receiving the lifeboat, if 
known; and
    (4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the 
construction of the lifeboat are in accordance with plans approved under 
Sec.  160.135-13(h) of this subpart;
    (5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if 
required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where 
materials are stored for the lifeboat, work or testing is performed on 
lifeboats or their component parts and materials, or records are 
retained to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section, for 
the purpose of--
    (i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer is 
satisfactory;
    (ii) Witnessing tests; or
    (iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional 
inspections or tests; and
    (6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector 
if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the 
inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e)(2) of this 
section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the 
lifeboats are being made in accordance with the plans approved under 
Sec.  160.135-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements of this 
subpart.
    (c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in 
accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records of 
all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date of 
termination of approval of each lifeboat. The records must include--
    (1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this 
subpart, and each applicable document listed in Sec.  160.135-5 of this 
subpart;
    (2) A copy of approved plans, documentation, and certifications;
    (3) A current certificate of approval for each approved lifeboat;
    (4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers 
identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved 
lifeboats, together with records identifying the serial numbers of the 
lifeboats in which such materials were used;
    (5) Start and finish date and time of the lay-up of each major Fiber 
Reinforced Plastic (FRP) component such as the hull, canopy, and inner 
liner and the names of the operator(s);
    (6) Start and finish date and time of pouring of foam-in-place rigid 
buoyancy foam, and name of operator(s);
    (7) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
    (8) Records of welder certificates, training and qualifications;
    (9) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name 
and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
    (10) The serial number of each production lifeboat, along with 
records of its inspections and tests carried out under this section; and
    (11) The original purchaser of each lifeboat and the vessel on which 
it was installed, if known.
    (d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, the inspections and 
tests under paragraph (e) of this section for each Coast Guard-approved 
lifeboat to be installed on a U.S.-flagged vessel. If the manufacturer 
also produces lifeboats for approval by other maritime safety 
administrations, the inspections may be coordinated with inspection 
visits for those administrations.
    (e) Production inspections and tests. Each approved lifeboat must be 
inspected and tested in accordance with each of the following 
procedures:
    (1) In-process inspections and tests. Each production lifeboat must 
be examined during lay-up of the hull to verify that the lay-up conforms 
to the approved drawings. Each FRP major component, such as the hull, 
canopy, and inner liner, must be examined and weighed after it is 
completed but before assembled. If the lifeboat is constructed by the 
spray lay-up technique, the hull and canopy thicknesses must

[[Page 213]]

be measured using ultrasonic or equivalent techniques. Laboratory tests 
of laminates must be conducted at this time. Test samples must be cut 
out from the lifeboat itself or be laid up at the same time, using the 
same procedures and by the same operators as the laminate used in the 
lifeboat. The number of samples used for each test, and the conditions 
and test methods used, must be as described in the applicable test 
specified in this paragraph.
    (i) Weight. The weight of each FRP section, such as hull, canopy, 
and inner liner, must be within 10 percent of similar sections of the 
prototype lifeboat. These weights must be the bare laminate weights. 
Backing plates that are molded into the laminate may be included.
    (ii) Thickness. The average thickness of each section of sprayed-up 
laminate must be within 20 percent of the corresponding sections of the 
prototype.
    (iii) Resin content. Laminate samples from the hull, canopy, and 
inner liners must be tested in accordance with ASTM D 2584 or ISO 1172 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart). The 
resin content must be within 8 percentage points of the prototype 
results. If the resin content does not comply, flexural ultimate 
strength and tensile tests in paragraph (e)(1)(iv) of this section must 
be conducted.
    (iv) Flexural ultimate strength and tensile tests. Each laminate 
sample from each major component, such as hull and liner, that does not 
comply with the resin content requirement in paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of 
this section, and from each component of every fifth production 
lifeboat, must be subjected to the flexural ultimate strength and 
tensile strength tests as described in Sec.  160.135-11(c)(2)(i)(B) of 
this subpart. The values must be at least 90 percent of the prototype 
results.
    (v) Buoyancy material. If block foam buoyancy material is used, each 
piece must be weighed after it is cut and shaped to make sure that the 
correct amount of foam is installed. If foamed-in-place buoyancy 
material is used, a separate sample of the foam must be poured, and used 
to make a density determination after it has set. The density must be 32 
8 kg/m\3\ (2 0.5 lb/ft \3\).
    (vi) Steel sheet and plate. Steel sheet and plate for the hull, 
floors, and other structural components must meet ASTM A 36 and ASTM A 
653 as applicable (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of 
this subpart). Non-corrosive resistant steel must meet the coating mass 
and bend tests requirement specified under ASTM A 653. Compliance for 
this paragraph can be ascertained through supplier's certification 
papers or through conducting actual tests.
    (vii) Cloth. The cloth material used for the construction of each 
partially enclosed lifeboat must meet the material specification of A-A-
55308 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart). 
This compliance can be ascertained through supplier's certification 
papers or through witnessing actual tests.
    (viii) Fuel tank. Each fuel tank must be tested by a static head 
above the tank top of 3 m (10 ft) of water without showing any leaks or 
signs of permanent distortion.
    (ix) Welding. It must be determined that structural components 
joined by welding was performed by welders who are appropriately 
qualified and that the welding procedure and materials are as per the 
plans approved under Sec.  160.135-13(h) of this subpart.
    (2) Post assembly tests and inspections. The finished lifeboat must 
be visually inspected inside and out. The manufacturer must develop and 
maintain a visual inspection checklist designed to ensure that all 
applicable requirements have been met and the lifeboat is equipped in 
accordance with approved plans. Each production lifeboat of each design 
must pass each of the tests described in the IMO Revised recommendation 
on testing, part 2, section 5.3 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.135-5 of this subpart).

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62987, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 79 FR 44140, 
July 30, 2014]



Sec.  160.135-17  Marking and labeling.

    (a) Each lifeboat must be marked with a plate or label permanently 
affixed to the hull in a conspicuous place readily accessible for 
inspection and sufficiently durable to withstand continuous exposure to 
environmental

[[Page 214]]

conditions at sea for the life of the lifeboat.
    (b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other 
languages.
    (c) The plate or label must contain the--
    (1) Name and address of the manufacturer;
    (2) Manufacturer's model identification;
    (3) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype 
or production test and inspections;
    (4) Serial number of the lifeboat;
    (5) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
    (6) Month and year of manufacture;
    (7) Material of hull construction;
    (8) Number of persons for which the lifeboat is approved;
    (9) Light load and full load (condition A and condition B weight); 
and
    (10) Word ``SOLAS.''



Sec.  160.135-19  Operating instructions and information for the ship's 
training manual.

    (a) Each lifeboat must have instructions and information for the 
ship's training manual that use the symbols from IMO Res. A.760(18) 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart) to 
describe the location and operation of the lifeboat.
    (b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of 
this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft 
and rescue boats, and their launching systems.
    (c) The lifeboat manufacturer must make the instructions and 
information required by paragraph (a) of this section available--
    (1) In English to purchasers of a lifeboat approved by the Coast 
Guard; and
    (2) In the form of an instruction placard providing simple 
procedures and illustrations for operation of the lifeboat. The placard 
must be not greater than 36 cm (14 in) by 51 cm (20 in), and must be 
made of durable material and suitable for display near installations of 
lifeboats on vessels.



Sec.  160.135-21  Operation and maintenance instructions.

    (a) Each lifeboat must have operation and maintenance instructions 
that--
    (1) Follow the general format and content specified in MSC.1 Circ. 
1205 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.135-5 of this subpart); 
and
    (2) Include a checklist for use in monthly, external visual 
inspections of the lifeboat.
    (b) The lifeboat manufacturer must make the manual required by 
paragraph (a) of this section available in English to purchasers of a 
lifeboat approved by the Coast Guard.
    (c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by paragraph 
(a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival 
craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.



Sec.  160.135-23  Procedure for approval of design, material, or
construction change.

    (a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans 
approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.135-13(h) of this subpart 
must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any production 
lifeboat. The manufacturer must submit any such change following the 
procedures in Sec.  160.135-9 of this subpart, but documentation on 
items that are unchanged from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 
and Sec.  160.135-13(h) of this subpart need not be resubmitted.
    (b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a 
prototype lifeboat with each change described in paragraph (a) of this 
section must be made and tested according to the procedures for new 
approvals in Sec. Sec.  160.135-9 through 160.135-13 of this subpart.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials will be made by the Commandant only.



              Subpart 160.151_Inflatable Liferafts (SOLAS)

    Source: CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.151-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for 
approval by the Coast Guard of inflatable liferafts.

[[Page 215]]

This subpart does not apply to any inflatable liferaft approved by the 
Commandant before November 10, 2011, so long as the liferaft satisfies 
the annual servicing requirements set forth in 46 CFR 160.151-57.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62996, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 76 FR 70062, 
Nov. 10, 2011]



Sec.  160.151-3  Definitions.

    In this subpart, the term:
    Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety 
Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and 
Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 
or fax 202-372-1924.
    Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the 
Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the 
duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The ``cognizant OCMI'' is the 
OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for 
the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
    Servicing means periodic inspection, necessary repair, and repacking 
by a servicing facility approved by the Coast Guard. Requirements for 
periodic inspection and repair of inflatable liferafts approved by the 
Coast Guard are described in Sec. Sec.  160.151-35 through 160.151-57.
    SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at 
Sea, 1974, as amended by the International Maritime Organization through 
the 1988 (GMDSS) amendments, dated 9 November 1988.
    SOLAS A Liferaft means a liferaft that meets the requirements of 
this subpart for an inflatable liferaft complying with SOLAS and 
equipped with a SOLAS A equipment pack.
    SOLAS B Liferaft means a liferaft that meets the requirements of 
this subpart for an inflatable liferaft complying with SOLAS and 
equipped with a SOLAS B equipment pack.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-2009-0702, 74 
FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009, USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62996, Oct. 11, 2011; 
USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.151-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) 
material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at 
the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the 
Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email 
[email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For 
information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: 
[email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the 
following paragraphs of this section.
    (b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr 
Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA, 19428-2959.
    (1) ASTM F 1014-02 (Reapproved 2007), Standard Specification for 
Flashlights on Vessels, (approved May 1, 2007), IBR approved for Sec.  
160.151-21 (``ASTM F 1014'').
    (2) [Reserved]
    (c) General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, 
Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, 
Arlington, VA 22202, 703-605-5400.
    (1) Federal Standard 595C, Colors Used in Government Procurement, 
(January 16, 2008), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.151-15 and 160.151-
17 (``FED-STD-595C'').
    (2) [Reserved]
    (d) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 
4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 
7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) IMO Resolution A.657(16), Instructions for Action in Survival 
Craft, (adopted October 1989), IBR approved for Sec.  160.151-21 (``IMO 
Res. A.657(16)'').
    (2) IMO Resolution A.658(16), Use and Fitting of Retro-Reflective 
Materials on Life-Saving Appliances, (adopted October 19, 1989), IBR 
approved for Sec.  160.151-15 (``IMO Res. A.658(16)'').

[[Page 216]]

    (3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), pages 7-71 (``IMO LSA Code''), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  
160.151-7, 160.151-15, 160.151-17, 160.151-21, 160.151-29, and 160.151-
33.
    (4) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances, 
pages 79-254 (``IMO Revised recommendation on testing''), IBR approved 
for Sec. Sec.  160.151-21, 160.151-27, 160.151-29, 160.151-31, and 
160.151-57.
    (5) Annex 7 to MSC 87/26, Report of the Maritime Safety Committee on 
its Eighty-Seventh Session, ``Resolution MSC.293(87), Adoption of 
Amendments to the International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code,'' 
(adopted May 21, 2010), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.151-7, 160.151-
15, 160.151-17, 160.151-21, 160.151-29, and 160.151-33 (``Resolution 
MSC.293(87)'').
    (6) Annex 9 to MSC 87/26, Report of the Maritime Safety Committee on 
its Eighty-Seventh Session, ``Resolution MSC.295(87), Adoption of 
Amendments to the Revised Recommendation on Testing of Life-Saving 
Appliances (Resolution MSC.81(70)),'' (adopted May 21, 2010), IBR 
approved for Sec. Sec.  160.151-21, 160.151-27, 160.151-29, 160.151-31, 
and 160.151-57 (``Resolution MSC.295(87)'').
    (e) International Standards Organization (ISO): ISO Central 
Secretariat [ISO Copyright Office], Case Postale 56, CH 1211 Geneva 20, 
Switzerland.
    (1) ISO 15738:2002(E), Ships and marine technology--Gas inflation 
systems for inflatable life-saving appliances, First Edition (February 
1, 2002), IBR approved for Sec.  160.151-15 (``ISO 15738'').
    (2) ISO 17339:2002(E), Ships and marine technology--Sea anchors for 
survival craft and rescue boats, First Edition (November 15, 2002), IBR 
approved for Sec.  160.151-21 (``ISO 17339'').
    (3) ISO 18813:2006(E), Ships and marine technology--Survival 
equipment for survival craft and rescue boats, First Edition (April 1, 
2006), IBR approved for Sec.  160.151-21 (``ISO 18813'').
    (f) Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents 
Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robins Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19111-5094, 
https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
    (1) MIL-C-17415F, Military Specification, Cloth, Coated, and 
Webbing, Inflatable Boat and Miscellaneous Use, (May 31, 1989), IBR 
approved for Sec.  160.151-15 (``MIL-C-17415F'').
    (2) [Reserved]

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62996, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 77 FR 9865, 
Feb. 21, 2012; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2022-
0323, 88 FR 10031, Feb. 16, 2023]



Sec.  160.151-7  Construction of inflatable liferafts.

    Except as specified in this subpart, each SOLAS A and SOLAS B 
inflatable liferaft must meet the requirements of Chapter III of SOLAS 
and the IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this subpart). To be approved under 
this subpart, inflatable liferafts must be constructed in accordance 
with the following provisions of the IMO LSA Code:, as amended by 
Resolution MSC.293(87):
    (a) IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) Chapter I/
1.2, General requirements for life-saving appliances; and
    (b) IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) Chapter IV/
4.2, Inflatable liferafts.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-2010-0048, 76 
FR 62997, Oct. 11, 2011; 77 FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]



Sec.  160.151-9  Independent laboratory.

    Tests and inspections that this subpart requires to be conducted by 
an independent laboratory must be conducted by an independent laboratory 
accepted by the Coast Guard under subpart 159.010 of part 159 of this 
chapter to perform such tests and inspections. A list of accepted 
laboratories is available from the Commandant.



Sec.  160.151-11  Approval procedure.

    (a) A manufacturer seeking approval of an inflatable liferaft must 
comply with the procedures in part 159, subpart 159.005, of this chapter 
and in this section.
    (b) A manufacturer seeking approval of an inflatable liferaft must 
submit an application to the Commandant meeting the requirements of 
Sec.  159.005-5 of this chapter for preapproval review. To meet the 
requirements of Sec.  159.005-5(a)(2) of this chapter, the manufacturer 
shall submit--

[[Page 217]]

    (1) General-arrangement drawing including principal dimensions;
    (2) Seating-arrangement plan;
    (3) Plans for subassemblies;
    (4) Plans for carriage and, in detail, stowage of equipment;
    (5) Plans for the inflation system;
    (6) Plans for the outer container;
    (7) Plans for any lifting shackle or ring, including diameter in 
cross-section, used for connecting the suspension tackle of a davit-
launched inflatable liferaft to the automatic disengaging device used 
for its hoisting and lowering;
    (8) Other drawing(s) necessary to show that the inflatable liferaft 
complies with the requirements of this subpart;
    (9) Description of methods of seam and joint construction;
    (10) Samples and identification of each material used in the 
buoyancy chambers, floor, and canopy, including the identity of their 
manufacturers, and segments of each type of seam made from such 
materials; and
    (11) Complete data pertinent to the installation and use of the 
proposed inflatable liferaft, including the maximum proposed height of 
its installation above the water, and the maximum length of the sea 
painter installed in the inflatable liferaft.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-2010-0048, 76 
FR 62997, Oct. 11, 2011]



Sec.  160.151-13  Fabrication of prototype inflatable liferafts for
approval.

    If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted in 
accordance with Sec.  160.151-11 is satisfactory to the Commandant, 
fabrication of a prototype inflatable liferaft must proceed in the 
following sequence:
    (a) The manufacturer shall arrange for an independent laboratory to 
inspect the liferaft during its fabrication and prepare an inspection 
report meeting the requirements of Sec.  159.005-11 of this chapter. The 
independent laboratory shall conduct at least one inspection during 
layup of the buoyancy tubes of the liferaft, at least one inspection of 
the finished liferaft when fully inflated, and as many other inspections 
as are necessary to determine that the liferaft--
    (1) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified 
in the plans;
    (2) Passes the applicable inspections and tests required by Sec.  
160.151-31; and
    (3) Conforms with the manufacturer's plans.
    (b) The manufacturer shall submit the independent laboratory's 
inspection report to the Commandant for review.
    (c) If, after review of the inspection report of the independent 
laboratory, the Commandant notifies the manufacturer that the liferaft 
is in compliance with the requirements of this subpart, the manufacturer 
may proceed with the approval tests required under Sec. Sec.  160.151-27 
and 160.151-29.
    (d) The manufacturer shall notify the cognizant OCMI of where the 
approval tests required under Sec. Sec.  160.151-27 and 160.151-29 will 
take place and arrange with the OCMI a testing schedule that allows for 
a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be 
performed.
    (e) The manufacturer shall admit the Coast Guard inspector to any 
place where work or testing is performed on inflatable liferafts or 
their component parts and materials for the purpose of--
    (1) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the manufacturer 
is satisfactory;
    (2) Witnessing tests; and
    (3) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections 
or tests.
    (f) The manufacturer shall make available to the Coast Guard 
inspector the affidavits or invoices from the suppliers of all essential 
materials used in the production of inflatable liferafts, together with 
records identifying the lot numbers of the liferafts in which such 
materials were used.
    (g) On conclusion of the approval testing, the manufacturer shall 
comply with the requirements of Sec.  159.005-9(a)(5) of this chapter by 
submitting the following to the Commandant:
    (1) The report of the prototype testing prepared by the 
manufacturer. The report must include a signed statement by the Coast 
Guard inspector who witnessed the testing, indicating that the report 
accurately describes the testing and its results.

[[Page 218]]

    (2) The final plans of the liferaft as built. The plans must 
include--
    (i) The servicing manual described in Sec.  160.151-37;
    (ii) The instructions for training and maintenance described in 
Sec. Sec.  160.151-59 and 160.151-61, respectively;
    (iii) The final version of the plans required under Sec.  160.151-
11(b), including--
    (A) Each correction, change, or addition made during the 
construction and approval testing of prototypes;
    (B) Sufficient detail to determine that each requirement of this 
subpart is met;
    (C) Fabrication details for the inflatable liferaft, including 
details of the method of making seams and joints; and
    (D) Full details of the inflation system.
    (3) A description of the quality-control procedures that will apply 
to the production of the inflatable liferaft. These must include--
    (i) The system for checking material certifications received from 
suppliers;
    (ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
    (iii) The method for checking quality of seams and joints; and
    (iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of 
fabrication to assure that the approved liferaft complies with the 
approved plans and the requirements of this subpart.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997; 62 FR 35392, July 1, 1997]



Sec.  160.151-15  Design and performance of inflatable liferafts.

    To satisfy the requirements of the regulations of SOLAS and the IMO 
LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this subpart), each inflatable 
liferaft must meet the following requirements of this section:
    (a) Workmanship and materials (IMO LSA Code, as amended by 
Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter I/1.2.1). Each liferaft must be 
constructed of the following types of materials meeting MIL-C-17415E 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this subpart, or 
materials accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or superior and be 
capable of withstanding the prototype tests specified in 160.151-27 of 
this subchapter.
    (b) Seams (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), 
Chapter I/1.2.2.1). Each seam must be at least as strong as the weakest 
of the materials joined by the seam. Each seam must be covered with tape 
where necessary to prevent lifting of and damage to fabric edges.
    (c) Protection from cold inflation-gas (IMO LSA Code, as amended by 
Resolution MSC.293(87) Chapter I/1.2.2.1). Each inflatable compartment 
must be provided with a protective liner or baffling arrangement at the 
inflation-gas inlet, or other equally effective means to prevent damage 
from exposure to cold inflation-gas.
    (d) Compatibility of dissimilar materials (IMO LSA Code, as amended 
by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter I/1.2.2.4). Where dissimilar 
materials are combined in the construction of a liferaft, provisions 
must be made to prevent loosening or tightening due to differences in 
thermal expansion, freezing, buckling, galvanic corrosion, or other 
incompatibilities.
    (e) Color (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), 
Chapter I/1.2.2.6). The primary color of the exterior of the canopy must 
be vivid reddish orange (color number 12197 of FED-STD-595C 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this subpart)), or a 
fluorescent color of a similar hue.
    (f) Retroreflective material (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter I/1.2.2.7). Each inflatable liferaft must be marked 
with Type I retroreflective material approved under part 164, subpart 
164.018, of this chapter as complying with SOLAS. The arrangement of the 
retroreflective material must comply with IMO Res. A.658(16) 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this subpart).
    (g) Towing attachments (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.1.4) Each towing attachment must be 
reinforced strongly enough to withstand the towing strain, and marked to 
indicate its function.
    (h) Weight (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), 
Chapter IV/

[[Page 219]]

4.1.2.2). The weight of the liferaft including its container and 
equipment may not exceed 185 kg (407.8 lb), unless the liferaft is 
intended for launching into the water directly from its stowed position 
using an inclined or hand-tilted rack, or is served by a launching 
appliance approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.163.
    (i) Lifelines (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), 
Chapter IV/4.1.3.1). Each lifeline must be made of nylon tubular webbing 
with a minimum diameter of 14 mm (9/16-inch), rope with a minimum 
diameter of 10 mm (\3/8\-inch), or equivalent. Each lifeline-attachment 
patch must have a minimum breaking strength of 1.5 kN (350 lb) pull 
exerted perpendicular to the base of the patch. Each bight of an 
exterior lifeline must be long enough to allow the lifeline to reach to 
the waterline of the liferaft when it is afloat.
    (j) [Reserved]
    (k) Painter system (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.6.1). The painter protruding from the 
liferaft container must be inherently resistant, or treated to be 
resistant, to deterioration from sunlight and salt spray, and resistant 
to absorption and wicking of water.
    (l) Inflation cylinders (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.2.3). Each compressed-gas inflation cylinder 
within the liferaft must meet the requirements of Sec.  147.60 of this 
chapter, and be installed so that--
    (1) Slings and reinforcements of sufficient strength retain the 
inflation cylinders in place when the liferaft is dropped into the water 
from its stowage height and during inflation; and
    (2) The painter and the inflation cylinders of the liferaft are 
linked to start inflation when the painter is pulled by one person 
exerting a force not exceeding 150 N (34 lb).
    (m) Inflation systems (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.2.3). Gas inflation systems, including gas-
cylinder valves; gas-cylinder operating heads; high-pressure hose 
assemblies; and pressure relief, inflation/deflation, and non-return/
transfer valves; must be certified as complying with the requirements of 
ISO 15738 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this 
subpart).
    (n) Boarding ladders (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.4.2). The steps of each boarding ladder must 
provide a suitable foothold.
    (o) Canopy lamps (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.3.3). The exterior and interior liferaft 
canopy lamps must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 
161.101.
    (p) Containers (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), 
Chapter IV/4.2.6.1). Each container for packing liferafts--
    (1) Must include a telltale made with a seal-and-wire, or 
equivalent, method for indicating whether the liferaft has been tampered 
with or used since packing;
    (2) Must be designed so that the liferaft breaks free of the 
container when inflation is initiated, without the need to manually open 
or remove any closing arrangement;
    (3) Must have an interior surface smooth and free from splinters, 
barbs, or rough projections;
    (4) Must be of rigid construction where the liferaft is intended for 
float-free launching or for exposed stowage on deck;
    (5) If rigid, must be designed to facilitate securing the inflatable 
liferaft to a vessel to permit quick release for manual launching;
    (6) If constructed of fibrous-glass-reinforced plastic, must be 
provided with a means to prevent abrasion of the liferaft fabric, such 
as by using a gel-coated interior finish of the container, enclosing the 
liferaft in an envelope of plastic film, or equivalent means; and
    (7) Except as provided in paragraph (o)(4) of this section, may be 
of fabric construction. Each container of fabric construction must be 
made of coated cloth, include carrying handles and drain holes, and be 
adaptable to stowage and expeditious removal from lockers and deck-
mounted enclosures adjacent to liferaft-launching stations. The weight 
of a liferaft in a fabric container including its container and

[[Page 220]]

equipment may not exceed 100 kg (220 lb).

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-1998-4442, 63 
FR 52192, Sept. 30, 1998; USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62997, Oct. 11, 2011; 77 
FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]



Sec.  160.151-17  Additional requirements for design and performance of
SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts.

    To satisfy the requirements of the indicated regulations of SOLAS 
and IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this subpart), each SOLAS A and SOLAS 
B inflatable liferaft must be manufactured in accordance with Sec. Sec.  
160.151-7 and 160.151-15, and must comply with the following additional 
requirements:
    (a) Stability (the IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.5). (1) Each liferaft with a capacity of 
more than 8 persons must have a waterplane of circular or elliptical 
shape. A hexagonal, octagonal, or similar outline approximating a 
circular or elliptical shape is acceptable.
    (2) Each liferaft manufactured under this subpart must have water-
containing stability appendages on its underside to resist capsizing 
from wind and waves. These appendages must meet the following 
requirements:
    (i) The total volume of the appendages must not be less than 220 
liters (7.77 ft\3\) for liferafts approved to accommodate up to 10 
persons. The volume of an appendage is calculated using the bottom of 
the lowest opening in an appendage as the height of the appendage, and 
by deducting the volume of any objects inside the appendage. No opening 
designed to close as water is forced out of an appendage is an opening 
for the purpose of this calculation.
    (ii) The total volume of the appendages for liferafts approved to 
accommodate more than 10 persons must be not less than 20 x N liters 
(0.706 x N ft\3\), where N = the number of persons for which the 
liferaft is approved.
    (iii) The appendages must be securely attached and evenly 
distributed around the periphery of the exterior bottom of the liferaft. 
They may be omitted at the locations of inflation cylinders.
    (iv) The appendages must consist of at least two separate parts so 
that damage to one part will permit at least half of the required total 
volume to remain intact.
    (v) Openings in or between the appendages must be provided to limit 
the formation of air pockets under the inflatable liferaft.
    (vi) The appendages must be designed to deploy underwater when the 
liferaft inflates, and to fill to at least 60 percent of their capacity 
within 25 seconds of deployment. If weights are used for this purpose, 
they must be of corrosion-resistant material.
    (vii) The primary color of the appendages must be vivid reddish 
orange (color number 12197 of FED-STD-595C (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.151-5 of this subpart)), or a fluorescent color of a 
similar hue.
    (b) Boarding ramp (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.4.1). The boarding ramp must have sufficient 
size and buoyancy to support one person weighing 100 kg (220 lb), 
sitting or kneeling and not holding onto any other part of the liferaft.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-1998-4442, 63 
FR 52192, Sept. 30, 1998; USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62997, Oct. 11, 2011; 77 
FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]



Sec.  160.151-21  Equipment required for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable
liferafts.

    To obtain Coast Guard approval, the equipment in each SOLAS A and 
SOLAS B inflatable liferaft must meet the following specific 
requirements when complying with the indicated regulations of SOLAS and 
the IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this subpart):
    (a) Heaving line (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.1). The buoyant heaving line must have a 
breaking strength of not less than 1.1 kN (250 lb), and must be attached 
to the inflatable liferaft near the entrance furthest from the painter 
attachment.
    (b) Jackknife (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), 
Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.2). Each folding knife

[[Page 221]]

must be a jackknife meeting the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(16).
    (c) Bailer ((IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), 
Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.3 and ISO 18813 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.151-5 of this subpart)). Each bailer must have a volume of at least 
2 L (125 in\3\).
    (d) Sponge (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), 
Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.4). Each sponge must have a volume of at least 750 
cm\3\ (48 in\3\) when saturated with water.
    (e) Sea anchors (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), 
Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.5 and ISO 17339 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.151-5 of this subpart)). Sea anchors without the swivels may be used 
if, during the towing test, a sea anchor of their design does not rotate 
when streamed. The sea anchors need not have the tripping lines if, 
during the towing test, a sea anchor of their design can be hauled in by 
one person. Sea anchors must be attached to the raft at a position so as 
to orient the primary entrance away from the seas as far as practicable 
while still allowing the sea anchor to be retrieved by a person inside 
the raft.
    (f) Paddles (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), 
Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.6 and ISO 18813). The paddles must be at least 1.2 m 
(4 ft) long and must be of the same size and type as used to pass the 
maneuverability test in paragraph 1/5.10 of IMO Revised recommendation 
on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87) (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this subpart).
    (g) Tin-opener (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), 
Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.7 and ISO 18813). Each sharp part of a tin-opener 
must have a guard.
    (h) First-aid kit (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.8). Each first-aid kit must meet the 
requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(10).
    (i) Whistle (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), 
Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.9 and ISO 18813). The whistle must be a ball-type or 
multi-tone whistle of corrosion-resistant construction.
    (j) Rocket parachute flare (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.10). Each rocket parachute flare must be 
approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.136.
    (k) Hand flare (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), 
Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.11). Each hand flare must be approved by the 
Commandant under approval series 160.121.
    (l) Buoyant smoke signal (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.12). Each buoyant smoke signal must be 
of the floating type approved by the Commandant under approval series 
160.122.
    (m) Electric torch (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.13). The waterproof electric torch must 
be a Type I or Type III flashlight constructed and marked in accordance 
with ASTM F 1014 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this 
subpart). Three-cell-size flashlights bearing Coast Guard approval 
numbers in the 161.008 series may continue to be used as long as they 
are serviceable.
    (n) Radar reflector (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.14). The radar reflector may be omitted 
if the outside of the container of the inflatable liferaft includes a 
notice near the ``SOLAS A'' or ``SOLAS B'' marking indicating that no 
radar reflector is included.
    (o) Signalling mirror (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.15). Each signalling mirror must meet 
the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(19).
    (p) Lifesaving signals (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.16). If not provided on a waterproof 
card or sealed in a transparent waterproof container, the table of 
lifesaving signals may be provided as part of the instruction manual.
    (q) Fishing tackle (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.17). The fishing tackle must meet the 
requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(11).
    (r) Food rations (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.18). The food rations must meet the 
requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(22).
    (s) Drinking water (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87),

[[Page 222]]

Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.19). Emergency drinking water must meet the 
requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(40). The desalting apparatus or 
reverse osmosis desalinator must be approved by the Commandant under 
approval series 160.058.
    (t) Drinking cup (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.20 and ISO 18813). The drinking cup must 
be graduated in ounces or milliliters or both.
    (u) Anti-seasickness medicine (IMO LSA Code, as amended by 
Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.21 and ISO 18813). The anti-
seasickness medicine must include instructions for use and be marked 
with an expiration date.
    (v) Survival instructions (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.22 and ISO 18813). The instructions on 
how to survive in a liferaft must--
    (1) Be waterproof;
    (2) Whatever other language or languages they may be in, be in 
English;
    (3) Meet the guidelines in IMO Res. A.657(16) (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this subpart); and
    (4) Be suspended in a clear film envelope from one of the arch tubes 
of the canopy.
    (w) Instructions for immediate action (IMO LSA Code, as amended by 
Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.23). The instructions for 
immediate action must--
    (1) Be waterproof;
    (2) Whatever other language or languages they may be in, be in 
English;
    (3) Meet the guidelines in IMO Res. A.657(16);
    (4) Explain both the noise accompanying the operation of any 
provided pressure-relief valves, and the need to render them inoperable 
after they complete venting; and
    (5) Be suspended from the inside canopy, so they are immediately 
visible by survivors on entering the inflatable liferaft. They may be 
contained in the same envelope with the instructions on how to survive 
if the instructions for immediate action are visible through both faces 
of the envelope.
    (x) Thermal protective aid (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.24). Each thermal protective aid must be 
approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.174.
    (y) Repair outfit (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.9.1.1 and ISO 18813). The repair outfit must 
include--
    (1) Six or more sealing clamps or serrated conical plugs, or a 
combination of the two;
    (2) Five or more tube patches at least 50 mm (2 in) in diameter (the 
Commandant will consider self-adhesive patches per ISO 18813 as an 
alternative); and
    (3) A roughing tool, if necessary to apply the patches.
    (z) Pump or bellows (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution 
MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.9.1.2). The pump or bellows must be manually 
operable and arranged to be capable of inflating any part of the 
inflatable structure of the liferaft.
    (aa) Plugs for pressure-relief valves. Plugs for rendering pressure-
relief valves inoperable must be provided in any liferaft fitted with 
such valves, unless the valves are of a type that can be rendered 
inoperable without separate plugs. If provided, plugs for pressure-
relief valves must be usable with hands gloved in an immersion suit, and 
must either float or be secured to the liferaft by a lanyard.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-1998-4442, 63 
FR 52192, Sept. 30, 1998; USCG-2000-7790, 65 FR 58464, Sept. 29, 2000; 
USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62997, Oct. 11, 2011; 77 FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012; 
USCG-2020-0107, 87 FR 68305, Nov. 14, 2022]



Sec.  160.151-25  Additional equipment for inflatable liferafts.

    The manufacturer may specify additional equipment to be carried in 
inflatable liferafts if the equipment is identified in the 
manufacturer's approved drawings and if the packing and inspection of 
the equipment is covered in the servicing manual. Any such additional 
equipment for which performance or approval standards are prescribed in 
this part or in 47 CFR part 80 must comply with those standards.

[[Page 223]]



Sec.  160.151-27  Approval inspections and tests for inflatable liferafts.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, to satisfy 
the testing requirements of: IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as 
amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), part 1, paragraphs 5.1 through 5.15; 
paragraph 5.16 for a davit-launched inflatable liferaft; and paragraph 
5.17, a prototype inflatable liferaft of each design submitted for Coast 
Guard approval must meet the additional specific requirements and tests 
specified in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section.
    (b) The Commandant may waive certain tests for a liferaft identical 
in construction to a liferaft that has successfully completed the tests, 
if the liferafts differ only in size and are of essentially the same 
design.
    (c) Tests must be conducted in accordance with the indicated 
paragraphs of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by 
Resolution MSC.295(87), except:
    (1) Jump test (Paragraph 1/5.2). One-half of the jumps must be with 
the canopy erect, and the remainder with the canopy furled or deflated. 
If a ``suitable and equivalent mass'' is used, it must be equipped with 
the shoes described in paragraph 1/5.2.1 of Resolution A.689(17), and 
arranged so the shoes strike the liferaft first.
    (2) Mooring-out test (Paragraph 1/5.5). Initial inflation may be 
with compressed air.
    (3) Loading and seating test (Paragraph 1/5.7). For a liferaft not 
intended for use with a launching or embarkation appliance, the persons 
used to determine seating capacity shall wear insulated buoyant 
immersion suits rather than lifejackets.
    (4) Boarding test (Paragraph 1/5.8). This test must be performed 
using each boarding ramp or boarding ladder which is installed on the 
liferaft.
    (5) Canopy-closure test (Paragraph 1/5.12). This test is required 
only for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts. For a davit-launched 
liferaft, any opening near the lifting eye should be sealed during the 
test to prevent the ingress of water. The water accumulated within the 
liferaft at the end of the test must not exceed 4 L (1 gallon).
    (6) Detailed inspection (Paragraph 1/5.14). The independent 
laboratory's inspection of the prototype liferaft under Sec.  160.151-
13(a) satisfies the requirements of paragraph 1/5.14.
    (7) Davit-launched liferafts--strength test (Paragraph 1/5.16.1). 
The calculation of combined strength of the lifting components must be 
based on the lesser of--
    (i) The lowest breaking strength obtained for each item; or
    (ii) The component manufacturer's ultimate strength rating.
    (d) The boarding ramp on each liferaft equipped with one must be 
demonstrated capable of supporting one person weighing 100 kg (220 lb), 
sitting or kneeling and not holding onto any other part of the liferaft.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-2010-0048, 76 
FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011; 77 FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]



Sec.  160.151-29  Additional approval tests for SOLAS A and SOLAS B 
inflatable liferafts.

    To verify compliance with the requirements of IMO LSA Code, as 
amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.3.5 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this subpart), the following test must 
be conducted for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts in addition to 
those required by Sec.  160.151-27 and IMO Revised recommendation on 
testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87) (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this subpart:
    (a) Test of filling time for stability appendages. A representative 
sample of each type and size of stability appendage to be fitted to a 
liferaft must be tested as follows:
    (1) The appendage must be attached to a testing jig similar in 
material and construction to the appendage's intended location on a 
liferaft. The method of attachment must be the same as used on a 
liferaft. The appendage and jig must be attached to a scale capable of 
recording peak readings, and suspended over a pool of calm water. The 
dry weight must be recorded.
    (2) The appendage and jig must then be quickly lowered into the 
water until the appendage is completely submerged. When the appendage 
has been

[[Page 224]]

in the water for 25 seconds, it must be smoothly lifted completely out 
of the water, and the peak weight after the appendage is removed from 
the water recorded.
    (3) The difference in weights measured according to paragraphs (a) 
(1) and (2) of this section must be at least 60 percent of the 
appendage's volume, calculated in accordance with Sec.  160.151-
17(a)(2)(i).
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-1998-4442, 63 
FR 52192, Sept. 30, 1998; USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011; 77 
FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]



Sec.  160.151-31  Production inspections and tests of inflatable liferafts.

    (a) Production inspections and tests of inflatable liferafts must be 
carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent laboratory 
inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007, and with those of this 
section.
    (b) Each liferaft approved by the Coast Guard must be identified 
with unique lot and serial numbers as follows:
    (1) Each lot must consist of not more than 50 liferafts of the same 
design and carrying capacity.
    (2) A new lot must begin whenever the liferafts undergo changes of 
design, material, production method, or source of supply for any 
essential component.
    (3) The manufacturer may use a running-lot system, whereby the 
fabrication of the individual liferafts of a lot occurs over an extended 
interval under an irregular schedule. Each running lot must comprise not 
more than 10 liferafts of the same design and carrying capacity. Each 
running-lot system must be in accordance with a procedure proposed by 
the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant.
    (4) Unless a lot is a running lot, each lot must consist of 
liferafts produced under a process of continuous production.
    (c) Among the records required to be retained by the manufacturer 
under 46 CFR 159.007-13 , are affidavits or invoices from the suppliers 
identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved 
liferafts, together with the lot numbers of the liferafts constructed 
with those materials.
    (d) Each approved liferaft must pass each of the inspections and 
tests described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by 
Resolution MSC.295(87), part 2, paragraphs 5.1.3 through 5.1.6 
inclusive, (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this 
subpart) and prescribed by paragraphs (e) through (g) of this section. 
For a davit-launched liferaft, these tests must be preceded by the test 
described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by 
Resolution MSC.295(87), part 2, paragraph 5.2.
    (e) The test described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as 
amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), Paragraph 2/5.1.5, must be conducted 
under the following conditions:
    (1) The test must last 1 hour, with a maximum allowable pressure 
drop of 5 percent after compensation for changes in ambient temperature 
and barometric pressure.
    (2) For each degree Celsius of rise in temperature, 0.385 kPa must 
be subtracted from the final pressure reading (0.031 psig per degree 
Fahrenheit). For each degree Celsius of drop in temperature, 0.385 kPa 
must be added to the final pressure reading (again, 0.031 psig per 
degree Fahrenheit).
    (3) For each mm of mercury of rise in barometric pressure, 0.133 kPa 
must be added to the final temperature-corrected pressure reading (0.049 
psig per 0.1 inch of mercury). For each mm of mercury of drop in 
barometric pressure, 0.133 kPa must be subtracted from the final 
temperature-corrected pressure reading (again, 0.049 psig per 0.1 inch 
of mercury). Corrections for changes in ambient barometric pressure are 
necessary only if a measuring instrument open to the atmosphere, such as 
a manometer, is used.
    (f) One liferaft from each lot of fewer than 30 liferafts, and two 
from each lot of 30 to 50 liferafts, must pass the test described in IMO 
Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), 
part 2, paragraphs 5.1.1 and 5.1.2. If any liferaft fails this test--
    (1) The reason for the failure must be determined;
    (2) Each liferaft in the lot must be examined for the defect and 
repaired if

[[Page 225]]

reparable, or scrapped if irreparable; and
    (3) The lot test must be repeated, including random selection of the 
liferaft or liferafts to be tested. If any liferafts from the lot have 
left the place of manufacture, they must be recalled for examination, 
repair, and testing as necessary; or else the required actions must take 
place at an approved servicing facility.
    (g) The manufacturer shall arrange for inspections by an accepted 
independent laboratory at least once in each calendar quarter in which 
production of liferafts approved by the Coast Guard takes place. The 
time and date of each inspection must be selected by the independent 
laboratory, to occur when completed liferafts are in the manufacturing 
facility and others are under construction. The manufacturer shall 
ensure that the inspector from the independent laboratory--
    (1) Conducts the inspection and witnesses the tests required by 
paragraph (f) of this section, and further conducts a visual inspection 
to verify that the liferafts are being made in accordance with the 
approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
    (2) Examines the records of production inspections and tests for 
liferafts produced since the last inspection by an independent 
laboratory to verify that each required inspection and test has been 
carried out satisfactorily;
    (3) Conducts a design audit on at least one liferaft approved by the 
Coast Guard each year. If possible, different models of liferafts must 
be examined in the design audit from year to year. To retain Coast Guard 
approval, the manufacturer shall demonstrate to the inspector during 
each design audit that--
    (i) Each part used in the liferaft matches the part called for by 
the approved plans;
    (ii) Each part and subassembly are of the materials and components 
indicated on the approved plans or their bills of materials; and
    (iii) Each critical dimension is correct as shown either by 
measurement or by proper fit and function in the next-higher assembly.
    (h) The manufacturer must notify the cognizant Officer in Charge, 
Marine Inspection (OCMI) whenever final production inspections and tests 
are to be performed so that the OCMI may assign a marine inspector to 
the factory to witness the applicable tests and to ensure that the 
quality assurance program of the manufacturer is satisfactory.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-1998-4442, 63 
FR 52192, Sept. 30, 1998; USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011; 77 
FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]



Sec.  160.151-33  Marking and labeling.

    (a) Whatever other languages they may be in, markings required on 
each inflatable liferaft and its container must be in English.
    (b) The markings required on the liferaft container under IMO LSA 
Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.6.3 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of this subpart) must be 
on a plate or label sufficiently durable to withstand continuous 
exposure to environmental conditions at sea for the life of the 
liferaft. In addition, the container must be marked with the--
    (1) Manufacturer's model identification; and
    (2) U.S. Coast Guard approval number.
    (c) In addition to the markings required on the inflatable liferaft 
under IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/
4.2.7.1, the liferaft must be marked with the--
    (1) Manufacturer's model identification;
    (2) Lot number; and
    (3) U.S. Coast Guard approval number.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-2010-0048, 76 
FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011; USCG-2010-0048, 77 FR 9865, Feb. 21, 2012]



Sec.  160.151-35  Servicing.

    (a) Inspection and repair. Inflatable liferafts carried under the 
regulations in this chapter, and in chapter I of title 33 CFR, must be 
inspected periodically by a servicing facility approved by the Coast 
Guard, repaired as necessary, and repacked. Requirements for periodic 
inspection and repair of liferafts approved by the Coast Guard appear in 
Sec. Sec.  160.151-37 through 160.151-57.

[[Page 226]]

    (b) Manufacturer's requirements. To retain Coast Guard approval of 
liferafts, the manufacturer must:
    (1) Prepare a servicing manual or manuals complying with Sec.  
160.151-37 to cover each model and size of liferaft that the 
manufacturer produces. The manual or manuals must be submitted to the 
Commandant for approval.
    (2) At least once each year, issue a list of revisions to the manual 
or manuals, and issue a list of bulletins affecting the manual or 
manuals, that are in effect.
    (3) Make available to each servicing facility approved by the Coast 
Guard the manual or manuals, the revisions, the bulletins, the plans, 
and any unique parts and tools that may be necessary to service the 
liferaft. The plans may be either the manufacturing drawings, or special 
plans prepared especially for use by servicing technicians. They may be 
incorporated into the manual or manuals.
    (4) Have a training program complying with Sec.  160.151-39 for the 
certification of servicing technicians.
    (5) Notify the OCMI for the zone in which the servicing facility is 
located whenever the manufacturer becomes aware of servicing at approved 
facilities that is not in accordance with the requirements of this 
subpart, or aware of falsification by an approved facility of records 
required by this subpart.
    (c) A manufacturer of liferafts not approved by the Coast Guard may 
establish servicing facilities approved by the Coast Guard for such 
liferafts in the United States if the manufacturer meets the 
requirements of paragraph (b) of this section.



Sec.  160.151-37  Servicing manual.

    (a) The servicing manual must provide instructions on performing the 
following tasks:
    (1) Removing the inflatable liferaft from the container for testing 
without damaging the liferaft or its contents.
    (2) Examining the liferaft and its container for damage and wear 
including deteriorated structural joints and seams.
    (3) Determining the need for repairs.
    (4) Performing each repair which can be made by a servicing 
facility.
    (5) Identifying repairs that the manufacturer must perform.
    (6) Determining when liferaft equipment must be replaced.
    (7) Conducting tests required by Sec.  160.151-57.
    (8) Repacking the liferaft.
    (9) Changing the maximum height of stowage of the liferaft by 
changing the length of the painter.
    (10) Special equipment limitations or packing instructions, if any, 
necessary to qualify the liferaft for a particular height of stowage.
    (11) Changing the service of the liferaft by changing the contents 
of the equipment pack.
    (12) Proper marking of the liferaft container, including approval 
number, persons' capacity, maximum height of stowage, service (equipment 
pack), and expiration date of servicing.
    (13) A list of parts for--
    (i) Survival equipment;
    (ii) Compressed-gas cylinders;
    (iii) Inflation valves;
    (iv) Relief valves; and
    (v) Repair equipment.
    (14) The necessary pressures for each size of approved liferaft for 
conducting the ``Necessary Additional Pressure'' test required by Sec.  
160.151-57(k).
    (b) Each revision to a servicing manual, and each bulletin, that 
authorizes the modification of a liferaft, or that affects the 
compliance of a liferaft with any requirement under this subpart, must 
be submitted to and approved by the Commandant. Other revisions and 
bulletins need not be approved, but a copy of each must be submitted to 
the Commandant when issued.
    (c) Each manual provided under this section must bear the original 
signature of a representative of the manufacturer attesting that it is a 
true copy of the manual approved by the Commandant.



Sec.  160.151-39  Training of servicing technicians.

    (a) The training program for certification of servicing technicians 
must include--
    (1) Training and practice in packing an inflatable liferaft, 
repairing buoyancy tubes, repairing inflation-system

[[Page 227]]

valves, and other inspections and operations described in the approved 
servicing manual;
    (2) An evaluation at the end of the training to determine whether 
each trainee has successfully completed the training; and
    (3) Issuance of a certificate of competence to each technician who 
successfully completes the training.
    (b) The manufacturer shall maintain refresher training for 
recertification of previously trained servicing technicians. This 
training must include--
    (1) Checking the performance of the technicians in the inspections 
and operations described in the manual;
    (2) Retraining of the technicians in inspections and operations for 
which they are deficient;
    (3) Training and practice in new inspections and operations;
    (4) An evaluation at the end of the training to determine whether or 
not each trainee has successfully completed the training; and
    (5) Issuance of a certificate of competence to each technician who 
successfully completes the training.
    (c) Each time the manufacturer holds a course for servicing 
technicians who will perform servicing on liferafts approved by the 
Coast Guard, the manufacturer shall notify the cognizant OCMI 
sufficiently in advance to allow, at the option of the OCMI, for a Coast 
Guard inspector or inspectors to travel to the site where the training 
is to occur.



Sec.  160.151-41  Approval of servicing facilities.

    (a) To obtain and maintain Coast Guard approval as an ``approved 
servicing facility'' for a particular manufacturer's inflatable 
liferafts, a facility must meet the requirements, and follow the 
procedures, of this section.
    (b) The owner or operator of a servicing facility desiring Coast 
Guard approval shall apply to the cognizant OCMI. The application must 
include--
    (1) The name and address of the facility;
    (2) The name(s) of its competent servicing technician(s);
    (3) Identification of the manufacturer(s) of the liferafts the 
facility will service; and
    (4) Any limits or special conditions that should apply to the 
approval of the facility.
    (c) The owner or operator of the servicing facility shall arrange 
for an inspection with the OCMI to whom the owner or operator applied 
under paragraph (b) of this section. A currently trained servicing 
technician shall successfully demonstrate the complete service to each 
make and type of liferaft for which approval as a servicing facility is 
sought, in the presence of a Coast Guard inspector or of a third-party 
inspector accepted by the OCMI, or such technician shall present 
evidence of having performed such service at the time of initial or 
refresher training. The service must include:
    (1) Removing the liferaft from the container for testing without 
damaging the liferaft or its contents;
    (2) Examining the liferaft and its container for damage and wear;
    (3) Determining the need for repairs;
    (4) Determining whether equipment must be replaced;
    (5) Conducting the tests required by Sec.  160.151-57;
    (6) Repacking the liferaft;
    (7) Inflating the fully packed liferaft using its inflation 
mechanism; and
    (8) Repairing a leak in a main buoyancy chamber, and subjecting the 
repaired chamber to the Necessary Additional Pressure test described in 
Sec.  160.151-57(k). This repair may be done on a liferaft that actually 
needs it, on one condemned, or on an inflatable chamber fabricated of 
liferaft material specifically for this purpose. (An otherwise 
serviceable liferaft should not be damaged for this purpose.)
    (d) Whenever servicing of liferafts takes place, each servicing 
facility must allow Coast Guard inspectors or third-party inspectors 
accepted by the OCMI access to the place where the servicing occurs.
    (e) Each servicing facility must employ at least one servicing 
technician who has successfully completed the manufacturer's training 
described in Sec.  160.151-39 (a) or (b), including training in the 
servicing of davit-launched liferafts if the facility will service 
these. The training must have been completed within the preceding--

[[Page 228]]

    (1) 12 months for the facility to obtain its approval to service the 
liferafts of a particular manufacturer; or
    (2) 36 months for the facility to retain approval to service the 
liferafts of a particular manufacturer.



Sec.  160.151-43  Conditions at servicing facilities.

    (a) Each facility must maintain a room to service inflatable 
liferafts that--
    (1) Is clean;
    (2) Is fully enclosed;
    (3) Has enough space to service the number of liferafts likely to be 
present for service at one time;
    (4) Has a ceiling high enough to hold and allow overturning of a 
fully inflated liferaft of the largest size to be serviced, or is 
furnished with an equally efficient means to facilitate the inspection 
of bottom seams;
    (5) Has a smooth floor that will not damage a liferaft, can be 
easily cleaned, and is kept clean and free from oil, grease, and 
abrasive material;
    (6) Is well lit but free from direct sunlight;
    (7) Is arranged to maintain an even temperature and low humidity in 
each area where liferafts are pressure tested, including by mechanical 
air-conditioning equipment in climates where it is necessary;
    (8) Is arranged so that stored liferafts are not subjected to 
excessive loads and, if stacked one directly on top of another, does not 
have them stacked more than two liferafts high;
    (9) Is efficiently ventilated but free of drafts; and
    (10) Is a designated no-smoking area.
    (b) In addition to the room required by paragraph (a) of this 
section, each facility must maintain areas or rooms for storage of 
liferafts awaiting servicing, repair, or delivery; for repair and 
painting of reinforced plastic containers; for storage of pyrotechnics 
and other materials, such as spare parts and required equipment; and for 
administrative purposes.



Sec.  160.151-45  Equipment required for servicing facilities.

    Each servicing facility approved by the Coast Guard must maintain 
equipment to carry out the operations described in the manufacturer's 
servicing manual approved in accordance with Sec.  160.151-35(b)(1), 
including--
    (a) A set of plans, as specified in Sec.  160.151-35(b)(3), for each 
inflatable liferaft to be serviced;
    (b) A current copy of this subpart;
    (c) A current copy of the manual approved in accordance with Sec.  
160.151-35(b)(1), including all revisions and bulletins in effect as 
indicated on the annual list issued in accordance with Sec.  160.151-
35(b)(2);
    (d) Hot presses (if applicable);
    (e) Safety-type glue pots or equivalents;
    (f) Abrasive devices;
    (g) A source of clean, dry, pressurized air; hoses; and attachments 
for inflating liferafts;
    (h) A source of vacuum; hoses; and attachments for deflating 
liferafts;
    (i) Mercury manometer, water manometer, or other pressure-
measurement device or pressure gauge of equivalent accuracy and 
sensitivity;
    (j) Thermometer;
    (k) Barometer, aneroid or mercury;
    (l) Calibrated torque-wrench for assembling the inflation system;
    (m) Accurate weighing scale;
    (n) Repair materials and equipment, and spare parts as specified in 
the applicable manual, except that items of limited ``shelf life'' need 
not be stocked if they are readily available;
    (o) A complete stock of the survival equipment required to be stowed 
in the liferafts, except for items of equipment that are readily 
available;
    (p) A means for load-testing davit-launched liferafts, unless the 
facility services only non-davit-launched liferafts;
    (q) A supply of parts for all inflation components and valves 
specified in the applicable manual; and
    (r) A tool board that clearly indicates where each small tool is 
stored, or has an equivalent means to make sure that no tools are left 
in the liferaft when repacked.



Sec.  160.151-47  Requirements for owners or operators of servicing
facilities.

    To maintain Coast Guard approval, the owner or operator of each 
servicing facility approved by the Coast Guard must--

[[Page 229]]

    (a) Ensure that servicing technicians have received sufficient 
information and training to follow instructions for changes and for new 
techniques related to the inflatable liferafts serviced by the facility, 
and have available at least one copy of each manufacturer's approved 
servicing manual, revision, and bulletin;
    (b) Calibrate each pressure gauge, mechanically-operated barometer, 
and weighing scale at intervals of not more than 1 year, or in 
accordance with the equipment manufacturer's requirements;
    (c) Ensure that each liferaft serviced under the facility's Coast 
Guard approval is serviced by or under the direct supervision of a 
servicing technician who has completed the requirements of either Sec.  
160.151-39 (a) or (b);
    (d) Ensure that each liferaft serviced under the facility's Coast 
Guard approval is serviced in accordance with the approved manual;
    (e) Specify which makes of liferafts the facility is approved to 
service when representing that the facility is approved by the Coast 
Guard; and
    (f) Ensure that the facility does not service any make of liferaft 
for an inspected vessel of the U.S. or any other U.S.-flag vessel 
required to carry approved liferafts, unless the facility is approved by 
the Coast Guard to service that make of liferafts.



Sec.  160.151-49  Approval of servicing facilities at remote sites.

    A servicing facility may be approved for servicing liferafts at a 
remote site, provided that appropriate arrangements have been made to 
ensure that each such site meets the requirements of Sec. Sec.  160.151-
41(e), 160.151-43, and 160.151-45. The facility must have a portable 
assortment of test equipment, spare parts, and replacement survival 
equipment to accompany the technician doing the servicing. However, if 
repair of liferafts will not be attempted at a remote site, equipment 
needed for repair does not need to be available at that site. A facility 
must be specifically authorized in its letter of approval to conduct 
servicing at a remote site.



Sec.  160.151-51  Notice of approval.

    If the cognizant OCMI determines that the servicing facility meets 
the applicable requirements of Sec. Sec.  160.151-39 through 160.151-47, 
the OCMI notifies the facility that it is approved and notifies the 
Commandant. The Commandant issues an approval letter to the servicing 
facility with copies to the OCMI and to the manufacturer(s) whose 
liferafts the facility is approved to service. The letter will specify 
any limits on the approval, and will assign the facility's approval code 
for use on the inspection sticker required by Sec.  160.151-57(m)(3). 
The Commandant will maintain a current list of approved facilities.



Sec.  160.151-53  Notice to OCMI of servicing.

    (a) Before servicing an inflatable liferaft under the servicing 
facility's Coast Guard approval, the owner or operator of the facility 
must tell the cognizant OCMI for each liferaft to be serviced--
    (1) The make and size of the liferaft;
    (2) The age of the liferaft; and
    (3) Whether the liferaft is due for a five-year inflation test.
    (b) The OCMI will inform the servicing facility whether the 
servicing of the liferaft must be witnessed by an inspector.
    (c) If the OCMI requires the servicing of the liferaft to be 
witnessed by an inspector--
    (1) The servicing facility must arrange a schedule with the OCMI 
that will allow a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the 
servicing is to occur;
    (2) The owner or operator of the servicing facility, by permission 
of the OCMI, may arrange for the servicing to be witnessed instead by a 
third-party inspector accepted by the OCMI if a Coast Guard marine 
inspector is not available in a timely manner; and
    (3) The servicing facility must not begin servicing the liferaft 
until the inspector arrives at the site.
    (d) No deviation from servicing-manual procedures may occur without 
the prior approval of the OCMI. To request the approval of a deviation, 
the owner or operator of the servicing facility shall notify the OCMI of 
the proposed deviation from the procedures, and

[[Page 230]]

must explain to the OCMI the need for the deviation.



Sec.  160.151-55  Withdrawal of approval.

    (a) The OCMI may withdraw the approval of the servicing facility, or 
may suspend its approval pending correction of deficiencies, if the 
Coast Guard inspector or accepted third-party inspector finds that--
    (1) The facility does not meet the requirements of Sec. Sec.  
160.151-41 through 160.151-47, or
    (2) The servicing is not performed in accordance with Sec.  160.151-
57.
    (b) A withdrawal of approval may be appealed in accordance with part 
1, subpart 1.03, of this chapter.
    (c) The OCMI may remove a suspension pending correction of 
deficiencies if the servicing facility demonstrates that the 
deficiencies have been corrected.



Sec.  160.151-57  Servicing procedure.

    (a) Each inflatable liferaft serviced by a servicing facility 
approved by the Coast Guard must be inspected and tested in accordance 
with paragraphs (b) through (r) of this section, and the manufacturer's 
servicing manual approved in accordance with Sec.  160.151-35(b)(1).
    (b) The following procedures must be carried out at each servicing:
    (1) The working-pressure leakage test described in IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), 
paragraph 2/5.1.5 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.151-5 of 
this subpart), must be conducted.
    (2) Inflation hoses must be pressurized and checked for damage and 
leakage as part of the working-pressure leakage test, or in a separate 
test.
    (3) An inflatable floor must be inflated until it is firm, and let 
stand for one hour. The inflatable floor must still be firm at the end 
of the hour.
    (4) The seams connecting the floor to the buoyancy tube must be 
checked for slippage, rupture, and lifting of edges.
    (5) Each item of survival equipment must be examined, and--
    (i) Replaced at the time of servicing if there is less than 6 months 
remaining before the expiration date; and
    (ii) Otherwise, repaired or replaced if it is damaged or 
unserviceable.
    (6) Each battery must be replaced with a fresh one if--
    (i) Its expiration date has passed;
    (ii) It has no expiration date; or
    (iii) It is to return to service in an item of survival equipment, 
but its measured voltage is less than its rated voltage.
    (7) Each power cell for the top and inside canopy lights must be 
inspected and tested as prescribed in the servicing manual unless it is 
a battery serviced in accordance with paragraph (b)(6) of this section. 
Each cell that is tested and found satisfactory may be reinstalled. Each 
cell that is outdated, is not tested, or fails the test must be 
replaced.
    (8) If the liferaft is equipped with an Emergency Position-
Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) or a Search and Rescue Transmitter 
(SART), the EPIRB or SART must be inspected and tested in accordance 
with the manufacturer's instructions. An EPIRB must be tested using the 
integrated test circuit and output indicator to determine whether it is 
operative. Each EPIRB or SART not operative must be repaired or 
replaced.
    (9) The manual inflation-pump must be tested for proper operation.
    (10) Each damaged, faded, or incorrect instruction label or 
identification label on the liferaft or its container must be replaced.
    (11) Each liferaft must be examined to ensure that it is properly 
marked with retroreflective material. The arrangement of the 
retroreflective material must meet the requirements of IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87). Damaged 
or missing retroreflective material must be replaced with Type I 
material approved under 46 CFR part 164, subpart 164.018, as complying 
with SOLAS.
    (12) Each inflation cylinder must be weighed. If its weight loss 
exceeds five percent of the weight of the charge, it must be recharged.
    (c) When an inflation cylinder is recharged for any reason, the 
following inflation-head components must be renewed:
    (1) The poppet-pin assembly, if any.

[[Page 231]]

    (2) Each plastic or elastomeric seal, and each other part that 
deteriorates with age.
    (d) Each recharged inflation cylinder must stand for at least two 
weeks and be checked for leakage by weighing before being installed in a 
liferaft. An alternative mechanical or chemical test for fast detection 
of leakage may be used if the servicing manual approved by the 
Commandant in accordance with Sec.  160.151-35(b)(1) provides for it.
    (e) Each inflation cylinder that requires a hydrostatic test under 
49 CFR 180.205 must be tested and marked in accordance with that 
section.
    (f) At every second servicing of a davit-launched liferaft, the 
launching-load test in paragraph 2/5.2 of IMO Revised recommendation on 
testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87) must be conducted.
    (g) At every fifth annual servicing, before the conduct of the tests 
and inspections required in paragraphs (b) through (f) of this section, 
each liferaft must be removed from its container and, while still 
folded, inflated by the operation of its gas-inflation system.
    (h) Each liferaft showing minor leaks during the gas inflation test 
conducted in accordance with paragraph (g) of this section, may be 
repaired.
    (i) Each liferaft ten or more years past its date of manufacture 
must be condemned if it leaks extensively, or shows fabric damage other 
than minor porosity, during the gas inflation test conducted in 
accordance with paragraph (g) of this section.
    (j) After the gas inflation test conducted in accordance with 
paragraph (g) of this section, the liferaft may be evacuated and 
refilled with air for the tests in paragraphs (b) through (f) of this 
section.
    (k) At each annual servicing of a liferaft ten or more years past 
its date of manufacture during which the gas-inflation test in paragraph 
(g) of this section is not conducted, a ``Necessary Additional 
Pressure'' (NAP) test must be conducted. Before the tests and 
inspections required in paragraphs (b) through (f) of this section are 
conducted, the NAP test must be completed, using the following 
procedure:
    (1) Plug or otherwise disable the pressure-relief valves.
    (2) Gradually raise the pressure to the lesser of 2 times the design 
working pressure, or that specified in the manufacturer's servicing 
manual as sufficient to impose a tensile load on the tube fabric of 20 
percent of its minimum required tensile strength.
    (3) After 5 minutes, there should be no seam slippage, cracking, 
other defects, or pressure drop greater than 5 percent. If cracking in 
the buoyancy tubes is audible, accompanied by pressure loss, condemn the 
liferaft. If it is not, reduce the pressure in all buoyancy chambers 
simultaneously by enabling the pressure-relief valves.
    (l) At each annual servicing of a liferaft 10 or more years past its 
date of manufacture, the integrity of the seams connecting the floor to 
the buoyancy tube must be checked by the following procedure, or an 
equivalent procedure specified in the manufacturer's approved servicing 
manual:
    (1) With the buoyancy tube supported a sufficient distance above the 
floor of the servicing facility to maintain clearance during the test, a 
person weighing not less than 75 kg (165 lb) shall walk or crawl around 
the entire perimeter of the floor of the liferaft.
    (2) The seams connecting the floor to the buoyancy tube must then be 
inspected for slippage, rupture, and lifting of edges.
    (m) The servicing facility must complete the following for each 
liferaft that passes these inspections and tests:
    (1) Permanently mark the liferaft on its outside canopy, or on a 
servicing-record panel on an interior portion of one of its buoyancy 
tubes near an entrance, with--
    (i) The date of the servicing;
    (ii) The identification and location of the servicing facility; and
    (iii) If applicable, an indication that the special fifth-year 
servicing was performed.
    (2) Permanently and legibly mark on the identification device 
provided in accordance with Sec.  160.151-17(c), or on the outside 
canopy of the liferaft, the name, if known, of the vessel on which the 
raft will be installed or the name, if known, of the vessel owner.
    (3) Affix an inspection sticker to the liferaft container or valise. 
The sticker

[[Page 232]]

must be of a type that will remain legible for at least 2 years when 
exposed to a marine environment, and that cannot be removed without 
being destroyed. The sticker must be about 100 mm x 150 mm (4 by 6 
inches), with the last digit of the year of expiration superimposed over 
a background color that corresponds to the colors specified for the 
validation stickers for recreational-boat numbers in 33 CFR 174.15(c), 
and be marked with the Coast Guard identifying insignia in accordance 
with the requirements of 33 CFR 23.12. The sticker must also contain the 
following:
    (i) The name of the manufacturer of the liferaft.
    (ii) The year and month of expiration determined in accordance with 
paragraph (n) of this section.
    (iii) Identification of the servicing facility, printed on the 
sticker or indicated on the sticker by punch using an approval code 
issued by the Commandant.
    (n) The expiration date of the servicing sticker is 12 months after 
the date the liferaft was repacked, except that:
    (1) For a new liferaft, the expiration date may be not more than two 
years after the date the liferaft was first packed, if--
    (i) Dated survival equipment in the liferaft will not expire before 
the sticker expiration date; and
    (ii) The liferaft will not be installed on a vessel certificated 
under SOLAS.
    (2) For a liferaft stored indoors, under controlled temperatures 
(between 0 [deg]C (32 [deg]F) and 45 [deg]C (113 [deg]F)), for not more 
than 6 months from the date it was serviced or first packed, the 
expiration date may be extended up to the length of time the liferaft 
remained in storage.
    (3) For a liferaft stored indoors, under controlled temperatures 
(between 0 [deg]C (32 [deg]F) and 45 [deg]C (113 [deg]F)), for not more 
than 12 months from the date it was serviced or first packed, the 
expiration date may be extended up to the length of time the liferaft 
remained in storage, if the liferaft is opened, inspected, and repacked 
in a servicing facility approved in accordance with Sec. Sec.  160.151-
49 and 160.151-51. When the liferaft is opened--
    (i) The condition of the liferaft must be visually checked and found 
to be satisfactory;
    (ii) The inflation cylinders must be checked and weighed in 
accordance with paragraph (b)(12) of this section;
    (iii) All survival equipment whose expiration date has passed must 
be replaced; and
    (iv) All undated batteries must be replaced.
    (o) The servicing facility must remove and destroy the markings of 
Coast Guard approval on each liferaft condemned in the course of any 
servicing test or inspection.
    (p) The servicing facility must issue a certificate to the liferaft 
owner or owner's agent for each liferaft it services. The certificate 
must include--
    (1) The name of the manufacturer of the liferaft;
    (2) The serial number of the liferaft;
    (3) The date of servicing and repacking;
    (4) A record of the fifth-year gas-inflation test required in 
paragraph (g) of this section, whenever that test is performed;
    (5) A record of the hydrostatic test of each inflation cylinder 
required in paragraph (e) of this section, whenever that test is 
performed;
    (6) A record of any deviation from the procedures of the 
manufacturer's servicing manual authorized by the OCMI in accordance 
with Sec.  160.151-53(d);
    (7) The identification of the servicing facility, including its 
name, address, and the approval code assigned by the Commandant in 
accordance with Sec.  160.151-51;
    (8) The name, if known, of the vessel or vessel owner receiving the 
liferaft; and
    (9) The date the liferaft is returned to the owner or owner's agent.
    (q) The servicing facility must keep a record of each liferaft 
approved by the Coast Guard that it services for at least five years, 
and must make those records available to the Coast Guard upon request. 
Those records must include--
    (1) The serial number of the liferaft;
    (2) The date of servicing and repacking;
    (3) The identification of any Coast Guard or third-party inspector 
present;

[[Page 233]]

    (4) The name, if known, of the vessel or vessel owner receiving the 
liferaft; and
    (5) The date the liferaft is returned to the owner or owner's agent.
    (r) The servicing facility must prepare and transmit to the OCMI, at 
least annually, statistics showing the nature and extent of damage to 
and defects found in liferafts during servicing and repair. The facility 
must notify the OCMI immediately of any critical defects it finds that 
may affect other liferafts.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-1998-4442, 63 
FR 52192, Sept. 30, 1998; USCG-2010-0759, 75 FR 60004, Sept. 29, 2010, 
as amended by USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011; 77 FR 9865, 
Feb. 21, 2012]



Sec.  160.151-59  Operating instructions and information for the ship's 
training manual.

    (a) The liferaft manufacturer shall make operating instructions and 
information for the ship's training manual available in English to 
purchasers of inflatable liferafts approved by the Coast Guard, to 
enable vessel operators to meet SOLAS Chapter III, Regulation 35 (III/
35).
    (b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of 
this section may be combined with similar material for hydrostatic 
releases or launching equipment, and must explain--
    (1) Release of the inflatable liferaft from its stowage position;
    (2) Launching of the liferaft;
    (3) Survival procedures, including instructions for use of survival 
equipment aboard; and
    (4) Shipboard installations of the liferaft.
    (c) The operating instructions required by paragraphs (a) and (b) of 
this section must also be made available in the form of an instruction 
placard. The placard must be not greater than 36 cm (14 in.) by 51 cm 
(20 in.), made of durable material and suitable for display near 
installations of liferafts on vessels, providing simple procedures and 
illustrations for launching, inflating, and boarding the liferaft.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-2010-0048, 76 
FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011]



Sec.  160.151-61  Maintenance instructions.

    (a) The liferaft manufacturer shall make maintenance instructions 
available in English to purchasers of inflatable liferafts approved by 
the Coast Guard, to enable vessel operators to meet SOLAS Chapter III, 
Regulation 36 (III/36).
    (b) The maintenance instructions required by paragraph (a) of this 
section must include--
    (1) A checklist for use in monthly, external, visual inspections of 
the packed liferaft;
    (2) An explanation of the requirements for periodic servicing of the 
liferaft by an approved servicing facility; and
    (3) A log for maintaining records of inspections and maintenance.

[CGD 85-205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG-2010-0048, 76 
FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011]



       Subpart 160.156_Rescue Boats and Fast Rescue Boats (SOLAS)

    Source: USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.156-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for seeking 
Coast Guard approval of a rescue boat, including a fast rescue boat, 
complying with SOLAS and the IMO LSA Code, for use on waters other than 
protected waters as defined in 46 CFR 175.400.



Sec.  160.156-3  Definitions.

    In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart), in this subpart, the 
term:
    Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety 
Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and 
Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509;

[[Page 234]]

telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.
    Full load means the weight of the complete rescue boat, including 
all required equipment, provisions, fuel, and the number of persons for 
which it is approved. This is also known as the condition ``B'' weight.
    Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A 
list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the 
Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
    Light load means the weight of the complete rescue boat empty and 
does not include fuel, required equipment, or the equivalent weight of 
persons. This is also known as the condition ``A'' weight.
    Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the 
Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the 
duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The ``cognizant OCMI'' is the 
OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for 
the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
    SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at 
Sea, 1974, as amended.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.156-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) 
material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at 
the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the 
Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email 
[email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For 
information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: 
[email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the 
following paragraphs of this section.
    (b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr 
Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
    (1) ASTM A 36/A 36M-08, Standard Specification for Carbon Structural 
Steel, (approved May 15, 2008), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.156-7 
and 160.156-15 (``ASTM A 36'').
    (2) ASTM A 276-08a, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars 
and Shapes, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.156-7 
(``ASTM A 276'').
    (3) ASTM A 313/A 313M-08, (approved October 1, 2008), Standard 
Specification for Stainless Steel Spring Wire, IBR approved for Sec.  
160.156-7 (``ASTM A 313'').
    (4) ASTM A 314-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel 
Billets and Bars for Forging, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.156-7 (``ASTM A 314'').
    (5) ASTM A 653/A 653M-08, Standard Specification for Steel Sheet, 
Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) or Zinc-Iron Alloy-Coated (Galvannealed) by the 
Hot-Dip Process, (approved July 15, 2008), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  
160.156-7, 160.156-11 and 160.156-15 (``ASTM A 653'').
    (6) ASTM B 209-07, Standard Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-
Alloy Sheet and Plate, (approved August 1, 2007), IBR approved for Sec.  
160.156-7 (``ASTM B 209'').
    (7) ASTM D 638-08, Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of 
Plastics, (approved April 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.156-11 
(``ASTM D 638'').
    (8) ASTM D 790-07e1, Standard Test Methods for Flexural Properties 
of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating 
Materials, (approved September 1, 2007), IBR approved for Sec.  160.156-
11 (``ASTM D 790'').
    (9) ASTM D 2584-08, Standard Test Method of Ignition Loss for Cured 
Reinforced Resins, (approved May 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  
160.156-11 and 160.156-15 (``ASTM D 2584'').
    (10) ASTM D 4029-09, Standard Specification for Finished Woven Glass 
Fabrics, (approved January 15, 2009), IBR approved for Sec.  160.156-7 
(``ASTM D 4029'').
    (11) ASTM F 1166-07, Standard Practice for Human Engineering Design 
for

[[Page 235]]

Marine Systems, Equipment, and Facilities, (approved January 1, 2007), 
IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.156-7 and 160-156-13 (``ASTM F 1166'').
    (c) General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, 
Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, 
Arlington, VA 22202, 703-605-5400.
    (1) Federal Standard 595C, Colors Used in Government Procurement, 
(January 16, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.156-7 ``(FED-STD-595C'').
    (2) [Reserved]
    (d) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 
4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 
7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) IMO Resolution A.658(16), Use and Fitting of Retro-Reflective 
Materials on Life-Saving Appliances, (adopted October 19, 1989), IBR 
approved for Sec.  160.156-7 (``IMO Res. A.658(16)'').
    (2) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving 
Appliances and Arrangements, (adopted November 4, 1993), IBR approved 
for Sec. Sec.  160.156-7 and 160.156-19 (``IMO Res. A.760(18)'').
    (3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), pages 7-71 (``IMO LSA Code''), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  
160.156-3, 160.156-7 and 160.156-13.
    (4) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), Revised recommendation on testing of live-saving appliances, 
pages 79-254 (``IMO Revised recommendation on testing''), IBR approved 
for Sec. Sec.  160.156-7, 160.156-13.
    (5) MSC/Circular 980, Standardized Life-saving Appliance Evaluation 
and Test Report Forms, (February 13, 2001), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  
160.156-7 and 160.156-13, and 160.156-15 (``IMO MSC Circ. 980'').
    (6) MSC.1/Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and 
Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, (May 26, 2006), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.156-21 (``IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205'').
    (e) International Organization for Standardization (ISO): ISO 
Central Secretariat [ISO Copyright Office], Case Postale 56, CH-1211 
Geneve 20, Switzerland.
    (1) ISO 527-1:1993(E), Plastics--Determination of tensile 
properties, Part 1: General Principles, First Edition (June 15, 1993), 
IBR approved for Sec.  160.156-11 (``ISO 527'').
    (2) ISO 1172:1996(E), Textile-glass-reinforced plastics--Prepregs, 
moulding compounds and laminates--Determination of the textile-glass and 
mineral-filler content--Calcination methods, Second Edition (December 
15, 1996), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.156-11 and 160.156-15 (``ISO 
1172'').
    (3) ISO 14125:1998(E), Fibre-reinforced plastic composites--
Determination of flexural properties, First Edition (March 1, 1998), IBR 
approved for Sec.  160.156-11 (``ISO 14125'').
    (4) ISO 15372:2000(E), Ships and marine technology--Inflatable 
rescue boats--Coated fabrics for inflatable chambers, First Edition 
(December 1, 2002), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  160.156-7 and 160.156-15 
(``ISO 15372'').
    (f) Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents 
Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robins Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19111-5094, 
https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
    (1) MIL-C-19663D, Military Specification, Cloth, Woven Roving, For 
Plastic Laminate, (August 4, 1988), IBR approved for Sec.  160.156-7 
(``MIL-C-19663D'').
    (2) MIL-P-17549D(SH), Military Specification, Plastic Laminates, 
Fibrous Glass Reinforced, Marine Structural, (August 31, 1981), IBR 
approved for Sec. Sec.  160.156-7 and 160.156-11 (``MIL-P-17549D(SH)'').
    (3) MIL-R-21607E(SH), Military Specification, Resins, Polyester, Low 
Pressure Laminating, Fire-Retardant, (May 25, 1990), IBR approved for 
Sec.  160.156-11 (``MIL-R-21607E(SH)'').
    (g) Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), 400 Commonwealth Drive, 
Warrendale, PA 15096.
    (1) SAE J1527 (Revised JAN93), Marine Fuel Hoses, (February 5, 
1993), IBR approved for Sec.  160.156-7 (``SAE J1527'').
    (2) [Reserved]
    (h) Underwriters Laboratories (UL), 2600 NW., Lake Rd, Camas, WA 
98607-8542.
    (1) UL 1102, UL Standard for Safety for Nonintegral Marine Fuel 
Tanks, Fifth Edition (February 4, 1999), IBR approved for Sec.  160.156-
7 (``UL 1102'').
    (2) UL 1185, Standard for Safety for Portable Marine Fuel Tanks, 
Fourth

[[Page 236]]

Edition (September 26, 1996), IBR approved for Sec.  160.156-7 (``UL 
1185'').

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013; 79 FR 44140, July 30, 2014; USCG-
2022-0323, 88 FR 10031, Feb. 16, 2023]



Sec.  160.156-7  Design, construction and performance of rescue boats
and fast rescue boats.

    (a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a rescue boat, including a fast 
rescue boat, a manufacturer must comply with, and each rescue boat must 
meet, the requirements of the following:
    (1) IMO LSA Code chapter V (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.156-5 of this subpart);
    (2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1/7 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart) applicable to the type 
of rescue boat;
    (3) 46 CFR part 159; and
    (4) This subpart.
    (b) Each rescue boat must meet the following requirements:
    (1) Design. (i) Each rescue boat must be designed to be operable by 
persons wearing immersion suits.
    (ii) Each rescue boat should be designed following standard human 
engineering practices described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart). Design limits should be 
based on a range from the fifth percentile female to the ninety-fifth 
percentile male values for critical body dimensions and functional 
capabilities as described in ASTM F 1166. The dimensions for a person 
wearing an immersion suit correspond to the arctic-clothed dimensions of 
ASTM F 1166.
    (2) Visibility from operator's station. (i) The operator's station 
must be designed such that the operator, when seated at the control 
station, has visibility 360 degrees around the rescue boat, with any 
areas obstructed by the rescue boat structure or its fittings visible by 
moving the operator's head and torso.
    (ii) The operator, while still being able to steer and control the 
speed of the rescue boat, must be able to see the water--
    (A) Over a 90 degree arc within 3 m (10 ft) of each side of the 
rescue boat;
    (B) Over a 30 degree arc within 1 m (3 ft, 3 in) of each side of the 
rescue boat; and
    (C) Within 0.5 m (1 ft, 8 in) of the entrances designated for 
recovering persons from the water.
    (iii) In order to see a person in the water during recovery or 
docking operations, a hatch must be provided in fully enclosed rescue 
boats so that the operator can stand with his or her head outside the 
rescue boat for increased visibility, provided the operator can still 
steer and control the speed of the rescue boat.
    (3) Construction. Each major rigid structural component of each 
rescue boat must be constructed of steel, aluminum, or Fiber Reinforced 
Plastic (FRP), or materials accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or 
superior.
    (i) General. Metals in contact with each other must be either 
galvanically compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. 
Provisions must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening 
resulting from differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of 
parts, galvanic corrosion, or other incompatibilities.
    (ii) Steel. Sheet steel and plate must be low carbon, commercial 
quality, either corrosion resistant or galvanized as per ASTM A 653, 
coating designation G90 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 
of this subpart). Structural steel plates and shapes must be carbon 
steel as per ASTM A 36 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 
of this subpart), or an equivalent or superior steel accepted by the 
Commandant. All steel products, except corrosion resistant steel, must 
be galvanized to provide high quality zinc coatings suitable for the 
intended service life in a marine environment. Corrosion resistant steel 
must be a type 302 stainless steel per ASTM A 276, ASTM A 313, or ASTM A 
314 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart) or 
another corrosion resistant stainless steel of equal or superior 
corrosion resistant characteristics.
    (iii) Aluminum. Aluminum and aluminum alloys must conform to ASTM B 
209 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart) and 
be high

[[Page 237]]

purity for good marine corrosion resistance, free of iron, and 
containing not more than 0.6 percent copper.
    (iv) Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP).
    (A) Resin. Any resin used for the hull, canopy, hatches, rigid 
covers, and enclosures for the engine, transmission, and engine 
accessories, must be fire retardant and accepted by the Commandant in 
accordance with 46 CFR part 164, subpart 164.120.
    (B) Glass reinforcement. Any glass reinforcement used must have good 
laminated wet strength retention and must meet the appropriate 
specification in this paragraph. Glass cloth must be a finished fabric 
woven from ``E'' electrical glass fiber yarns meeting ASTM D 4029-09 
commercial style designation 1564 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.156-5 of this subpart). Woven roving must conform to MIL-C-19663D 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart). Other 
glass materials equivalent or superior in strength, design, wet out, and 
efficiency will be given consideration on specific request to the 
Commandant.
    (C) Laminate. All exposed surfaces of any finished laminate must 
present a smooth finish, and there must be no protruding surface fibers, 
open voids, pits, cracks, bubbles, or blisters. The laminate must be 
essentially free from resin-starved or overimpregnated areas, and no 
foreign matter must remain in the finished laminate. The entire laminate 
must be fully cured and free of tackiness, and must show no tendency to 
delaminate, peel, or craze in any overlay. The laminate must not be 
released from the mold until a Barcol hardness reading of not less than 
40-55 is obtained from at least 10 places on the non-gel coated surface, 
including all interior inner and outer hull surfaces and built-in 
lockers. The mechanical properties of the laminate must meet the 
requirements for a Grade 3 laminate as specified in Table I of MIL-P-
17549D(SH) (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this 
subpart). Other grades will be given consideration on specific request 
to the Commandant.
    (4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the 
Commandant, a classification society recognized by the Commandant in 
accordance with 46 CFR 8.220, the U.S. Navy, or the national body where 
the rescue boat is constructed or the national body's designated 
recognized organization. Only electrodes intended for use with the 
material being welded may be used. All welds must be checked using 
appropriate non-destructive tests.
    (5) Rescue boat buoyancy. (i) The buoyancy material must be accepted 
by the Commandant as meeting the performance requirements of IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, Part 1, 6.2.2 to 6.2.7, with a density of 32 
8 kg/m\3\ (2 0.5 lb/ft\3\). 
The buoyancy foam or rescue boat manufacturer must certify the results 
of the testing to IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, 6.2.2 
to 6.2.7 and submit those results to the Commandant. A list of accepted 
buoyancy foams may be obtained from the Commandant upon request.
    (ii) All voids in the hull and canopy required to provide buoyancy 
for positive stability and self righting must be completely filled with 
Coast Guard-accepted buoyancy material.
    (iii) Air in the inflated collar of a rigid-hull inflatable rescue 
boat will not be considered inherently buoyant material for the purposes 
of meeting the additional 280 N/person requirement of the LSA Code, 
chapter IV/4.4.4.
    (6) Coated fabric. Any coated fabric used in the construction of 
inflatable chambers on a rescue boat must be shown to have been 
subjected to the criteria listed in IMO MSC Circ. 980 for Inflation 
Chamber Characteristics Test (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.156-5 of this subpart) by meeting the requirements of ISO 15372 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart). The 
color of the finished fabric must be vivid reddish orange color number 
12197 of FED-STD-595C (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of 
this subpart), or a durable fluorescent color of a similar hue. Each 
seam must be at least as strong as the weakest of the materials joined 
by the seam. Each seam must be covered with tape where necessary to 
prevent lifting of and damage to fabric edges.

[[Page 238]]

    (7) Engines. (i) In order to be accepted by the Commandant, any 
spark ignition engine fitted to an approved rescue boat must meet the 
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency emission requirements in 40 CFR 
part 91 or part 1045, as applicable, or for a compression ignition 
engine the requirements in 40 CFR part 89, part 94, or part 1042, as 
applicable, and have reports containing the same information as 
recommended by MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.156-5 of this subpart) certified and witnessed by a U.S. Coast Guard 
inspector or an independent laboratory.
    (ii) A hydraulic system, if used to start the engine, must be in 
accordance with 46 CFR part 58, subpart 58.30, with hose and fittings in 
accordance with 46 CFR part 56, subpart 56.60 except that--
    (A) Push-on type fittings such as Aeroquip 1525-X, 25156-X, and 
FC332-X are not permitted; and
    (B) The length of nonmetallic flexible hose is limited to 760 mm (30 
in). Longer nonmetallic flexible hoses may be allowed in emergency 
steering systems at the discretion of the Commandant.
    (iii) If a hand pump is provided, or if the engine has a manual 
starting system, adequate space must be provided for the hand pump or 
hand start operation.
    (8) Fuel system. (i) The fuel system must meet 46 CFR 56.50-75(b) 
and, except as specified in this paragraph, the fuel tank must meet 46 
CFR 58.50-10.
    (ii) The fuel tank and fuel system must be in accordance with 
paragraph (b)(8)(ii)(A), (B), or (C) of this section, as follows:
    (A) Permanently installed fuel systems must meet the requirements in 
46 CFR 160.135-7.
    (B) Portable fuel systems for outboard engines must meet UL 1185 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart) or 
equivalent, except that hoses must be Coast Guard Type A per SAE J1527 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart), and 
hose clamps, primers, filters, and strainers must be successfully tested 
in accordance with 33 CFR 183.590. Anti-siphon devices must be provided 
in the fuel system to prevent fuel spillage when the hose is 
disconnected. Arrangements must be provided to secure the fuel tank in 
its normal operating position on the rescue boat.
    (C) Fuel systems for outboard engines using non-integral, 
permanently installed fuel tanks must meet the requirements of 33 CFR 
part 183, subpart J--Fuel Systems. UL 1102 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart) meets these requirements for fuel 
tanks.
    (9) Starting system batteries. Each battery fitted in a totally 
enclosed rescue boat must be stored in a sealed compartment with 
exterior venting. If the rescue boat has more than one engine, then only 
one starting battery is required per engine.
    (10) Exhaust. Engine exhaust must be routed away from bilge and 
potential oil drips. Any paint used on engines, manifolds, or exhaust 
must not give off fumes when heated. All exhaust lagging must be non-
absorbent.
    (11) Propeller guard. Each propeller on a rescue boat must be fitted 
with a propeller guard with a maximum opening of 76 mm (3 in) on all 
sides on which a person is likely to be exposed.
    (12) Control and steering station. Rescue boat starting, 
maneuvering, and steering controls must be provided at the control and 
steering station.
    (i) The throttle must be a continuous manual control and must be 
able to be set and locked at any position.
    (ii) The control and steering station must be designed and laid out 
in accordance with ASTM F 1166 sections 9 and 10, so that controls and 
displays are unambiguous, accessible, and easy to reach and use from the 
operator's normal seated position, while wearing an immersion suit or a 
lifejacket.
    (iii) Each control, gauge, or display must be identified by a 
marking posted on, above, or adjacent to the respective item. Each 
control must operate in a logical manner and be marked with an arrow to 
show direction of movement of control which will cause an increased 
response. Each gauge must be marked with the normal operating range and 
indicate danger or abnormal conditions. Each marking must be permanent 
and weatherproof.
    (iv) Gauges, and audio and visual alarms, must be provided to 
monitor at

[[Page 239]]

least the following parameters on inboard engines--
    (A) Coolant temperature, for a liquid cooled engine;
    (B) Oil pressure, for an engine with an oil pump;
    (C) Tachometer, for an engine not provided with over-speed 
protection; and
    (D) State of charge, or rate of charge, for each rechargeable engine 
starting power source.
    (13) Drain plug. The position of each drain plug must be clearly 
indicated by a permanent marking inside the rescue boat. The marking 
must be an arrow pointing in the direction of the plug, and the words 
``Drain Plug'' must be 76 mm (3 in) high and have letters of a color 
that contrast with their background. The marking must be clearly visible 
to a person within the vicinity of the drain plug.
    (14) Remote steering. The procedure to change over from remote to 
local steering must be simple, not require the use of tools, and be 
clearly posted. There must be sufficient clear space to install, 
operate, remove, and stow the removable tiller arm. The tiller arm and 
its connection to the rudder stock must be of sufficient strength so 
that there is no slippage or bending of the tiller arm. Rudder stops or 
other means must be provided to prevent the rudder from turning too far 
on either side.
    (15) Lifelines. Buoyant lifelines must be of ultraviolet resistant 
material.
    (16) Rails provided as handholds. Rails provided as handholds on 
rigid and rigid-inflated rescue boats must extend for half the length of 
the rescue boat on both sides of the hull, and the clearance between the 
rail and hull must be at least 38 mm (1.5 in). The rails must be 
attached to the hull below the chine or turn of the bilge, must be 
faired to prevent any fouling, and not project beyond the widest part of 
the rescue boat.
    (17) Equipment list. A weatherproof equipment list must be 
permanently mounted in a conspicuous and prominent location on a stowage 
locker or compartment, or on inside of canopy. The list must include a 
stowage plan oriented such that the stowage location of each item of 
loose equipment is readily apparent.
    (18) Release mechanism. Each release mechanism fitted to a rescue 
boat, including a fast rescue boat, must be identified at the 
application for approval of the prototype rescue boat and must be 
approved under subparts 160.133 or 160.170 of this part. The release 
lever or control must be red in color, and the area immediately 
surrounding the control must be a sharply contrasting light color. An 
illustrated operating instruction plate or placard, showing the correct 
off-load and emergency on-load release procedure and recovery procedure, 
must be posted so that it is visible and legible from the helmsman's 
normal operating position. The plate or placard must be corrosion 
resistant and weatherproof and must be marked with the word ``Danger''.
    (19) Painter/painter release. Each rescue boat must be fitted with a 
device to secure the painter near the bow of the rescue boat. The device 
must be arranged such that the rescue boat does not exhibit unsafe or 
unstable characteristics when being towed by the ship with the ship 
underway at 5 knots. A quick-release device must be provided, which 
allows the painter to be released from inside the rescue boat while 
under tension. The quick-release handle must be clearly identified by a 
label.
    (20) Canopy lamp. Any exterior rescue boat position-indicating light 
must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 161.101.
    (21) Manually controlled interior light. Any interior light must be 
approved by the Commandant under approval series 161.101.
    (22) Manual bilge pump. Each rescue boat that is not automatically 
self-bailing must be fitted with a manual bilge pump that meets the 
requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(2), or an engine-powered bilge pump.
    (23) Labels and notices. Any labels, caution and danger notices, and 
any operating, maintenance, or general instructions, must be in 
accordance with ASTM F 1166, Section 15, in terms of format, content, 
lettering size and spacing, color, and posted location. They must be 
illustrated with symbols in accordance with IMO Res. A.760(18) 
(incorporated by reference, see

[[Page 240]]

Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart), as applicable. Information and 
instruction plates, not specifically mentioned in this section, must not 
be posted in the vicinity of the control and steering station without 
prior approval from the Commandant. Identification label plates, if 
required, must be posted on or above the component or equipment to be 
identified.
    (24) Stowage. Each stowage compartment must be supported and secured 
against movement. It must have adequate hand access for removing and 
storing the required equipment, and for cleaning the inside of the 
compartment. There must be sufficient stowage volume to store the 
equipment required by 46 CFR 199.175.
    (25) Rescue boat equipment. The rescue boat must be designed to 
accommodate and carry the equipment required by 46 CFR 199.175.
    (26) Exterior color. The primary color of the exterior of the hull, 
exterior of any canopy or bow cover, and the interior of a rescue boat 
not covered by a canopy or bow cover must be a highly visible color 
equivalent to vivid reddish orange color number 12197 of FED-STD-595C, 
or a durable fluorescent color of a similar hue.
    (27) Navigation light. Each rescue boat must have navigation lights 
that are in compliance with the applicable sections of the International 
and Inland Navigation Rules and meet 46 CFR 111.75-17.
    (28) Retroreflective material. The exterior of each rescue boat and 
canopy must be marked with Type II retroreflective material approved 
under 46 CFR part 164, subpart 164.018. The arrangement of the 
retroreflective material must comply with IMO Res. A.658(16) 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart).
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials will be made by the Commandant only.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 79 FR 44140, 
July 30, 2014; USCG-2020-0107, 87 FR 68305, Nov. 14, 2022]



Sec.  160.156-9  Preapproval review.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the 
Commandant must conduct the preapproval review, required by this 
section, in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
    (b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a 
rescue boat, the manufacturer must submit an application to the 
Commandant meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval 
review. To meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the 
manufacturer must submit in triplicate--
    (1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other 
documentation submitted, with each document identified by number, title, 
revision issue, and date;
    (2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal 
dimensions;
    (3) Seating-arrangement plan, including a dimensioned seat form to 
scale;
    (4) A complete material list, with each material referenced to a 
U.S. national standard or, if a copy is provided in English, an 
equivalent international standard;
    (5) Plans for carriage and, in detail, stowage of equipment;
    (6) Hull, canopy, and critical parts lay-up schedule for Fiber 
Reinforced Plastic (FRP) rescue boats, including fast rescue boats;
    (7) Hull and canopy construction drawings, including particulars of 
joints, welds, seams, and other fabricating details;
    (8) Weights and thickness of each major FRP structural component, 
including the hull, canopy, and inner liners, before outfitting;
    (9) Specification and identification of materials such as steel, 
aluminum, resin, foam, fiberglass, coated fabric, and plastic used in 
the rescue boat's manufacture;
    (10) Fabrication details for each major structural component, 
including details of each welded joint;
    (11) Lines plans;
    (12) Propulsion system specifications and arrangement and 
installation drawings;
    (13) Steering system drawings and specifications;
    (14) Release mechanism installation drawings and the mechanism's 
Coast Guard approval number;
    (15) Plans for critical subassemblies;

[[Page 241]]

    (16) Hydraulic systems drawings and specifications, if installed;
    (17) Electrical system schematics and specifications;
    (18) Stability data, including righting arm curves in the light load 
and load condition for both intact and flooded;
    (19) Drawings of all signs and placards, showing actual inscription, 
format, color, size, and location on the rescue boat;
    (20) Complete data pertinent to the installation and use of the 
proposed rescue boat, including--
    (i) The light load (condition A) and full load (condition B) 
weights; and
    (ii) Complete details of the lifting arrangement to include enough 
detail for operators of the rescue boat to select a suitable release 
mechanism approved under subpart 160.133 or 160.170 of this part;
    (21) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in 
Sec. Sec.  160.156-19 and 160.156-21 of this subpart;
    (22) A description of the quality control procedures and record 
keeping that will apply to the production of the rescue boat, which must 
include but is not limited to--
    (i) The system for checking material certifications received from 
suppliers;
    (ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
    (iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication, seams, and 
joints, including welding inspection procedures; and
    (iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of 
fabrication to assure that the approved rescue boat complies with the 
approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
    (23) Full details of any other unique capability;
    (24) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the rescue boat 
complies with the requirements of this subpart;
    (25) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including 
the name and address of any subcontractors, where the rescue boat will 
be constructed; and
    (26) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the 
duties prescribed in Sec. Sec.  160.156-11 and 160.156-15 of this 
subpart.
    (c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the 
Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review 
required by this section so long as the preapproval review is conducted 
in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent 
laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
    (d) Plan quality. The plans and specifications submitted to the 
Commandant under this section must--
    (1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and 
designations for configuration control;
    (2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this 
section in sufficient detail to show that the rescue boat meets the 
construction requirements of this subpart;
    (3) Accurately depict the proposed rescue boat;
    (4) Be internally consistent;
    (5) Be legible; and
    (6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of 
this section, include the independent laboratory's attestation that the 
plans meet the quality requirements of this section.
    (e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or construction, 
and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly indicated as 
such in the plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under 
this section.
    (f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not comply 
with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be 
suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 79 FR 44140, 
July 30, 2014]



Sec.  160.156-11  Fabrication of prototype rescue boats and fast rescue
boats for approval.

    (a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted 
in accordance with Sec.  160.156-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to 
the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the 
prototype rescue boat as set forth in this section.
    (b) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, 
and oversight

[[Page 242]]

required by this section. Prototype inspections and tests of a rescue 
boat must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for 
independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 
and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests 
and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional prototype tests 
and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor 
compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
    (c) Fabrication of a rescue boat must proceed in the following 
sequence:
    (1) The manufacturer must arrange for an independent laboratory (or 
Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (b) of this section) 
to inspect, test, and oversee the rescue boat during its fabrication and 
prepare an inspection and test report meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 
159.005-11.
    (2) The independent laboratory must make such inspections as are 
necessary to determine that the prototype is constructed by the methods 
and with the materials specified in the plans reviewed under Sec.  
160.156-9 of this subpart. By conducting at least one inspection during 
its construction, the independent laboratory must determine the 
prototype rescue boat conforms with those plans by inspecting--
    (i) Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Construction. (A) FRP components 
of each prototype rescue boat outer hull and any FRP inner hull or liner 
components that are bonded or bolted to the outer hull must have a layup 
made of unpigmented clear resins so that details of construction are 
visible for inspection. Test panels representative of each prototype 
layup must be tested in accordance with MIL-P-17549D(SH) (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart). If an accepted MIL-
R-21607E(SH) Grade B resin is used for the prototype rescue boat, 
additives for fire retardancy must not be used so that the laminate is 
translucent for inspection purposes. A prototype test rescue boat with 
Grade B resins will not be marked in accordance with Sec.  160.156-17 of 
this subpart for use as a production rescue boat regardless of the 
outcome of the performance tests. Whichever accepted resin the 
manufacturer decides to use for the prototype rescue boat, the same 
resin must be used in the production rescue boats.
    (B) The hull, canopy, and major structural laminates of each 
prototype FRP rescue boat must be tested for resin content, ultimate 
flexural strength, and tensile strength. The test samples must be cut 
out from the prototype rescue boat, or be laid up at the same time, 
using the same procedures and by the same operators as the laminate used 
in the rescue boat. The number of samples used for each test, and the 
conditions and test methods used, must be as per the applicable test 
specified in this paragraph. The resin content must be determined as per 
ASTM D 2584 or ISO 1172 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 
of this subpart). The flexural ultimate strength must be determined by 
ASTM D 790 method I (test condition ``A'', flatwise, dry) or the 
corresponding ISO 14125 test method (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart). The tensile strength, lengthwise, must 
be determined as per ASTM D 638 or ISO 527 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart).
    (C) Each major FRP component, such as the hull, canopy, and inner 
liner(s) of each prototype FRP rescue boat, must be examined and weighed 
after it is completed but before it is assembled. If the rescue boat is 
constructed by the spray lay-up technique, the hull and canopy 
thicknesses must be measured using ultrasonic or equivalent techniques;
    (ii) Steel construction. Steel sheet and plate used for the hull, 
floors, and other structural components of a prototype steel rescue boat 
must meet the bend tests requirement specified under ASTM A 653 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart) after 
galvanizing or other anti-corrosion treatment has been applied. This may 
be demonstrated through supplier's certification papers or through 
witnessing actual tests;
    (iii) Welding. Structural components of each prototype rescue boat 
joined by welding must be joined by the welding procedures and materials 
per the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.156-9 of this subpart and by 
welders appropriately qualified;

[[Page 243]]

    (iv) Buoyancy material. If block foam buoyancy material is used, 
each piece must be weighed after it is cut and shaped to make sure that 
the correct amount of foam is installed. If foamed-in-place buoyancy 
material is used, a separate sample of the foam must be poured, and used 
to make a density determination after it has set. The density must be 32 
8 kg/m\3\ (2 0.5 lb/ft\3\). 
Each major subassembly such as the hull-with-liner and canopy-with-liner 
must be weighed after the buoyancy foam is installed and before it is 
further assembled;
    (v) Coated fabric. Coated fabric for inflatable collars used in the 
construction of each rescue boat must meet the requirements specified 
under Sec.  160.156-7(b)(3) of this subpart. This may be demonstrated 
through a supplier's certification papers or through witnessing actual 
tests;
    (vi) Installation of the propulsion system; and
    (vii) Installation of the steering system.
    (3) The independent laboratory must submit the inspection report to 
the Commandant.



Sec.  160.156-13  Approval inspections and tests for prototype rescue
boats and fast rescue boats.

    (a) After the Commandant notifies the manufacturer that the 
prototype rescue boat is in compliance with the requirements of Sec.  
160.156-11 of this subpart, the manufacturer may proceed with the 
prototype approval inspections and tests required under this section. 
The prototype rescue boat, the construction of which was witnessed under 
Sec.  160.135-11 of this part, must be used for the tests in this 
section.
    (b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast 
Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval 
tests required under this section.
    (c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections 
and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must--
    (1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine 
Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required 
under this section will take place, and such notification must be in 
sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
    (2) Arrange a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard 
inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;
    (3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or 
testing is performed on rescue boats or their component parts and 
materials for the purpose of--
    (i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the 
prototype is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified 
in the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.156-9, and the inspection report 
under Sec.  160.156-11, of this subpart;
    (ii) Assuring that the quality assurance program of the manufacturer 
is satisfactory;
    (iii) Witnessing tests; and
    (iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections 
or tests; and
    (4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or 
invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the 
production of rescue boats, together with records identifying the lot or 
serial numbers of the rescue boats in which such materials were used.
    (d) Tests. (1) Prototype rescue boat readiness. All tests must be 
conducted on a completely outfitted rescue boat, including fixed 
equipment such as a compass, searchlight, and navigating lights. Loose 
equipment may be substituted by weights.
    (2) FRP prototype rescue boat lay-up. For the prototype of each 
design of an FRP rescue boat, the lay-up must be made of unpigmented 
resins and clear gel coat.
    (3) Fuel tank. Each non-portable fuel tank must be tested by a 
static head above the tank top of 3 m (10 ft) of water without showing 
any leaks or signs of permanent distortion.
    (4) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype rescue 
boat of each design must pass each of the tests for the applicable hull 
type described in the IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, 
section 7 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this 
subpart). Tests must be conducted in accordance with these paragraphs of 
IMO

[[Page 244]]

Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1, with the following 
modifications:
    (i) Fire retardancy/release mechanism and engine tests (Paragraphs 
1/6.2, 6.9, 6.10, 6.14). The tests in the following IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing paragraphs may be accomplished independent of 
the rescue boat, and may be considered completed and need not be 
repeated if the tests have been previously shown to meet the following 
necessary requirements--
    (A) Paragraphs 6.9.3 through 6.9.6;
    (B) Paragraphs 6.10.2 through 6.10.6; and
    (C) Paragraphs 6.14.6 through 6.14.8.
    (ii) Impact test (Paragraph 1/6.4). The rigid vertical surface must 
not be displaced or deformed as a result of the test.
    (iii) Flooded stability test for rigid rescue boats only (Paragraph 
1/6.8). Any materials used to raise the test weights representing the 
rescue boat occupants above the seat pan must be at least as dense as 
fresh water.
    (iv) Rescue boat operational test, operation of engine (Paragraph 1/
7.1.5). For the 4-hour rescue boat maneuvering period, the rescue boat 
must not (except for a short period to measure towing force and to 
demonstrate towing fixture durability) be secured, and must be run 
through its full range of speeds and full range of all controls 
throughout the period.
    (v) Survival recovery test (Paragraph 1/6.10.8). The recovery 
demonstration must show that no more than two crewmembers are required 
to recover a helpless person of ninety-fifth percentile by weight 
described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 
of this subpart) while the crewmembers and helpless person are each 
wearing a lifejacket.
    (vi) Rescue boat seating space test (Paragraph 1/7.1.3). The average 
mass of persons used to test the rescue boat seating space must be 
determined by weighing as a group or individually. Each person must wear 
an inherently buoyant SOLAS lifejacket with at least 150 N of buoyancy 
or a Coast Guard-approved lifejacket approved under approval series 
160.155. The operator(s) must demonstrate that the rescue boat can be 
operated while wearing a Coast Guard approved, insulated-buoyant 
immersion suit approved under approval series 160.171. The Commandant 
will give consideration to requests to test at, and designate rescue 
boats for, a heavier occupant weight than that stated in the IMO LSA 
Code, chapter V (incorporated by reference, Sec.  160.156-5 of this 
subpart).
    (5) Visual inspection. Each rescue boat must be visually inspected 
to confirm--
    (i) Compliance with this subpart;
    (ii) Conformance with the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.156-9 of 
this subpart; and
    (iii) Ease of operation and maintenance.
    (e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a rescue 
boat identical in construction to smaller and larger rescue boats that 
have successfully completed the tests. Tests associated with rescue boat 
components that have already been approved by the Commandant are not 
required to be repeated.
    (f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the 
Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections 
and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the 
inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with the 
procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant 
under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
    (g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by 
this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46 
CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for 
review--
    (1) The prototype approval test report containing the same 
information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart). The report must include a signed 
statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as 
permitted by paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the testing, 
indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its 
results; and
    (2) The final plans of the rescue boat as built. The plans must 
include, in triplicate--

[[Page 245]]

    (i) The instructions for training and maintenance described in 
Sec. Sec.  160.156-19 and 160.156-21 of this subpart; and
    (ii) The final version of the plans required under Sec.  160.156-9 
of this subpart.
    (h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under 
paragraph (g) of this section, and, if satisfactory to the Commandant, 
will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.



Sec.  160.156-15  Production inspections, tests, quality control, and
conformance of rescue boats and fast rescue boats.

    (a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, 
and oversight required by this section. Production inspections and tests 
of rescue boats must be carried out in accordance with the procedures 
for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 
159.007 and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes 
alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe 
additional production tests and inspections necessary to maintain 
quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this 
subpart.
    (b) Manufacturer's responsibility. The manufacturer must--
    (1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all 
production rescue boats are produced to the same standard, and in the 
same manner, as the prototype rescue boat approved by the Commandant. 
The manufacturer's quality control personnel must not work directly 
under the department or person responsible for either production or 
sales;
    (2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or 
Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) 
to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;
    (3) Submit to the Commandant, a yearly report that contains the 
following--
    (i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each rescue boat 
constructed;
    (ii) Name of the representative of the independent laboratory (or 
Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section); 
and
    (iii) Name of the vessel and company receiving the rescue boat, if 
known;
    (4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the 
construction of the rescue boat are in accordance with plans approved 
under Sec.  160.156-13(h) of this subpart;
    (5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if 
required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where 
materials are stored for the rescue boat, work or testing is performed 
on rescue boats or their component parts and materials, or records are 
retained to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section, for 
the purpose of--
    (i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer is 
satisfactory;
    (ii) Witnessing tests; or
    (iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional 
inspections or tests; and
    (6) Ensure that the independent laboratory conducts the inspections 
and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e) of this section, and 
further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the rescue boats are 
being made in accordance with the plans approved under Sec.  160.156-
13(h) of this subpart and the requirements of this subpart.
    (c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in 
accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records of 
all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date of 
termination of approval of each rescue boat. The records must include--
    (1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this 
subpart, and each applicable document listed in Sec.  160.156-5 of this 
subpart;
    (2) A copy of approved plans, documentation, and certifications;
    (3) A current certificate of approval for each approved rescue boat;
    (4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers 
identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved 
rescue boats, together with records identifying the serial numbers of 
the rescue boats in which such materials were used;

[[Page 246]]

    (5) Start and finish date and time of the lay-up of each major Fiber 
Reinforced Plastic (FRP) component such as the hull, canopy, and inner 
liner and the names of the operator(s);
    (6) Start and finish date and time of pouring of foam-in-place rigid 
buoyancy foam, and name of operator(s);
    (7) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
    (8) Records of welder certificates, training and qualifications;
    (9) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name 
and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
    (10) The serial number of each production rescue boat, along with 
records of its inspections and test carried out under this section; and
    (11) The original purchaser of each rescue boat and the vessel on 
which it was installed, if known.
    (d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, the inspections and 
tests under paragraph (e) in this section for each Coast Guard-approved 
rescue boat to be installed on a U.S.-flagged vessel. If the 
manufacturer also produces rescue boats for approval by other maritime 
safety administrations, the inspections may be coordinated with 
inspection visits for those administrations.
    (e) Production inspections and tests. Each approved rescue boat must 
be inspected and tested in accordance with each of the following 
procedures:
    (1) In-process inspections and tests. Each production rescue boat 
must be examined during lay-up of the hull to verify that the lay-up 
conforms to the approved drawings. Each FRP major component, such as the 
hull, canopy, and inner liner, must be examined and weighed after it is 
completed but before assembled. If the rescue boat is constructed by the 
spray lay-up technique, the hull and canopy thicknesses must be measured 
using ultrasonic or equivalent techniques. Laboratory tests of laminates 
must be conducted at this time. Test samples must be cut out from the 
rescue boat itself or be laid up at the same time, using the same 
procedures, and by the same operators as the laminate used in the rescue 
boat. The number of samples used for each test, and the conditions and 
test methods used, must be as described in the applicable test specified 
in this paragraph.
    (i) Weight. The weight of each FRP section, such as hull, canopy, 
and inner liner, must be within 10 percent of similar sections of the 
prototype rescue boat. These weights must be the bare laminate weights. 
Backing plates that are molded into the laminate may be included.
    (ii) Thickness. The average thickness of each section of sprayed-up 
laminate must be within 20 percent of the corresponding sections of the 
prototype.
    (iii) Resin content. Laminate samples from the hull, canopy, and 
inner liners must be tested in accordance with ASTM D 2584 or ISO 1172 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart). The 
resin content must be within 8 percentage points of the prototype 
results. If the resin content does not comply, flexural ultimate 
strength and tensile tests in paragraph (e)(1)(iv) of this section must 
be conducted.
    (iv) Flexural ultimate strength and tensile tests. Each laminate 
sample from each major component, such as hull and liner, that does not 
comply with the resin content requirement in paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of 
this section, and from each component of every fifth production rescue 
boat, must be subjected to the flexural ultimate strength and tensile 
strength tests as described in Sec.  160.156-11(c)(2)(i)(B) of this 
subpart. The values must be at least 90 percent of the prototype 
results.
    (v) Buoyancy material. If block foam buoyancy material is used, each 
piece must be weighed after it is cut and shaped to make sure that the 
correct amount of foam is installed. If foamed-in-place buoyancy 
material is used, a separate sample of the foam must be poured, and used 
to make a density determination after it has set. The density must be 32 
8 kg/m\3\ (2 0.5 lb/ft\3\).
    (vi) Steel sheet and plate. Steel sheet and plate for the hull, 
floors, and other structural components must meet ASTM A 36 and ASTM A 
653 as applicable (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of 
this subpart). Non-corrosive resistant steel must meet the coating mass 
and bend tests requirement specified under ASTM A 653.

[[Page 247]]

Compliance for this paragraph can be ascertained through supplier's 
certification papers or through conducting actual tests.
    (vii) Fabric. The coated fabric for inflatable collars, when used, 
for the construction of each rescue boat must meet ISO 15372 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart). This 
compliance can be ascertained through a supplier's certification papers 
or through witnessing actual tests.
    (viii) Fuel tank. Each fuel tank must be tested by a static head 
above the tank top of 3 m (10 ft) of water without showing any leaks or 
signs of permanent distortion.
    (ix) Welding. It must be determined that structural components 
joined by welding was performed by welders who are appropriately 
qualified and that the welding procedure and materials are as per the 
plans approved under Sec.  160.156-13(h) of this subpart.
    (2) Post assembly tests and inspections. The finished rescue boat 
must be visually inspected inside and out. The manufacturer must develop 
and maintain a visual inspection checklist designed to ensure that all 
applicable requirements have been met and the rescue boat is equipped in 
accordance with approved plans. Each production rescue boat of each 
design must pass each of the tests described in the IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, part 2, section 5.3 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart).

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 62999, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by 79 FR 44140, 
July 30, 2014]



Sec.  160.156-17  Marking and labeling.

    (a) Each rescue boat must be marked with a plate or label 
permanently affixed to the hull in a conspicuous place readily 
accessible for inspection and sufficiently durable to withstand 
continuous exposure to environmental conditions at sea for the life of 
the rescue boat.
    (b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other 
languages.
    (c) The plate or label must contain the--
    (1) Name and address of the manufacturer;
    (2) Manufacturer's model identification;
    (3) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype 
or production tests;
    (4) Serial number of the rescue boat;
    (5) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
    (6) Month and year of manufacture;
    (7) Material of hull construction;
    (8) Number of persons for which the rescue boat is approved;
    (9) Light load and full load (condition A and condition B weight); 
and
    (10) Word ``SOLAS.''



Sec.  160.156-19  Operating instructions and information for the ship's 
training manual.

    (a) Each rescue boat must have instructions and information for the 
ship's training manual, that use the symbols from IMO Res. A.760(18) 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart) to 
describe the location and operation of the rescue boat.
    (b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of 
this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft 
and rescue boats, and their launching systems.
    (c) The rescue boat manufacturer must make the instructions and 
information required by paragraph (a) of this section available--
    (1) In English to purchasers of a rescue boat approved by the Coast 
Guard; and
    (2) In the form of an instruction placard providing simple 
procedures and illustrations for operation of the rescue boat. The 
placard must be not greater than 36 cm (14 in) by 51 cm (20 in), and 
must be made of durable material and suitable for display near 
installations of rescue boats on vessels.



Sec.  160.156-21  Operation and maintenance instructions.

    (a) In order to comply with SOLAS, each rescue boat must have 
operation and maintenance instructions that--
    (1) Follows the general format and content specified in MSC.1 Circ. 
1205 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.156-5 of this subpart); 
and
    (2) Includes a checklist for use in monthly, external inspections of 
the rescue boat.

[[Page 248]]

    (b) The rescue boat manufacturer must make the manual required by 
paragraph (a) of this section available in English to purchasers of a 
rescue boat approved by the Coast Guard.
    (c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by paragraph 
(a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival 
craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.



Sec.  160.156-23  Procedure for approval of design, material, or 
construction change.

    (a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans 
approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.156-13(h) of this subpart 
must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any production 
rescue boat. The manufacturer must submit any such change following the 
procedures set forth in Sec.  160.156-9 of this subpart, but 
documentation on items that are unchanged from the plans approved under 
46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.156-13(h) of this subpart need not be 
resubmitted.
    (b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a 
prototype rescue boat with each change described in paragraph (a) of 
this section must be made and tested according to the procedures for new 
approvals in Sec. Sec.  160.156-9 through 160.156-13 of this subpart.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials will be made by the Commandant only.



 Subpart 160.170_Davit-Launched Liferaft Automatic Release Hooks (SOLAS)

    Source: USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 63007, Oct. 11, 2011, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.170-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for seeking 
Coast Guard approval of an automatic release mechanism complying with 
SOLAS and the IMO LSA Code, for use with davit-launched liferafts 
approved under subparts 160.051 or 160.151 of this part, and single-fall 
rescue boats approved under subpart 160.156 of this part.



Sec.  160.170-3  Definitions.

    In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.170-5 of this subpart), in this subpart, the 
term:
    Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety 
Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and 
Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 
or fax 202-372-1924.
    Full load means the weight of the complete rescue boat including all 
required equipment, provisions, fuel (if applicable), and the number of 
persons for which it is approved. This is also known as the ``condition 
B'' weight.
    Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A 
list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the 
Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
    Light load means the weight of the complete rescue boat empty and 
does not include fuel, required equipment, or the equivalent weight of 
persons. This is also known as the ``condition A'' weight.
    Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the 
Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the 
duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The ``cognizant OCMI'' is the 
OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for 
the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
    SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at 
Sea, 1974, as amended.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 63007, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.170-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) 
material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at 
the National Archives and Records Administration

[[Page 249]]

(NARA). Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast 
Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 
20593-7509; or email [email protected] or visit https://
www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For information on the availability of this 
material at NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: 
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The material 
may be obtained from the sources in the following paragraphs of this 
section.
    (b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr 
Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
    (1) ASTM A 36/A 36M-08, Standard Specification for Carbon Structural 
Steel, (approved May 15, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.170-7 (``ASTM 
A 36'').
    (2) ASTM A 276-08a, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars 
and Shapes, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.170-7 
(``ASTM A 276'').
    (3) ASTM A 313/A 313M-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel 
Spring Wire, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  160.170-
7 (``ASTM A 313'').
    (4) ASTM A 314-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel 
Billets and Bars for Forging, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.170-7 (``ASTM A 314'').
    (5) ASTM A 653/A 653M-08, Standard Specification for Steel Sheet, 
Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) or Zinc-Iron Alloy-Coated (Galvannealed) by the 
Hot-Dip Process, (approved July 15, 2008), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  
160.170-7, 160.170-13, and 160.170-15 (``ASTM A 653'').
    (6) ASTM F 1166-07, Standard Practice for Human Engineering Design 
for Marine Systems, Equipment, and Facilities, (approved January 1, 
2007), IBR approved for Sec.  160.170-7 (``ASTM F 1166'').
    (c) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 
4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 
7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving 
Appliances and Arrangements, (adopted November 4, 1993), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.170-19 (``IMO Res. A.760(18)'').
    (2) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), pages 7-71 (``IMO LSA Code''), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  
160.170-3 and 160.170-7.
    (3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, 
(2010), Revised recommendation on testing of live-saving appliances, 
pages 79-254 (``IMO Revised recommendation on testing''), IBR approved 
for Sec. Sec.  160.170-7, 160.170-13, 160.170-15, and 160.170-17.
    (4) MSC/Circular 980, Standardized Life-saving Appliance Evaluation 
and Test Report Forms, (February 13, 2001), IBR approved for Sec.  
160.170-13 (``IMO MSC Circ. 980'').
    (5) MSC.1/Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and 
Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, (May 26, 2006), IBR approved 
for Sec.  160.170-21 (``IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205'').

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 63007, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2022-0323, 88 FR 10031, Feb. 16, 
2023]



Sec.  160.170-7  Design, construction, and performance of automatic 
release mechanisms.

    (a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a release mechanism, a 
manufacturer must comply with, and each release mechanism must meet, the 
requirements of the following--
    (1) IMO LSA Code, Chapter VI/6.1.5 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  160.170-5 of this subpart);
    (2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing Part 1/8.2 (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  160.170-5 of this subpart).
    (3) 46 CFR part 159; and
    (4) This subpart.
    (b) Each release mechanism must meet the following requirements--
    (1) Design. All functions of the release mechanism, including 
removal of interlocks, operation of the release handle, resetting the 
hooks, and reattaching the falls to the hooks, must be designed to be 
operable by persons wearing immersion suits;
    (2) Each release mechanism should be designed following standard 
human engineering practices described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.170-5 of this subpart). Design limits should be 
based on a range from the fifth percentile female to the ninety-fifth 
percentile male values for critical

[[Page 250]]

body dimensions and functional capabilities as described in ASTM F 1166. 
The dimensions for a person wearing an immersion suit correspond to the 
arctic-clothed dimensions of ASTM F 1166;
    (3) Steel. Each major structural component of each release mechanism 
must be constructed of steel. Other materials may be used if accepted by 
the Commandant as equivalent or superior. Sheet steel and plate must be 
low-carbon, commercial quality, either corrosion resistant or galvanized 
as per ASTM A 653 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.170-5 of 
this subpart), coating designation G115. Structural steel plates and 
shapes must be carbon steel as per ASTM A 36 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.170-5 of this subpart). All steel products, except 
corrosion resistant steel, must be galvanized to provide high-quality 
zinc coatings suitable for the intended service life in a marine 
environment. Each fabricated part must be galvanized after fabrication. 
Corrosion resistant steel must be a type 302 stainless steel per ASTM A 
276, ASTM A 313 or ASTM A 314 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.170-5 of this subpart) or another corrosion resistant stainless 
steel of equal or superior corrosion resistant characteristics;
    (4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the 
Commandant, a classification society recognized by the Commandant in 
accordance with 46 CFR 8.220, the U.S. Navy, or the national body where 
the release mechanism is constructed or the national body's designated 
recognized organization. Only electrodes intended for use with the 
material being welded may be used. All welds must be checked using 
appropriate non-destructive tests;
    (5) Metals in contact with each other must be either galvanically 
compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. Provisions 
must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening resulting from 
differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of parts, galvanic 
corrosion, or other incompatibilities;
    (6) Screws, nuts, bolts, pins, keys, and other similar hardware, 
securing moving parts must be fitted with suitable lock washers, cotter 
pins, or locks to prevent them from coming adrift;
    (7) The on-load operation of the release mechanism must require two 
separate, deliberate actions by the operator;
    (8) To prevent an accidental release during recovery of the boat, 
the release hooks must not be able to carry any weight until the release 
mechanism is properly reset;
    (9) The release and recovery procedures must be included as an 
illustrated operation instruction plate or placard. The plate or placard 
must be corrosion resistant and weatherproof and must be marked with the 
word ``Danger''. The illustrations must correspond exactly to those used 
in the instruction and maintenance manual provided by the manufacturer;
    (10) The release lever or control must be red in color, and the area 
immediately surrounding the control must be a sharply contrasting light 
color;
    (11) Each load carrying part of the release mechanism, including its 
connection to the boat, must be designed with a safety factor of six 
based on the ultimate strength of the materials used;
    (12) The release lever and its connection to the release mechanism 
must be of sufficient strength so that there is no deformation of the 
release lever or the release control assembly during on-load release;
    (13) Positive means of lubrication must be provided for each bearing 
which is not permanently lubricated. Points of lubrication must be so 
located that they are clearly visible and accessible in the installed 
position in the boat; and
    (14) A hydraulic system, if used to activate the release mechanism, 
must be in accordance with 46 CFR part 58, subpart 58.30, with hose and 
fittings in accordance with 46 CFR part 56, subpart 56.60, except that--
    (i) Push-on type fittings such as Aeroquip 1525-X, 25156-X, and 
FC332-X are not permitted;
    (ii) The length of nonmetallic flexible hose is limited to 760 mm 
(30 in); and
    (iii) If a hand pump is provided, adequate space must be provided 
for the hand pump or hand operation.
    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials will be made by the Commandant only.

[[Page 251]]



Sec.  160.170-9  Preapproval review.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the 
Commandant must conduct the preapproval review, required by this 
section, in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
    (b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a 
release mechanism, the manufacturer must submit an application to the 
Commandant meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval 
review. To meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the 
manufacturer must submit in triplicate--
    (1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other 
documentation submitted, with each document identified by number, title, 
revision issue, and date;
    (2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal 
dimensions;
    (3) Stress calculations for all load carrying parts, including the 
release hooks, release mechanisms, and connections;
    (4) Hydraulic systems drawings and specifications, if installed;
    (5) Drawings of all signs and placards showing actual inscription, 
format, color, and size;
    (6) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in 
Sec. Sec.  160.170-19 and 160.170-21 of this subpart;
    (7) A description of the quality control procedures and 
recordkeeping that will apply to the production of the release 
mechanism, which must include but is not limited to--
    (i) The system for checking material certifications received from 
suppliers;
    (ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
    (iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication and joints, 
including welding inspection procedures; and
    (iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of 
fabrication to assure that the approved release mechanism complies with 
the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
    (8) Full details of any other unique capability;
    (9) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the release 
mechanism complies with the requirements of this subpart;
    (10) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including 
the name and address of any subcontractors, where the release mechanism 
will be constructed; and
    (11) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the 
duties prescribed in Sec.  160.170-15 of this subpart.
    (c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the 
Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review 
required by this section, so long as the preapproval review is conducted 
in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent 
laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
    (d) Plan quality. The plans and specifications submitted to the 
Commandant under this section must--
    (1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and 
designations for configuration control;
    (2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this 
section in sufficient detail to show that the release mechanism meets 
the construction requirements of this subpart;
    (3) Accurately depict the proposed automatic release hook;
    (4) Be internally consistent;
    (5) Be legible; and
    (6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of 
this section, include the independent laboratory's attestation that the 
plans meet the quality requirements of this section.
    (e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or construction, 
and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly indicated as 
such in the plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under 
this section.
    (f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not comply 
with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be 
suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.

[[Page 252]]



Sec.  160.170-11  [Reserved]



Sec.  160.170-13  Approval inspections and tests for prototype automatic
release mechanisms.

    (a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted 
in accordance with Sec.  160.170-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to 
the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the 
prototype release mechanism, and the approval inspections and tests 
required under this section.
    (b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast 
Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval 
tests required under this section.
    (c) Manufacturer's requirements. To proceed with approval 
inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must--
    (1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine 
Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required 
under this section will take place, and such notification must be in 
sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
    (2) Arrange a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard 
inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;
    (3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or 
testing is performed on release mechanisms or their component parts and 
materials for the purpose of--
    (i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the 
prototype--
    (A) Conforms with the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.170-9 of this 
subpart;
    (B) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified 
in the plans reviewed under Sec.  160.170-9 of this subpart; and
    (C) When welding is part of the construction process, is constructed 
by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans reviewed under 
Sec.  160.170-9 of this subpart, and the welders are appropriately 
qualified;
    (ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the manufacturer 
is satisfactory;
    (iii) Witnessing tests; and
    (iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections 
or tests; and
    (4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or 
invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the 
production of release mechanisms, together with records identifying the 
lot or serial numbers of the release mechanisms in which such materials 
were used.
    (d) Tests. (1) Prototype release mechanism readiness. All tests must 
be conducted on a complete release mechanism.
    (2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype release 
mechanism of each design must pass each of the tests described in IMO 
Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1, paragraph 8.2 (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  160.170-5 of this subpart). Tests must be 
conducted in accordance with these paragraphs of IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, Part 1, with the following modifications:
    (i) Visual inspection. Each release mechanism must be visually 
inspected to confirm--
    (A) Compliance with this subpart;
    (B) Conformance with the examined plans; and
    (C) Ease of operation and maintenance.
    (ii) Materials. Steel meeting ASTM A 653 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.170-5 of this subpart) must meet the coating mass and bend 
tests requirement specified under ASTM A 653 after galvanizing or other 
anti-corrosion treatment has been applied. This compliance can be 
ascertained through a supplier's certification or by conducting actual 
tests.
    (iii) Tensile tests. The release mechanism hook assembly and 
supporting structure must be tensile tested in a jig built to load the 
hook assembly in the same way or ways it would be loaded when used with 
a liferaft or rescue boat. The hook assembly will be approved for a 
maximum of one-sixth of the highest load applied.
    (iv) Universal joints. This test is required if the release 
mechanism employs universal joints to transmit the release power from 
the control to the hook release. One of each type and size of universal 
joint must be set up in a

[[Page 253]]

jig with the angles of leads set at 0 (zero), 30, and 60 degrees, 
respectively. A torque of 540 Nm (400 ft lb) must be applied. This 
torque must be applied with the connecting rod secured beyond the 
universal and with the lever arm in the horizontal position. There must 
be no permanent set, or undue stress, as a result of this test.
    (v) Hydraulic controls. If the release mechanism includes a fluid 
power and control system, a test of the hydraulic controls must be 
conducted in accordance with 46 CFR 58.30-35.
    (e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a 
release mechanism identical in construction to smaller and larger 
release mechanisms that have successfully completed the tests. However, 
stress calculations in accordance with Sec.  160.170-9(b) of this 
subpart must still be submitted. Tests associated with release mechanism 
components that have already been accepted by the Commandant are not 
required to be repeated.
    (f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the 
Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections 
and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the 
inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with the 
procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant 
under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
    (g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by 
this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46 
CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for 
review--
    (1) The prototype approval test report containing the same 
information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  160.170-5 of this subpart). The report must include a signed 
statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as 
permitted by paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the testing, 
indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its 
results; and
    (2) The final plans of the release mechanism as built. The plans 
must include, in triplicate, the instructions for training and 
maintenance described in Sec. Sec.  160.170-19 and 160.170-21 of this 
subpart, respectively.
    (h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under 
paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant, 
will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.



Sec.  160.170-15  Production inspections, tests, quality control, and 
conformance of release mechanisms.

    (a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, 
and oversight required by this section. Production inspections and tests 
of release mechanisms must be carried out in accordance with the 
procedures for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, 
subpart 159.007 and in this section unless the Commandant authorizes 
alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe 
additional production tests and inspections necessary to maintain 
quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this 
subpart.
    (b) Manufacturer's responsibility. The manufacturer must--
    (1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all 
production release mechanisms are produced to the same standard, and in 
the same manner, as the prototype release mechanism approved by the 
Commandant. The manufacturer's quality control personnel must not work 
directly under the department or person responsible for either 
production or sales;
    (2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or 
Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) 
to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;
    (3) Submit to the Commandant, a yearly report that contains the 
following--
    (i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each release 
mechanism constructed;
    (ii) The name of the representative of the independent laboratory 
(or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this 
section); and
    (iii) Serial number and model name of the liferaft or rescue boat 
with

[[Page 254]]

which the release hook is to be used, if known;
    (4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the 
construction of the release mechanism are in accordance with plans 
approved under Sec.  160.170-13(h) of this subpart;
    (5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if 
required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where 
materials are stored for the release mechanism, work or testing is 
performed on release mechanisms or their component parts and materials, 
or records are retained to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of 
this section, for the purpose of--
    (i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer is 
satisfactory;
    (ii) Witnessing tests; or
    (iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional 
inspections or tests; and
    (6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector 
if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the 
inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e) of this 
section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the 
release mechanisms are being made in accordance with the plans approved 
under Sec.  160.170-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements of this 
subpart.
    (c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in 
accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records of 
all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date of 
termination of approval of each release mechanism. The records must 
include--
    (1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this 
subpart, and each document listed in Sec.  160.170-5 of this subpart;
    (2) A copy of the approved plans and documentation;
    (3) A current certificate of approval for each approved release 
mechanism;
    (4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers 
identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved 
release mechanisms, together with records identifying the serial numbers 
of the release mechanisms in which such materials were used;
    (5) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
    (6) Records of welder certificates, training, and qualifications;
    (7) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name 
and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
    (8) The serial number of each production release gear, along with 
records of its inspections and tests carried out under this section; and
    (9) The original purchaser of each release gear and the vessel on 
which it was installed, if known.
    (d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent 
laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, the inspections and 
tests under paragraph (e) of this section for each Coast Guard-approved 
release mechanism to be installed on a U.S.-flagged vessel. If the 
manufacturer also produces release mechanisms for approval by other 
maritime safety administrations, the inspections may be coordinated with 
inspection visits for those administrations.
    (e) Production inspections and tests. Each finished release 
mechanism must be visually inspected. The manufacturer must develop and 
maintain a visual inspection checklist designed to ensure that all 
applicable requirements have been met. Each approved release mechanism 
constructed with non-corrosion resistant steel must be confirmed to have 
met the coating mass and bend tests requirement specified under ASTM A 
653 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.170-5 of this subpart) 
after galvanizing or other anti-corrosion treatment has been applied. 
This compliance can be ascertained through a supplier's certification 
papers or through conducting actual tests.
    (f) Each approved release mechanism must pass each of the tests 
described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 2, paragraph 
6.2 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.170-5 of this subpart). 
However, each approved release mechanism for installation of a single-
fall rescue boat must pass each of the tests described in IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, part 2, paragraph 5.3.1 and 5.3.4.

[[Page 255]]



Sec.  160.170-17  Marking and labeling.

    (a) Each hook body of a release mechanism must be marked with a 
plate or label permanently affixed in a conspicuous place readily 
accessible for inspection and sufficiently durable to withstand 
continuous exposure to environmental conditions at sea for the life of 
the release mechanism.
    (b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other 
languages.
    (c) The plate or label must contain the--
    (1) Manufacturer's name and model identification;
    (2) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype 
or production tests;
    (3) Serial number of the release mechanism;
    (4) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
    (5) Month and year of manufacture;
    (6) Safe working load of the release mechanism;
    (7) Number of the test certificate in accordance with IMO Revised 
recommendation on testing, part 2/6.2.2 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  160.170-5 of this subpart); and
    (8) Word ``SOLAS.''



Sec.  160.170-19  Operating instructions and information for the ship's
training manual.

    (a) In order to comply with SOLAS, each release mechanism must have 
instructions and information for the ship's training manual that use the 
symbols from IMO Res. A.760(18) (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.170-5 of this subpart) to describe the location and operation of the 
winch.
    (b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of 
this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft 
and rescue boats, and their launching systems.
    (c) The release mechanism manufacturer must make the instructions 
and information required by paragraph (a) of this section available--
    (1) In English to purchasers of release mechanisms approved by the 
Coast Guard; and
    (2) In the form of an instruction placard providing simple 
procedures and illustrations for operation of the release mechanism. The 
placard must be not greater than 36 cm (14 in) by 51 cm (20 in), and 
must be made of durable material and suitable for display inside a 
lifeboat and rescue boat, and near launching apparatuses on vessels.



Sec.  160.170-21  Operation and maintenance instructions.

    (a) Each release mechanism must have operation and maintenance 
instructions that--
    (1) Follows the general format and content specified in IMO MSC.1 
Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.170-5 of this 
subpart); and
    (2) Includes a checklist for use in monthly, external inspections of 
the release mechanism.
    (b) The release mechanism manufacturer must make the manual required 
by paragraph (a) of this section available in English to purchasers of a 
release mechanism approved by the Coast Guard.
    (c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by paragraph 
(a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival 
craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.



Sec.  160.170-23  Procedure for approval of design, material, or 
construction change.

    (a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans 
approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.170-13(h) of this subpart 
must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any production 
release mechanism. The manufacturer must submit any such change 
following the procedures in Sec.  160.170-9 of this subpart, but 
documentation on items that are unchanged from the plans approved under 
46 CFR 159.005-13 and Sec.  160.170-13(h) of this subpart need not be 
resubmitted.
    (b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a 
prototype release mechanism with each change described in paragraph (a) 
of this section must be made and tested according to the procedures for 
new approvals in Sec. Sec.  160.170-9 through 160.170-13 of this 
subpart.

[[Page 256]]

    (c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials will be made by the Commandant only.



                     Subpart 160.171_Immersion Suits

    Source: CGD 84-069a, 52 FR 1188, Jan. 12, 1987, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.171-1  Scope.

    This subpart contains construction and performance requirements, and 
approval tests for adult and child insulated, buoyant immersion suits 
that are designed to prevent shock upon entering cold water and lessen 
the effect of hypothermia (extreme body heat loss due to immersion in 
cold water). Immersion suits approved under this subpart will meet the 
requirements of Regulation 33 of Chapter III of the International 
Convention for Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974, under the Second Set 
of Amendments adopted 17 June 1983.



Sec.  160.171-3  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain materials are incorporated by reference into this 
subchapter with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register in 
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. The Office of the 
Federal Register publishes a table, ``Material Approved for 
Incorporation by Reference,'' which appears in the Finding Aids section 
of this volume. In that table is found citations to the particular 
sections of this part where the material is incorporated. To enforce any 
edition other than the one listed in paragraph (b) of this section, 
notice of change must be published in the Federal Register and the 
material made available. All approved material is on file at the Office 
of the Federal Register, Washington, DC 20408, and at Coast Guard 
Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire 
Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. 
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.
    (b) The materials approved for incorporation by reference in this 
subpart are:

American Society for Testing and Materials
100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.

    ASTM B 117-97, Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) 
Apparatus--160.171-17
    ASTM C 177-85 (1993), Standard Test Method for Steady-State Heat 
Flux Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the 
Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus--160.171-17
    ASTM C 518-91, Standard Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux 
Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Heat 
Flow Meter Apparatus--160.171-17
    ASTM D 975-98, Standard Specification for Diesel Fuel Oils--160.171-
17
    ASTM D 1004-94a, Standard Test Method for Initial Tear Resistance of 
Plastic Film and Sheeting--160.171-17
Federal Standards Specification Unit (WFSIA)
Regional Office Building, Room 6039, 7th and D Streets SW, Washington, 
          DC 20407.
    National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 440--Color, 
Universal Language and Dictionary of Names; December 1976.
    Federal Test Method Standard No. 191a dated July 20, 1978, Method 
5304.1, Abrasion Resistance of Cloth, Oscillatory Cylinder (Wyzenbeek) 
Method, dated July 9, 1971.
    Federal Standard No. 751a, Stitches, Seams, and Stitchings, dated 
January 25, 1965.

Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
12 Laboratory Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995.
    UL 1191, First Edition (Standard for Components for Personal 
Flotation Devices), as revised March 29, 1977.

[CGD 84-069a, 52 FR 1188, Jan. 12, 1987, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 FR 
50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; CGD 97-
057, 62 FR 51048, Sept. 30, 1997; USCG-1999-5151, 64 FR 67184, Dec. 1, 
1999; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49237, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 
60159, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.171-5  Independent laboratory.

    The approval and production tests in this subpart must be conducted 
by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under subpart 
159.010 of this chapter.



Sec.  160.171-7  Approval procedures.

    (a) General. An immersion suit is approved by the Coast Guard under 
the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.

[[Page 257]]

    (b) Approval testing. Each approval test must be conducted in 
accordance with Sec.  160.171-17 or Sec.  160.171-19.
    (c) Approval of child size and oversize adult suits. No child size 
or oversize adult sized suit will be approved unless the adult size of 
the suit has been approved.



Sec.  160.171-9  Construction.

    (a) General. Each immersion suit must be constructed primarily of a 
closed-cell flexible foam that meets the buoyancy and thermal insulation 
requirements in Sec.  160.171-11 (a) and (c). Each suit must be designed 
to cover the wearer's entire body, except for the area of the nose and 
eyes. It must be capable of being worn inside-out or be clearly capable 
of being worn in only one way and, as far as possible, incapable of 
being donned incorrectly.
    (b) Impact resistance and body strength. The body of each suit must 
be designed to allow the wearer to jump from a height of at least 4.5 m 
into the water without injury and without dislodging or damaging the 
suit.
    (c) Seams. Stitching in each sewn structural seam of an immersion 
suit must be lock type stitching that meets the requirements in Federal 
Standard No. 751 for one of the following:
    (1) Class 300 Lockstitch.
    (2) Class 700 Single Thread Lockstitch.

Other stitches which are not true lock stitches may be used to reinforce 
a glued seam provided the adhesive alone has the required seam strength 
after the non-standard stitch has been removed.
    (d) Seam strength. Each seam must have a strength of at least 225 
Newtons (50 lb.).
    (e) Closures and seals. Each closure and seal must be designed so 
that, following a jump from a height of not less than 4.5 m into the 
water, there is no undue ingress of water into the suit.
    (f) Hardware. All hardware of an immersion suit must be of a size 
and design that allows ease of operation by the wearer. The hardware 
must be attached to the suit in a manner that allows the wearer to 
operate it easily and that prevents it from attaining a position in 
which it can be operated improperly.
    (g) Metal parts. Each metal part of an immersion suit must be--
    (1) 410 stainless steel or have salt water and salt air corrosion 
characteristics equal or superior to 410 stainless steel; and
    (2) Galvanically compatible with each other metal part in contact 
with it.
    (h) Suit exterior. The primary color of the exterior of each suit 
must be vivid reddish orange (color number 34 of National Bureau of 
Standards Publication 440). The exterior surface of the suit must resist 
tearing and abrasion when tested as prescribed in Sec.  160.171-17 (n) 
and (o).
    (i) Buoyant materials and compartments. Buoyant materials used in a 
suit must not be loose or granular. The suit must not have an inflated 
or inflatable chamber, except as prescribed in Sec.  160.171-11(a)(2).
    (j) Hand and arm construction. The hand of each suit must be a glove 
that allows sufficient dexterity for the wearer to pick up a 9.5 mm (3/8 
in.) diameter wooden pencil from a table and write with it, after being 
immersed in water at 5 [deg]C for a period of one hour. The glove may 
not be removable unless it is attached to the arm and unless it can be 
secured to the arm or stowed in a pocket on the arm when not in use. A 
removable glove must be designed so that there is no undue ingress of 
water into the glove during use. Each arm with a removable glove must 
have a wristlet seal that meets paragraph (e) of this section.
    (k) Leg construction. Each suit must be designed to minimize or 
reduce free air in its legs when the wearer enters the water headfirst.
    (l) Foot construction. Each leg of a suit must have a foot that has 
a hard sole or enough room for a work shoe to be worn inside. The sole 
of each foot must be--
    (1) Natural or synthetic rubber that is ribbed or bossed for skid 
resistance; and
    (2) Designed to prevent the wearer from slipping when the suit is 
tested as prescribed in Sec.  160.171-17(c)(5).
    (m) Size. Each adult suit must fit persons ranging in weight from 50 
kg (110 lb.) to 150 kg (330 lb.) and in height from 1.5 m (59 in.) to 
1.9 m (75 in.). Each

[[Page 258]]

child size suit must fit children or small adults ranging in weight from 
20 kg (44 lb.) to 50 kg (110 lb.) and in height from 1.0 m (39 in.) to 
1.5 m (59 in.). An oversize adult suit is intended for persons too large 
for the standard adult suit. Each suit must be capable of being worn 
comfortably over clothing and must not restrict the wearer's motion. The 
suit size and design must allow successful completion of the mobility 
tests prescribed in Sec.  160.171-17(c)(2) through (7).
    (n) Retroreflective material. Each immersion suit must be fitted 
with Type I retroreflective material that meets subpart 164.018 of this 
chapter. When the wearer of an immersion suit is in any stable floating 
position, at least 200 cm \2\ (31 sq. in.) of the material must be 
visible above water.
    (o) PFD Light. Each immersion suit must be designed so that a light 
meeting the requirements of subpart 161.012 of this chapter can be 
attached to its front shoulder area and so that the light when attached 
does not damage the suit and cannot adversely affect its performance. If 
the manufacturer of the suit designates a specific location for the 
light, or designates a specific model light, this information must be 
clearly printed on the suit or in the instructions prescribed by Sec.  
160.171-15(c).
    (p) Inflation tube. If the suit has an inflatable auxiliary means of 
buoyancy, each joint in the oral inflation tube must be joined with a 
clamping device. A flange connection between the tube and the inflatable 
chamber must be reinforced so that the flange on the inflation tube is 
secured between the material of the inflatable section and the 
reinforcement.

[CGD 84-069a, 52 FR 1188, Jan. 12, 1987, as amended by USCG-2014-0688, 
79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  160.171-11  Performance.

    (a) Buoyancy. Each suit must meet the following buoyancy 
requirements as measured in the test conducted under Sec.  160.171-
17(h):
    (1) The adjusted buoyancy of each adult and each oversize adult size 
suit must be at least 100 N (22 lb.). The adjusted buoyancy of each 
child size suit must be at least 50 N (11 lb.) The measured buoyancy 
must not be reduced by more than 5% after 24 hours submersion in fresh 
water.
    (2) Each suit must have a stable floating position in which the 
wearer's head must be tilted to a position between 30[deg] and 80[deg] 
above the horizontal, with the mouth and nose at least 120 mm (4\3/4\ 
in.) above the surface of the water. If necessary, this position may be 
obtained through the use of an auxiliary means of buoyancy such as an 
inflatable bladder behind the wearer's head.
    (3) If an auxiliary means of buoyancy is necessary to meet paragraph 
(a)(2) of this section, the suit must have a stable floating position 
without the auxiliary means of buoyancy in which the mouth and nose of 
the wearer are at least 50 mm (2 in.) above the surface of the water.
    (4) The buoyancy of any auxiliary means of buoyancy must not be 
counted when determining the buoyancy of the suit.
    (b) Righting. The suit must be designed to turn the body of an 
unconscious person in the water from any position to one where the mouth 
is clear of the water in not more than five seconds, without assistance 
or the use of any means of auxiliary buoyancy which must be inflated by 
the wearer; or to allow the wearer to turn from a face down to a face up 
position in not more than 5 seconds, without assistance or the use of 
any means of auxiliary buoyancy. If an automatically inflated means of 
auxiliary buoyancy is used to meet this paragraph, the inflation 
mechanism must meet the requirements for commercial hybrid PFDs in Sec.  
160.077-15(c) of this chapter, and the tests required under Sec.  
160.077-21(c)(3) of this chapter. Auxiliary buoyancy, if fitted and/or 
inflated, must not interfere with righting.
    (c) Thermal protection. The suit must be designed to protect against 
loss of body heat as follows:
    (1) The thermal conductivity of the suit material when submerged 1 m 
(39 in.) in water must be less than or equal to that of a control sample 
of 4.75 mm (\3/16\ in.) thick, closed-cell neoprene foam. The control 
sample of foam must have a thermal conductivity of not more than 0.055 
watt/meter-[deg] K (0.38 Btu-in./hr.-sq.ft.- [deg]F).

[[Page 259]]

    (2) The suit must provide the wearer with sufficient thermal 
insulation, following one jump into the water from a height of 4.5 m, to 
ensure that the wearer's body core temperature does not fall more than 2 
[deg]C (3.6 [deg]F) after a period of 6 hours immersion in calm 
circulating water at a temperature of between 0 [deg]C (32 [deg]F) and 2 
[deg]C (35.6 [deg]F).
    (d) Donning time. Each suit must be designed so that a person can 
don the suit correctly within two minutes after reading the donning and 
use instructions described in Sec.  160.171-15(a).
    (e) Vision. Each suit must be designed to allow unrestricted vision 
throughout an arc of 60[deg] to either side of the wearer's straight-
ahead line of sight when the wearer's head is turned to any angle 
between 30[deg] to the right and 30[deg] to the left. Each suit must be 
designed to allow a standing wearer to move head and eyes up and down 
far enough to see both feet and a spot directly overhead.
    (f) Water penetration. An immersion suit must be designed to prevent 
undue ingress of water into the suit following a period of flotation in 
calm water of one hour.
    (g) Splash protection. Each suit must have a means to prevent water 
spray from directly entering the wearer's mouth.
    (h) Storage temperature. Each suit must be designed so that it will 
not be damaged by storage in its storage case at any temperature between 
-30 [deg]C (-22 [deg]F) and + 65 [deg]C (149 [deg]F).
    (i) Flame exposure. Each suit must be designed to prevent sustained 
burning or continued melting after it is totally enveloped in a fire for 
a period of 2 seconds.
    (j) Oil resistance. Each immersion suit must be designed to be 
useable after a 24 hour exposure to diesel oil.



Sec.  160.171-13  Storage case.

    (a) Each suit must have a storage case made of vinyl coated cloth or 
material that provides an equivalent measure of protection to the suit.
    (b) Each storage case must be designed so that it is still useable 
after two seconds contact with a gasoline fire.



Sec.  160.171-15  Instructions.

    (a) Each suit must have instructions for its donning and use in an 
emergency. The instructions must be in English and must not exceed 50 
words. Illustrations must be used in addition to the words. These 
instructions must be on the exterior of the storage case or printed on a 
waterproof card attached to the storage case or to the suit.
    (b) If the suit has an inflatable auxiliary means of buoyancy, 
separate instructions covering the use of the inflation valve must be 
provided on the suit near the valve or on a waterproof card attached 
near the valve.
    (c) Instructions for donning and use of the suit in an emergency 
must also be available in a format suitable for mounting on a bulkhead 
of a vessel. This placard must be in English, must include 
illustrations, and must include a warning as to the risk of entrapment 
in a submerged compartment due to the buoyancy of the suit.
    (d) Instructions for donning and use of the suit in an emergency, 
instructions for care and repair of the suit, and any additional 
necessary information concerning stowage and use of the suit on a vessel 
must be available in 8\1/2\ x 11 loose-leaf format suitable for 
inclusion in the vessel's training manual.



Sec.  160.171-17  Approval testing for adult size immersion suit.

    Caution: During each of the in-water tests prescribed in this 
section, a person ready to render assistance when needed should be near 
each subject in the water.
    (a) General. An adult size immersion suit must be tested as 
prescribed in this section. If the suit is also made in a child size, a 
child size suit must be tested as prescribed in Sec.  160.171-19. If the 
suit is also made in an oversize adult size, an oversize adult suit must 
be tested as prescribed in Sec.  160.171-17(g) to determine the measured 
buoyancy for the suit. No additional testing will be required if the 
oversize adult suit is of the same design as the adult suit except for 
extra material to provide for larger persons.
    (b) Test samples. Each test prescribed in this section may be 
performed by using as many immersion suits as

[[Page 260]]

needed to make efficient use of the test subjects and test equipment, 
except that each subject in the impact test described in Sec.  160.171-
17(c)(11) must not use more than one suit during the test, and the suits 
used in the impact test must also be used in the thermal protection test 
described in Sec.  160.171-17(d).
    (c) Mobility and flotation tests. The mobility and flotation 
capabilities of each immersion suit must be tested under the following 
conditions and procedures:
    (1) Test subjects. Seven males and three females must be used in the 
tests described in this paragraph. The subjects must represent each of 
the three physical types (ectomorphic, endomorphic, and mesomorphic). 
Each subject must be in good health. The heaviest subject, of either 
sex, must weigh at least 135 kg (298 lb.). The heaviest male subject 
must weigh at least 115 kg (254 lb.) and the lightest male subject must 
weigh not more than 55 kg (121 lb). The heaviest female subject must 
weigh at least 115 kg (254 lb.) and the lightest female subject must 
weigh not more than 55 kg (121 lb). Each subject must be unfamiliar with 
the specific suit under test. Each subject must wear a standard range of 
clothing consisting of:
    (i) Underwear (short sleeved, short legged);
    (ii) Shirt (long sleeved);
    (iii) Trousers (not woolen);
    (iv) Woolen or equivalent synthetic socks;
    (v) Rubber soled work shoes.
    (2) Donning time. Each subject is removed from the view of the other 
subjects and allowed one minute to examine a suit and the manufacturer's 
instructions for donning and use of the suit in an emergency. At the end 
of this period, the subject attempts to don the suit as rapidly as 
possible without the aid of a chair or any support to lean on. If the 
subject does not don the suit completely, including gloves and any other 
accessories, within two minutes, the subject removes the suit and is 
given a demonstration of correct donning, and again attempts to don the 
suit. At least nine of the ten subjects must be able to don the suit 
completely, including time to remove shoes if necessary, in two minutes 
in at least one of the two attempts.
    (3) Field of vision. The immersion suit's field of vision must be 
tested as follows:
    (i) While wearing a suit, each subject sits upright and faces 
straight ahead. An observer is positioned to one side of the subject at 
an angle of 60[deg] away from the subject's straight-ahead line of 
sight. The observer must be able to see the subject's closest eye at 
this position. The observer then walks past the front of the subject to 
a position on the subject's other side that is at an angle of 60[deg] 
away from the subject's straight-ahead line of sight. The suit must not 
obstruct the observer's view of the subject's eyes at any point between 
the two positions.
    (ii) While wearing the suit, each subject stands upright and faces 
straight ahead. An observer is positioned to one side of the subject at 
an angle of 90[deg] away from the subject's straight-ahead line of 
sight. The subject then turns his or her head through an arc of 30[deg] 
toward the position of the observer. This procedure is repeated with the 
observer positioned on the other side of the subject at an angle of 
90[deg] away from the subject's straight ahead line of sight. The suit 
must not obstruct the observer's view of the subject's eyes when the 
subject's head is turned 30[deg] toward the observer.
    (iii) While wearing the suit, each subject stands upright and faces 
straight ahead. Through a combination of head and eye movement, the 
subject looks first at a spot directly overhead, then looks at a spot on 
or between the feet. An observer must verify that the subject can make 
the necessary head and eye movements while wearing the suit.
    (4) Hand dexterity. A physician must always be present during this 
test. While wearing a suit, including a removable glove if any, and 
after being immersed in water at 5 [deg]C (41 [deg]F) for a period of 
one hour, each subject must be able to pick up a 9.5 mm (\3/8\ in.) 
diameter wooden pencil from a flat hard surfaced table using only one 
hand. Still using only one hand, the subject must be able to position 
the pencil and write with it. At least eight of the ten test subjects 
must be able to complete this test. This test may be performed

[[Page 261]]

in conjunction with the thermal protection test described in Sec.  
160.171-17(d), in which case five of the six test subjects specified in 
Sec.  160.171-17(d)(1) must be able to complete the test.
    (5) Walking. A 30 m (100 ft.) long walking course must be laid out 
on a smooth linoleum floor. The finish on the floor must allow water to 
lie on it in a sheet rather than in beads. The course may have gradual 
turns, but must not have any abrupt change in direction. Each subject is 
timed walking the course two times at a normal pace with the floor dry. 
Each subject then dons a suit and is timed again walking the course two 
times with the floor wet. The subject is given adequate rest between 
trials to avoid fatigue. The subject must not slip on the wet floor when 
wearing the suit. The average time for each subject to walk the course 
while wearing the suit must be not more than 1.25 times the subject's 
average time to walk the course without the suit.
    (6) Climbing. A vertical ladder extending at least 5 meters (17 
feet) above a level floor must be used for this test. Each subject is 
timed climbing the ladder twice to a rung at least 3 meters (10 feet) 
above the floor. The subject then dons a suit and is again timed 
climbing to the same rung twice. The subject is given adequate rest 
between trials to avoid fatigue. The average time for each subject to 
climb the ladder while wearing the suit must not be more than 1.25 times 
the subject's average time to climb the ladder without the suit.
    (7) Swimming and water emergence test. A pool with an inflatable 
liferaft at one side must be used for this test. The liferaft must be of 
a type approved under Subpart 160.051 of this Chapter and must not have 
a boarding ramp. Each subject, wearing a life preserver but not the 
immersion suit, enters the water and swims 25 m. The subject must then 
be able to emerge from the pool onto the liferaft using only the hands 
placed on top of the liferaft as an aid and without pushing off of the 
bottom of the pool. Any subject unable to emerge onto the liferaft 
within 30 seconds is disqualified for this test. At least five subjects 
must qualify and be used for this test. If less than five subjects of 
the original ten qualify, substitute subjects must be used. Each 
qualified subject, after sufficient rest to avoid fatigue, repeats this 
test wearing an immersion suit instead of the life preserver. At least 
two-thirds of the qualified subjects must be able to swim this distance, 
and emerge onto the liferaft within 30 seconds, wearing the immersion 
suit.
    (8) Stability and retroreflective material. While wearing the suit 
in water without any auxiliary means of buoyancy, each subject assumes a 
face-up position and then allows his or her body to become limp. The 
distance from the water surface to the lowest part of the subject's 
mouth or nose is measured. This procedure is repeated using the 
auxiliary means of buoyancy, if one is provided. For each test subject, 
the stable position and the distance of the mouth and nose above the 
water must be prescribed in Sec.  160.171-11(a)(2) and Sec.  160.171-
11(a)(3). During this test, each subject must be viewed by observers to 
determine whether the retroreflective material of the suit meets Sec.  
160.171-9(n).
    (9) Righting. Each subject while wearing a suit in water, without 
the use of any auxiliary means of buoyancy, takes a deep breath, assumes 
a face-down position, allows his or her body to become limp, and slowly 
expels air. The suit must cause the subject to turn to a position where 
the face is clear of the water within 5 seconds; or if the suit does not 
turn the subject within 5 seconds, the subject must be able to turn face 
up under his or her own power within 5 seconds. If the suit is provided 
with any means of auxiliary buoyancy, the procedure is repeated under 
each of the following applicable conditions:
    (i) With any means of auxiliary buoyancy attached but not inflated;
    (ii) With any means of auxiliary buoyancy which must be inflated by 
the wearer inflated according to the instructions; or
    (iii) With any means of auxiliary buoyancy which inflates 
automatically inflated by its automatic mechanism.
    (10) Water and air penetration. Each subject is weighed while 
wearing a pre-wetted suit without any auxiliary means of buoyancy. The 
subject jumps into water from a height that will

[[Page 262]]

cause the subject to be completely immersed. The subject swims or treads 
water for approximately one minute, emerges from the water, and is 
weighed within 10 seconds after emerging. The procedure is repeated with 
the subject entering the water headfirst. If air accumulates in the legs 
as the subject enters the water head-first, it must be expelled 
automatically. At the end of this test, the weight of the subject in the 
suit must not exceed the weight of the subject in the suit at the 
beginning of the test by more than 500 grams. Each test subject then re-
enters the water and floats for a period of one hour. The subject then 
emerges from the water and is weighed within 10 seconds. The weight of 
the subject in the suit at the end of this test must not exceed the 
weight of the subject in the suit at the beginning of the period of 
flotation by more than 200 grams.
    (11) Impact. While wearing a suit without any auxiliary means of 
buoyancy, each subject jumps into water feet first six times from a 
height of 4.5 m (15 ft.) above the water surface. Each subject must be 
able to assume a face up stable position without assistance after each 
jump. The suit must not tear, separate at any seam, or exhibit any 
characteristic that could render it unsafe or unsuitable for use in 
water.
    (d) Thermal protection. The thermal protection capability of a suit 
must be tested under the following conditions and procedures;
    (1) Test subjects. Male subjects must be used for this test. Each 
subject must be familiarized with the test procedure before starting the 
test. Each subject must have somatotype parameters within the following 
ranges according to the Heath-Carter anthropometric method: endomorphy 
3.51.0; mesomorphy 4.01.5; 
ectomorphy 3.51.0.

    Note: The following publication, among others, contains guidance for 
use of the Heath-Carter anthropometric method: ``Body Type and 
Performance,'' Hebbelinck and Ross; FITNESS, HEALTH AND WORK CAPACITY, 
INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS FOR ASSESSMENT; Larson, L. A. (Ed.); 
International Committee for the Standardization of Physical Fitness 
Tests; Macmillan; New York; 1974 (pp. 266-283).


Each subject must have had a normal night's sleep before the test, a 
well-balanced meal 1 to 5 hours before the test, and no alcoholic 
beverages for 24 hours before the test. In addition to the suit, each 
subject must wear:
    (i) Underwear (short sleeved, short legged);
    (ii) Shirt (long sleeved);
    (ii) Trousers (not woolen);
    (iv) Woolen or equivalent synthetic socks;
    (v) Work shoes, if the suit is designed for shoes to be worn inside.
    (2) Test equipment. The test must be conducted in calm water with a 
temperature between 0 [deg]C (32 [deg]F) and 2 [deg]C (35.6 [deg]F). The 
air temperature 300 mm (1 ft.) above the water surface must be between 
minus 10 [deg]C (14 [deg]F) and 20 [deg]C (68 [deg]F). Each subject must 
be instrumented with an electrocardiograph, a thermistor or thermocouple 
in the rectum placed 150 mm (6 in) beyond the anus, thermistor or 
thermocouple in the lumbar region, a thermistor or thermocouple on the 
tip of the index finger, and a thermistor or thermocouple on the tip of 
the great toe. Each thermistor or thermocouple must have an accuracy of 
0.1 [deg]C (0.18 [deg]F). The suits used in this test must be the same 
ones previously subjected to the impact test described in Sec.  160.171-
17(c)(11).
    (3) Test procedure. A physician must always be present during this 
test. Before donning the suit, each subject rests quietly in a room with 
a temperature between 10 [deg]C (50 [deg]F) and 25 [deg]C (77 [deg]F) 
for 15 minutes. The rectal temperature is then recorded as the initial 
rectal temperature. The subject dons a suit as rapidly as possible 
without damaging the instrumentation and immediately enters the water. 
The subject assumes a face-up, stable floating position. No auxiliary 
means of buoyancy may be used during this test. The subject remains in 
the water engaging in activity that maintains the heart rate between 50 
and 140 per minute for the first hour, and between 50 and 120 per minute 
during the remainder of the test, except that no attempt is made to 
control heart rate if the subject is shivering. Each thermistor or 
thermocouple reading is recorded at least every 10 minutes.

[[Page 263]]

    (4) Completion of testing. Testing of a subject ends six hours after 
he first enters the water, unless terminated sooner.
    (5) Termination of test. Testing of a subject must be terminated 
before completion if any of the following occurs:
    (i) The physician determines that the subject should not continue.
    (ii) The subject requests termination due to discomfort or illness.
    (iii) The subject's rectal temperature drops more than 2 [deg]C (3.6 
[deg]F) below the initial rectal temperature, unless the physician 
determines that the subject may continue.
    (iv) The subject's lumbar, finger, or toe temperature drops below 10 
[deg]C (50 [deg]F), unless the physician determines that the subject may 
continue.
    (6) Test results. The test results must be prepared as follows:
    (i) The total rectal temperature drop during the test period and the 
average lumbar, finger and toe temperature at the end of the test must 
be determined for each subject in the test, except subjects who did not 
complete testing for a reason stated in paragraph (d)(5)(i) or 
(d)(5)(ii) of this section. These temperatures and temperature drops 
must then be averaged. The average drop in rectal temperature must not 
be more than 2 [deg]C (3.6 [deg]F), and the average lumbar, toe and 
finger temperature must not be less than 5 [deg]C (41 [deg]F). Data from 
at least four subjects must be used in making these temperature 
calculations.
    (ii) Rates of toe, finger, lumbar, and rectal temperature drop for 
each subject who did not complete testing for a reason stated in 
paragraph (d)(5)(iii) or (d)(5)(iv) of this section must be determined 
using the highest temperature measured and the temperature measured 
immediately before testing was terminated. These rates must be used to 
extrapolate to 6 hours the estimated rectal, finger, lumbar, and toe 
temperature at the end of that time. These estimated temperatures must 
be the temperatures used in computing the average temperatures described 
in paragraph (d)(6)(i) of this section.
    (e) Insulation. Suit material must be tested under the following 
conditions and procedures, except that if the suit material meets the 
requirements for the control sample in paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this 
section, the test procedure in paragraph (e)(2) of this section is not 
required.
    (1) Test equipment. The following equipment is required for this 
test:
    (i) A sealed copper or aluminum can that has at least two parallel 
flat surfaces and that contains at least two liters (two quarts) or 
water and no air. One possible configuration of the can shown in figure 
160.171-17(e)(1)(i).
    (ii) A thermistor or thermocouple that has an accuracy of 0.1 [deg]C (0.18 [deg]F) and that 
is arranged to measure the temperature of the water in the can.
    (iii) A control sample of two flat pieces of 4.75 mm (3/16 in.) 
thick, closed cell neoprene foam of sufficient size to enclose the can 
between them. The control sample must have a thermal conductivity of not 
more than 0.055 watt/meter-[deg] K (0.38 Btu-in./hr.-sq.ft.- [deg]F). 
The thermal conductivity of the control sample must be determined in 
accordance with the procedures in ASTM C 177 or ASTM C 518 (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  160.171-3).
    (iv) Two flat pieces of suit material of sufficient size to enclose 
the can between them. The surface covering, surface treatment, and 
number of layers of the material tested must be the same as those of 
material used in the suit. If the material used in the suit varies in 
thickness or number of layers, the material tested must be 
representative of the portion of the suit having the least thickness or 
number of layers.
    (v) A clamping arrangement to form a watertight seal around the 
edges of the material when the can is enclosed inside. A sealing 
compound may be used. Figure 160.171-17(e)(1)(v) shows one possible 
arrangement of the clamping arrangement.
    (vi) A container of water deep enough to hold the entire assembly of 
the can, material, and clamp at least 1 meter (39 in.) below the surface 
of the water.
    (vii) A means to control the temperature of the water in the 
container between 0 [deg]C (32 [deg]F) and 1 [deg]C (33.8 [deg]F).
    (viii) A thermistor or thermocouple that has an accuracy of 0.1 [deg]C (0.18 [deg]F) and that is arranged to measure 
the

[[Page 264]]

temperature of the water in the container at the depth at which the can, 
material, and clamp are held.
    (2) Test procedure. The can is held under water (which can be at 
room temperature) and clamped between the two pieces of the neoprene 
control sample so that the assembly formed conforms as closely as 
possible to the shape of the can, and so that water fills all void 
spaces between the can and the sample. When the water temperature in the 
can is at or above 45 [deg]C (113 [deg]F), the assembly is then placed 
in the container and submerged to a depth of 1 m (39 in.) at the highest 
point of the assembly. The water temperature in the container must be 
between 0 [deg]C (32 [deg]F) and 1 [deg]C (33.8 [deg]F) and must be 
maintained within this range for the remainder of the test. No part of 
the assembly may touch the bottom or sides of the container. Every two 
minutes the assembly is shaken and then inverted from its previous 
position. The time for the water inside the can to drop from 45 [deg]C 
(113 [deg]F) to 33 [deg]C (91 [deg]F) is recorded. This procedure is 
performed three times using the control sample and then repeated three 
times using the suit material instead of the control sample. The 
shortest time for the drop in water temperature when the suit material 
is used must be greater than or equal to the shortest time when the 
neoprene control sample is used.
    (f) Storage temperature. Two samples of the immersion suits, in 
their storage cases, must be alternately subjected to surrounding 
temperatures of -30 [deg]C to + 65 [deg]C. These alternating cycles need 
not follow immediately after each other and the following procedure, 
repeated for a total of ten cycles, is acceptable:
    (1) 8 hours conditioning at 65 [deg]C to be completed in one day;
    (2) The specimens removed from the warm chamber that same day and 
left exposed under ordinary room conditions until the next day;
    (3) 8 hours conditioning at -30 [deg]C to be completed the next day; 
and
    (4) The specimens removed from the cold chamber that same day and 
left exposed under ordinary room conditions until the next day. At the 
conclusion of the final cycle of cold storage, two test subjects who 
successfully completed the donning test in paragraph (c)(2) of this 
section enter the cold chamber, unpack and don the immersion suits. 
Alternatively, the suits may be unpacked in the chamber, then removed 
and immediately donned. Neither of the suits must show damage such as 
shrinking, cracking, swelling, dissolution or change of mechanical 
qualities.
    (g) Measured buoyancy. The buoyancy of a suit must be measured under 
the following conditions and procedures:
    (1) Test equipment. The following equipment is required for this 
test:
    (i) A mesh basket that is large enough to hold a folded suit, and 
that is weighted sufficiently to overcome the buoyancy of the suit when 
placed in the basket.
    (ii) A tank of water that is large enough to contain the basket 
submerged with its top edge 50 mm (2 in.) below the surface of the 
water.
    (iii) A scale or load cell that has an accuracy of 0.15 Newtons (1/2 
oz.) and that is arranged to support and weigh the basket in the tank.
    (2) Test procedure. The basket is submerged so that its top edge is 
50 mm (2 in.) below the surface of the water. The basket is then 
weighed. Thereafter, a suit is submerged in water and then filled with 
water, folded, and placed in the submerged basket. The basket is titled 
45[deg] from the vertical for five minutes in each of four different 
directions to allow all entrapped air to escape. The basket is then 
suspended with its top edge 50 mm (2 in.) below the surface of the water 
for 24 hours. At the beginning and end of this period, the basket and 
suit are weighed underwater. The measured buoyancy of the suit is the 
difference between this weight and the weight of the basket as 
determined at the beginning of the test. The measured buoyancy after 24 
hours must not be more than 5% lower than the initial measured buoyancy. 
The measured buoyancy after 24 hours is used to determine adjusted 
buoyancy as described in paragraph (h) of this section.
    (h) Adjusted buoyancy. The adjusted buoyancy of a suit is its 
measured buoyancy reduced by the percentage buoyancy loss factor of the 
buoyant

[[Page 265]]

suit material. The percentage buoyancy loss factor is part of the 
buoyancy rating code determined in accordance with UL 1191, except that 
the minimum number of samples required to determine each property is 10 
instead of 75.
    (i) Suit flame exposure. The suit's resistance to flame must be 
tested under the following conditions and procedures:
    (1) Test equipment. The following equipment is required for this 
test:
    (i) A metal pan that is at least 300 mm (12 in.) wide, 450 mm (18 
in.) long, and 60 mm (2\1/2\ in.) deep. The pan must have at least 12 mm 
(\1/2\ in.) of water on the bottom with approximately 40 mm (1\1/2\ in.) 
of gasoline floating on top of the water.
    (ii) An arrangement to hold the suit over the gasoline.
    (2) Test procedure. A suit is held from its top by the holding 
arrangement. The gasoline is ignited and allowed to burn for 
approximately 30 seconds in a draft-free location. The suit is then held 
with the lowest part of each foot 240 mm (9.5 in.) above the surface of 
the burning gasoline. After two seconds, measured from the moment the 
flame first contacts the suit, the suit is removed from the fire. The 
suit must not sustain burning or continue melting after removal from the 
flames. If the suit sustains any visible damage other than scorching, it 
must then be subjected to the stability test described in paragraph 
(c)(8) of this section, except that only one subject need be used; the 
impact test described in paragraph (c)(11) of this section, except that 
only one subject need be used; the thermal protection test described in 
paragraph (d) of this section, except that only one subject need be 
used; and the buoyancy test described in paragraph (g) of this section, 
except that the buoyancy test need be conducted for only 2 hours.
    (j) Storage case flame exposure. The storage case must be tested 
using the same equipment required for the suit flame exposure test. The 
immersion suit must be inside the storage case for this test. The 
storage case is held from its top by the holding arrangement. The 
gasoline is ignited and allowed to burn for approximately 30 seconds in 
a draft-free location. The storage case is then held with its lowest 
part 240 mm (9.5 in.) above the surface of the burning gasoline. After 
two seconds, measured from the moment the flames first contact the case, 
the case is removed from the fire. If the case is burning, it is allowed 
to continue to burn for six seconds before the flames are extinguished. 
The storage case material must not burn through at any point in this 
test and the immersion suit must not sustain any visible damage.
    (k) Corrosion resistance. Each metal part of a suit that is not 410 
stainless steel, or for which published evidence of salt-spray corrosion 
resistance equal to or greater than 410 stainless steel is not 
available, must be tested as described in ASTM B 117 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.171-3). A sample of each metal under test and a 
sample of 410 stainless steel must be tested for 720 hours. At the 
conclusion of the test, each sample of test metal must show corrosion 
resistance equal to or better than the sample of 410 stainless steel.
    (l) Body strength. The body strength of a suit must be tested under 
the following conditions and procedures:
    (1) Test equipment. The test apparatus shown in figure 160.171-
17(1)(1) must be used for this test. This apparatus consists of--
    (i) Two rigid cylinders each 125 mm (5 in.) in diameter, with an eye 
or ring at each end;
    (ii) A weight of 135 kg (300 lb.); and
    (iii) Ropes or cables of sufficient length to allow the suit to be 
suspended as shown in Figure 160.171-17(1)(1).
    (2) Test procedure. The suit is cut at the waist and wrists, or 
holes are cut into it as necessary to accommodate the test apparatus. 
The suit is immersed in water for at least two minutes. The suit is then 
removed from the water and immediately arranged on the test apparatus, 
using each closure as it would be used by a person wearing the suit. The 
135 kg (300 lb.) load is applied for 5 minutes. No part of the suit may 
tear or break during this test. The suit must not be damaged in any way 
that would allow water to enter or that would affect the performance of 
the suit.
    (m) Seam strength. The strength of each different type of seam used 
in a

[[Page 266]]

suit must be tested under the following conditions and procedures:
    (1) Test equipment. The following equipment must be used for this 
test.
    (i) A chamber in which air temperature can be kept at 23 [deg]C 
(73.4 [deg]F) 2 [deg]C (1.8 [deg]F) and in which 
relative humidity can be kept at 50% 5%.
    (ii) A device to apply tension to the seam by the means of a pair of 
top jaws and a pair of bottom jaws. Each set of jaws must grip the 
material on both sides so that it does not slip when the load is 
applied.
    (2) Test samples. Each test sample must consist of two pieces of 
suit material, each of which is a 100 mm (4 in.) square. The two pieces 
are joined by a seam as shown in figure 160.171-17(m)(3). For each type 
of seam, 5 samples are required. Each sample may be cut from the suit or 
may be prepared specifically for this test. One type of seam is 
distinguished from another by the type and size of stitch or other 
joining method used and by the type and thickness of the materials 
joined at the seam.
    (3) Test procedure. Each sample is conditioned for at least 40 hours 
at 23 [deg]C (73.4 [deg]F) 2[deg](1.8 [deg]F) C 
and 50% 5% relative humidity. Immediately after 
conditioning, each sample is mounted individually in the tension device 
as shown in figure 160.171-17(m)(3). The jaws are separated at a rate of 
5 mm/second (12 in./minute). The force at rupture is recorded. The 
average force at rupture must be at least 225 Newtons (50 lb.).
    (n) Tear resistance. The tear resistance of suit material must be 
determined by the method described in ASTM D 1004. If more than one 
material is used, each material must be tested. If varying thickness of 
a material are used in the suit, samples representing the thinnest 
portion of the material must be tested. If multiple layers of a material 
are used in the suit, samples representing the layer on the exterior of 
the suit must be tested. Any material which is a composite formed of two 
or more materials bonded together is considered to be a single material. 
The average tearing strength of each material must be at least 45 
Newtons (10 lb.).
    (o) Abrasion resistance. The abrasion resistance of each type of 
suit material on the exterior of the suit must be determined by the 
method described in Federal Test Method Standard 191, Method 5304.1. If 
varying thicknesses of exterior suit material are used, samples 
representing the thinnest portion of the material must be tested. If 
exterior material has multiple layers, samples of the layer on the 
outside surface of the suit must be tested. Any exterior material which 
is a composite formed of two or more layers bonded together is 
considered to be a single material and the abradant must be applied to 
the surface that is on the exterior of the suit. The residual breaking 
strength of each material must be at least 225 Newtons (50 lb.).
    (p) Test for oil resistance. After all its apertures have been 
sealed, an immersion suit is immersed under a 100 mm head of diesel oil, 
grade No. 2-D as defined in ASTM D 975 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  160.171-3) for 24 hours. The surface oil is then wiped off and the 
immersion suit subjected to the leak test prescribed in Sec.  160.171-
17(c)(10). The ingress of water must not be greater than 200 grams.

[CGD 84-069a, 52 FR 1188, Jan. 12, 1987; USCG-2000-7790, 65 FR 58464, 
Sept. 29, 2000; USCG-2014-0688, 79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  160.171-19  Approval testing for child size immersion suit.

    A child size suit must pass the following tests:
    (a) The stability test prescribed in Sec.  160.171-17(c)(8), except 
that only six children need be used as test subjects and they can be of 
either sex. The subjects must be within the ranges of weight and height 
prescribed in Sec.  160.171-9(m). The heaviest subject must weigh at 
least 10 kg (22 lb.) more than the lightest subject. During this test 
the face seal, neck and chin fit are evaluated and must be comparable to 
the fit of the corresponding adult size suit on an adult.
    (b) The buoyancy test prescribed in Sec.  160.171-17(g).
    (c) The body strength test prescribed in Sec.  160.171-17(k) except 
that the cylinders must be 50 mm (2 in.) in diameter and the test weight 
must be 55 kg (120 lb.).

[[Page 267]]



Sec.  160.171-23  Marking.

    (a) Each immersion suit must be marked with the words ``IMMERSION 
SUIT--COMPLIES WITH SOLAS 74/83,'' the name of the manufacturer, the 
date of manufacturer, the model, the size, and the Coast Guard approval 
number.
    (b) Each storage case must be marked with the words ``immersion 
suit'' and the size.
    (c) The markings for the child size immersion suits required under 
paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section must also include the following 
statements in print smaller than the word ``child'': ``(Small Adult 
Under 50 kg. (110 lb.))'', and ``Children Require Adult Assistance for 
Donning and Use.''
    (d) If an auxiliary means of buoyancy is removable and is needed to 
meet Sec.  160.171-11(a)(2), the marking on the suit must indicate that 
the suit is not Coast Guard approved unless the auxiliary means of 
buoyancy is attached.



Sec.  160.171-25  Production testing.

    (a) Immersion suit production testing is conducted under the 
procedures in this section and subpart 159.007 of this chapter.
    (b) One out of every 100 immersion suits produced must be tested as 
prescribed in Sec.  160.171-17(g) and must be given a complete visual 
examination. The suit must be selected at random from a production lot 
of 100 suits and tested by or under the supervision of the independent 
laboratory. A suit fails this test if--
    (1) The measured buoyancy of the suit differs by more than 10% from 
the measured buoyancy of the suit tested for approval,
    (2) The adjusted buoyancy of the suit calculated using the buoyancy 
loss factor determined during approval testing is less than that 
required in Sec.  160.171-11(a)(1), or
    (3) The visual examination shows that the suit does not conform to 
the approved design.
    (c) If the suit fails to pass the test as prescribed in paragraph 
(b)(1) or (b)(2) of this section, 10 additional suits from the same lot 
must be selected at random and subjected to the test. If a defect in the 
suit is detected upon visual examination, 10 additional suits from the 
same lot must be selected at random and examined for the defect.
    (d) If one or more of the 10 suits fails to pass the test or 
examination, each suit in the lot must be tested or examined for the 
defect for which the lot was rejected. Only suits that pass the test or 
that are free of defects may be sold as Coast Guard approved.
    (e) The manufacturer must ensure that the quality control procedure 
described in the test plans previously submitted for approval under 
Sec.  159.005-9(a)(5)(iii) is followed.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.019

         Figure 160.171(e)(1)(i). Water can for insulation test

[[Page 268]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.020

          Figure 160.171-17(e)(1)(v). Insulation Test Assembly

[[Page 269]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.021


[[Page 270]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.023



                 Subpart 160.174_Thermal Protective Aids

    Source: CGD 84-069b, 51 FR 19343, May 29, 1986, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.174-1  Scope.

    This subpart contains construction and performance requirements, and 
approval tests for thermal protective aids that are designed to minimize 
the occurrence of or aid in the recovery from hypothermia (lowered body 
temperature) during long periods in a survival craft.



Sec.  160.174-3  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain materials are incorporated by reference into this 
subchapter with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register. 
The Office of the Federal Register publishes a table, ``Material 
Approved for Incorporation by Reference,'' which appears in the Finding 
Aids section of this volume. In that table is found citations to the 
particular sections of this part where the material is incorporated and 
the date of the approval by the Director of the Federal Register. To 
enforce any edition other than the one listed in paragraph (b) of the 
section, notice of

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change must be published in the Federal Register and the material made 
available. All approved material is on file at the Office of the Federal 
Register, Washington, DC 20408, and at Coast Guard Headquarters. Contact 
Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. 
Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, Washington, DC 20593-7126.
    (b) The materials approved for incorporation by reference in this 
subpart are:

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
    ASTM C 177-85 (1993), Standard Test Method for Steady-State Heat 
Flux Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the 
Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus--160.174-17
    ASTM C 518-91, Standard Test Method for Steady-State Heat Flux 
Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Heat 
Flow Meter Apparatus--160.174-17
    ASTM D 975-98, Standard Specification for Diesel Fuel Oils--160.174-
17
    ASTM D 1004-94a, Standard Test Method for Initial Tear Resistance of 
Plastic Film and Sheeting--160.174-17
    ASTM D 1518-85 (1990), Standard Test Method for Thermal 
Transmittance of Textile Materials--160.174-17
General Services Administration
Specification Unit (WFSIA), Regional Office Building, Room 6039, 7th and 
          D Streets SW., Washington, DC 20407
    Federal Standard No. 751a--Stitches, Seams, and Stitchings.
    National Bureau of Standards Special Publication 440--Color, 
Universal Language and Dictionary of Names.

[CGD 84-069b, 51 FR 19343, May 29, 1986, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 FR 
50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; CGD 97-
057, 62 FR 51049, Sept. 30, 1997; USCG-1999-6216, 64 FR 53228, Oct. 1, 
1999; USCG-1999-5151, 64 FR 67184, Dec. 1, 1999; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 
49238, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.174-5  Independent laboratory.

    (a) The approval and production tests and inspections in this 
subpart must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the 
Coast Guard under subpart 159.010 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.174-7  Approval procedures.

    (a) General. A thermal protective aid is approved by the Coast Guard 
under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) Approval testing. Each approval test must be conducted in 
accordance with Sec.  160.174-17.



Sec.  160.174-9  Construction.

    (a) General. Each thermal protective aid must be constructed 
primarily of a durable insulating or heat reflecting material that meets 
the thermal insulation requirements in Sec.  160.174-11(a). Each aid 
must be designed to cover the wearer's entire body, except for the area 
of the mouth, nose, and eyes.
    (b) Seams. Stitching, if used in structural seams of a thermal 
protective aid, must be lock type stitching that meets the requirements 
in Federal Standard No. 751 for one of the following:
    (1) Class 300 lockstitch.
    (2) Class 700 single thread lock stitch.
    (c) Seam strength. Each seam must have a strength of at least 225 
Newtons (50 lb.).
    (d) Hardware. All hardware of a thermal protective aid must be of a 
size and design that allows ease of operation by the wearer. The 
hardware must be attached to the aid in a manner that allows the wearer 
to operate it easily and that prevents it from attaining a position in 
which it can be operated improperly.
    (e) Metal parts. Each metal part of a thermal protective aid must 
be--
    (1) 410 stainless steel or have salt water and salt air corrosion 
characteristics equal to or superior to 410 stainless steel; and
    (2) Galvanically compatible with each other metal part in contact 
with it.
    (f) Thermal protective aid exterior. The primary color of the 
exterior surface of each thermal protective aid must be vivid reddish 
orange (color number 34 of National Bureau of Standards Publication 
440). The exterior surface of the aid must resist tearing when tested as 
prescribed in Sec.  160.174-17(i).
    (g) Hand and arm construction. The hand of each thermal protective 
aid must be a glove that allows sufficient dexterity for the wearer to 
close and

[[Page 272]]

open the zipper or other hardware of the aid and to open and eat 
survival rations, unless the glove is removable. The glove may not be 
removable unless it is attached to the arm and unless it can be secured 
to the arm or stowed in a pocket on the arm when not in use.
    (h) Retroreflective material. Each thermal protective aid must be 
fitted with at least 200 cm\2\ (31 sq. in.) of Type I retroreflective 
material that meets subpart 164.018 of this chapter.
    (i) Size. Each thermal protective aid must fit persons ranging in 
weight from 50 kg. (110 lbs.) to 150 kg. (330 lbs.) and in height from 
1.5 m. (59 in.) to 1.9 m. (75 in.).
    (j) Lifejacket. Each thermal protective aid must be designed so that 
any Type I Personal Flotation Device meeting the requirements of this 
chapter can be worn inside the aid and, when worn, will not damage the 
aid and will not adversely affect its performance.



Sec.  160.174-11  Performance.

    (a) Thermal protection. The thermal protective aid must be designed 
to protect against loss of body heat as follows:
    (1) The thermal conductivity of the material from which the thermal 
protective aid is constructed must be not more than 0.25 W/(m-[deg]K).
    (2) The thermal protective aid must prevent evaporative heat loss.
    (3) The aid must function properly at an air temperature of -30 
[deg]C (-22 [deg]F) to + 20 [deg]C (68 [deg]F).
    (b) Donning Time. Each thermal protective aid must be designed to 
enable a person to don the aid correctly within one minute after reading 
the donning and use instructions described in Sec.  160.174-15(a).
    (c) Storage Temperature. A thermal protective aid must not be 
damaged by storage in its storage case at any temperature between -30 
[deg]C (-22 [deg]F) and + 65 C (149 [deg]F).
    (d) In water performance. The thermal protective aid must be 
designed to permit the wearer to remove it in the water within two 
minutes, if it impairs ability to swim.
    (e) Water penetration. The fabric from which the thermal protective 
aid is constructed must maintain its watertight integrity when 
supporting a column of water 2 meters high.
    (f) Oil resistance. Each thermal protective aid must be designed to 
be useable after 24 hours exposure to diesel oil.



Sec.  160.174-13  Storage case.

    Each thermal protective aid must be provided with a ziplock bag or 
equivalent storage case.



Sec.  160.174-15  Instructions.

    (a) Each thermal protective aid must have instructions for its 
donning and use in an emergency. The instructions must be in English and 
must not exceed 50 words. Illustrations must be used in addition to the 
words. The instructions must include advice as to whether to swim in the 
aid or discard it if the wearer is thrown into the water.
    (b) The instructions required by paragraph (a) of this section must 
be on the exterior of the storage case, printed on a waterproof card 
attached to the storage case, or printed on the thermal protective aid 
and visible through a transparent storage case. The instructions must 
also be available in 8\1/2\ x 11 inch loose-leaf format for inclusion in 
the vessel's training manual.



Sec.  160.174-17  Approval testing.

    (a) General. A thermal protective aid must be tested as prescribed 
in this section.
    (b) Mobility and swimming tests. The mobility and swimming 
capabilities of each thermal protective aid must be tested under the 
following conditions and procedures:
    (1) Test subjects. Seven males and three females must be used in the 
tests described in this paragraph. The subjects must represent each of 
the three physical types (ectomorphic, endomorphic, and mesomorphic). 
Each subject must be in good health. The heaviest male subject must 
weigh at least 25 kg (55 lb) more than the lightest male subject. The 
heaviest female subject must weigh at least 25 kg (55 lb) more than the 
lightest female subject. The heaviest subject must weigh 1505 Kg (33011 lbs.) and the lightest 
subject must weigh 505 Kg (11011 lbs.). Each subject must be unfamiliar with the

[[Page 273]]

specific thermal protective aid under test. Each subject must wear a 
standard range of clothing consisting of:
    (i) Underwear (short sleeved, short legged);
    (ii) Shirt (long sleeved);
    (iii) Trousers (not woolen);
    (iv) Woolen socks;
    (v) Rubber soled shoes; and
    (vi) A life preserver.
    (2) Donning test. Each subject is removed from the view of the other 
subjects and allowed one minute to examine the thermal protective aid 
and the manufacturer's instructions for donning and use of the aid in an 
emergency. At the end of this period, the subject attempts to don the 
thermal protective aid as rapidly as possible. If the subject does not 
don the thermal protective aid completely, including gloves and any 
other accessories, within 60 seconds, the subject removes the aid and is 
given a demonstration of correct donning, and again attempts to don the 
aid. At least nine out of ten subjects must be able to don the thermal 
protective aid completely in 60 seconds on at least one of the two 
attempts.
    (3) Discarding test. If the thermal protective aid impairs the 
ability of the wearer to swim, it must be demonstrated that it can be 
discarded by the test subjects, when immersed in water, in not more than 
two minutes. Caution: During each of the in water tests prescribed in 
this section, a person ready to render assistance when needed should be 
near each subject in the water.
    (i) Unless the manufacturer specifies in the instructions that the 
thermal protective aid does impair ability to swim and should always be 
discarded in the water, each subject, wearing a life preserver, enters 
the water and swims 25 meters. The subject, after sufficient rest to 
avoid fatigue, repeats this test wearing a thermal protective aid in 
addition to the life preserver. At least nine out of ten subjects must 
be able to swim this distance wearing the thermal protective aid in not 
more than 125% of the time taken to swim the distance wearing only a 
life preserver, or the aid will be determined to impair the ability to 
swim.
    (ii) If the thermal protective aid is determined by the above test 
or specified by the manufacturer to impair the ability to swim, each 
subject, after entering the water from a height of one meter (three 
feet), attempts to remove the aid and discard it. At least nine out of 
ten subjects must be able to discard the device within two minutes.
    (c) [Reserved]
    (d) Storage temperature. Two samples of the thermal protective aids, 
in their storage cases, are alternately subjected to surrounding 
temperatures of -30 [deg]C to + 65 [deg]C. These alternating cycles need 
not follow immediately after each other and the following procedure, 
repeated for a total of ten cycles, is acceptable:
    (1) 8 hours conditioning at 65 [deg]C to be completed in one day;
    (2) The specimens removed from the warm chamber that same day and 
left exposed under ordinary room conditions until the next day;
    (3) 8 hours conditioning at -30 [deg]C to be completed the next day; 
and
    (4) The specimens removed from the cold chamber that same day and 
left exposed under ordinary room conditions until the next day. At the 
conclusion of step (3) of the final cycle of cold storage, two test 
subjects who successfully completed the donning test previously enter 
the cold chamber, unpack and don the thermal protective aids. The aids 
must not show any damage, such as shrinking, cracking, swelling, 
dissolution or change of mechanical qualities.
    (e) Water penetration. A sample of the fabric from which the thermal 
protective aid is constructed is installed as a membrane at one end of a 
tube of at least 2.5 cm (one inch) diameter and 2 meters long. The tube 
is fixed in a vertical position with the membrane at the bottom, and 
filled with water. After one hour the membrane must continue to support 
the column of water with no leakage.
    (f) Insulation. The material from which the thermal protective aid 
is constructed is tested in accordance with the procedures in ASTM C 
177, ASTM C 518, or ASTM D 1518. The material must have a thermal 
conductivity of not more than 0.25 W/(m-[deg]K)

[[Page 274]]

(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.174-3).
    (g) Test for oil resistance. After all its apertures have been 
sealed, a thermal protective aid is immersed under a 100 mm head of 
diesel oil, grade no. 2-D as defined in ASTM D 975 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  160.174-3), for 24 hours. The surface oil is then 
wiped off and a sample of the material from the aid is again tested in 
accordance with the procedures in ASTM C 177 or ASTM C 518 (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  160.174-3). The material must still have a 
thermal conductivity of not more than 0.25 W/(m-[deg] K).
    (h) Seam strength. The strength of each different type of seam used 
in a thermal protective aid must be tested under the following 
conditions and procedures.
    (1) Test equipment. The following equipment must be used in this 
test:
    (i) A chamber in which air temperature can be kept at 25 [deg]C 
(73.4 [deg]F) 2 [deg]C (1.8 [deg]F) and in which 
relative humidity can be kept at 50% 5%.
    (ii) A device to apply tension to the seam by means of a pair of top 
jaws and a pair of bottom jaws. Each set of jaws must grip the material 
on both sides so that it does not slip when the load is applied. Each 
front jaw must be 25 mm (1 inch) wide by 25 mm (1 inch) long. The 
distance between the jaws before the load is applied must be 75mm (3 
inches).
    (2) Test samples. Each test sample consists of two pieces of the 
material from which the thermal protective aid is constructed, each of 
which is 100 mm (4 inches) square. The two pieces are joined by a seam 
as shown in figure 160.171-17(m)(3). For each type of seam, 5 samples 
are required. Each sample may be cut from a thermal protective aid or 
may be prepared specifically for this test. One type of seam is 
distinguished from another by the type and size of stitch or other 
joining method used (including orientation of warp and fill, if any) and 
by the type and thickness of the materials joined at the seam.
    (3) Test procedure. Each sample is conditioned for at least 40 hours 
at 23 [deg]C2 [deg]C and 50% 5% relative humidity. Immediately after conditioning, 
each sample is mounted individually in the tension device as shown in 
figure 160.171-17(m)(3). The jaws are separated at a rate of 5 mm/second 
(12 in/minute). The maximum force to achieve rupture is recorded. The 
average force at rupture must be at least 225 Newtons (50 lb).
    (i) Tear resistance. The tear resistance of the material from which 
a thermal protective aid is constructed must be determined by the method 
described in ASTM D 1004 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.174-
3). If more than one material is used, each material must be tested. If 
varying thicknesses of a material are used in the aid, samples 
representing the thinnest portion of the material must be tested. If 
multiple layers of a material are used in the aid, samples representing 
the layer on the exterior of the aid must be tested. Any material that 
is a composite formed of two or more materials bonded together is 
considered to be a single material. The average tearing strength of each 
material must be at least 45 Newtons (10 lb).

[CGD 84-069b, 51 FR 19343, May 29, 1986, as amended by CGD 84-069a, 52 
FR 1197, Jan. 12, 1987; USCG-2000-7790, 65 FR 58464, Sept. 29, 2000]



Sec.  160.174-23  Marking.

    (a) Each thermal protective aid must be marked with the words 
``Thermal Protective Aid,'' the name of the manufacturer, the model, the 
date of manufacture or a lot number from which the date of manufacture 
may be determined, and the Coast Guard approval number.
    (b) Each storage case must be marked with the words ``Thermal 
Protective Aid'' or the thermal protective aid must have a similar 
marking which is visible through a transparent storage case.



Sec.  160.174-25  Production testing.

    (a) Thermal protective aid production testing is conducted under the 
procedures in this section and subpart 159.007 of this chapter.
    (b) One out of every 100 thermal protective aids produced must be 
given a complete visual examination. The sample must be selected at 
random from a production lot of 100 thermal protective aids and examined 
by or under the

[[Page 275]]

supervision of the independent laboratory. The sample fails if the 
visual examination shows that the aid does not conform to the approved 
design.
    (c) If a defect in the thermal protective aid is detected upon 
visual examination, 10 additional samples from the same lot must be 
selected at random and examined for the defect.
    (d) If one or more of the 10 samples fails the examination, each 
thermal protective aid in the lot must be examined for the defect for 
which the lot was rejected. Only thermal protective aids that are free 
of defects may be sold as Coast Guard approved.

[CGD 84-069b, 51 FR 19343, May 29, 1986; 51 FR 20650, June 6, 1986]



                 Subpart 160.176_Inflatable Lifejackets

    Source: CGD 78-174b, 54 FR 50320, Dec. 5, 1989, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  160.176-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart contains structural and performance standards and 
procedures for approval of inflatable lifejackets, as well as 
requirements for associated manuals, servicing programs, and shore-side 
service facilities.
    (b) Other regulations in this chapter provide that inflatable 
lifejackets must be:
    (1) Serviced annually at designated servicing facilities; and
    (2) Maintained in accordance with their user manuals.
    (c) Inflatable lifejackets approved under this subpart--
    (1) Rely entirely upon inflation for buoyancy;
    (2) Meet the requirements for lifejackets in the 1983 Amendments to 
the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 (SOLAS 
74/83);
    (3) Have performance equivalent to Type I Personal Flotation Devices 
(PFD's) with any one chamber deflated; and
    (4) Are designed to be worn by adults.



Sec.  160.176-2  Application.

    (a) Inflatable lifejackets approved under this subpart may be used 
to meet carriage requirements for Type I PFD's only on:
    (1) Uninspected submersible vessels; and
    (2) Inspected vessels for which a servicing program has been 
approved by the Commandant.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  160.176-3  Definitions.

    (a) Commandant means the Commandant means the Chief of the 
Lifesaving and Fire Safety Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-
ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 
7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-
7509; telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.
    (b) First quality worksmanship means construction which is free from 
any defect materially affecting appearance or serviceability.
    (c) Functional deterioration means--
    (1) Damage such as deformation in hardware or a rip, tear, or loose 
stitches;
    (2) Decline in any performance characteristic; or
    (3) Any other change making the lifejacket unfit for use.
    (d) Functional residual capacity (FRC) means the amount of lung 
volume a person has remaining at the bottom of the normal breathing 
cycle when at rest.
    (e) Inflation medium means any solid, liquid, or gas, that, when 
activated, provides inflation for buoyancy.
    (f) Inspector means an independent laboratory representative 
assigned to perform the duties described in Sec.  160.176-15 of this 
subpart.
    (g) PFD means personal flotation device as defined in 33 CFR 175.13.
    (h) Reference vest means a model AK-1 PFD meeting subpart 160.047 of 
this part, except that, in lieu of the weight and displacement values 
prescribed in Tables 160.047-4(c)(2) and Sec.  160.047-(4)(c)(4), each 
front insert must have a weight of kapok of at least 8.25 oz. and a 
volume displacement of 9.0 0.25 lb., and the back 
insert must have a weight of kapok of at least 5.5 oz. and a volume 
displacement of 6.0 0.25 lb. To achieve the 
specified volume displacement, front insert envelopes may be larger than 
the dimensions prescribed by Sec.  160.047-1(b).
    (i) [Reserved]

[[Page 276]]

    (j) Second stage donning means adjustments or steps necessary to 
make a lifejacket provide its intended flotation characteristics after 
the device has been properly donned and then inflated.

[CGD 78-174b, 54 FR 50320, Dec. 5, 1989, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 FR 
50466, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-
2009-0702, 74 FR 49238, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60159, 
Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  160.176-4  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) 
material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at 
the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the 
Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email 
[email protected] or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For 
information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: 
[email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the 
following paragraphs of this section.
    (b) ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West 
Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, 877-909-2786, http://www.astm.org.
    (1) ASTM B 117-97, Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) 
Apparatus, incorporation by reference approved for Sec. Sec.  160.176-8; 
160.176-13.
    (2) ASTM D 751-95, Standard Test Methods for Coated Fabrics, 
incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  160.176-13.
    (3) ASTM D 975-98, Standard Specification for Diesel Fuel Oils, 
incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  160.176-13.
    (4) ASTM D1434-82 (Reapproved 2009)[egr]1, Standard Test 
Method for Determining Gas Permeability Characteristics of Plastic Film 
and Sheeting--(approved May 1, 2009), incorporation by reference 
approved for Sec.  160.176-13.
    (c) Federal Aviation Administration, Aircraft Certification Service, 
800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591, 202-385-6346, http://
www.faa.gov/aircraft/air_cert/design approvals/tso.
    (1) TSO-C13d, Federal Aviation Administration Standard for Life 
Preservers, January 3, 1983, incorporation by reference approved for 
Sec.  160.176-8.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (d) DLA Document Services, 700 Robbins Avenue, Building 4/D, 
Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, 215-697-6396, http://www.asistdocs.com.
    (1) In Federal Test Method Standard No. 191A (dated July 20, 1978) 
the following methods:
    (i) Method 5100, Strength and Elongation, Breaking of Woven Cloth; 
Grab Method, incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  160.176-13.
    (ii) Method 5132, Strength of Cloth, Tearing; Falling-Pendulum 
Method, incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  160.176-13.
    (iii) Method 5134, Strength of Cloth, Tearing; Tongue Method, 
incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  160.176-13.
    (iv) Method 5804.1, Weathering Resistance of Cloth; Accelerated 
Weathering Method, incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  
160.176-8.
    (v) Method 5762, Mildew Resistance of Textile Materials; Soil Burial 
Method, incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  160.176-8.
    (2) Federal Standard No. 751a, Stitches, Seams, and Stitching, 
January 25, 1965, incorporation by reference
    (3) MIL-L-24611--Life Preserver Support Package For Life Preserver, 
MK 4, dated May 18, 1982, incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  
160.176-8.
    (e) National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) (formerly 
National Bureau of Standards), c/o Superintendent of Documents, U.S. 
Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, 202.512.1800, http://
www.gpo.gov.
    (1) Special Pub. 440, Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of 
Names; ``The Universal Color Language'' and ``The Color Names 
Dictionary'', 1976, incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  
160.176-9.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (f) Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), 12 Laboratory Drive, 
Research

[[Page 277]]

Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995, 919-549-1400, http://www.ul.com.
    (1) UL 1191, ``Components for Personal Flotation Devices'', November 
11, 1984, incorporation by reference approved for Sec. Sec.  160.176-8; 
160.176-13.
    (2) [Reserved]

[USCG-2012-0866, 78 FR 13252, Feb. 27, 2013, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60159, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2022-0323, 88 FR 10031, Feb. 16, 
2023]



Sec.  160.176-5  Approval procedures.

    (a) Modifications to general procedures. Subpart 159.005 of this 
chapter contains the approval procedures. Those procedures must be 
followed, except as modified in this paragraph.
    (1) Preapproval review under Sec. Sec.  159.005-5 and 159.005-7 may 
be omitted if a similar design has already been approved.
    (2) The information required under Sec.  159.005-5(a)(2) (i) through 
(iii) of this chapter must be included in the application.
    (3) The application must also include the following:
    (i) The Type of performance (i.e. Type I or Type V) that the 
lifejacket is designed to provide.
    (ii) Any special purpose(s) for which the lifejacket is designed and 
the vessel(s) or vessel type(s) on which its use is planned.
    (iii) Buoyancy and torque values along with tolerances to be allowed 
in production. The Coast Guard normally will approve tolerances of up to 
10% unless prototypes are tested at greater 
extremes or greater tolerances are otherwise justified.
    (iv) The text of any optional marking to be provided in addition to 
required text.
    (v) The service manual and written guidelines required by Sec. Sec.  
160.176-19(c) and 160.176-19(d) of the part and the user's manual 
required by Sec.  160.176-21 of this part.
    (vi) A list of proposed servicing facilities.
    (4) The description of quality control procedures required by Sec.  
159.005-9 of this chapter to be submitted with the test report may be 
omitted as long as the manufacturer's planned quality control procedures 
comply with Sec.  160.176-15 of this part.
    (5) The test report must include, in addition to information 
required by Sec.  159.005-9 of this chapter, a report of inspection of 
each proposed servicing facility. The report must include the time, 
date, place, and name of the person doing the inspection and 
observations that show whether the facility meets Sec. Sec.  160.176-
19(b)(2), 160-176-19(b)(4), and 160.176-19(d) of this part.
    (6) The certificate of approval, when issued, is accompanied by a 
letter to the manufacturer listing the servicing facilities that have 
been approved. Copies of the letter are also provided for each facility.
    (7) An approval will be suspended or terminated under Sec.  159.005-
15 of this chapter if the manufacturer fails to maintain approved 
servicing facilities that meet Sec.  160.176-19 of this part.
    (b) Manuals and guidelines. The manuals and servicing facility 
guidelines required by this subpart are reviewed with the application 
for lifejacket approval. Changes will be required if needed to comply 
with Sec. Sec.  160.176-19 and 160.176-21 of this part.
    (c) Approval of servicing facilities. (1) Approval of servicing 
facilities initially proposed for use is considered during and as a part 
of the lifejacket approval process described in paragraph (a) of this 
section.
    (2) Other servicing facilities may subsequently be considered for 
approval, upon submission of a letter of application to Commandant 
containing each of the applicable items required of manufacturers and 
laboratories under Sec.  159.005-5 of this chapter and the following:
    (i) A copy of guidelines meeting Sec.  160.176-19(d) of this part, 
if different from those originally approved with the lifejacket;
    (ii) A list of the sources the servicing facility proposes to use 
for parts and manuals for the servicing of the make and model of 
lifejacket applied for; and
    (iii) A report of inspection prepared by an independent laboratory 
which includes the time, date, and place of the inspection, the name of 
the inspector, and observations that show whether the facility meets 
Sec. Sec.  160.176-19(b)(2) through 160.176-19(b)(4) and 160.176-19(d) 
of this part.

[[Page 278]]

    (3) To conduct servicing at a remote or mobile site, the servicing 
facility must be authorized in its letter of approval to conduct this 
type of servicing. Approval for servicing at these sites is obtained 
according to paragraph (c)(2) of this section except that portable or 
mobile equipment must be available when evaluating the compliance with 
Sec.  160.176-19(b)(3) of this part.
    (4) Each change to equipment, procedure, or qualification and 
training of personnel of an approved servicing facility must be also 
approved.
    (d) Waiver of tests. If a manufacturer requests that any test in 
this subpart be waived, one of the following must be provided to the 
Commandant as justification for the waiver:
    (1) Acceptable test results on a lifejacket of sufficiently similar 
design.
    (2) Engineering analysis showing that the test is not applicable to 
the particular design or that by design or construction the lifejacket 
cannot fail the test.
    (e) Alternative requirements. A lifejacket that does not meet 
requirements in this subpart may still be approved if the device--
    (1) Meets other requirements prescribed by the Commandant in place 
of or in addition to requirements in this subpart; and
    (2) Provides at least the same degree of safety provided by other 
lifejackets that do comply with this subpart.

[CGD 78-1746, 54 FR 50320, Dec. 5, 1989, as amended by CGD 78-174b, 56 
FR 29441, June 27, 1991; USCG-2014-0688, 79 FR 58285, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  160.176-6  Procedure for approval of design or material revision.

    (a) Each change in design, material, or construction must be 
approved by the Commandant before being used in lifejacket production.
    (b) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and 
materials may only be made by the Commandant.



Sec.  160.176-7  Independent laboratories.

    A list of independent laboratories which have been accepted by the 
Commandant for conducting or supervising the following tests and 
inspections required by this subpart, may be obtained from the 
Commandant:
    (a) Approval tests.
    (b) Production tests and inspections.
    (c) Inspection of approved servicing facilities.
    (d) Testing of materials for the purpose of making the certification 
required by Sec.  160.176-8(a)(3) of this part.



Sec.  160.176-8  Materials.

    (a) General--(1) Acceptance, certification, and quality. All 
components used in the construction of lifejackets must meet the 
requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter.
    (2) Condition of materials. All materials must be new.
    (3) Temperature range. Unless otherwise specified in standards 
incorporated by reference in this section, all materials must be usable 
in all weather conditions throughout a temperature range of -30 [deg]C 
to + 65 [deg]C (-22 [deg]F to + 150 [deg]F).
    (4) Weathering resistance. Each non-metallic component which is not 
suitably covered to shield against ultraviolet exposure must retain at 
least 40% of its strength after being subjected to 300 hours of sunshine 
carbon arc weathering as specified by Method 5804.1 of Federal Test 
Method Standard Number 191A.
    (5) Fungus resistance. Each non-metallic component must retain at 
least 90% of its strength after being subjected to the mildew resistance 
test specified by Method 5762 of Federal Test Method Standard No. 191A 
when untreated cotton is used as the control specimen. Also, the gas 
transmission rate of inflation chamber materials must not be increased 
by more than 10% after being subjected to this test. Materials that are 
covered when used in the lifejacket may be tested with the covering 
material.
    (6) Corrosion resistance. Each metal component must--
    (i) Be galvanically compatible with each other metal part in contact 
with it; and
    (ii) Unless it is expendable (such as an inflation medium 
cartridge), be 410 stainless steel, have salt water and salt air 
corrosion characteristics equal or superior to 410 stainless steel, or 
perform its intended function and have no visible pitting or other 
damage on any surface after 720 hours of salt spray

[[Page 279]]

testing according to ASTM B 117 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.176-4).
    (7) Materials not covered. Materials having no additional specific 
requirements in this section must be of good quality and suitable for 
the purpose intended.
    (b) Fabric--(1) All fabric. All fabric must--
    (i) Be of a type accepted for use on Type I life preservers approved 
under subpart 160.002 of this part; or
    (ii) Meet the Type V requirements for ``Fabrics for Wearable 
Devices'' in UL 1191 except that breaking strength must be at least 400 
N (90 lb.) in both directions of greater and lesser thread count.
    (2) Rubber coated fabric. Rubber coated fabric must be of a copper-
inhibiting type.
    (c) Inflation chamber materials--(1) All materials. (i) The average 
permeability of inflation chamber material, determined according to the 
procedures specified in Sec.  160.176-13(y)(3) of this part, must not be 
more than 110% of the permeability of the materials determined in 
approval testing prescribed in Sec.  160.176-13(y)(3) of this part.
    (ii) The average grab breaking strength and tear strength of the 
material, determined according to the procedures specified in Sec. Sec.  
160.176-13(y)(1) and 160.176-13(y)(2) of this part, must be at least 90% 
of the grab breaking strength and tear strength determined from testing 
prescribed in Sec. Sec.  160.176-13(y)(1) and 160.176-13(y)(2) of this 
part. No individual sample result for breaking strength or tear strength 
may be more than 20% below the results obtained in approval testing.
    (2) Fabric covered chambers. Each material used in the construction 
of inflation chambers that are covered with fabric must meet the 
requirements specified for--
    (i) ``Bladder'' materials in section 3.2.6 of MIL-L-24611(SH) if the 
material is an unsupported film; or
    (ii) Coated fabric in section 3.1.1 of TSO-C13d if the material is a 
coated fabric.
    (3) Uncovered chambers. Each material used in the construction of 
inflation chambers that are not covered with fabric must meet the 
requirements specified in paragraph (c)(2)(ii) of this section.
    (d) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 
164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each 
seam. Thread and fabric combinations must have similar elongation and 
durability characteristics.
    (e) Webbing. Webbing used as a body strap, tie tape or drawstring, 
or reinforcing tape must meet Sec.  160.002-3(e), Sec.  160.002-3(f), 
Sec.  160.002-3(h) of this part respectively. Webbing used for tie tape 
or drawstring must easily hold a knot and be easily tied and untied. 
Webbing used as reinforcing tape must not chafe the wearer.
    (f) Closures--(1) Strength. Each buckle, snap hook, dee ring or 
other type of fastening must have a minimum breaking strength of 1600 N 
(360 lbs). The width of each opening in a closure, through which body 
strap webbing passes, must be the same as the width of that webbing.
    (2) Means of Locking. Each closure used to secure a lifejacket to 
the body, except a zipper, must have a quick and positive locking 
mechanism, such as a snap hook and dee ring.
    (3) Zipper. If a zipper is used to secure the lifejacket to the 
body, it must be--
    (i) Easily initiated;
    (ii) Non-jamming;
    (iii) Right handed;
    (iv) Of a locking type; and
    (v) Used in combination with another type of closure that has a 
quick and positive means of locking.
    (g) Inflation medium. (1) No inflation medium may contain any 
compound that is more toxic than CO2 if inhaled through any 
of the oral inflation mechanisms.
    (2) Any chemical reaction of inflation medium during inflation must 
not produce a toxic residue.
    (h) Adhesives. Adhesives must be waterproof and acceptable for use 
with the materials being bonded.
    (i) [Reserved]
    (j) Retroreflective Material. Each lifejacket must have at least 200 
sq. cm. (31 sq. in.) of retroreflective material on its front side, at 
least 200 sq. cm. on its back side, and at least 200 sq. cm. of material 
on each reversible side. The retroreflective material must be Type I

[[Page 280]]

material that is approved under subpart 164.018 of this chapter. The 
retroreflective material attached on each side must be divided equally 
between the upper quadrants of the side. Attachment of retroreflective 
material must not impair lifejacket performance or durability.
    (k) PFD light. Each lifejacket must have a PFD light that is 
approved under subpart 161.012 of this chapter and that meets the 
requirements of Regulations III/30.2 and III/32.3 of the 1983 Amendments 
to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 
(SOLAS 74/83). The light must be securely attached to the front shoulder 
area of the lifejacket. Attachment of the light must not impair 
lifejacket performance.
    (l) [Reserved]
    (m) Whistle. Each lifejacket must have a whistle of the ball type or 
multi-tone type and of corrosion-resistant construction. The whistle 
must be securely attached to the lifejacket by a lanyard. The lanyard 
must be long enough to permit the whistle to reach the mouth of the 
wearer. If the lanyard would normally allow the whistle to hang below 
the waist of the average size wearer, the whistle must be stowed in a 
pocket on the lifejacket. The attachment of the whistle must not impair 
lifejacket performance.

[CGD 78-1746, 54 FR 50320, Dec. 5, 1989, as amended by CGD 78-174b, 56 
FR 29441, June 27, 1991; CGD 84-068, 58 FR 29494, May 20, 1993; USCG-
2000-7790, 65 FR 58464, Sept. 29, 2000]



Sec.  160.176-9  Construction.

    (a) General Features. Each inflatable lifejacket must--
    (1) Have at least two inflation chambers;
    (2) Be constructed so that the intended method of donning is obvious 
to an untrained wearer;
    (3) If approved for use on a passenger vessel, be inside a sealed, 
non-reusable package that can be easily opened;
    (4) Have a retainer for each adjustable closure to prevent any part 
of the closure from being easily removed from the lifejacket;
    (5) Be universally sized for wearers weighing over 40 kg. (90 
pounds) and have a chest size range of at least 76 to 120 cm. (30 to 52 
in.);
    (6) Unless the lifejacket is designed so that it can only be donned 
in one way, be constructed to be donned with either the inner or outer 
surface of the lifejacket next to the wearer (be reversible);
    (7) Not have a channel that can direct water to the wearer's face to 
any greater extent than that of the reference vest defined in Sec.  
160.176-3(h) of this part;
    (8) Not have edges, projections, or corners, either external or 
internal, that are sharp enough to damage the lifejacket or to cause 
injury to anyone using or maintaining the lifejacket;
    (9) Have a means for drainage of entrapped water;
    (10) Be primarily vivid reddish orange, as defined by sections 13 
and 14 of the ``Color Names Dictionary,'' on its external surfaces;
    (11) Be of first quality workmanship;
    (12) Unless otherwise allowed by the approval certificate--
    (i) Not incorporate means obviously intended for attaching the 
lifejacket to the vessel; and
    (ii) Not have any instructions indicating attachment to a vessel is 
intended; and
    (13) Meet any additional requirements that the Commandant may 
prescribe, if necessary, to approve unique or novel designs.
    (b) Inflation mechanisms. (1) Each inflatable lifejacket must have
    (i) At least one automatic inflation mechanism;
    (ii) At least two manual inflation mechanisms on separate chambers;
    (iii) At least one oral inflation mechanism on each chamber; and
    (iv) At least one manual inflation mechanism or one automatic 
inflation mechanism on each inflation chamber.
    (2) Each inflation mechanism must
    (i) Have an intended method of operation that is obvious to an 
untrained wearer;
    (ii) Not require tools to activate the mechanism;
    (iii) Be located outside its inflation chamber; and
    (iv) Be in a ready to use condition.
    (3) Each oral inflation mechanism must

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    (i) Be easily accessible after inflation for the wearer to ``top 
off'' each chamber by mouth;
    (ii) Operate without pulling on the mechanism;
    (iii) Not be able to be locked in the open or closed position; and
    (iv) Have a non-toxic mouthpiece.
    (4) Each manual inflation mechanism must
    (i) Provide an easy means of inflation that requires only one 
deliberate action on the part of the wearer to actuate it;
    (ii) Have a simple method for replacing its inflation medium 
cartridge; and
    (iii) Be operated by pulling on an inflation handle that is marked 
``Jerk to Inflate'' at two visible locations.
    (5) Each automatic inflation mechanism must
    (i) Have a simple method for replacing its inflation medium 
cartridge and water sensitive element;
    (ii) Have an obvious method of indicating whether the mechanism has 
been activated; and
    (iii) Be incapable of assembly without its water sensitive element.
    (6) The marking required for the inflation handle of a manual 
inflation mechanism must be waterproof, permanent, and readable from a 
distance of 2.5 m (8 feet).
    (c) Deflation mechanism. (1) Each chamber must have its own 
deflation mechanism.
    (2) Each deflation mechanism must
    (i) Be readily accessible to either hand when the lifejacket is worn 
while inflated;
    (ii) Not require tools to operate it;
    (iii) Not be able to be locked in the open or closed position; and
    (iv) Have an intended method of operation which is obvious to an 
untrained wearer.
    (3) The deflation mechanism may also be the oral inflation 
mechanism.
    (d) Sewn seams. Stitching used in each structural seam of a 
lifejacket must provide performance equal to or better than a Class 300 
Lockstitch meeting Federal Standard No. 751a.
    (e) Textiles. All cut edges of textile materials must be treated or 
sewn to minimize raveling.
    (f) Body strap attachment. Each body strap assembly must be securely 
attached to the lifejacket.



Sec.  160.176-11  Performance.

    (a) General. Each inflatable lifejacket must be able to pass the 
tests in Sec.  160.176-13 of this part.
    (b) Snag Hazard. The lifejacket must not present a snag hazard when 
properly worn.
    (c) Chamber Attachment. Each inflation chamber on or inside an 
inflatable lifejacket must not be able to be moved to a position that-
    (1) Prevents full inflation; or
    (2) Allows inflation in a location other than in its intended 
location.
    (d) Comfort. The lifejacket must not cause significant discomfort to 
the wearer during and after inflation.



Sec.  160.176-13  Approval Tests.

    (a) General. (1) This section contains requirements for approval 
tests and examinations of inflatable lifejackets. Each test or 
examination must be conducted or supervised by an independent 
laboratory. The tests must be done using lifejackets that have been 
constructed in accordance with the plans and specifications in the 
application for approval. Unless otherwise specified, only one 
lifejacket, which may or may not have been subjected to other tests, is 
required to be tested in each test. One or more lifejackets that have 
been tested as prescribed in paragraph (h) of this section must be used 
for the tests prescribed in paragraphs (j), (n), (q), and (r) of this 
section. The tests prescribed in paragraph (y) of this section require 
one or more lifejackets as specified in that paragraph.
    (2) All data relating to buoyancy and pressure must be taken at, or 
corrected to, an atmospheric pressure of 760 mm (29.92 inches) of 
mercury and a temperature of 20 [deg]C (68 [deg]F).
    (3) The tests in this section are not required to be run in the 
order listed, except where a particular order is specified.
    (4) Some tests in this section require a lifejacket to be tested 
while being worn. In each of these tests the test subjects must 
represent a range of small, medium, and large heights and weights. 
Unless otherwise specified, a

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minimum of 18 test subjects, including both males and females, must be 
used. The test subjects must not be practiced in the use of the 
lifejacket being tested. However, they must be familiar with the use of 
other Coast Guard approved lifejackets. Unless specified otherwise, test 
subjects must wear only swim suits. Each test subject must be able to 
swim and relax in the water.

    Note: Some tests have inherent hazards for which adequate safeguards 
must be taken to protect personnel and property in conducting the tests.

    (b) Donning. (1) No second stage donning is allowed in the tests in 
this paragraph. Test subjects may read the donning instructions to be 
provided with the device, if any. An uninflated lifejacket with size 
adjustment at its mid-range is given to each test subject with the 
instruction: ``Please don as quickly as possible, adjust to fit snugly, 
and inflate.'' Each subject must, within one minute, don the uninflated 
lifejacket, adjust it to fit snugly, and then activate the manual 
inflation mechanism.

    Note: For this test the manual inflation mechanism may be disabled.

    (2) The average time of all subjects to complete the test in 
paragraph (b)(1) of this section must not exceed 30 seconds. The 
criteria in this paragraph do not apply to the tests in paragraphs 
(b)(3) and (b)(4) of this section.
    (3) The test in paragraph (b)(1) of this section is repeated with 
each subject wearing an insulated, hooded parka and gloves made from 
heavy, cotton-jersey (knit) fabric.
    (4) The test in paragraph (b)(1) of this section is then repeated 
twice more with a fully inflated lifejacket. In the first test the 
subjects must wear swim suits and in the second test, parka and gloves.
    (c) Inflation Testing. No second stage donning is allowed in the 
tests in this paragraph. A lifejacket with each automatic inflation 
mechanism disabled must be used for the tests prescribed in paragraphs 
(c)(1) and (c)(2) of this section. For the tests prescribed in paragraph 
(c)(4) of this section, remove any non-reusable cover or packaging from 
the lifejacket, but do not open any cover or closure which is intended 
to be closed when the lifejacket is worn in the uninflated condition.
    (1) Each test subject dons an uninflated lifejacket and is 
instructed to enter the water and swim for approximately 30 seconds and 
then, on command, inflate the lifejacket using only oral inflation 
mechanisms. Within 30 seconds after the command is given, the lifejacket 
must be sufficiently inflated to float each subject with respiration 
unimpeded.
    (2) Each test subject dons an uninflated lifejacket and is 
instructed to enter the water and swim for approximately 30 seconds, 
bring both hands to the surface, and then, on command, inflate the 
lifejacket using each manual inflation mechanism. Each test subject must 
find and operate all the manual inflation mechanisms within 5 seconds 
after the command is given. The manual inflation mechanisms must inflate 
the lifejacket sufficiently to float the wearers within 5 seconds after 
the mechanisms are operated. Within 20 seconds after activation each 
subject must be floating in the position described in paragraph (d)(3) 
of this section.
    (3) One small and one large test subject don uninflated lifejackets 
and jump feet first from a height of 1 meter into the water. The 
automatic inflation mechanisms must inflate the lifejackets sufficiently 
to float the wearers within 10 seconds after the subjects enter the 
water. Within 20 seconds after entering the water each subject must be 
floating in the position described in paragraph (d)(3) of this section.
    (4) Air at a pressure of 4.2 kPa (0.6 psig) is applied separately to 
each oral inflation mechanism of the lifejacket. In each application the 
chamber must fully inflate within 1 minute.
    (5) Each oral inflation mechanism of an unpacked lifejacket is 
connected to a regulated air source constantly supplying air at a 
pressure of 7 kPa (1 psig). Each mechanism must pass at least 100,000 cc 
of air per minute.
    (d) Flotation stability--(1) Uninflated flotation stability. 
Lifejackets with their automatic inflation mechanisms disabled must be 
used for this test. Each subject dons an uninflated lifejacket,

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enters the water, and assumes an upright, slightly back of vertical, 
position. Each subject then relaxes. For each subject that floats, the 
uninflated lifejacket must not tend to turn the wearer face-down when 
the head is allowed to fall back.
    (2) Righting action. (i) Each test subject dons an uninflated 
lifejacket, enters the water, allows the automatic inflation mechanism 
to inflate the lifejacket, and swims for 30 seconds. While swimming, 
freedom of movement and comfort are observed and noted by the person 
conducting the test. Freedom of movement and comfort must comply with 
Sec.  160.176-11(d). Also, each subject must demonstrate that the 
lifejacket can be adjusted while the subject is in the water.
    (ii) Each subject then takes three gentle breast strokes and while 
still face-down in the water, relaxes completely while slowly exhaling 
to FRC. Each subject remains in this limp position long enough to 
determine if the lifejacket will turn the subject from the face-down 
position to a position in which the subject's breathing is not impaired. 
The time from the last breast stroke until breathing is not impaired is 
recorded. Each subject repeats these steps two additional times, and the 
average time for the three righting actions is calculated. This average 
time must not exceed 5 seconds.
    (iii) If the lifejacket does not have automatic inflation mechanisms 
for all chambers, the tests in paragraphs (d)(2)(i) and (d)(2)(ii) of 
this section are repeated with each lifejacket fully inflated.
    (iv) Each subject then performs the test in paragraph (d)(2)(ii) of 
this section with one chamber of the lifejacket deflated. This test is 
then repeated as many times as necessary to test the lifejacket with a 
different chamber deflated until each chamber has been tested in this 
manner.
    (v) Each subject then performs the test in paragraph (d)(2)(ii) of 
this section but exhales to FRC at the end of the third breast stroke 
and holds the breath prior to relaxing.
    (3) Static measurements. At the end of each test with each subject 
in Sec.  160.176-13(d)(2)(ii), through Sec.  160.176-13(d)(2)(v)--
    (i) The freeboard (the distance from the water surface to the bottom 
of the mouth) must be at least 100 mm (4.0 in.) without repositioning of 
any part of the body and at least 120 mm (4.75 in.) after the head is 
positioned on the lifejacket for maximum freeboard and then relaxed;
    (ii) The distance from water surface to the lower portion of the ear 
canal must be at least 50 mm (2 in.);
    (iii) The torso angle (the angle between a vertical line and a line 
passing through the shoulder and hip) must be between 20[deg] and 
65[deg] (back of vertical);
    (iv) The face-plane angle (the angle between a vertical line and a 
line passing through the most forward part of the forehead and chin) 
must be between 15[deg] and 60[deg] (back of vertical);
    (v) The lowest mark on a vertical scale 6 m (20 ft.) from and in 
front of the subject which the subject can see without moving the head 
must be no higher than 0.3 m (12 in.) from the water level.
    (vi) The subject when looking to the side, must be able to see the 
water within 3 m (10 ft.) away; and
    (vii) At least 75% of the retroreflective material on the outside of 
the lifejacket, and the PFD light, must be above the water.
    (4) Average requirements. The test results for all subjects must be 
averaged for the following static measurements and must comply with the 
following:
    (i) The average freeboard prior to positioning the head for maximum 
freeboard must be at least 120 mm (4.75 in.);
    (ii) The average torso angle must be between 30[deg] and 50[deg] 
(back of vertical); and
    (iii) The average face-plane angle must be between 20[deg] and 
50[deg] (back of vertical).
    (5) ``HELP'' Position. Starting in a relaxed, face-up position of 
static balance, each subject brings the legs and arms in towards the 
body so as to attain the ``HELP'' position (a fetal position, but 
holding the head back). The lifejacket must not turn the subject face 
down in the water.
    (e) Jump test. (1) Each test subject dons an uninflated lifejacket 
and with hands above head, jumps feet first, into the water from a 
height of 4.5 m (15 ft.).

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No second stage donning is allowed during this test and the lifejacket 
must--
    (i) Inflate automatically, float the subject to the surface, and 
stabilize the body with the mouth out of the water;
    (ii) Maintain its intended position on the wearer;
    (iii) Not be damaged; and
    (iv) Not cause injury to the wearer.
    (2) The jump test in paragraph (e)(1) of this section is repeated 
using a lifejacket which has been fully inflated manually.
    (3) The jump test in paragraph (e)(2) of this section is then 
conducted with one chamber deflated. This test is then repeated as many 
times as necessary to test the lifejacket with a different chamber 
deflated until each chamber has been tested in this manner.

    Note: Before conducting these tests at the 4.5 m height, subjects 
should first do the test from heights of 1 m and 3 m to lessen the 
possibility of injury. It is suggested that subjects wear a long-sleeve 
cotton shirt to prevent abrasions when testing the device in the 
inflated condition and that the teeth should be tightly clenched 
together when jumping.

    (f) Water emergence--(1) Equipment. A pool with a wooden platform at 
one side must be used for this test. The platform must be 300 mm (12 
in.) above the water surface and must not float on the water. The 
platform must have a smooth painted surface. Alternatively, a Coast 
Guard approved inflatable liferaft may be used in lieu of a platform.
    (2) Qualifying. Each test subject enters the water wearing only a 
bathing suit and swims 25 m. The subject must then be able to emerge 
from the pool onto the platform using only his or her hands on the top 
of the platform as an aid and without pushing off of the bottom of the 
pool. Any subject unable to emerge onto the platform within 30 seconds 
is disqualified for this test. If less than \2/3\ of the test subjects 
qualify, substitute subjects must be used.
    (3) Test. Each qualified subject dons an inflated lifejacket, enters 
the water and swims 25 m. Afterward, at least \2/3\ of the qualified 
subjects must then be able to climb out of the pool in the manner 
prescribed in paragraph (f)(2) of this section within 45 seconds while 
wearing the lifejacket. If marking on the lifejacket so indicates, and 
if the wearer can read the marking while the lifejacket is being worn, 
the subjects may deflate the device during the 45 second attempt.
    (g) Lanyard pull test and strength. (1) An uninflated lifejacket is 
placed on a rigid metal test form built according to Figure 160.176-
13(n)(2) and suspended vertically.
    (2) The inflation handle of each manual inflation mechanism is 
attached to a force indicator. The force indicator is then used to 
activate each manual inflation mechanism separately. The force required 
to activate each mechanism is recorded. In each test the force must be 
between 25 and 70 N (5 and 15 lb.).
    (3) A weight of 225 N (50 lb.) is in turn attached to the inflation 
handle of each manual inflation mechanism. The weight is then allowed to 
hang freely for 5 minutes from each manual inflation mechanism. The 
handle must not separate from the mechanism.
    (h) Temperature cycling tests. (1) Three uninflated lifejackets, 2 
packed and 1 unpacked, are maintained at room temperature (20 3 [deg]C (68 + 6 [deg]F)) for 4 hours and then at a 
temperature of 65 2 [deg]C (150 5 [deg]F) for 20 hours. The lifejackets are then 
maintained at room temperature for at least 4 hours, after which they 
are maintained at a temperature of minus 30 2 
[deg]C (-22 5 [deg]F) for 20 hours. This cycle is 
then repeated once.
    (2) Upon the completion of the conditioning in paragraph (h)(1) of 
this section all sealed or non-reusable packaging is removed from the 
two packed units. The lifejackets must show no functional deterioration 
after being inflated immediately after removal from the conditioning. 
The lifejackets must be inflated as follows:
    (i) One unit which was packed during conditioning must fully inflate 
within 2 minutes using only oral inflation.
    (ii) The other unit which was packed during conditioning must fully 
inflate within 45 seconds of submersion in water at 2 2 [deg]C (37 5 [deg]F) as a result 
of automatic inflation.
    (iii) The unit which was unpacked during conditioning must fully 
inflate within 30 seconds of activation of the manual inflation 
mechanisms.

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    (3) The same 3 lifejackets used for the test in paragraph (h)(1) of 
this section are deflated and, with 2 repacked and 1 unpacked, are 
maintained at room temperature for 4 hours and then at a temperature of 
minus 30 2 [deg]C (-22 5 
[deg]F) for 20 hours. The lifejackets are then stored at room 
temperature for at least 4 hours, after which they are maintained at a 
temperature of 65 2 [deg]C (150 5 [deg]F) for 20 hours. This cycle is then repeated 
once. The steps in paragraph (h)(2) of this section are then repeated, 
and the lifejackets must meet the criteria in that paragraph.
    (i) [Reserved]
    (j) Buoyancy and inflation medium retention test. A lifejacket which 
has been used in the tests in paragraph (h) of this section must be used 
for this test.
    (1) Equipment. The following equipment is required for this test:
    (i) A wire mesh basket that is large enough to hold the inflated 
lifejacket without compressing it, is designed not to allow the 
lifejacket to float free, and is heavy enough to overcome the buoyancy 
of the lifejacket.
    (ii) A scale that is sensitive to 14 g (0.5 oz.) and that has an 
error of less than 14 g (0.5 oz.).
    (iii) A test tank, filled with fresh water, that is large enough to 
hold the basket with its top 50 mm (2 in.) below the surface without the 
basket touching the tank.
    (2) Method. One inflation chamber is inflated using its automatic 
inflation mechanism. The lifejacket is placed in the basket. The basket 
is then suspended from the scale and submerged in the test tank with the 
lifejacket and basket completely below the water surface. An initial 
reading of the scale is taken after 30 minutes and again after 24 hours. 
The buoyancy of the lifejacket is the submerged weight of the basket 
minus the submerged weight of the basket with the lifejacket inside. 
This test is repeated as many times as necessary until each chamber has 
been tested. On each chamber that does not have an automatic inflation 
mechanism the manual or oral inflation mechanism may be used.
    (3) Requirement. The buoyancy of each inflation chamber must be 
within the tolerances specified in the plans and specifications for the 
lifejacket required by Sec.  160.176-5(a)(2) of this part. Each 
inflation chamber must retain at least 95% of its initial buoyancy after 
being submerged for 24 hours.
    (k) Uninflated floatation test. A packed lifejacket, with all 
automatic inflation mechanisms disabled, is dropped from a height of 1 m 
(3 ft.) into fresh water. The lifejacket must remain floating on the 
surface of the water for at least 30 minutes. This test is repeated with 
an unpacked, uninflated lifejacket, with all automatic inflation 
mechanisms disabled.
    (l) [Reserved]
    (m) Environmental tests--(1) Salt spray exposure. An uninflated 
lifejacket is subjected to 720 hours of salt spray as specified by ASTM 
B 117 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.176-4). The automatic 
inflation mechanism(s) must not be activated by the salt spray. The 
lifejacket is then inflated first using the automatic inflation 
mechanism(s) and then twice more using first the manual mechanisms and 
then the oral mechanisms. The lifejacket must show no functional 
deterioration.
    (2) Rain exposure. An uninflated lifejacket is mounted on a rigid 
metal test form built according to Figure 160.176-13(n)(2). The test 
form must be vertical. Spray nozzles that deliver 0.05 mm of water per 
second (0.7 inch/hour) over the area of the lifejacket at a temperature 
between 2 and 16 [deg]C (35 and 60 [deg]F) and at a 45[deg] angle below 
horizontal toward the lifejacket are mounted 1.5 m (4.5 ft.) above the 
base of the test form. There must be at least 4 nozzles evenly spaced 
around the lifejacket at a horizontal distance of 1 m from the center of 
the lifejacket and each nozzle must deliver water at the same rate. 
Water is then sprayed on the lifejacket for 1 hour. The lifejacket must 
not inflate during the test.
    (n) Tensile tests. Two lifejackets that have been subjected to the 
tests in paragraph (h) of this section must be used for these tests.
    (1) Body tensile test. (i) In this test one lifejacket must be fully 
inflated and the other deflated.
    (ii) Two unconnected rigid cylinders are passed through the body 
portion of each lifejacket, or through the encircling body strap for 
yoke style devices, with one closure fastened and adjusted

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to its mid range, as shown in Figure 160.176-13(n)(1). Each cylinder 
must be 125 mm (5 inches) in diameter. The top cylinder is connected to 
a winch or pulley system. The bottom cylinder is connected to a test 
load which when combined with the weight of the lower cylinder and the 
linkage equals 325 kg (720 lb.). The winch or pulley system lifts the 
top cylinder so the test load is raised off of its support. The test 
load is left suspended for 30 minutes.
    (iii) There must be no functional deterioration of any component of 
either lifejacket during the test. Each friction type closure must not 
permit slippage of more than 25 mm (1 in.).
    (iv) If a lifejacket has friction type closures, the test must be 
repeated immediately after the lifejacket has been immersed in water for 
a least 2 minutes.
    (v) The test is repeated until each different type of closure is 
tested separately.

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[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.024

    (2) Shoulder tensile test. Each shoulder section of a lifejacket is 
subjected to this test separately. A fully inflated lifejacket, with all 
closures fastened, must be secured to a rigid metal test form built 
according to Figure 160.176-13(n)(2). A 2 \1/4\ 
in. wide web is passed through the shoulder section of the lifejacket 
and is connected to a winch or pulley system. The bottom portion of the 
form is connected to a dead weight load which when combined with the 
weight of the form and the linkage equals 90 kg. (200 lb.). The winch or 
pulley system is operated to raise the weight off of its support. The 
weight is left suspended for 30 minutes. There must be no functional 
deterioration of any component of the lifejacket during the test.

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[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TC03MR91.025

    (3) Strength of attachment of inflation mechanism. (i) A fully 
inflated lifejacket is secured to a rigid metal test form as in Figure 
160.176-13(n)(2), and the pressure of each inflated chamber is measured. 
The top portion of the form is then connected to a winch or pulley 
system. A 35 kg (75 lb.) weight is attached by a line to one of the 
inflation mechanisms as close as possible to the point of attachment on 
the lifejacket. The winch or pulley system is operated to raise the 
weight off of its support. The weight is left suspended for 5 minutes 
and then released. The inflation chamber to which the inflation 
mechanism is attached must not lose more than 3 kPa (0.4 psig) or 20% of 
its original pressure.
    (ii) The test is paragraph (n)(3)(i) of this section is repeated 
until each type of inflation mechanism has been tested separately.
    (iii) The test is then repeated as many additional times as 
necessary to test each joint in each type of inflation mechanism beyond 
its point of attachment to an inflation chamber. In each test the point 
of attachment must be as close as possible to the joint being tested.
    (o) [Reserved]
    (p) Impact test. (1) an uninflated lifejacket is secured to the test 
form shown in Figure 160.176-13(n)(2). The lifejacket, with the 
automatic inflation mechanism disabled, is secured to the form as it is 
intended to be worn. The lifejacket is accelerated to 25 m/s (50 mph) 
horizontally and is then dropped from a height of not more than 0.5 m 
(1.5 ft.) into the water in the following positions:
    (i) Face down, shoulder forward.
    (ii) Face down, shoulder back.
    (iii) Back down, shoulder forward.
    (iv) Back down, shoulder back.
    (v) Left side down, shoulder forward.
    (vi) Right side down, shoulder back.
    (2) Following each impact, there must be no sign of functional 
deterioration, and the lifejacket must not come off of the test form. 
After each

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impact the closures may be readjusted as necessary.
    (3) Following the six impacts, the lifejacket must fully inflate 
using only its oral inflation mechanisms.
    (4) The test in this paragraph is repeated on the same lifejacket 
after inflating, with manual inflation mechanisms, all chambers that 
have those mechanism.
    (q) Flame exposure test. A lifejacket that has been subjected to the 
tests in paragraph (h) of this section must be used for this test.
    (1) Equipment. The following equipment is required for this test:
    (i) A test pan 300 mm by 450 mm by 60 mm (12 in. by 18 in. by 2\1/2\ 
in.) containing 12 mm (\1/2\ in.) of water under 25 mm (1 in.) of N-
heptane.
    (ii) an arrangement to hold the lifejacket over the N-heptane.
    (2) Method. The test is only conducted when there is no significant 
air movement other than that caused by the fire. The N-heptane is 
ignited and allowed to burn for 30 seconds. A lifejacket which has been 
fully inflated with air is then passed through the flames in an upright, 
forward, vertical, free-hanging position with the bottom of the 
lifejacket 240 mm C 9\1/2\ in.) above the top edge of the test pan. The 
lifejacket is exposed to the flames for 2 seconds.
    (3) Requirement. The lifejacket must not burn or melt for more than 
6 seconds after being removed from the flames. The lifejacket must 
remain inflated throughout the test. If the lifejacket sustains any 
visible damage other than discoloration after being exposed to the 
flames, the lifejacket must--
    (i) pass the test in paragraph (e)(2) of this section, except that 
only one subject is used and the test is done six times; and
    (ii) pass the tensile test in paragraph (n)(1) of this section, 
except that a weight of 245 kg (540 lb.) is used in lieu of the 325 kg 
(720 lb.) weight.
    (r) Solvent exposure test. Lifejackets with their automatic 
inflation mechanisms disabled must be used for this test. Two uninflated 
lifejackets that have been subjected to the tests in paragraph (h) of 
this section are totally submerged in diesel fuel, grade No. 2-D as 
defined in ASTM D 975 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.176-4), 
for 24 hours. The lifejackets are then removed and the excess fuel 
removed. One lifejacket must fully inflate using only its manual 
inflation mechanisms and the other using only its oral inflation 
mechanisms. The lifejackets must show no functional deterioration as a 
result of the test.
    (s) Puncture test. A fully inflated lifejacket is placed on a flat, 
level surface. A test point 4 mm (\5/32\ in.) in diameter tapering to a 
rounded point, 1 mm (\3/64\ in.) in diameter, is pressed against an 
inflation chamber of the lifejacket perpendicular to the surface of the 
chamber at a rate of 300 mm/minute (12 in./minute). The test point is 
applied until the inflation chamber is punctured or the chamber walls 
are touching each other. The force required to puncture the inflation 
chamber or make the chamber walls touch each other is recorded. The 
force required must exceed 30 N (7 lb.).
    (t) Inflation chamber tests--(1) Over-pressure test. One lifejacket 
is used in this test. Before pressurizing the lifejacket, each over-
pressure valve, if any, must be blocked. One inflation chamber is then 
pressurized with air to 70 kPa (10 psig) and held for 5 minutes. After 
the 5 minute period, there must be no sign of permanent deformation, 
damage, or pressure loss of more than 3.5 kPa (0.5 psig). This test is 
then repeated as many times as necessary to test a different chamber 
until each chamber has been tested in this manner.
    (2) Air retention test. One inflation chamber of a lifejacket is 
filled with air until air escapes from the over-pressure valve or, if 
the lifejacket does not have an over-pressure valve, until its design 
pressure, as stated in the plans and specifications, is reached. After 
12 hours the lifejacket must still be firm with an internal pressure of 
at least 14 kPa (2.0 psig). This test is then repeated as many times as 
necessary to test a different chamber until each chamber has been tested 
in this manner.
    (u) Seam strength test. Samples of each type of structural sewn seam 
must be subjected to and pass the ``Seam Strength (Sewability) Test''

[[Page 290]]

specified in Underwriters Laboratories Standard UL 1191 except that the 
breaking strength of each seam in the directions of both greater and 
lesser thread count must be at least 400 N (90 lb.).
    (v) [Reserved]
    (w) Visual examination. One complete lifejacket must be visually 
examined for compliance with the requirements of Sec. Sec.  160.176-9 
and 160.176-11 of this part
    (x) [Reserved]
    (y) Inflation chamber properties. The tests in this paragraph must 
be run after successful completion of all other approval tests. The 
results of these tests will be used to check the quality of incoming 
lifejacket components and the production process. Test samples must come 
from one or more lifejackets that were each used in all of the tests in 
paragraphs (e), (j), (p), (s), and (t) of this section.
    (1) Grab breaking strength. The grab breaking strength of chamber 
materials must be determined according to Method No. 5100 of Federal 
Test Method Standard 191A or ASTM D 751 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  160.176-4).
    (2) Tear strength. The tear strength of chamber materials must be 
determined according to Method No. 5132 or 5134 of Federal Test Method 
Standard 191A or ASTM D 751 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
160.176-4).
    (3) Permeability. The permeability of chamber materials must be 
determined according to ASTM D 1434 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  160.176-4) using CO2 as the test gas.
    (4) Seam strength. The seam strength of the seams in each inflation 
chamber of at least one lifejacket must be determined according to ASTM 
D 751 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  160.176-4) except that 25 by 
200 mm (1 by 8 in.) samples may be used where insufficient length of 
straight seam is available.
    (z) Additional tests. The Commandant may prescribe additional tests, 
if necessary, to approve novel or unique designs.

[CGD 78-1746, 54 FR 50320, Dec. 5, 1989, as amended by CGD 78-174b, 56 
FR 29441, June 27, 1991; USCG-2000-7790, 65 FR 58464, Sept. 29, 2000]



Sec.  160.176-15  Production tests and inspections.

    (a) General. (1) Production tests and inspections must be conducted 
in accordance with this section and subpart 159.007 of this chapter.
    (2) The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and 
inspections if needed to maintain quality control and check for 
compliance with the requirements in this subpart.
    (b) Test and inspection responsibilities. In addition to 
responsibilities set out in part 159 of this chapter, each manufacturer 
of an inflatable lifejacket and each independent laboratory inspector 
must comply with the following, as applicable:
    (1) Manufacturer. Each manufacturer must--
    (i) Perform all required tests and examinations on each lifejacket 
lot before the independent laboratory inspector tests and inspects the 
lot;
    (ii) Perform required testing of each incoming lot of inflation 
chamber material before using that lot in production;
    (iii) Have procedures for maintaining quality control of the 
materials used, manufacturing operations, and the finished product;
    (iv) Have a continuing program of employee training and a program 
for maintaining production and test equipment;
    (v) Have an inspector from the independent laboratory observe the 
production methods used in producing the first lifejacket lot produced 
and observe any revisions made thereafter in production methods;
    (vi) Admit the inspector and any Coast Guard representative to any 
place in the factory where work is done on lifejackets or component 
materials, and where completed lifejackets are stored; and
    (vii) Allow the inspector and any Coast Guard representative to take 
samples of completed lifejackets or of components materials for tests 
prescribed in this subpart.
    (2) Independent laboratory. (i) An inspector may not perform or 
supervise any production test or inspection unless--
    (A) The manufacturer has a current approval certificate; and

[[Page 291]]

    (B) The inspector has first observed the manufacturer's production 
methods and any revisions to those methods.
    (ii) An inspector must perform or supervise all required tests and 
inspections of each lifejacket lot produced.
    (iii) During each inspection, the inspector must check for 
noncompliance with the manufacturer's quality control procedures.
    (iv) At least once each calendar quarter, the inspector must, as a 
check on manufacturer compliance with this section, examine the 
manufacturer's records required by Sec.  160.176-17 of this part and 
observe the manufacturer in performing each of the tests required by 
paragraph (h) of this section.
    (c) Lifejacket lots. A lot number must be assigned to each group of 
lifejackets produced. No lot may exceed 1000 lifejackets. A new lot must 
be started whenever any change in materials or a revision to a 
production method is made, and whenever any substantial discontinuity in 
the production process occurs. Changes in lots of component materials 
must be treated as changes in materials. Lots must be numbered serially. 
The lot number assigned, along with the approval number, must enable the 
lifejacket manufacturer, by referring to the records required by this 
subpart, to determine who produced the components used in the 
lifejacket.
    (d) Samples. (1) Samples used in testing and inspections must be 
selected at random. Sampling must be done only when all lifejackets or 
materials in the lot are available for selection.
    (2) Each sample lifejacket selected must be complete, unless 
otherwise specified in paragraph (h) of this section.
    (3) The inspector may not select the same samples tested by the 
manufacturer.
    (4) The number of samples selected per lot must be at least the 
applicable number listed in Table 160.176-15A or Table 160.176-15B.

                                 Table 160.176-15A--Manufacturer's Sampling Plan
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                     Number of Samples Per Lot
                                                 ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                             Lot Size
                                                 ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   1-100    101-200    201-300    301-500    501-750    751-1000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tests:
    Inflation Chamber Materials.................
                                                  SEE NOTE (1)
    Seam Strength...............................        1          1          2          2          3          4
    Over-pressure \2 3\.........................        1          2          3          4          6          8
    Air Retention...............................
                                             EVERY DEVICE IN THE LOT
    Buoyancy & Inflation Media Retention........        1          2          3          4          6          8
    Tensile Strength \4\........................        1          1          1          1          1          1
    Detailed Product Examination................        2          2          3          4          6          8
Retest Sample Size \2\..........................       --         --         13         13         20         20
Final Lot Inspection:...........................
                                             EVERY DEVICE IN THE LOT
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Samples must be selected from each lot of incoming material. The tests referenced in Sec.  Sec.   160.176-
  13(y)(1) through 160.176-13(y)(4) of this part prescribe the number of samples to select.
\2\ Samples selected for this test may not be the same samples selected for other tests.
\3\ If any sample fails the over-pressure test, the number of samples to be tested in the next lot produced must
  be at least 2% of the total number of lifejackets in the lot or 10 lifejackets, whichever is greater.
\4\ This test is required only when a new lot of materials is used and when a revised production process is
  used. However, the test must be run at least once every calendar quarter regardless of whether a new lot of
  materials or a revised process is started in that quarter.


                                  Table 160.176-15B--Inspector's Sampling Plan
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                     Number of samples per lot
                                                 ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                             Lot size
                                                 ---------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   1-100    101-200    201-300    301-500    501-750    751-1000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tests:
    Over-pressure \1\...........................        1          2          3          4          6          8
    Air Retention...............................        1          2          3          4          6          8
    Buoyancy & Inflation Media Retention........        1          2          3          4          6          8

[[Page 292]]

 
    Tensile Strength \2\........................        1          1          1          1          1          1
    Waterproof marking..........................
                                            SEE NOTE (3) FOR SAMPLING
    Detailed Product Examination................        2          2          2          3          3          3
Retest Sample Size \1\..........................       10         10         13         13         20         20
Final Lot Inspection:...........................       20         32         50         60         70         80
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Samples selected for this test may not be the same lifejackets selected for other tests.
\2\ This test may be omitted if the manufacturer has previously conducted it on the lot and the inspector has
  conducted the test on a previous lot during the same calendar quarter.
\3\ One sample of each means of marking on each type of fabric or finish used in lifejacket construction must be
  tested. This test is only required when a new lot of materials is used. However, the test must be run at least
  once every calendar quarter regardless of whether a new lot of materials is started in that quarter.

    (e) Accept/reject criteria: manufacturer testing. (1) A lifejacket 
lot passes production testing if each sample passes each test.
    (2) In lots of 200 or fewer lifejackets, the lot must be rejected if 
any sample fails one or more tests.
    (3) In lots of more than 200 lifejackets, the lot must be rejected 
if--
    (i) One sample fails more than one test;
    (ii) More than one sample fails any test or combination of tests; or
    (iii) One sample fails one test and in redoing that test with the 
number of samples specified for retesting in Table 160.176-15A, one or 
more samples fail the test.
    (4) A rejected lifejacket lot may be retested only if allowed under 
paragraph (k) of this section.
    (5) In testing inflation chamber materials, a lot is accepted only 
if the average of the results of testing the minimum number of samples 
prescribed in the reference tests in Sec.  160.176-13(y) of this part is 
within the tolerances specified in Sec.  160.176-8(c)(1) of this part. A 
rejected lot may not be used in production.
    (f) Accept/reject criteria: independent laboratory testing. (1) A 
lot passes production testing if each sample passes each test.
    (2) A lot must be rejected if--
    (i) One sample fails more than one test;
    (ii) More than one sample fails any test or combination of tests; or
    (iii) One sample fails one test and in redoing that test with the 
number of samples specified for retesting in Table 160.176-15B, one or 
more samples fail the test.
    (3) A rejected lot may be retested only if allowed under paragraph 
(k) of this section.
    (g) Facilities and equipment--(1) General. The manufacturer must 
provide the test equipment and facilities described in this section for 
performing production tests, examinations, and inspections.
    (2) Calibration. The manufacturer must have the calibration of all 
test equipment checked at least every six months by a weights and 
measures agency or the equipment manufacturer, distributor, or dealer.
    (3) Equipment. The following equipment is required:
    (i) A sample basket for buoyancy tests. It must be made of wire mesh 
and be of sufficient size and durability to securely hold a completely 
inflated lifejacket under water without compressing it. The basket must 
be heavy enough or be sufficiently weighted to submerge when holding an 
inflated test sample.
    (ii) A tank filled with fresh water for buoyancy tests. The height 
of the tank must be sufficient to allow a water depth of 5 cm (2 inches) 
minimum between the top of the basket and water surface when the basket 
is not touching the bottom. The length and width of the tank must be 
sufficient to prevent each submerged basket from contacting another 
basket or the tank sides and bottom. Means for locking or sealing the 
tank must be provided to prevent disturbance of any samples or a change 
in water level during testing.

[[Page 293]]

    (iii) A scale that has sufficient capacity to weigh a submerged 
basket for buoyancy tests. The scale must be sensitive to 14 g (0.5 oz.) 
and must not have an error exceeding 14 g (0.5 
oz.).
    (iv) Tensile test equipment that is suitable for applying pulling 
force in conducting body strap assembly strength subtests. The equipment 
assembly may be (A) a known weight and winch, (B) a scale, winch, and 
fixed anchor, or (C) a tensile test machine that is capable of holding a 
given tension. The assembly must provide accuracy to maintain a pulling 
force within 2 percent of specified force. 
Additionally, if the closed loop test method in Sec.  160.176-13(h)(1) 
of this Part is used, two cylinders of the type described in that method 
must be provided.
    (v) A thermometer that is sensitive to 0.5 [deg]C (1 [deg]F) and 
does not have an error exceeding 0.25 [deg]C (0.5 
[deg]F).
    (vi) A barometer that is capable of reading mm (inches) of mercury 
with a sensitivity of 1 mm (0.05 in.) Hg and an error not exceeding 
5 mm (0.02 in.) Hg.
    (vii) A regulated air supply that is capable of supplying the air 
necessary to conduct the tests specified in paragraphs (h)(4) and (h)(5) 
of this section.
    (viii) A pressure gauge that is capable of measuring air pressure 
with a sensitivity of 1 kPa (0.1 psig) and an error not exceeding 0.5 kPa (0.05 psig).
    (ix) A torque wrench if any screw fasteners are used. The wrench 
must be sensitive to, and have an error of less than, one half the 
specified tolerance for the torque values of the fasteners.
    (4) Facilities: The manufacturer must provide a suitable place and 
the necessary apparatus for the inspector to use in conducting or 
supervising tests. For the final lot inspection, the manufacturer must 
provide a suitable working environment and a smooth-top table for the 
inspector's use.
    (h) Production tests and examinations--(1) General. (i) Samples used 
in testing must be selected according to paragraph (d) of this section.
    (ii) On each sample selected--
    (A) The manufacturer must conduct the tests in paragraphs (h)(2) 
through (h)(8) of this section; and
    (B) The independent laboratory inspector must conduct or supervise 
the tests in paragraphs (h)(4) through (h)(9) of this section.
    (iii) Each individual test result must, in addition to meeting the 
requirements in this paragraph, meet the requirements, if any, set out 
in the approved plans and specifications required by Sec.  160.176-
5(a)(2) of this part.
    (2) Inflation chamber materials. Each sample must be tested 
according to Sec. Sec.  160.176-13(y)(1) through 160.176-13(y)(3) of 
this part. The average and individual results of testing the minimum 
number of samples prescribed by Sec.  160.176-13(y) of this part must 
comply with the requirements in Sec.  160.176-8(c)(1) of this part.
    (3) Seam strength. The seams in each inflation chamber of each 
sample must be tested according to Sec.  160.176-13(y)(4) of this part. 
The results for each inflation chamber must be at least 90% of the 
results obtained in approval testing.
    (4) Over-pressure. Each sample must be tested according to and meet 
Sec.  160.176-13(t)(1) of this part.
    (5) Air retention. Each sample must be tested according to and meet 
Sec.  160.176-13(t)(2) of this part.
    (6) Buoyancy and inflation medium retention. Each sample must be 
tested according to and meet Sec.  160.176-13(j) of this part. Each 
buoyancy value must fall within the tolerances specified in the approved 
plans and specifications.
    (7) Tensile strength. Each sample must be tested according to and 
meet Sec.  160.176-13(n) of this part.
    (8) Detailed product examination. Each sample lifejacket must be 
disassembled to the extent necessary to determine compliance with the 
following:
    (i) All dimensions and seam allowances must be within tolerances 
prescribed in the approved plans and specifications required by Sec.  
160.176-5(a)(2) of this part.
    (ii) The torque of each screw type mechanical fastener must be 
within its tolerance as prescribed in the approved plans and 
specifications.
    (iii) The arrangement, markings, and workmanship must be as 
specified in the approved plans and specifications and this subpart.
    (iv) The lifejacket must not otherwise be defective.

[[Page 294]]

    (9) Waterproof marking test. Each sample is completely submerged in 
fresh water for a minimum of 30 minutes, and then removed and 
immediately placed on a hard surface. The markings are vigorously rubbed 
with the fingers for 15 seconds. If the printing becomes illegible, the 
sample is rejected.
    (i) [Reserved]
    (j) Final lot examination and inspection--(1) General. On each 
lifejacket lot that passes production testing, the manufacturer must 
perform a final lot examination and an independent laboratory inspector 
must perform a final lot inspection. Samples must be selected according 
to paragraph (d) of this section. Each final lot examination and 
inspection must show--
    (i) First quality workmanship;
    (ii) That the general arrangement and attachment of all components 
such as body straps, closures, inflation mechanisms, tie tapes, 
drawstrings, etc. are as specified in the approved plans and 
specifications; and
    (iii) Compliance with the marking requirements in Sec.  160.176-23 
of this Part.
    (2) Accept/reject criteria. Each nonconforming lifejacket must be 
rejected. If three or more nonconforming lifejackets are rejected for 
the same kind of defect, lot examination or inspection must be 
discontinued and the lot rejected.
    (3) Manufacturer examination. This examination must be done by a 
manufacturer's representative who is familiar with the approved plans 
and specifications required by Sec.  160.176-5(a)(2) of this part, the 
functioning of the lifejacket and its components, and the production 
testing procedures. This person must not be responsible for meeting 
production schedules or be supervised by someone who is. This person 
must prepare and sign the record required by Sec.  159.007-13(a) of this 
chapter and Sec.  160.176-17(b) of this part.
    (4) Independent laboratory inspection. (i) The inspector must 
discontinue lot inspection and reject the lot if observation of the 
records for the lot or of individual lifejackets shows noncompliance 
with this section or the manufacturer's quality control procedures.
    (ii) An inspector may not perform a final lot inspection unless the 
manufacturer has a current approval certificate.
    (iii) If the inspector rejects a lot, the Commandant must be advised 
immediately.
    (iv) The inspector must prepare and sign the inspection record 
required by Sec.  159.007-13(a) of this chapter and Sec.  160.176-17(b) 
of this part. If the lot passes, the record must also include the 
inspector's certification to that effect and a certification that no 
evidence of noncompliance with this section was observed.
    (v) If the lot passes, each lifejacket in the lot must be plainly 
marked with the words, ``Inspected and Passed, (Date), (Inspection 
Laboratory ID).'' This marking must be done in the presence of the 
inspector. The marking must be permanent and waterproof. The stamp which 
contains the marking must be kept in the independent laboratory's 
custody at all times.
    (k) Disposition of rejected lifejacket lot or lifejacket. (1) A 
rejected lifejacket lot may be resubmitted for testing, examination or 
inspection if the manufacturer first removes and destroys each defective 
lifejacket or, if authorized by the Commandant, reworks the lot to 
correct the defect.
    (2) Any lifejacket rejected in a final lot examination or inspection 
may be resubmitted for examination or inspection if all defects have 
been corrected and reexamination or reinspection is authorized by the 
Commandant.
    (3) A rejected lot or rejected lifejacket may not be sold or offered 
for sale under representation that it meets this subpart or that it is 
Coast Guard approved.

[CGD 78-1746, 54 FR 50320, Dec. 5, 1989, as amended by CGD 78-174b, 56 
FR 29442, June 27, 1991; USCG-2014-0688, 78 FR 58286, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  160.176-17  Manufacturer records.

    (a) Each manufacturer of inflatable lifejackets must keep the 
records required by Sec.  159.007-13 of this chapter except that they 
must be retained for at least 120 months after the month in which the 
inspection or test was conducted.
    (b) Each record required by Sec.  159.007-13 of this chapter must 
also include the following information:

[[Page 295]]

    (1) For each test, the serial number of the test instrument used if 
there is more than one available.
    (2) For each test and inspection, the identification of the samples 
used, the lot number, the approval number, and the number of lifejackets 
in the lot.
    (3) For each lot rejected, the cause for rejection, any corrective 
action taken, and the final disposition of the lot.
    (c) The description or photographs of procedures and apparatus used 
in testing is not required for the records prescribed in Sec.  159.007-
13 of this chapter as long as the manufacturer's procedures and 
apparatus meet the requirements of this subpart.
    (d) Each manufacturer of inflatable lifejackets must also keep the 
following records:
    (1) Records for all materials used in production including the 
following:
    (i) Name and address of the supplier.
    (ii) Date of purchase and receipt.
    (iii) Lot number.
    (iv) Certification meeting Sec.  160.176-8(a)(3) of this part.
    (2) A copy of this subpart.
    (3) Each document incorporated by reference in Sec.  160.176-4 of 
this part.
    (4) A copy of the approved plans and specifications required by 
Sec.  160.176-5(a)(2) of this part.
    (5) The approval certificate.
    (6) Calibration of test equipment, including the identity of the 
agency performing the calibration, date of calibration, and results.
    (7) A listing of current and formerly approved servicing facilities.
    (e) The records required by paragraph (d)(1) of this section must be 
kept for at least 120 months after preparation. All other records 
required by paragraph (d) of this section must be kept for at least 60 
months after the lifejacket approval expires or is terminated.



Sec.  160.176-19  Servicing.

    (a) General. This section contains requirements for servicing 
facilities, manuals, training, guidelines, and records. Other 
regulations in this chapter require inflatable lifejackets to be 
serviced at approved facilities at 12 month intervals.
    (1) Each manufacturer of an approved inflatable lifejacket must 
provide one or more Coast Guard approved facilities for servicing those 
lifejackets. The manufacturer must notify the Commandant whenever an 
approved facility under its organization no longer provides servicing of 
a lifejacket make and model listed in the guidelines required by 
paragraph (d) of this section.
    (2) Each manufacturer of an approved inflatable lifejacket must make 
replacement parts available to Coast Guard approved independent 
servicing facilities.
    (b) Servicing facilities. Each Coast Guard approved servicing 
facility must meet the requirements of this paragraph and paragraph (d) 
of this section in order to receive and keep its approval for each make 
and model of lifejacket. Approval is obtained according to Sec.  
160.176-5(c) of this part.
    (1) Each servicing facility must conduct lifejacket servicing 
according to its servicing guidelines and follow the procedures in the 
service manual required by this section.
    (2) Each servicing facility must have a suitable site for servicing 
which must be clean, well lit, free from excessive dust, drafts, and 
strong sunlight, and have appropriate temperature and humidity control 
as specified in the service manual.
    (3) Each servicing facility must have the appropriate service, 
repair, and test equipment and spare parts for performing required tests 
and repairs.
    (4) Each servicing facility must have a current manufacturer's 
service manual for each make and model of lifejacket serviced.
    (5) A servicing facility may have more than one servicing site 
provided that each site meets the requirements of paragraph (b)(2) of 
this section.
    (6) Each servicing facility must be inspected at intervals not 
exceeding six months by an accepted independent laboratory, and a report 
of the inspections must be submitted to the Commandant at least 
annually. The report must contain enough information to show compliance 
with paragraphs (b) (1) through (4) of this section and paragraph (d) of 
this section. Where a facility uses more than one site the report

[[Page 296]]

must show compliance at each site at least biennially.
    (c) Service manual. (1) Each manufacturer of an approved inflatable 
lifejacket must prepare a service manual for the lifejacket. The service 
manual must be approved by the Commandant according to Sec.  160.176-
5(b) of this part.
    (2) The manufacturer must make the service manual, service manual 
revisions, and service bulletins available to each approved servicing 
facility.
    (3) Each service manual must contain the following:
    (i) Detailed procedures for inspecting, servicing, and repackaging 
the lifejacket.
    (ii) A list of approved replacement parts and materials to be used 
for servicing and repairs, if any.
    (iii) A requirement to mark the date and servicing facility name on 
each lifejacket serviced.
    (iv) Frequency of servicing.
    (v) Any specific restrictions or special procedures prescribed by 
the Coast Guard or manufacturer.
    (4) Each service manual revision and service bulletin which 
authorizes the modification of a lifejacket, or which affects a 
requirement under this subpart, must be approved by the Commandant. 
Other revisions and service bulletins are not required to be approved, 
but a copy of each must be sent to the Commandant when it is issued. At 
least once each year, the manufacturer must provide to the Commandant 
and to each servicing facility approved to service its lifejackets a 
bulletin listing each service manual revision and bulletin in effect.
    (d) Servicing facilities guidelines. Each servicing facility must 
have written guidelines that include the following:
    (1) Identification of each make and model of lifejacket which may be 
serviced by the facility as well as the manual and revision to be used 
for servicing.
    (2) Identification of the person, by title or position, who is 
responsible for the servicing program.
    (3) Training and qualifications of servicing technicians.
    (4) Provisions for the facility to retain a copy of its current 
letter of approval from the Coast Guard at each site.
    (5) Requirements to--
    (i) Ensure each inflatable lifejacket serviced under its Coast Guard 
approval is serviced in accordance with the manufacturer's service 
manual;
    (ii) Keep servicing technicians informed of each approved servicing 
manual revision and bulletin and ensure servicing technicians understand 
each change and new technique related to the lifejackets serviced by the 
facility;
    (iii) Calibrate each pressure gauge, weighing scale, and 
mechanically-operated barometer at intervals of not more than one year;
    (iv) Ensure each inflatable lifejacket serviced under the facility's 
Coast Guard approval is serviced by or under the supervision of a 
servicing technician who meets the requirements of item (3) of this 
paragraph;
    (v) Specify each make and model of lifejacket it is approved to 
service when it represents itself as approved by the U.S. Coast Guard; 
and
    (vi) Not service any lifejacket for a U.S. registered commercial 
vessel, unless it is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard to service the 
make and model of lifejacket.
    (e) Servicing records. Each servicing facility must maintain records 
of all completed servicing. These records must be retained for at least 
5 years after they are made, be made available to any Coast Guard 
representative and independent laboratory inspector upon request, and 
include at least the following:
    (1) Date of servicing, number of lifejackets serviced, lot 
identification, approval number, and test results data for the 
lifejackets serviced.
    (2) Identification of the person conducting the servicing.
    (3) Identity of the vessel receiving the serviced lifejackets.
    (4) Date of return to the vessel.



Sec.  160.176-21  User manuals.

    (a) The manufacturer must develop a user's manual for each model of 
inflatable lifejacket. The content of the manual must be provided for 
approval according to Sec. Sec.  160.176-5(a)(3)(v) and 160.176-5(b) of 
this part.
    (b) A user's manual must be provided with each lifejacket except 
that only

[[Page 297]]

five manuals need be provided to a single user vessel if more than five 
lifejackets are carried on board.
    (c) Each user's manual must contain in detail the following:
    (1) Instructions on use of the lifejacket and replacement of 
expendable parts.
    (2) Procedures for examining serviceability of lifejackets and the 
frequency of examination.
    (3) Pages for logging on board examinations.
    (4) Frequency of required servicing at approved servicing 
facilities.
    (5) Instructions, if any, on proper stowage.
    (6) Procedures for getting the lifejackets repaired by a servicing 
facility or the manufacturer.
    (7) Procedures for making emergency repairs on board.
    (8) Any specific restrictions or special instructions.



Sec.  160.176-23  Marking.

    (a) General. Each inflatable lifejacket must be marked with the 
information required by this section. Each marking must be waterproof, 
clear, and permanent. Except as provided elsewhere in this subpart, each 
marking must be readable from a distance of three feet.
    (b) Prominence. Each marking required in paragraph (d) of this 
section, except vital care and use instructions, if any, must be less 
prominent and in smaller print than markings required in paragraph (c) 
of this section. Each optional marking must be significantly less 
prominent and smaller than required markings. The marking ``ADULT'' must 
be in at least 18 mm (\3/4\ inch) high bold capital lettering. If a 
lifejacket is stored in a package, the package must also have the 
marking ``ADULT'' or this marking must be easily visible through the 
package.
    (c) Text. Each inflatable lifejacket must be marked with the 
following text in the exact order shown:

    ADULT--For a person weighing more than 90 pounds.
    Approved for use on (See paragraph (e) of this section for exact 
text to be used here).
    This lifejacket must be serviced, stowed, and used in accordance 
with (insert description of service manual and user's manual).
    When fully inflated this lifejacket provides a minimum buoyant force 
of (insert the design buoyancy in lb.).

    (d) Other Information. Each lifejacket must also be marked with the 
following information below the text required by paragraph (c) of this 
section:
    (1) U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. (insert assigned approval number).
    (2) Manufacturer's or private labeler's name and address.
    (3) Lot Number.
    (4) Date, or year and calendar quarter, of manufacture.
    (5) Necessary vital care or use instructions, if any, such as the 
following:
    (i) Warning against dry cleaning.
    (ii) Size and type of inflation medium cartridges required.
    (iii) Specific donning instructions.
    (e) Approved applications. The text to be inserted in paragraph (c) 
of this section as the approved use will be one or more of the following 
as identified by the Commandant on the approval certificate issued 
according to Sec.  159.005-13(a)(2) of this chapter:
    (1) The name of the vessel.
    (2) The type of vessel.
    (3) Specific purpose or limitation approved by the Coast Guard.

[CGD 78-1746, 54 FR 50320, Dec. 5, 1989, as amended by CGD 78-174b, 56 
FR 29442, June 27, 1991; USCG-2013-0263, 79 FR 56500, Sept. 22, 2014]



PART 161_ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT--Table of Contents



Subpart 161.001 [Reserved]

                 Subpart 161.002_Fire Detection Systems

Sec.
161.002-1 Incorporation by reference.
161.002-2 Types of fire-protective systems.
161.002-3 [Reserved]
161.002-4 General requirements.
161.002-6 Testing requirements.
161.002-8 Automatic fire detecting systems, general requirements.
161.002-9 Fire detection system, power supply.
161.002-10 Fire detection system control unit.
161.002-15 Sample extraction smoke detection systems.
161.002-17 Equivalents.
161.002-18 System method of applications for type approval.
161.002-19 Device method of application for type approval.

[[Page 298]]

   Subpart 161.006_Searchlights, Motor Lifeboat, for Merchant Vessels

161.006-1 Applicable specifications.
161.006-2 Type.
161.006-3 Materials and workmanship.
161.006-4 Requirements.
161.006-5 Sampling, inspections and tests.
161.006-6 Procedure for approval.

Subpart 161.008 [Reserved]

              Subpart 161.010_Floating Electric Waterlight

161.010-1 Incorporation by reference.
161.010-2 Design, construction, and test requirements.
161.010-3 Inspections and methods of test.
161.010-4 Procedure for approval.

       Subpart 161.011_Emergency Position Indicating Radiobeacons

161.011-1 Purpose.
161.011-5 Classes.
161.011-10 EPIRB approval.

            Subpart 161.012_Personal Flotation Device Lights

161.012-1 Scope.
161.012-3 Definitions.
161.012-5 Approval procedures.
161.012-7 Construction.
161.012-9 Performance.
161.012-11 Approval tests.
161.012-13 Production tests and inspections.
161.012-15 Markings.
161.012-17 Instructions.

            Subpart 161.013_Electric Distress Light for Boats

161.013-1 Applicability.
161.013-3 General performance requirements.
161.013-5 Intensity requirements.
161.013-7 Signal requirements.
161.013-9 Independent power source.
161.013-11 Prototype test.
161.013-13 Manufacturer certification and labeling.
161.013-17 Manufacturer notification.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3703, 4302; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 
CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; DHS Delegation No. 00170.1, Revision No. 01.3.

    Editorial Note: Nomenclature changes to part 161 appear by USCG-
2009-0702, 74 FR 49238, Sept. 25, 2009, and USCG-2012-0832, 77 FR 59787, 
Oct. 1, 2012.

Subpart 161.001 [Reserved]



                 Subpart 161.002_Fire Detection Systems

    Source: CGFR 56-39, 21 FR 9032, Nov. 21, 1956, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  161.002-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division 
(CG-ENG-4), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) FM Global, 1151 Boston-Providence Turnpike, P.O. Box 9102, 
Norwood, MA 02062, 781-762-4300, http://www.fmglobal.com.
    (1) ANSI/FM Approvals 3260, American National Standard for Radiant 
Energy-Sensing Fire Detectors for Automatic Fire Alarm Signaling, 
February 2004 (``ANSI/FM 3260''), IBR approved for Sec.  161.002-6(b).
    (2) [Reserved]
    (c) International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), 3, rue de 
Varembe, P.O. Box 131, CH-1211 Geneva 20--Switzerland, +41 22 919 02 11, 
http://www.iec.ch.
    (1) IEC 60092-504:2001(E), Electrical Installations in Ships--Part 
504: Special Features--Control and Instrumentation, Third edition, March 
2001, IBR approved for Sec.  161.002-6(c) and (d), and Sec.  161.002-
15(d).
    (2) [Reserved]
    (d) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) FSS Code, International Code for Fire Safety Systems, Second 
Edition, 2007 Edition (Resolution MSC.98(73)), IBR approved for Sec.  
161.002-15(b).
    (2) [Reserved]

[[Page 299]]

    (e) National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch 
Park, Quincy, MA 02169, 617-770-3000, http://www.nfpa.org.
    (1) NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, 2010 Edition, 
effective August 26, 2009 (``NFPA 72''), IBR approved for Sec.  161.002-
10(b).
    (2) [Reserved]
    (f) UL (formerly Underwriters Laboratories), 12 Laboratory Drive, 
P.O. Box 13995, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, 919-549-1400, http://
www.ul.com.
    (1) UL 38, Standard for Safety for Manual Signaling Boxes for Fire 
Alarm Systems, Eighth Edition, dated July 3, 2008, as amended through 
December 11, 2008, IBR approved for Sec.  161.002-6(b).
    (2) UL 268, Standard for Safety for Smoke Detectors for Fire Alarm 
Systems, Sixth Edition, dated August 14, 2009, IBR approved for Sec.  
161.002-6(b).
    (3) UL 464, Standard for Safety for Audible Signal Appliances, Ninth 
Edition, dated April 14, 2009, as amended through April 16, 2012, IBR 
approved for Sec.  161.002-6(b).
    (4) UL 521, Standard for Safety for Heat Detectors for Fire 
Protective Signaling Systems, Seventh Edition, dated February 19, 1999, 
as amended through October 3, 2002, IBR approved for Sec.  161.002-6(b).
    (5) UL 864, Standard for Safety for Control Units and Accessories 
for Fire Alarm Systems, Ninth Edition, dated September 30, 2003, as 
amended through January 12, 2011, IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  161.002-
6(b) and 161.002-15(d).
    (6) UL 1480, Standard for Safety for Speakers for Fire Alarm, 
Emergency, and Commercial and Professional Use, Fifth Edition, dated 
January 31, 2003, as amended through June 23, 2010, IBR approved for 
Sec.  161.002-6(b).
    (7) UL 1971, Standard for Safety for Signaling Devices for the 
Hearing Impaired, Third Edition, approved November 29, 2002, as amended 
through October 15, 2008, IBR approved for Sec.  161.002-6(b).

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48274, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  161.002-2  Definitions.

    In this subpart, the term--
    Device means individual components (e.g. detectors, control panels, 
alarms, etc.) that are used to comprise a fire detection system. Devices 
may receive Coast Guard approval in accordance with Sec.  161.002-19.
    Fire detection or fire detection and alarm systems system means a 
complete detection system that is designed to give warning of the 
presence of fire or smoke in the protected spaces. A complete system 
includes normal and emergency power supplies, control units, remote 
annunciator panels, fire detectors and/or smoke detectors, manual pull 
stations, and audible and visual alarms, which are distinct from the 
alarms of any other system not indicating fire.
    Listed means equipment or materials included in a list published by 
an organization that is an accepted independent laboratory, as defined 
in 46 CFR 159.010, or a nationally recognized testing laboratory, as set 
forth in 29 CFR 1910.7, whose listing states that either the equipment 
or material meets appropriate designated standards.
    Nationally recognized testing laboratory (NRTL) means an 
organization that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration 
(OSHA) has recognized as meeting the requirements in 29 CFR 1910.7. 
These requirements are for the capability, control programs, complete 
independence, and reporting and complaint-handling procedures to test 
and certify specific types of products for workplace safety. This means, 
in part, that an organization must have the necessary capability both as 
a product safety testing laboratory and as a product certification body 
to receive OSHA recognition as an NRTL.
    Sample extraction smoke detection systems means systems that collect 
and analyze air samples from protected spaces in order to detect 
products of combustion. A complete system includes a control unit, a 
blower box, accumulators, and a piping system with associated fittings.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48274, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  161.002-3  [Reserved]



Sec.  161.002-4  General requirements.

    (a) The purpose of fire detection systems is to give warning of the 
presence of fire in the protected spaces. To meet this end, the basic 
requirements of

[[Page 300]]

these systems are reliability, sturdiness, simplicity of design, ease of 
servicing, and the ability to withstand shipboard shock and vibration 
and the adverse effects of sea humidity. All fire detection systems must 
be designed, constructed, tested, marked, and installed according to the 
applicable standards as incorporated by reference in Sec.  161.002-1 and 
46 CFR chapter I, subchapter J (Electrical Engineering) of this chapter.
    (b) Approvals for detection systems issued before July 22, 2017 will 
remain valid until July 22, 2021.
    (c) Detection systems installed, with a valid approval, before July 
22, 2021 may be maintained onboard vessels and repaired as indicated in 
46 CFR 76.27-80(d).

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48275, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  161.002-6  Testing requirements.

    (a) Devices must be tested and listed for fire service by an 
accepted independent laboratory, as accepted in accordance with Sec.  
159.010 of this subchapter, or by a NRTL as set forth in 29 CFR 1910.7.
    (b) Each fire detection device must comply with the following 
standards (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  161.002-1) as 
appropriate:
    (1) Control units--UL 864;
    (2) Heat detectors--UL 521;
    (3) Smoke detectors--UL 268;
    (4) Flame detectors--ANSI/FM 3260;
    (5) Audible alarms--UL 464 or UL 1480;
    (6) Visual alarms--UL 1971; and
    (7) Manual Signaling Boxes--UL 38.
    (c) All devices must be tested by an accepted independent 
laboratory, as defined in Sec.  159.010 of this subchapter, to meet the 
marine environment testing requirements in Table 161.002-6(c) of this 
section. The test parameters are found in IEC 60092-504 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  161.002-1).

                          Table 161.002-6(c)--Marine Environmental Testing Requirements
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Category 1         Category 2         Category 3
                                                        --------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                               Spaces containing
         IEC 60092-504 Environmental type test             All spaces not   Open deck or open    navigation or
                                                          Category 2 or 3       to weather       communication
                                                                                                   equipment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1--Visual inspection...................................                 X                  X                  X
2--Functional test.....................................                 X                  X                  X
3--High voltage test...................................                 X                  X                  X
4a--Power supply variations............................                 X                  X                  X
4b--Power supply failure...............................                 X                  X                  X
5--Insulation resistance...............................                 X                  X                  X
6--Cold with gradual temp. change......................        X (5 [deg]C)     X (-25 [deg]C)       X (5 [deg]C)
7--Dry heat with gradual temp. change..................       X (55 [deg]C)      X (55 [deg]C)      X (55 [deg]C)
8--Damp heat, cyclic...................................                 X                  X                  X
9--Salt mist...........................................  .................                 X
10--Vibration (sinusoidal).............................                 X                  X                  X
11b--Inclination, dynamic..............................             \1\ X              \1\ X              \1\ X
13--Electrostatic discharge............................                 X                  X                  X
14--Electromagnetic field..............................                 X                  X                  X
15--Conducted low frequency............................                 X                  X                  X
16(a)--Conducted radio frequency (3 V rms).............                 X
16(b)--Conducted radio frequency (10 V rms)............  .................                 X                  X
17--Burst/fast transients..............................                 X                  X                  X
18--Surge/slow transients..............................                 X                  X                  X
19(a)--Radiated emission (general power)...............                 X
19(b)--Radiated emission (bridge and deck zone)........  .................                 X                  X
20(a)--Conducted emission (general power)..............                 X
20(b)--Conducted emission (bridge and deck zone).......  .................                 X                  X
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ This test only needs to be completed if the device is in a location with moving mechanical parts.

    (d) All fire detection system control units and remote annunciators 
must have enclosure protection as outlined in part 5 of IEC 60092-504 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  161.002-1) if the requirements 
exceed those of 46 CFR 111.01-9. Otherwise, 46 CFR 111.01-9 must be 
complied with.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48275, July 22, 2016]

[[Page 301]]



Sec.  161.002-8  Automatic fire detecting systems, general requirements.

    (a) General. A fire detection system must consist of a power supply; 
a control unit on which visible and audible fire and trouble signaling 
indicators are located; fire and/or smoke detectors; and fire and/or 
smoke detector circuits, as required, originating from the control unit. 
Power failure alarm devices may be separately housed from the control 
unit and may be combined with other power failure alarm systems when 
specifically approved.
    (b) [Reserved]

[21 FR 9032, Nov. 21, 1956, as amended by CGD 94-108, 61 FR 28292, June 
4, 1996; USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48276, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  161.002-9  Fire detection system, power supply.

    The power supply for a fire detection system must meet the 
requirements of Sec.  113.10-9 of this chapter.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48276, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  161.002-10  Fire detection system control unit.

    (a) General. The fire detection system control unit must meet the 
requirements of Sec.  111.01-9 of this chapter.
    (b) Electrical supervision--Circuits. The circuits must comply with 
Chapter 23 of NFPA 72 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  161.002-1), 
and must be Class A or Class X pathway.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48276, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  161.002-15  Sample extraction smoke detection systems.

    (a) General. The sample extraction smoke detection system must 
consist of a means for continuously exhausting an air sample from the 
protected spaces and testing the air for contamination with smoke, 
together with visual and audible alarms for indicating the presence of 
smoke.
    (b) Design. The sample extraction smoke detection system must be 
designed and capable of being installed in accordance with 46 CFR 
chapter I, subchapter J (Electrical Engineering) and the FSS Code 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  161.002-1).
    (c) Power supply. The power supply for the sample extraction smoke 
detection system must meet the requirements of Sec.  113.10-9 of this 
chapter.
    (d) Control unit standards. The control unit must be listed by 
either a NRTL as set forth in 29 CFR 1910.7 or an independent laboratory 
that is accepted by the Commandant under part 159 of this chapter. The 
listing must be to the standards specified in UL 864 and tested to the 
parameters found in IEC 60092-504 (both incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  161.002-1).

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48276, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  161.002-17  Equivalents.

    The Commandant may approve any arrangement, fitting, appliance, 
apparatus, equipment, calculation, information, or test that provides a 
level of safety equivalent to that established by specific provisions of 
this subpart. Requests for approval must be submitted to Commandant (CG-
ENG). If necessary, the Commandant may require engineering evaluations 
and tests to demonstrate the equivalence of the substitute.

[CGD 94-108, 61 FR 28292, June 4, 1996]



Sec.  161.002-18  System method of applications for type approval.

    (a) The manufacturer must submit the following material to 
Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, 
U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC 20593-7509:
    (1) A formal written request that the system be reviewed for 
approval.
    (2) Three copies of the system's instruction manual,including 
information concerning installation, maintenance, limitations, 
programming, operation, and troubleshooting.
    (3) Proof of listing the system devices meeting the requirements of 
Sec.  161.002-4(b)(2).
    (4) One copy of the complete test report(s) meeting the requirements 
of Sec.  161.002-6 generated by an independent laboratory accepted by 
the Commandant under part 159 of this chapter or an NRTL as set forth in 
29 CFR 1910.7. A current list of Coast Guard accepted laboratories may 
be obtained from the following Web site: http://cgmix.uscg.mil/eqlabs/.

[[Page 302]]

    (5) Three copies of a list prepared by the manufacturer that 
contains the name, model number, and function of each major component 
and accessory, such as the main control cabinet, remote annunciator 
cabinet, detector, zone card, isolator, central processing unit, zener 
barrier, special purpose module, or power supply. This list must be 
identified by the following information assigned by the manufacturer:
    (i) A document number.
    (ii) A revision number (the original submission being revision 
number 0).
    (iii) The date that the manufacturer created or revised the list.
    (b) The Coast Guard distributes a copy of the approved instruction 
manual to the manufacturer and to the Coast Guard Marine Safety Center 
(MSC).
    (c) The manufacturer must maintain an account of the equipment 
offered for approval. The list identification information in paragraphs 
(a)(5)(i) through (a)(5)(iii) of this section appears on the Certificate 
of Approval and indicates the official compilation of components for the 
approved system. If the manufacturer seeks to apply subsequently for the 
approval of a revision (because of, for example, additional accessories 
becoming available, replacements to obsolete components, or a change in 
materials or standards of safety), changes to the approved list must be 
submitted for review and approval.
    (d) To apply for a revision, the manufacturer must submit--
    (1) A written request under paragraph (a) of this section;
    (2) An updated list under paragraph (a)(5) of this section; and
    (3) A report by an independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant 
under part 159 of this chapter, or an NRTL as set forth in 29 CFR 1910.7 
to document compliance with Sec.  161.002-6.
    (e) If the Coast Guard approves the system or a revision to a 
system, it issues a certificate, normally valid for a 5-year term, 
containing the information in paragraphs (a)(5)(i) through (a)(5)(iii) 
of this section.

[CGD 94-108, 61 FR 28292, June 4, 1996, as amended by USCG-1999-6216, 64 
FR 53228, Oct. 1, 1999; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60160, Sept. 30, 2013; 
USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48276, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  161.002-19  Device method of application for type approval.

    (a) The manufacturer must submit the following material to 
Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509 or they may 
electronically submit material to [email protected]:
    (1) A formal written request that the device be reviewed for 
approval.
    (2) Three copies of the device's instruction manual, including 
information concerning installation, maintenance, limitations, 
programming, operation, and troubleshooting.
    (3) Proof of listing the device meeting the requirements of Sec.  
161.002-4(b)(2).
    (4) One copy of the complete test report(s) meeting the requirements 
of Sec.  161.002-6 generated by an independent laboratory accepted by 
the Commandant under part 159 of this chapter or an NRTL as set forth in 
29 CFR 1910.7. A current list of Coast Guard accepted laboratories may 
be obtained from the following Web site: http://cgmix.uscg.mil/eqlabs/.
    (b) To apply for a revision, the manufacturer must submit--
    (1) A written request under paragraph (a) of this section;
    (2) Updated documentation under paragraph (a)(2) of this section;
    (3) Proof of listing the device meeting the requirements of Sec.  
161.002-4(b)(2); and
    (4) A report by an independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant 
under part 159 of this chapter or an NRTL as set forth in 29 CFR 1910.7 
is required to document compliance with Sec.  161.002-6.
    (c) If the Coast Guard approves the device or a revision to a 
device, it issues a Certificate of Approval, normally valid for a 5-year 
term.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48276, July 22, 2016]

[[Page 303]]



   Subpart 161.006_Searchlights, Motor Lifeboat, for Merchant Vessels

    Source: CGFR 49-43, 15 FR 127, Jan. 11, 1950, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  161.006-1  Applicable specifications.

    (a) The following specifications, of the issue in effect on the date 
motor lifeboat searchlights are manufactured, form a part of this 
subpart:
    (1) Navy Department specifications:

42S5--Screws, machine, cap and set, and nuts.
43B11--Bolts, nuts, studs, and tap-rivets (and materials for same).

    (2) Federal specification:

QQ-B-611--Brass, Commercial; bars, plates, rods, shapes, sheets, and 
strip.

    (3) Standards of ASTM:

ASTM B 117-97, Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) 
Apparatus--161.006-5
ASTM B 456-95, Standard Specification for Electrodeposited Coatings of 
Copper Plus Nickel Plus Chromium and Nickel Plus Chromium--161.006-4
    You may obtain these standards from The American Society for Testing 
and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.

    (4) Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc.:

Standard for flexible cord and fixture wire, third edition, October, 
1935.

    (b) Copies of the above specifications shall be kept on file by the 
manufacturer, together with the approved plans and certificate of 
approval.

[CGFR 49-43, 15 FR 127, Jan. 11, 1950, as amended by USCG-1999-5151, 64 
FR 67185, Dec. 1, 1999]



Sec.  161.006-2  Type.

    (a) The motor lifeboat searchlight shall be of the incandescent type 
equipped with a lamp of approximately 90 watts of proper voltage for use 
with the electric power installation of the lifeboat, usually a 12-volt 
radio storage battery.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  161.006-3  Materials and workmanship.

    (a) Materials. The materials shall be of best quality and suitable 
in every respect for the purpose intended. All materials shall be 
corrosion resistant. The use of acid flux in making joints shall not be 
permitted.
    (b) Workmanship. The workmanship shall be first class in every 
respect.



Sec.  161.006-4  Requirements.

    (a) Corrosion-resisting materials. Silver, corrosion-resisting 
steel, copper, brass, bronze and copper-nickel alloys are considered 
satisfactory corrosion-resistant materials within the intent of this 
subpart.
    (b) Searchlight parts. The motor lifeboat searchlight shall, in 
general consist of the following parts:

Yoke and pedestal.
Housing.
Front door.
Reflector.
Lamp socket.
Supply cable.

    (c) Weight and dimensions. The height of the motor lifeboat 
searchlight shall not exceed 19 inches and the weight shall not exceed 
16 pounds, unless otherwise approved.
    (d) Wiring. The motor lifeboat searchlight shall be wired with a 
five-foot length of rubber-jacketed hard service flexible cord, 
Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., Type S, or equivalent, of a size not 
less than No. 16 AWG. At the point where the cable enters the 
searchlight, a waterproof entrance bushing with packing gland and cord 
grip shall be provided.
    (e) Lamp and socket. The motor lifeboat searchlight shall be 
provided with a lamp of not less than 80 watts nor more than 100 watts, 
and a suitable lamp socket. Means shall be provided for adjusting and 
securing the lamp socket at any position between the focal point and a 
point not less than \1/4\ inch away from the focal point in either 
direction in the axis of the beam.
    (f) Housing. The housing shall be constructed of brass, Federal 
Specification QQ-B-611, Composition E, copper alloy, or other suitable 
corrosion-resistant material as approved, of a thickness not less than 
No. 20 AWG. The housing shall be capable of free movement of at

[[Page 304]]

least 60 degrees above and 20 degrees below the horizontal, and of a 
free movement of 360 degrees in a horizontal plane. It shall be possible 
to lock the barrel in any desired position, vertically or horizontally, 
without the use of tools. A sturdy metal hand grip shall be provided at 
the back of the housing for housing-adjusting purposes.
    (g) Front door. A front door shall be attached to the housing in 
such a manner that it can be readily opened or removed, without the use 
of tools, for the purpose of relamping. The door, when closed, shall be 
waterproof. Clear front door glass shall be used.
    (h) Reflector. The reflector shall be paraboloidal. It shall be 
constructed of brass, Federal Specification QQ-B-611 Composition E, 
finished and with electroplated coatings of nickel and chromium in 
accordance with ASTM B 456 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
161.006-1), Service Condition 1, or as otherwise approved. The reflector 
shall furnish a minimum average illumination of 100 foot candles, when 
measured as specified in Sec.  161.006-5 (b) (2).
    (i) Yoke and pedestal. The yoke and pedestal shall be of rugged 
construction. The pedestal shall be suitable for bolting to a flat 
surface with not less than four \3/8\-inch diameter bolts.
    (j) Beam spread. The beam shall be at least 60 feet in diameter at 
200 yards. The edge of the beam shall be defined as a point at which the 
intensity of the light is 10 percent of the maximum intensity.
    (k) Bolts, nuts, and screws. Bolts and nuts shall conform to the 
requirements of Navy Department Specification 43B11. Screws shall 
conform to the requirements of Navy Department Specification 42S5.
    (l) Name plate. The motor lifeboat searchlight shall be provided 
with a permanent metallic name plate giving the name of manufacturer, 
type designation, and drawing number.

[CGFR 49-43, 15 FR 127, Jan. 11, 1950, as amended by USCG-1999-5151, 64 
FR 67185, Dec. 1, 1999]



Sec.  161.006-5  Sampling, inspections and tests.

    (a) General. Motor lifeboat searchlights specified by this subpart 
are not inspected at regularly scheduled factory inspections of 
production lots, but the Commander of the Coast Guard District may 
detail an inspector at any time to visit any place where such 
searchlights are manufactured to check materials and construction 
methods and to conduct such tests and examinations as may be required to 
satisfy himself that the searchlights are being manufactured in 
compliance with the requirements of this specification and with the 
manufacturer's plans and specifications approved by the Commandant.
    (b) Methods of test--(1) Waterproof test. The searchlight shall be 
subjected for 5 minutes to a stream of water under a head of 
approximately 35 feet from a hose not less than 1 inch in diameter from 
a distance of approximately 10 feet. The hose nozzle shall be adjusted 
to give a solid stream at the enclosure. No leakage shall occur in this 
test.
    (2) Beam candlepower. All light except that produced from the 
searchlight under test shall be excluded from the room in which 
measurements are made. The searchlight shall be operated at rated 
voltage with a seasoned lamp as specified in Sec.  161.006-4(e). 
Measurements of beam candlepower shall be made at the corners of a 6-
inch square located in the center of the beam at a distance of 32 feet 
immediately in front of the searchlight.
    (3) Corrosion resistance. The searchlight shall be subjected to a 
200-hour salt spray test in accordance with ASTM B 117 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  161.006-1). There shall be no evidence of corrosion 
that will be detrimental to the operation of the searchlight.
    (4) Heat run. The searchlight, completely assembled, shall be 
operated continuously for 2 hours at rated voltage following which the 
waterproof test shall be conducted. This cycle shall be repeated 3 
times. The ambient temperature shall be approximately 25 [deg]C. The 
water stream shall be from an ordinary cold water tap.

[CGFR 49-43, 15 FR 127, Jan. 11, 1950, as amended by USCG-1999-5151, 64 
FR 67185, Dec. 1, 1999]

[[Page 305]]



Sec.  161.006-6  Procedure for approval.

    (a) General. Motor lifeboat searchlights are approved only by the 
Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. 
Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., 
Washington, DC 20593-7509. Correspondence relating to the subject matter 
of this specification shall be addressed to the Commander of the Coast 
Guard District in which the factory is located.
    (b) Manufacturer's plans and specifications. In order to obtain 
approval of motor lifeboat searchlights, submit detailed plans and 
specifications, including a complete bill of material, assembly 
drawings, and parts drawings descriptive of the arrangement and 
construction of the device, to the Commander of the Coast Guard District 
in which the factory is located. Each drawing shall have an identifying 
drawing number, date, and an identification of the device; and the 
general arrangement for assembly drawing shall include a list of all 
drawings applicable, together with drawing numbers and alteration 
numbers. The manufacturer will be advised whether or not the drawings 
and specifications appear satisfactory or what corrections appear 
necessary and then he may proceed with the construction of the pre-
approval sample in accordance therewith. The pre-approval sample, 
together with four copies of the plans and specifications corrected as 
may be required, shall be forwarded to the Commandant via the Commander 
of the Coast Guard District in which the factory is located for 
inspection and tests. The cost of the tests is to be borne by the 
manufacturer.

[CGFR 49-43, 15 FR 127, Jan. 11, 1950, as amended by USCG-2013-0671, 78 
FR 60160, Sept. 30, 2013]

Subpart 161.008 [Reserved]



              Subpart 161.010_Floating Electric Waterlight

    Source: CGD 85-208, 54 FR 27020, June 27, 1989, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  161.010-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain materials are incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register in accordance 
with 5 U.S.C. 552(a). To enforce any edition other than the one listed 
in paragraph (b) of this section, notice of change must be published in 
the Federal Register and the material made available to the public. All 
approved material is on file or at the National Archives and Records 
Administration (NARA), and at the Marine Safety Center, U.S. Coast 
Guard, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593, and 
is available from the sources indicated in paragraph (b) of this 
section. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, 
call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
    (b) The material approved for incorporation by reference in this 
part, and the sections affected are:

Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
12 Laboratory Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995
    ANSI/UL 1196, Standard for Floating Waterlights, Second Edition 
March 23, 1987. 161.010-2; 161.010-4

[CGD 85-208, 54 FR 27020, June 27, 1989, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 FR 
50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; CGD 97-
057, 62 FR 51049, Sept. 30, 1997; USCG-2001-10224, 66 FR 48620, Sept. 
21, 2001; 69 FR 18803, Apr. 9, 2004; USCG-2007-29018, 72 FR 53967, Sept. 
21, 2007; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60160, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2016-0498, 
82 FR 35092, July 28, 2017]



Sec.  161.010-2  Design, construction, and test requirements.

    Each floating electric waterlight shall meet the requirements of 
ANSI/UL 1196.



Sec.  161.010-3  Inspections and methods of test.

    (a) Each inspection and test report required by this subpart shall 
comply with Sec.  159.005-11 of this chapter.
    (b) The U.S. Coast Guard reserves the right to make any inspection 
or test it deems necessary to determine the conformance of the materials 
and equipment to this subpart.

[[Page 306]]

    (c) The facilities, materials, and labor for all tests shall be 
furnished at no cost to the U.S. Coast Guard.



Sec.  161.010-4  Procedure for approval.

    (a) A request for approval of an automatic floating electric 
waterlight must be submitted by visitors to the Commanding Officer, 
Marine Safety Center, U.S. Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. 
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593, or transmitted by mail to: Commanding 
Officer (MSC), Attn: Marine Safety Center, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7430, 
2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7430, in a 
written or electronic format. Information for electronic submittals can 
be found at https://www.uscg.mil/HQ/MSC.
    (b) All inspections and tests must be performed by an independent 
laboratory which meets the requirements of Sec.  159.010-3 of this 
chapter. A list of independent laboratories accepted by the Coast Guard 
as meeting Sec.  159.010-3 of this chapter may be obtained by contacting 
the Commanding Officer, USCG Marine Safety Center.
    (c) Each request for approval must contain;
    (1) The name and address of the applicant,
    (2) One copy of all plans and specifications that meet the 
requirements of Sec.  159.005-12 of this chapter,
    (3) A pre-approval sample of the waterlight,
    (4) An inspection and test report verifying compliance with the 
construction and test requirements of ANSI/UL 1196, and
    (5) A statement by the manufacturer certifying that the waterlight 
complies with the requirements of this subpart.

[CGD 85-208, 54 FR 27020, June 27, 1989, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 FR 
50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-
2001-10224, 66 FR 48620, Sept. 21, 2001; USCG-2007-29018, 72 FR 53967, 
Sept. 21, 2007; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60160, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2016-
0498, 82 FR 35092, July 28, 2017; USCG-2022-0323, 88 FR 10031, Feb. 16, 
2023]



       Subpart 161.011_Emergency Position Indicating Radiobeacons



Sec.  161.011-1  Purpose.

    This subpart prescribes approval requirements for emergency position 
indicating radiobeacons (EPIRB).

[39 FR 10139, Mar. 18, 1974]



Sec.  161.011-5  Classes.

    EPIRB's are classed as follows:
    (a) Class A--an EPIRB that has been type approved or type accepted 
by the FCC as a Class A EPIRB. These EPIRB's are capable of floating 
free of a vessel and activating automatically if the vessel sinks.
    (b) Class C--An EPIRB that has been type approved or type accepted 
by the FCC as a Class C EPIRB. These EPIRB's are manually activated and 
are not required to be Coast Guard approved.

[39 FR 10139, Mar. 18, 1974, as amended by CGD 80-024, 49 FR 40409, Oct. 
16, 1984]



Sec.  161.011-10  EPIRB approval.

    (a) The Coast Guard approves the class of EPIRB's listed in Sec.  
161.011-5(a) of this subpart.
    (b) An application for type approval or type acceptance of an EPIRB 
should be submitted to the FCC in accordance with Title 47 of the Code 
of Federal Regulations, Part 2. When requested by the FCC, the Coast 
Guard reviews the test results in the application that concern 
installation and automatic operation (if required) of the EPIRB. The 
Coast Guard provides the results of the review to the manufacturer, and 
to the FCC for its use in acting upon the application.
    (c) Upon notification of the FCC type acceptance or type approval, 
the Commandant (CG-ENG) issues a certificate of approval for the EPIRB.

[CGD 80-024, 49 FR 40409, Oct. 16, 1984, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 FR 
50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 1996]



            Subpart 161.012_Personal Flotation Device Lights

    Source: CGD 76-028, 44 FR 38785, July 2, 1979, unless otherwise 
noted.

[[Page 307]]



Sec.  161.012-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart prescribes construction and performance 
requirements, approval and production tests, and procedures for 
approving personal flotation device lights fitted on Coast Guard 
approved life preservers,buoyant vests, and other personal flotation 
devices.
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGD 76-028, 44 FR 38785, July 2, 1979, as amended at 79 FR 58286, Sept. 
29, 2014]



Sec.  161.012-3  Definitions.

    (a) As used in this subpart, PFD means Coast Guard approved personal 
flotation device.
    (b) For the purpose of Sec.  161.012-7, storage life means the 
amount of time after the date of manufacture of the power source of a 
light that the power source can be stored under typical marine 
environmental conditions on a vessel and still have sufficient power for 
the light to meet the requirements of Sec.  161.012-9.



Sec.  161.012-5  Approval procedures.

    (a) An application for approval of a PFD light under this subpart 
must be sent to the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and 
Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King 
Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.
    (b) Each application for approval must contain--(1) The name and 
address of the applicant;
    (2) Two copies of plans showing the construction details of the 
light;
    (3) A detailed description of the applicant's production testing 
program; and
    (4) A laboratory test report containing the observations and results 
of approval testing.
    (c) The Commandant advises the applicant whether the light is 
approved. If the light is approved, an approval certificate is sent to 
the applicant.

[CGD 76-028, 44 FR 38785, July 2, 1979, as amended by CGD 88-070, 53 FR 
34536, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-
041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60160, Sept. 30, 
2013]



Sec.  161.012-7  Construction.

    (a) Each light must be designed to be attached to a PFD without 
damaging the PFD or interfering with its performance.
    (b) Each light and its power source must be designed to be removed 
and replaced without causing damage to the PFD.
    (c) The storage life of the power source of a light must be twice as 
long as the period between the date of manufacture and the expiration 
date of the power source.
    (d) Each light, prior to activation, must be capable of preventing 
leakage from its container of any chemicals it contains or produces.
    (e) Each component of a light must be designed to remain serviceable 
in a marine environment for at least as long as the storage life of the 
light's power source.
    (f) No light may have a water pressure switch.
    (g) Each light must be designed so that when attached to a PFD, its 
light beam, at a minimum, is visible in an arc of 180 degrees above or 
in front of the wearer.
    (h) Each light, including its power source, must fit into a 
cylindrical space that is 150 mm (6 in.) long and 75 mm (3 in.) in 
diameter.
    (i) Each light, including its power source, must not weigh more than 
225g (8 oz.).
    (j) Each light that is designed to operate while detached from a PFD 
must have a lanyard that can be used to connect it to the PFD. The 
lanyard must be at least 750 mm (30 in.) long.
    (k) Each light designed to operate while detached from a PFD must be 
capable of floating in water with its light source at or above the 
surface of the water.



Sec.  161.012-9  Performance.

    (a) If a light is a flashing light, its flash rate when first 
activated, or within five minutes thereafter, must be between 50 and 70 
flashes per minute.
    (b) Each light must--(1) Begin to shine within 2 minutes after 
activation; and
    (2) Within 5 minutes after activation be capable of being seen from 
a distance of at least one nautical mile on a dark clear night.
    (c) Each light must be designed to operate underwater continuously 
for at

[[Page 308]]

least 8 hours at a water temperature of 15[deg] 5 
[deg]C (59[deg] 9 [deg]F). However, if the light 
needs air to operate, underwater operation is required only for 50 or 
more seconds during each minute of the eight hour period.
    (d) Each light must be designed to operate both in sea water and in 
fresh water.
    (e) A light that concentrates its light beam by means of a lens or 
curved reflector must not be a flashing light.
    (f) Each light must be designed to operate in accordance with this 
section after storage for 24 hours at a temperature of 65[deg] 2 [deg]C (149[deg] 44 [deg]F), and 
after storage for 24 hours at -30[deg] 2 [deg]C (-
22[deg] 4 [deg]F).



Sec.  161.012-11  Approval tests.

    (a) The approval tests described in this section must be conducted 
for each light submitted for Coast Guard approval. The tests must be 
conducted by a laboratory that has the equipment, personnel, and 
procedures necessary to conduct the approval tests required by this 
subpart, and that is free of influence and control of the applicant and 
other manufacturers, suppliers, and vendors of PFD lights.
    (b) A sample light must be activated at night under clear 
atmospheric conditions. However, two lights must be used if the power 
source is water activated, and one light must be activated in fresh 
water and the other in salt water having the approximate salinity of sea 
water. The light, or lights, must begin to shine within 2 minutes after 
activation and, within 5 minutes after activation, must be seen from a 
distance of at least one nautical mile against a dark background.
    (c) At least ten sample lights must be selected at random from a 
group of at least 25. Each sample light must be kept at a constant 
temperature of 65[deg] 2 [deg]C (149[deg] 4 [deg]F) for 24 hours. Each sample light must then be 
kept at a constant temperature of minus 30[deg] 2 
[deg]C (minus 22[deg] 4 [deg]F) for 24 hours. Five 
samples must then be submerged in salt water having the approximate 
salinity of sea water and the five other samples must be submerged in 
fresh water. The temperature of the water must be 15[deg] 5 [deg]C (59[deg] 9 [deg]F). The 
lights must then be activated and left submerged for eight hours. 
However, if their power sources need a supply of air to operate, the 
lights may be brought to their normal operating positions at the surface 
of the water for up to 10 seconds per minute during the eight hour 
period. At least nine of the ten lights must operate continuously over 
the eight hour period. If the lights are flashing lights, at least nine 
of ten must have a flash rate of between 50 and 70 flashes per minute 
when first activated or within five minutes thereafter.
    (d) Individual tests must be conducted on a sample light to 
determine whether the light meets the requirements of Sec.  161.012-7, 
except that technical data showing compliance with Sec.  160.012-7(c) 
may be submitted with the application for approval in lieu of performing 
an individual test.



Sec.  161.012-13  Production tests and inspections.

    (a) The manufacturer of approved lights must randomly select a 
sample of ten lights from each lot of lights produced. Each lot must not 
exceed 1,000 lights. At least nine of the ten lights, when tested in 
accordance with the test described in Sec.  161.012-11(c), must meet the 
test criteria prescribed by that section. If less than nine lights meet 
the test criteria, another random sample of ten lights must be taken and 
tested. If less than nine of these lights meet the test criteria, none 
of the lights in the lot may be sold as Coast Guard approved equipment.
    (b) The Coast Guard does not inspect lights approved under this 
subpart on a regular schedule. However, the Commandant may select 
samples and conduct tests and examinations whenever necessary to 
determine whether the lights are being manufactured in compliance with 
the requirements in this subpart.



Sec.  161.012-15  Markings.

    (a) Each light manufactured under Coast Guard approval must be 
permanently and legibly marked with:
    (1) The manufacturer's name or trade mark that clearly identifies 
the model designation;
    (2) The Coast Guard approval number assigned to light; and

[[Page 309]]

    (3) Instructions on how to activate the light.
    (b) The power source of each light must be permanently and legibly 
marked with its date of manufacture and expiration date. Each date must 
include the month and year.



Sec.  161.012-17  Instructions.

    (a) Each light must have instructions on how to attach it to a PFD 
in a manner that complies with Sec.  161.012-7(a). However, in the case 
of lights that are to be attached by a PFD manufacturer, only one set of 
instructions need be provided for each shipment of lights.
    (b) If a light is designed to be attached to a finished PFD, any 
attachment materials that are not supplied with the light must be 
clearly identified in the instructions. If a light is to be attached to 
a finished PFD by a PFD purchaser, any attachment materials not supplied 
with the light must be generally available for purchase.
    (c) Each set of instructions must--(1) Clearly identify the kind of 
PFD construction (for example fabric covered or vinyl dipped) to which 
the light can be attached; and
    (2) Not require penetration of the buoyant material of the PFD.

[CGD 76-028, 44 FR 38785, July 2, 1979, as amended by USCG-2014-0688, 79 
FR 58286, Sept. 29, 2014]



            Subpart 161.013_Electric Distress Light for Boats

    Source: CGD 76-183a, 44 FR 73054, Dec. 17, 1979, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  161.013-1  Applicability.

    (a) This subpart establishes standards for electric distress lights 
for boats.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  161.013-3  General performance requirements.

    (a) Each electric light must:
    (1) Emit a white light which meets the intensity requirements of 
Sec.  161.013-5;
    (2) Be capable of automatic signaling in a manner which meets the 
requirements of Sec.  161.013-7;
    (3) Contain an independent power source which meets the requirements 
of Sec.  161.013-9;
    (4) Float in fresh water with the lens surface at or above the 
surface of the water;
    (5) Be equipped with a waterproof switch; and
    (6) Meet the requirement of paragraphs (a) (1) through (4) of this 
section after floating for at least 72 hours followed by submersion in 
5% by weight sodium chloride solution for at least 2 hours.
    (b) The electric light may not be equipped with a switch mechanism 
which permits continuous display of a beam of light except that the 
light may be equipped with a switch which returns to the off position 
when pressure is released.



Sec.  161.013-5  Intensity requirements.

    (a) If an electric light emits light over an arc of the horizon of 
360 degrees, the light must:
    (1) When level, have a peak intensity within 0.1 degrees of the 
horizontal plane;
    (2) Have a peak Equivalent Fixed Intensity of at least 75 cd; and,
    (3) Have a minimum Equivalent Fixed Intensity within a vertical 
divergence of 3 degrees of at least 15 cd.
    (b) If an electric light emits a directional beam of light, the 
light must:
    (1) Have an Equivalent Fixed Intensity of no less than 25 cd within 
4 degrees vertical and 4 
degrees horizontal divergence centered about the peak intensity; and,
    (2) Have a minimum peak Equivalent Fixed Intensity of 2,500 cd.
    (c) The Equivalent Fixed Intensity (EFI) is the intensity of the 
light corrected for the length of the flash and is determined by the 
formula:

EFI = I x (tc - ti) / 0.2 + (tc - 
ti)

Where:

I is the measured intensity of the fixed beam,
tc is the contact closure time in seconds, (0.33 for this S-
          O-S signal), and
ti is the incandescence time of the lamp in seconds.

    (d) An electric light which meets the requirements of either 
paragraph (a) or (b) of this section need not, if capable

[[Page 310]]

of operating in both manners, meet the requirements of the other 
paragraph.



Sec.  161.013-7  Signal requirements.

    (a) An electric light must have a flash characteristic of the 
International Morse Code for S-O-S and, under design conditions,
    (1) Each short flash must have a duration of \1/3\ second;
    (2) Each long flash must have a duration of 1 second;
    (3) The dark period between each short flash must have a duration of 
\1/3\ second;
    (4) The dark period between each long flash must have a duration of 
\1/3\ second;
    (5) The dark period between each letter must have a duration of 2 
seconds;
    (6) The dark period between each

S-O-S signal must have a duration of 3 seconds.
    (b) The flash characteristics described in paragraph (a) must be 
produced automatically when the signal is activated.



Sec.  161.013-9  Independent power source.

    (a) Each independent power source must be capable of powering the 
light so that it meets the requirements of Sec.  161.013-3(a)(1) and 
emits a recognizable flash characteristic of the International Morse 
Code for S-O-S at a rate of between 3 and 5 times per minute after six 
hours of continuous display of the signal.
    (b) If the independent power source is rechargeable, it must have a 
waterproof recharger designed for marine use.
    (c) If the independent power source requires external water to form 
an electrolyte, it must operate in sea water and fresh water.



Sec.  161.013-11  Prototype test.

    (a) Each manufacturer must test a prototype light identical to the 
lights to be certified prior to the labeling required by Sec.  161.013-
13.
    (b) If the prototype light fails to meet any of the general 
performance requirements of Sec.  161.013-3 the lights must not be 
certified under this subpart.
    (c) Each manufacturer must:
    (1) Forward the test results within 30 days to the Commandant (CG-
ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard 
Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 
20593-7509; and
    (2) Retain records of the test results for at least 5 years, or as 
long as the light is manufactured and certified, whichever is longer.

[CGD 76-183a, 44 FR 73054, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by CGD 88-070, 53 
FR 34536, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 
96-041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60160, Sept. 
30, 2013]



Sec.  161.013-13  Manufacturer certification and labeling.

    (a) Each electric light intended as a Night Visual Distress Signal 
required by 33 CFR part 175 must be certified by the manufacturer as 
complying with the requirements of this subpart.
    (b) Each electric light must be legibly and indelibly marked with:
    (1) Manufacturer's name;
    (2) Replacement battery type;
    (3) Lamp size; and
    (4) The following words--
    ``Night Visual Distress Signal for Boats Complies with U. S. Coast 
Guard Requirements in 46 CFR 161.013. For Emergency Use Only.''
    (c) If an electric light is designed for use with dry cell batteries 
the label must advise the consumer on the battery replacement schedule 
which under normal conditions would maintain performance requirements of 
Sec.  161.013-3.



Sec.  161.013-17  Manufacturer notification.

    Each manufacturer certifying lights in accordance with the 
specifications of this subpart must send written notice to the 
Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, 
U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., 
Washington, DC 20593-7509 within 30 days after first certifying them, 
and send a new notice every five years thereafter as long as it 
certifies lights.

[CGD 76-183a, 44 FR 73054, Dec. 17, 1979, as amended by CGD 88-070, 53 
FR 34536, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 
96-041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60160, Sept. 
30, 2013]

[[Page 311]]



PART 162_ENGINEERING EQUIPMENT--Table of Contents



Subpart 162.017_General Provisions; Valves, Pressure-Vacuum Relief, for 
                              Tank Vessels

Sec.
162.017-1 Preemptive effect; incorporation by reference.
162.017-2 Type.
162.017-3 Materials, construction, and workmanship.
162.017-4 Inspections and testing.
162.017-5 Marking.
162.017-6 Procedure for approval.

     Subpart 162.018_Safety Relief Valves, Liquefied Compressed Gas

162.018-1 Applicable specifications, and referenced material.
162.018-2 Scope.
162.018-3 Materials.
162.018-4 Construction and workmanship.
162.018-5 Blow-down adjustment and popping tolerance.
162.018-6 Marking.
162.018-7 Flow rating tests.
162.018-8 Procedure for approval.

              Subpart 162.027_Combination Firehose Nozzles

162.027-1 Scope.
162.027-2 Incorporation by reference.
162.027-3 Design, construction, testing, and marking requirements.
162.027-4 Approval procedures.

       Subpart 162.028_Extinguishers, Fire, Portable, Marine Type

162.028-1 Applicable specifications.
162.028-2 Classification.
162.028-3 Requirements.
162.028-4 Marine type label.
162.028-5 Recognized laboratories.
162.028-6 Examinations, tests, and inspections.
162.028-7 Procedure for listing and labeling.
162.028-8 Termination of listing or labeling.

     Subpart 162.039_Extinguishers, Fire, Semi-portable, Marine Type

162.039-1 Incorporation by reference.
162.039-2 Classification.
162.039-3 Requirements.
162.039-4 Marine type label.
162.039-5 Recognized laboratories.
162.039-6 Examinations, tests, and inspections.
162.039-7 Procedure for listing and labeling.
162.039-8 Termination of listing or labeling.

             Subpart 162.050_Pollution Prevention Equipment

162.050-1 Scope.
162.050-3 Definitions.
162.050-4 Incorporation by reference: Where can I get a copy of the 
          publications mentioned in this part?
162.050-5 Contents of application.
162.050-7 Approval procedures.
162.050-9 Test report.
162.050-11 Marking.
162.050-13 Factory production and inspection.
162.050-15 Designation of facilities.
162.050-17 Separator test rig.
162.050-19 Oil content meter and bilge alarm test rig.
162.050-20 Separator and bilge alarm test fluids.
162.050-21 Separator: Design specification.
162.050-23 Separator: Approval tests.
162.050-25 Cargo monitor: Design specification.
162.050-27 Oil content meter: approval tests.
162.050-33 Bilge alarm: Design specification.
162.050-35 Bilge alarm: Approval tests.
162.050-37 Vibration test.
162.050-39 Measurement of oil content.

            Subpart 162.060_Ballast Water Management Systems

162.060-1 Purpose and scope.
162.060-3 Definitions.
162.060-5 Incorporation by reference.
162.060-10 Approval procedures.
162.060-12 Use and acceptance of existing test data.
162.060-14 Information requirements for the ballast water management 
          system (BWMS) application.
162.060-16 Changes to an approved ballast water management system 
          (BWMS).
162.060-18 Suspension, withdrawal or termination of approval.
162.060-20 Design and construction requirements.
162.060-22 Marking requirements.
162.060-24 Test Plan requirements.
162.060-26 Land-based testing requirements.
162.060-28 Shipboard testing requirements.
162.060-30 Testing requirements for ballast water management system 
          (BWMS) components.
162.060-32 Testing and evaluation requirements for active substances, 
          preparations, and relevant chemicals.
162.060-34 Test Report requirements.
162.060-36 Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) requirements.
162.060-38 Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Manual (OMSM).
162.060-40 Requirements for independent laboratories (ILs).
162.060-42 Responsibilities for independent laboratories (ILs).

[[Page 312]]

      Subpart 162.161_Fixed Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems

162.161-1 Scope.
162.161-2 Incorporation by reference.
162.161-3 Materials.
162.161-4 Construction.
162.161-5 Instruction manual for design, installation, operation, and 
          maintenance.
162.161-6 Tests for approval.
162.161-7 Inspections at production.
162.161-8 Marking.
162.161-9 Procedure for approval.

                Subpart 162.163_Portable Foam Applicators

162.163-1 Scope.
162.163-2 Incorporation by reference.
162.163-3 Performance, design, construction, testing, and marking 
          requirements.
162.163-4 Approval procedures.

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j), 1903; 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3703, 4302; E.O. 
12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; E.O. 12777, 56 FR 54757, 
3 CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 351; DHS Delegation No. 00170.1, Revision No. 
01.3.

    Editorial Note: Nomenclature changes to part 162 appear by USCG-
2012-0832, 77 FR 59787, Oct. 1, 2012.



Subpart 162.017_General Provisions; Valves, Pressure-Vacuum Relief, for 
                              Tank Vessels

    Source: CGFR 50-9, 15 FR 1680, Mar. 25, 1950, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  162.017-1  Preemptive effect; incorporation by reference.

    (a) The regulations in this part have preemptive effect over State 
or local regulations in the same field.
    (b) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this 
subchapter with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register 
under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other 
than that specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish notice 
of change in the Federal Register and the material must be available to 
the public. All approved material is available for inspection at the 
Coast Guard Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of 
Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin 
Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. The material is 
also available from the source listed in paragraph (c) of this section. 
It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records 
Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this 
material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://www.archives.gov/
federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
    (c) International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Case 
postal 56, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland, telephone + 41 22 749 01 11, 
www.iso.org.
    (1) ISO 15364, Ships and Marine Technology--Pressure/Vacuum Valves 
for Cargo Tanks, First Edition (Sep. 1, 2000), (``ISO 15364''), IBR 
approved for Sec.  162.017-3.

[USCG-2006-24797, 77 FR 33886, June 7, 2012, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60160, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  162.017-2  Type.

    This specification covers the design and construction of pressure-
vacuum relief valves intended for use in venting systems on all tank 
vessels transporting inflammable or combustible liquids.

[56 FR 35827, July 29, 1991]



Sec.  162.017-3  Materials, construction, and workmanship.

    (a) The valves shall be of substantial construction and first class 
workmanship and shall be free from imperfections which may affect its 
serviceability.
    (b) Bodies of pressure-vacuum relief valves must be made of bronze 
or such corrosion-resistant material as may be approved by the 
Commanding Officer, USCG Marine Safety Center.
    (c) Valve discs, spindles, and seats shall be made of bronze or such 
corrosion-resistant material as may be approved by the Commanding 
Officer, USCG Marine Safety Center.
    (d) Where springs are employed to actuate the valve discs, the 
springs shall be made of corrosion-resistant material. Springs plated 
with corrosion-resistant material are not acceptable.
    (e) Flame screens shall be made of corrosion-resistant wire.
    (f) Nonmetallic materials will not be permitted in the construction 
of the valves, except bushings used in way of

[[Page 313]]

moving parts and gaskets may be made of nonmetallic material resistant 
to attack by the product carried. Nonmetallic diaphragms will be allowed 
where diaphragm failure will not result in unrestricted flow of cargo 
vapors to the atmosphere nor in an increase in the pressure or vacuum at 
which the valve normally releases.
    (g) The design and construction of the valves shall permit 
overhauling and repairs without removal from the line.
    (h) Valve discs shall be guided by a ribbed cage or other suitable 
means to prevent binding, and to insure proper seating. Where valve 
stems are guided by bushings suitably designed to prevent binding and to 
insure proper seating, the valves need not be fitted with ribbed cages.
    (i) The disc shall close tight against the valve seat by metal to 
metal contact, however, resilient seating seals may be provided if the 
design is such that the disc closes tight against the seat in case the 
seals are destroyed or in case they carry away.
    (j) Pressure-vacuum relief valves for venting cargo tanks shall be 
of not less than 2\1/2\ inches nominal pipe size.
    (k) Bodies of valves shall be designed to withstand a hydrostatic 
pressure of at least 125 pounds per square inch without rupturing or 
showing permanent distortion.
    (l) The valve discs may be solid or made hollow so that weight 
material may be added to vary the lifting pressure. If hollow discs are 
employed, a watertight bolted cover shall be fitted to encase the weight 
material. The pressure at which the discs open shall not exceed 120 
percent of the set pressure.
    (m) The free area through the valve seats at maximum lift shall not 
be less than the cross-sectional area of the valve inlet connection.
    (n) Double flame screens of 20 x 20 corrosion-resistant wire mesh 
with a \1/2\-inch corrosion-resistant separator on a single screen of 30 
x 30 corrosion-resistant wire mesh shall be fitted on all openings to 
atmosphere. The net free area through the flame screens shall not be 
less than 1\1/2\ times the cross-sectional area of the vent inlet from 
the cargo tanks.
    (o) Valve bodies may have screwed or flanged pipe connections, or 
such types of connections as may be approved by the Commanding Officer, 
USCG Marine Safety Center. If flanged, the thickness and drilling shall 
comply with USA standards for 150-pound bronze flanged fittings.
    (p) Where design of valve does not permit complete drainage of 
condensate to attached cargo tank or vent line, the valve body shall be 
fitted with a plugged drain opening on the side of the atmospheric 
outlet of not less than \1/2\ inch pipe size.
    (q) Relief pressure adjusting mechanisms shall be permanently 
secured by means of lockwires, locknuts, or other acceptable means.
    (r) Pressure-vacuum relief valves constructed in accordance with ISO 
15364 (incorporated by reference; see 46 CFR 162.017-1) meet the 
requirements of this subpart.

[CGFR 50-9, 15 FR 1680, Mar. 25, 1950, as amended by CGFR 68-82, 33 FR 
18907, Dec. 18, 1968; CGD 88-032, 56 FR 35827, July 29, 1991; CGD 95-
072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 
1996; USCG-2001-10224, 66 FR 48620, Sept. 21, 2001; USCG-2003-16630, 73 
FR 65202, Oct. 31, 2008]



Sec.  162.017-4  Inspections and testing.

    Pressure-vacuum relief valves may be inspected and tested at the 
plant of the manufacturer. An inspector may conduct such tests and 
examinations as may be necessary to determine compliance with this 
specification.

[56 FR 35827, July 29, 1991]



Sec.  162.017-5  Marking.

    (a) Each valve shall be legibly marked with the style, type or other 
designation of the manufacturer, the size, pressure and vacuum setting 
and name or registered trademark of the manufacturer and Coast Guard 
approval number. The minimum wording for showing the approval number 
shall be ``USCG/162.017/* *'' or ``USCG 162.017-* *''.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    * * Number to be assigned by the Commanding Officer, USCG Marine 
Safety Center.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 314]]

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGFR 68-82, 33 FR 18908, Dec. 18, 1968, as amended by USCG-2001-10224, 
66 FR 48620, Sept. 21, 2001]



Sec.  162.017-6  Procedure for approval.

    (a) General. Pressure-vacuum relief valves intended for use on tank 
vessels must be approved for such use by the Commanding Officer, U.S. 
Coast Guard Marine Safety Center. Applications for approval may be 
delivered by visitors to the Commanding Officer, Marine Safety Center, 
U.S. Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 
20593, or transmitted by mail to: Commanding Officer (MSC), Attn: Marine 
Safety Center, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7430, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. 
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7430, in a written or electronic 
format. Information for electronic submittals can be found at https://
www.uscg.mil/HQ/MSC.
    (b) Drawings and specifications. Manufacturers desiring approval of 
a new design or type of pressure-vacuum relief valve shall submit 
drawings in quadruplicate showing the design of the valve, the sizes for 
which approval is requested, method of operation, thickness and material 
specification of component parts, diameter of seat opening and lift of 
discs, mesh and size of wire of flame screens.
    (c) Pre-approval tests. Before approval is granted, the manufacturer 
shall have tests conducted, or submit evidence that such tests have been 
conducted, by the Underwriters' Laboratories, the Factory Mutual 
Laboratories, or by a properly supervised and inspected test laboratory 
acceptable to the Commandant (CG-ENG), relative to determining the lift, 
relieving pressure and vacuum, and flow capacity of a representative 
sample of the pressure-vacuum relief valve in each size for which 
approval is desired. Test reports including flow capacity curves must be 
submitted to the Commanding Officer, USCG Marine Safety Center.

[56 FR 35827, July 29, 1991, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, 
Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2001-
10224, 66 FR 48620, Sept. 21, 2001; USCG-2004-18884, 69 FR 58350, Sept. 
30, 2004; USCG-2007-29018, 72 FR 53967, Sept. 21, 2007; USCG-2009-0702, 
74 FR 49238, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60160, Sept. 30, 
2013; USCG-2016-0498, 82 FR 35092, July 28, 2017; USCG-2022-0323, 88 FR 
10031, Feb. 16, 2023]



     Subpart 162.018_Safety Relief Valves, Liquefied Compressed Gas



Sec.  162.018-1  Applicable specifications, and referenced material.

    (a) There are no other specifications applicable to this subpart 
except as noted in this subpart.
    (b) The following referenced material from industry standards of the 
issue in effect on the date safety relief valves are manufactured shall 
form a part of the regulations of this subpart (see Sec. Sec.  2.-75-17 
through 2.75-19 of Subchapter A (Procedures Applicable to the Public) 
and Subpart 50.15 of Subchapter F (Marine Engineering) of this chapter):
    (1) ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) Code (see Sec.  
50.-15-5 of subchapter F (Marine Engineering) of this chapter): The 
following paragraph from section VIII of the ASME Code:

    (i) UG-131, flow rating of valves, see Sec.  162.018-7(a).

    (2) CGA (Compressed Gas Association) standard: The following 
standard of the Compressed Gas Association (see Sec.  50.15-20(a) of 
Subchapter F (Marine Engineering) of this chapter):

    (i) S-1.2.5.2, Flow test data for safety and relief valves for use 
on pressure vessels, see Sec.  162.018-7(a).

    (c) A copy of this specification and the referenced material listed 
in this section, if used, shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, 
together with the approved plans, specifications, and certificate of 
approval. It is the manufacturer's responsibility to have the latest 
issue, including addenda and changes, of the referenced material on hand 
when manufacturing equipment under this subpart.

[[Page 315]]

    (1) The ASME Code may be obtained from the American Society of 
Mechanical Engineers, United Engineering Center, 345 East 47th Street, 
New York, N.Y. 10017.
    (2) The CGA standard may be obtained from the Compressed Gas 
Association, 500 Fifth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10036.

[CGFR 68-82, 33 FR 18908, Dec. 18, 1968]



Sec.  162.018-2  Scope.

    (a) This specification covers requirements for the design, 
construction and testing of safety relief valves intended for use on 
unfired pressure vessels containing liquefied compressed gases installed 
on merchant vessels subject to inspection by the Coast Guard.
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGFR 52-43, 17 FR 9540, Oct. 18, 1952]



Sec.  162.018-3  Materials.

    (a) The materials used in the manufacture of safety relief valves 
shall conform to the applicable requirements of subchapter F (Marine 
Engineering) of this chapter, except as otherwise specified in this 
subpart, and shall be resistant to the corrosive or other action of the 
liquefied compressed gas in the liquid or gas phase.
    (b) All pressure containing external parts of valves must be 
constructed of materials melting above 1700 [deg]F. for liquefied 
flammable gas service. Consideration of lower melting materials for 
internal pressure-containing parts will be given if their use provides 
significant improvement to the general operation of the valve. Flange 
gaskets shall be metal or spiral wound asbestos.
    (c) Nonferrous materials shall not be used in the construction of 
valves for anhydrous ammonia or other service where susceptible to 
attack by the lading.
    (d) The seats and disks shall be of suitable corrosion resistant 
material. Seats and disks of cast iron or malleable iron shall not be 
used. Springs shall be of best quality spring steel consistent with the 
design of the valve and the service requirement.

[CGFR 52-43, 17 FR 9540, Oct. 18, 1952, as amended by CGFR 68-82, 33 FR 
18908, Dec. 18, 1968; CGD 72-206R, 38 FR 17230, June 29, 1973]



Sec.  162.018-4  Construction and workmanship.

    (a) Safety relief valves shall be of either the internal or external 
spring-loaded type, suitable for the intended service.
    (b) Safety relief valve body, base, bonnet and internals shall be 
designed for a pressure of not less than the set-pressure of the valve.
    (c) All safety relief valves shall be so constructed that the 
failure of any part cannot obstruct the free and full discharge of 
vapors from the valve.
    (d) The nominal size of a safety relief valve shall be the inside 
diameter of the inlet opening to the individual valve disk. No safety 
relief valve shall be smaller than \3/4\ inch nor larger than 6 inches. 
Safety relief valves shall have flanged or welded end inlet connections 
and either flanged or screwed outlet connections, except outlets 
exceeding 4 inches in diameter shall be flanged.
    (e) Safety relief valves shall be of the angle or straight-through 
type, fitted with side or top outlet discharge connections.
    (f)(1) Springs shall not show a permanent set exceeding 1 percent of 
their free length 10 minutes after being released from a cold 
compression test closing the spring solid.
    (2) Springs may not be re-set for any pressure more than 10 percent 
above or 10 percent below that for which the valve is marked.
    (3) If the operating conditions of a valve are changed so as to 
require a new spring under paragraph (f)(2) of this section for a 
different pressure, the valve shall be adjusted by the manufacturer or 
his authorized representative.
    (g) The design and construction of safety relief valves shall permit 
easy access for inspection and repair.
    (h) Safety relief valves shall be tapped for not less than \1/4\ 
inch pipe size drain at the lowest practicable point where liquid can 
collect.

[CGFR 52-43, 17 FR 9540, Oct. 18, 1952]



Sec.  162.018-5  Blow-down adjustment and popping tolerance.

    (a) Safety relief valves shall be so constructed that no shocks 
detrimental to the valve or pressure vessel are produced when lifting or 
closing.

[[Page 316]]

Safety relief valves shall be designed to open sharply and reach full 
lift and capacity at the maximum accumulation. Valve closure after 
popping shall be clean and sharp. Safety relief valves shall operate 
satisfactorily without wiredrawing and chattering at any stage of 
operation.
    (b) Safety relief valves having adjustable blow-down construction 
shall be adjusted to close after blowing down not more than 5 percent of 
the set pressure. Valves shall be adjusted to pop within a tolerance of 
plus or minus 3 percent of the set pressure, except that for pressures 
of 70 p.s.i. and below, the tolerance in popping pressure shall not vary 
more than plus or minus 2 p.s.i.

[CGFR 52-43, 17 FR 9541, Oct. 18, 1952, as amended by USCG-2014-0688, 79 
FR 58286, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  162.018-6  Marking.

    (a) Each safety relief valve shall be plainly marked by the 
manufacturer with the required data in such a way that the marking will 
not be obliterated in service. The marking may be stamped on the valve 
or stamped or cast on a plate securely fastened to the valve. The 
marking shall include the following data:
    (1) The name or identifying trademark of the manufacturer.
    (2) Manufacturer's design or type number.
    (3) Size ____ inches. (The pipe size of the valve inlet).
    (4) Set pressure ____ p.s.i.
    (5) Rated capacity ____ cubic feet per minute of the gas or vapor 
(at 60 [deg]F. and 14.7 p.s.i.a.).
    (6) Coast Guard approval number. The minimum wording for showing 
approval shall be ``USCG 162.018/* *'' or ``USCG 162.018-* *''.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    * * Number to be assigned by the Commanding Officer, USCG Marine 
Safety Center.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (b) [Reserved]

[CGFR 68-82, 33 FR 18908, Dec. 18, 1968, as amended by USCG-2001-10224, 
66 FR 48620, Sept. 21, 2001]



Sec.  162.018-7  Flow rating tests.

    (a) Flow rating of valves shall be conducted in accordance with UG-
131 of section VIII of the ASME Code, S-1.2.5.2 of the Compressed Gas 
Association Standards, or other procedure approved by the Commanding 
Officer, USCG Marine Safety Center.
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGFR 68-82, 33 FR 18908, Dec. 18, 1968, as amended by USCG-2001-10224, 
66 FR 48620, Sept. 21, 2001]



Sec.  162.018-8  Procedure for approval.

    (a) General. Safety relief valves for use on pressure vessels 
containing liquefied compressed gases must be approved by the Commanding 
Officer, U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Center. Applications for 
approval may be delivered by visitors to the Commanding Officer, Marine 
Safety Center, U.S. Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC 20593, or transmitted by mail to: Commanding Officer 
(MSC), Attn: Marine Safety Center, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7430, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7430, in a 
written or electronic format. Information for electronic submittals can 
be found at https://www.uscg.mil/HQ/MSC.
    (b) Plan submittal. Manufacturers desiring to secure approval of a 
new design or type of safety relief valve shall submit in quadruplicate 
detail drawings showing the valve construction, and material 
specifications of the component parts. In the event the design is 
changed, amended drawings shall be submitted to the Commanding Officer, 
USCG Marine Safety Center, for re-approval.
    (c) Pre-approval tests. (1) Prior to approval of safety relief 
valves by the Commanding Officer, USCG Marine Safety Center, 
manufacturers shall have capacity certification tests conducted, in 
accordance with Sec.  162.018-7 or submit satisfactory evidence that 
such tests have been conducted and approved by The National Board of 
Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors or by a properly supervised and 
inspected test laboratory acceptable to the Commanding Officer, USCG 
Marine Safety Center.
    (2) Reports of conducted tests on designs of safety relief valves 
different from those previously approved shall be submitted by the 
manufacturer

[[Page 317]]

when requesting approval for different designs.

[CGFR 52-43, 17 FR 9540, Oct. 18, 1952, as amended by CGFR 68-82, 33 FR 
18908, Dec. 18, 1968; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34536, Sept. 7, 1982; CGD 96-
041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2001-10224, 66 FR 48620, Sept. 
21, 2001; USCG-2007-29018, 72 FR 53967, Sept. 21, 2007; USCG-2009-0702, 
74 FR 49238, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60160, Sept. 30, 
2013; USCG-2016-0498, 82 FR 35092, July 28, 2017; USCG-2022-0323, 88 FR 
10032, Feb. 16, 2023]



              Subpart 162.027_Combination Firehose Nozzles

    Source: CGD 95-027, 61 FR 26009, May 23, 1996, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  162.027-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of combination 
firehose nozzles.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48277, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.027-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that 
specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish a notice of 
change in the Federal Register and the material must be available to the 
public. All approved material is available for inspection at the U.S. 
Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, 
and is available from the sources listed below. It is also available for 
inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). 
For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-
741-6030 or go to http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
    (b) ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West 
Conshohocken, PA 19428, 877-909-2786, http://www.astm.org.
    (1) ASTM F1546/F1546 M-96 (Reapproved 2012), Standard Specification 
for Fire Hose Nozzles, approved May 1, 2012, (``ASTM F 1546''), IBR 
approved for Sec. Sec.  162.027-3(a) through (c), and 162.027-4(a) and 
(d).
    (2) [Reserved]
    (c) National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch 
Park, Quincy, MA 02169, 617-770-3000, http://www.nfpa.org.
    (1) NFPA 1964 Standard for Spray Nozzles, 2008 Edition, effective 
December 31, 2007, IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  162.027-3(a) through (c), 
and 162.027-4(a) and (d).
    (2) [Reserved]

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48277, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.027-3  Design, construction, testing, and marking requirements.

    (a) Each combination solid stream and water spray firehose nozzle 
required to be approved under the provisions of this subpart must be of 
brass or bronze, except for hardware and other incidental parts, which 
may be of rubber, plastic, or stainless steel, and designed, 
constructed, tested, and marked in accordance with the requirements of 
ASTM F 1546 or NFPA 1964 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.027-
2).
    (b) All inspections and tests required by ASTM F 1546 or NFPA 1964 
must be performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast 
Guard under subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent 
laboratories accepted by the Coast Guard as meeting subpart 159.010 of 
this chapter may be obtained by contacting the Commandant (CG-ENG-4).
    (c) The independent laboratory must prepare a report on the results 
of the testing and must furnish the manufacturer with a copy of the test 
report upon completion of the testing required by ASTM F 1546 or NFPA 
1964.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48277, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.027-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Firehose nozzles designed, constructed, tested, and marked in 
accordance with ASTM F 1546 or NFPA 1964 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  162.027-2) are considered to be approved under the provisions of 
this chapter.

[[Page 318]]

    (b) Firehose nozzles designed, constructed, tested and marked in 
accordance with the provisions of this subpart in effect prior to June 
24, 1996, are considered to be approved under the provisions of this 
chapter.
    (c) A follow-up program must be established and maintained to ensure 
that no unauthorized changes have been made to the design or manufacture 
of type approved firehose nozzles. Acceptable follow-up programs include 
factory inspection programs administered by the accepted independent 
laboratory that performed the initial inspections and tests relied on by 
the type approval holder, or special configuration control programs 
implemented through a quality control flow chart and core procedures 
administered by the manufacturer and certified by an international 
standards agency such as the International Organization for 
Standardization (ISO).
    (d) Applicants seeking type approval of firehose nozzles must 
submit:
    (1) A cover letter requesting type approval of the equipment;
    (2) A test report from the accepted independent laboratory showing 
compliance of the firehose nozzle with ASTM F 1546 or NFPA 1964;
    (3) A copy of the contract for a follow-up program with the accepted 
independent laboratory or evidence of an ISO 9001 certified special 
configuration control program or similar program implemented through a 
quality control flow chart and core procedure; and
    (4) Documentation of the firehose nozzle, including an exterior 
drawing, assembly drawing, components list, and bill of material.
    (e) All documentation must be either mailed to Commandant (CG-ENG-
4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., 
Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509 or electronically submitted to 
[email protected].
    (f) Upon evaluation of the submittal package and approval by the 
Commandant, a Coast Guard Certificate of Approval will be issued valid 
for 5 years so long as the follow-up program for the firehose nozzle is 
maintained.
    (g) Upon application, a Certificate of Approval for a firehose 
nozzle may be renewed for successive 5-year periods without further 
testing so long as no changes have been made to the products, the 
follow-up program has been maintained, and no substitutions of or 
changes to the standards listed in Sec.  162.027-2 have been made.

[CGD 95-027, 61 FR 26009, May 23, 1996, as amended by USCG-1999-5151, 64 
FR 67185, Dec. 1, 1999. Redesignated and amended by USCG-2012-0196, 81 
FR 48277, July 22, 2016]



       Subpart 162.028_Extinguishers, Fire, Portable, Marine Type

    Source: CGFR 60-36, 25 FR 10640, Nov. 5, 1960, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  162.028-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that 
specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish a notice of 
change in the Federal Register and the material must be available to the 
public. All approved material is available for inspection at the U.S. 
Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, 
and is available from the sources listed below. It is also available for 
inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). 
For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-
741-6030 or go to http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
    (b) National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch 
Park, Quincy, MA 02169, 617-770-3000, http://www.nfpa.org.
    (1) NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers, 2010 Edition, 
effective December 5, 2009, IBR approved for Sec.  162.028-2(a).
    (2) [Reserved]
    (c) UL (formerly Underwriters Laboratories), 12 Laboratory Drive, 
P.O. Box 13995, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, 919-549-1400, http://
www.ul.com.
    (1) UL 8, Standard for Safety for Water Based Agent Fire 
Extinguishers, Sixth Edition, dated February 28, 2005,

[[Page 319]]

as amended through July 27, 2010, IBR approved for Sec.  162.028-3(a).
    (2) UL 154, Standard for Safety for Carbon-Dioxide Fire 
Extinguishers, Ninth Edition, dated February 28, 2005, as amended 
through November 8, 2010, IBR approved for Sec.  162.028-3(a).
    (3) UL 299, Standard for Safety for Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers, 
Eleventh Edition, dated April 13, 2012, IBR approved for Sec.  162.028-
3(a).
    (4) UL 626, Standard for Safety for Water Fire Extinguishers, Eighth 
Edition, dated February 28, 2005, as amended through November 8, 2010, 
IBR approved for Sec.  162.028-3(a).
    (5) UL 711, Standard for Safety for Rating and Fire Testing of Fire 
Extinguishers, Seventh Edition, dated December 17, 2004, as amended 
through April 28, 2009, IBR approved for Sec.  162.028-2(a) and 162.028-
3(a).
    (6) UL 2129, Standard for Safety for Halocarbon Clean Agent Fire 
Extinguishers, Second Edition, dated February 28, 2005, as amended 
through March 30, 2012, IBR approved for Sec.  162.028-3(a).

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48277, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.028-2  Classification.

    (a) Portable and semi-portable extinguishers must be marked with a 
combined number and letter designation. The letter designates the 
general class of fire for which the extinguisher is suitable as 
identified in NFPA 10 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.028-1). 
The number indicates the relative extinguishing potential of the device 
as rated by UL 711 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.028-1).
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGFR 60-36, 25 FR 10640, Nov. 5, 1960, as amended by USCG-2012-0196, 81 
FR 48278, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.028-3  Requirements.

    (a) In addition to the requirements of this subpart, every portable 
fire extinguisher must be tested and listed for marine use by a 
recognized laboratory as defined in 46 CFR 159.001-3, and must comply 
with the following standards (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
162.028-1), as appropriate:
    (1) UL 8;
    (2) UL 154;
    (3) UL 299;
    (4) UL 626;
    (5) UL 711; and
    (6) UL 2129.
    (b) Every portable fire extinguisher must be self-contained; when 
charged, it must not require any additional source of extinguishing 
agent or expellant energy for its operation during the time it is being 
discharged. It must weigh no more than 50 pounds when fully charged.
    (c) Every portable fire extinguisher must be supplied with a 
suitable bracket which will hold the extinguisher securely in its 
stowage location on vessels or boats, and which is arranged to provide 
quick and positive release of the extinguisher for immediate use. During 
vibration testing, the extinguisher must be tested in the marine 
bracket.
    (d) Every portable extinguisher may be additionally examined and 
tested to establish its reliability and effectiveness in accordance with 
the intent of this specification for a ``marine type'' portable fire 
extinguisher when considered necessary by the Coast Guard or by the 
recognized laboratory.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48278, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.028-4  Marine type label.

    (a) In addition to all other markings, every portable extinguisher 
must bear a label containing the Coast Guard approval number, thus: 
``Marine Type USCG Type Approval No. 162.028/____.''
    (b) All such labels are to be obtained only from the recognized 
laboratory and will remain under its control until attached to product 
found acceptable under its inspection and labeling program.

[CGFR 60-36, 25 FR 10640, Nov. 5, 1960, as amended by CGFR 64-19, 29 FR 
7360, June 5, 1964; USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48278, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.028-5  Recognized laboratories.

    A list of recognized independent laboratories that can perform 
approval tests of portable fire extinguishers is available from the 
Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48278, July 22, 2016]

[[Page 320]]



Sec.  162.028-6  Examinations, tests, and inspections.

    (a) Full examinations, tests, and inspections to determine the 
suitability of a product for listing and labeling, and to determine 
conformance of labeled product to the applicable requirements are 
conducted by the recognized laboratory. Whenever any work is being done 
on components or the assembly of such product, the manufacturer shall 
notify the recognized laboratory in order that an inspector may be 
assigned to the factory to conduct such examinations, inspections, and 
tests as to satisfy himself that the quality assurance program of the 
manufacturer is satisfactory, and that the labeled product is in 
conformance with the applicable requirements.
    (b) Manufacturers of listed or labeled marine type portable fire 
extinguishers shall maintain quality control of the materials used, 
manufacturing methods, and the finished product so as to meet the 
applicable requirements, and shall make sufficient inspections and tests 
of representative samples of the extinguishers and various components 
produced to maintain the quality of the finished product. Records of 
tests conducted by the manufacturer shall be made available to the 
laboratory inspector or to the merchant marine inspector, or both, for 
review upon request.
    (c) Follow-up check tests, examinations, and inspections of product 
listed and labeled as a ``marine type'' portable fire extinguisher 
acceptable to the Commandant as approved for use on merchant vessels and 
motorboats may be conducted by the Coast Guard, as well as by the 
recognized laboratory.
    (d) The laboratory inspector, or the Coast Guard marine inspector 
assigned by the Commander of the District in which the factory is 
located, or both, shall be admitted to any place in the factory where 
work is being done on listed or labeled product, and either or both 
inspectors may take samples of parts or materials entering into 
construction, or final assemblies, for further examinations, inspections 
or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place and the 
apparatus necessary for the performance of the tests which are done at 
the place of manufacture.



Sec.  162.028-7  Procedure for listing and labeling.

    (a) Manufacturers having models of extinguishers they believe are 
suitable for marine service may make application for listing and 
labeling of such product as a ``marine-type'' portable fire extinguisher 
by addressing a request directly to a recognized laboratory. The 
laboratory will inform the submitter as to the requirements for 
inspection, examinations, and testing necessary for such listing and 
labeling. All costs in connection with the examinations, tests, 
inspections, listing, and labeling are payable by the manufacturer.
    (b) [Reserved]

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48278, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.028-8  Termination of listing or labeling.

    (a) Listing or labeling as a marine type portable fire extinguisher 
acceptable to the Commandant as approved for use on inspected vessels 
and motorboats, may be terminated, withdrawn, cancelled, or suspended by 
written notice to the recognized laboratory from the Commandant, or by 
written notice to the manufacturer from the recognized laboratory or 
from the Commandant, under the following conditions:
    (1) When the manufacturer does not desire to retain the service.
    (2) When the listed product is no longer being manufactured.
    (3) When the manufacturer's own program does not provide suitable 
assurance of the quality of the listed or labeled product being 
manufactured.
    (4) When the product manufactured no longer conforms to the current 
applicable requirements.
    (5) When service experience or laboratory or U.S. Coast Guard 
reports indicate a product is unsatisfactory.
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGFR 60-36, 25 FR 10640, Nov. 5, 1960, as amended by CGD 72-214R, 38 FR 
6880, Mar. 14, 1973]

[[Page 321]]



     Subpart 162.039_Extinguishers, Fire, Semi-portable, Marine Type

    Source: CGFR 65-9, 30 FR 11487, Sept. 8, 1965, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  162.039-1  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that 
specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish a notice of 
change in the Federal Register and the material must be available to the 
public. All approved material is available for inspection at the U.S. 
Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, 
and is available from the sources listed below. It is also available for 
inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). 
For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-
741-6030 or go to http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
    (b) National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch 
Park, Quincy, MA 02169, 617-770-3000, http://www.nfpa.org.
    (1) NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers, 2010 Edition, 
effective December 5, 2009, IBR approved for Sec.  162.039-2(a).
    (2) [Reserved]
    (c) UL (formerly Underwriters Laboratories), 12 Laboratory Drive, 
P.O. Box 13995, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, 919-549-1400, http://
www.ul.com.
    (1) UL 8, Standard for Safety for Water Based Agent Fire 
Extinguishers, Sixth Edition, dated February 28, 2005, as amended 
through July 27, 2010, IBR approved for Sec.  162.039-3(a).
    (2) UL 154, Standard for Safety for Carbon-Dioxide Fire 
Extinguishers, Ninth Edition, dated February 28, 2005, as amended 
through November 8, 2010, IBR approved for Sec.  162.039-3(a).
    (3) UL 299, Standard for Safety for Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers, 
Eleventh Edition, dated April 13, 2012, IBR approved for Sec.  162.039-
3(a).
    (4) UL 626, Standard for Safety for Water Fire Extinguishers, Eighth 
Edition, dated February 28, 2005, as amended through November 8, 2010, 
IBR approved for Sec.  162.039-3(a).
    (5) UL 711, Standard for Safety for Rating and Fire Testing of Fire 
Extinguishers, Seventh Edition, dated December 17, 2004, as amended 
through April 28, 2009, IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  162.039-2(a) and 
162.039-3(a).
    (6) UL 2129, Standard for Safety for Halocarbon Clean Agent Fire 
Extinguishers, Second Edition, dated February 28, 2005, as amended 
through March 30, 2012, IBR approved for Sec.  162.039-3(a).

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48278, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.039-2  Classification.

    (a) Portable and semi-portable extinguishers must be marked with a 
combined number and letter designation. The letter designates the 
general class of fire for which the extinguisher is suitable as 
identified in NFPA 10 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.039-1). 
The number indicates the relative extinguishing potential of the device 
as rated by UL 711 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.039-1).
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGFR 65-9, 30 FR 11487, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by USCG-2012-0196, 81 
FR 48279, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.039-3  Requirements.

    (a) In addition to the requirements of this subpart, every semi-
portable fire extinguisher must be tested and listed for marine use by a 
recognized laboratory as defined in 46 CFR 159.001-3, and must comply 
with the following standards (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
162.039-1), as appropriate:
    (1) UL 8;
    (2) UL 154;
    (3) UL 299;
    (4) UL 626;
    (5) UL 711; and
    (6) UL 2129.
    (b) Every semi-portable fire extinguisher must be self-contained; 
when charged, it must not require any additional source of extinguishing 
agent or expellant energy for its operation during the time it is being 
discharged. It

[[Page 322]]

must weigh more than 50 pounds, when fully charged.
    (c) Every semi-portable fire extinguisher must be supplied with a 
suitable bracket which will hold the extinguisher securely in its 
stowage location on vessels or boats, and which is arranged to provide 
quick and positive release of the extinguisher for immediate use.
    (d) Every semi-portable extinguisher may be additionally examined 
and tested to establish its reliability and effectiveness in accordance 
with the intent of this specification for a ``marine type'' semi-
portable fire extinguisher when considered necessary by the Coast Guard 
or by the recognized laboratory.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48279, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.039-4  Marine type label.

    (a) In addition to all other markings, every semi-portable 
extinguisher must bear a label containing the ``marine type'' listing 
manifest issued by a recognized laboratory. This label will include the 
Coast Guard approval number, thus: ``Marine Type USCG Type Approval No. 
162.039/______.''
    (b) All such labels are to be obtained only from the recognized 
laboratory and will remain under its control until attached to a product 
found acceptable under its inspection and labeling program.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48279, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.039-5  Recognized laboratories.

    (a) A list of recognized independent laboratories that can perform 
approval tests of semi-portable fire extinguishers is available from the 
Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
    (b) [Reserved]

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48279, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.039-6  Examinations, tests, and inspections.

    (a) Full examinations, tests, and inspections to determine the 
suitability of a product for listing and labeling, and to determine 
conformance of labeled product to the applicable requirements are 
conducted by the recognized laboratory. Whenever any work is being done 
on components or the assembly of such product, the manufacturer shall 
notify the recognized laboratory in order that an inspector may be 
assigned to the factory to conduct such examinations, inspections, and 
tests as to satisfy himself that the quality assurance program of the 
manufacturer is satisfactory, and that the labeled product is in 
conformance with the applicable requirements.
    (b) Manufacturers of listed or labeled marine type semiportable fire 
extinguishers shall maintain quality control of the materials used, 
manufacturing methods, and the finished product so as to meet the 
applicable requirements, and shall make sufficient inspections and tests 
of representative samples of the extinguishers and various components 
produced to maintain the quality of the finished product. Records of 
tests conducted by the manufacturer shall be made available to the 
laboratory inspector or to the Coast Guard marine inspector, or both, 
for review upon request.
    (c) Followup check tests, examinations, and inspections of product 
listed and labeled as a ``marine type'' semiportable fire extinguisher 
acceptable to the Commandant as approved for use on merchant vessels and 
motorboats may be conducted by the Coast Guard, as well as by the 
recognized laboratory.
    (d) The laboratory inspector, or the Coast Guard merchant marine 
inspector assigned by the Commander of the District in which the factory 
is located, or both, shall be admitted to any place in the factory where 
work is being done on listed or labeled product, and either or both 
inspectors may take samples of parts or materials entering into 
construction, of final assemblies, for further examinations, 
inspections, or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place 
and the apparatus necessary for the performance of the tests which are 
done at the place of manufacture.



Sec.  162.039-7  Procedure for listing and labeling.

    (a) Manufacturers having models of extinguishers they believe are 
suitable for marine service may make application for listing and 
labeling of such

[[Page 323]]

product as a ``marine type'' semi-portable fire extinguisher by 
addressing a request directly to a recognized laboratory. The laboratory 
will inform the submitter as to the requirements for inspections, 
examinations, and testing necessary for such listing and labeling. All 
costs in connection with the examinations, tests, and inspections, 
listings and labelings are payable by the manufacturer.
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGFR 65-9, 30 FR 11487, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by USCG-2012-0196, 81 
FR 48279, July 22, 2016]



Sec.  162.039-8  Termination of listing or labeling.

    (a) Listing or labeling as a marine type semiportable fire 
extinguisher acceptable to the Commandant as approved for use on 
inspected vessels or motorboats may be terminated, withdrawn, canceled, 
or suspended by written notice to the recognized laboratory from the 
Commandant, or by written notice to the manufacturer from the recognized 
laboratory or from the Commandant under the following conditions:
    (1) When the manufacturer does not desire to retain the service.
    (2) When the listed product is no longer being manufactured.
    (3) When the manufacturer's own program does not provide suitable 
assurance of the quality of the listed or labeled product being 
manufactured.
    (4) When the product manufactured no longer conforms to the current 
applicable requirements.
    (b) [Reserved]



             Subpart 162.050_Pollution Prevention Equipment

    Source: CGD 76-088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  162.050-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart contains--
    (1) Procedures for approval of 15 ppm separators, oil content 
meters, and bilge alarms.
    (2) Design specifications for this equipment;
    (3) Tests required for approval;
    (4) Procedures for obtaining designation as a facility authorized to 
conduct approval tests;
    (5) Marking requirements; and
    (6) Factory inspection procedures.
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGD 76-088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG-2004-
18939, 74 FR 3382, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-3  Definitions.

    As used in this subpart--
    15 ppm separator means a separator that is designed to remove enough 
oil from an oil-water mixture to provide a resulting mixture that has an 
oil concentration of 15 ppm or less.
    Bilge alarm means an instrument that is designed to measure the oil 
content of oily mixtures from machinery space bilges and fuel oil tanks 
that carry ballast and activate an alarm at a set concentration limit 
and record date, time, alarm status, and operating status of the 15 ppm 
separator.
    Independent laboratory means a laboratory that--
    (1) Has the equipment and procedures necessary to approve the 
electrical components described in Sec. Sec.  162.050-21(b) and 162.050-
25(c), or to conduct the test described in Sec.  162.050-37(a); and
    (2) Is not owned or controlled by a manufacturer, supplier, or 
vendor of separators, oil content meters, or bilge alarms.
    Oil content meter or meter means a component of the oil discharge 
monitoring and control system that is designed to measure the oil 
content of cargo residues from cargo tanks and oily mixtures combined 
with these residues.
    PPM means parts per million by volume of oil in water.
    Response time means the time elapsed between an alteration in the 
sample being supplied to the bilge alarm and the ppm display showing the 
correct response.

[USCG-2004-18939, 74 FR 3382, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-4  Incorporation by reference: Where can I get a copy
of the publications mentioned in this part?

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1

[[Page 324]]

CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that specified in 
paragraph (b) of this section, the Coast Guard must publish a notice of 
change in the Federal Register and the material must be available to the 
public. All approved material is available for inspection at the 
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on 
the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to 
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html. Also, it is available for inspection at Coast Guard 
Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and 
Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King 
Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509, telephone 202-372-1379, and 
is available from the sources indicated in paragraph (b) of this 
section.
    (b) American Society for Testing and Materials 100 Barr Harbor 
Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
    (1) ASTM D2777-98, Standard Practice for Determination of Precision 
and Bias of Applicable Test Methods of Committee D-19 on Water (``ASTM 
D2777-98''), incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  162.050-15.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (c) International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 1, rue de 
Varemb[eacute], Case postale 56, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland 
(Internet: http://www.iso.org):
    (1) International Standard ISO 8217 Third edition 2005-11-01, 
Petroleum products--Fuels (class F)--Specifications of marine fuels 
(``ISO 8217''), incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  162.050-
20.
    (2) International Standard ISO 9377-2 First edition 2000-10-15, 
Water Quality--Determination of hydrocarbon oil index--Part 2: Method 
using solvent extraction and gas chromatography (``ISO 9377-2''), 
incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  162.050-39.
    (d) Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., (UL) 12 Laboratory Drive, 
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995
    (1) Underwriters Laboratories Standard 913 (as revised April 8, 
1976), incorporation by reference approved for Sec. Sec.  162.050-21, 
162.050-25.
    (2) [Reserved]

[USCG-2004-18939, 74 FR 3383, Jan. 16, 2009, as amended by USCG-2009-
0702, 74 FR 49238, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60160, Sept. 
30, 2013]



Sec.  162.050-5  Contents of application.

    (a) An application for approval of a separator, oil content meter, 
or a bilge alarm must contain the following information:
    (1) A brief description of the item submitted for approval.
    (2) The name and address of the applicant and its manufacturing 
facility.
    (3) A detailed description of quality control procedures, in-process 
and final inspections and tests followed in manufacturing the item, and 
construction and sales record keeping systems maintained.
    (4) Arrangement drawings and piping diagrams of the item that give 
the information prescribed by Sec.  56.01-10(d) of this chapter.
    (5) Detailed electrical plans of the type described in Sec.  110.25-
1 of this chapter.
    (6) An operating and maintenance manual containing detailed and 
easily understandable instructions on installation, operation, 
calibration, zeroing, and maintenance of the item.
    (7) For each monitor and bilge alarm and each control on a 
separator, the vibration test report described in Sec.  162.050-37.
    (8) For each oil content meter, a statement of whether it is to be 
used with crude oils, refined products, or both.
    (9) A list of the substances used in operating the item that require 
certification under part 147 of this chapter as articles of ships' 
stores and supplies.
    (10) The name of the facility to conduct approval testing.
    (11) If the applicant intends to use a test rig other than a test 
rig of the facility, a detailed description of the rig.
    (b) An applicant may incorporate by reference in his application 
information that he has submitted in a previous application.

[44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG-1999-6216, 64 FR 53228, 
Oct. 1, 1999; USCG-2004-18939, 74 FR 3383, Jan. 16, 2009]

[[Page 325]]



Sec.  162.050-7  Approval procedures.

    (a) An application for approval of equipment under this subpart must 
either be delivered by visitors to the Commanding Officer, Marine Safety 
Center, U.S. Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC 20593, or transmitted by mail to: Commanding Officer 
(MSC), Attn: Marine Safety Center, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7430, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7430, in a 
written or electronic format. Information for electronic submittals can 
be found at https://www.uscg.mil/HQ/MSC.
    (b) The application is examined by the Coast Guard to determine 
whether the item complies with the design requirements and vibration 
standard prescribed in this subpart and to determine what probability 
the item has of passing the approval tests. The applicant is notified of 
the results of the examination.
    (c) If examination of the application reveals that it is incomplete, 
it is returned to the applicant with a statement of reasons why it is 
incomplete.
    (d) The applicant must make arrangements for approval testing 
directly with a testing facility and must provide the facility with a 
copy of the instructions manual for the equipment to be tested.
    (e) If applications for approval of a separator have been made for 
more than one size, the applicant, in lieu of submitting each size for 
approval testing, may submit each size that has a capacity exceeding 50 
cubic meters per hour throughput, if any, and two additional sizes that 
have a capacity of 50 cubic meters per hour throughput or less. One of 
the additional sizes must have a capacity that is in the highest 
quartile of capacities manufactured in the 0-50 cubic meters per hour 
throughput range and the other must be from the lowest quartile.
    (f) The approval tests in this subpart must be performed by a 
facility designated under Sec.  162.050-15. The facility must also be 
accepted as an independent laboratory by the Coast Guard under subpart 
159.010 of this chapter. The facility must perform each test in 
accordance with the test conditions prescribed in this subpart for the 
test, prepare a test report for the item if it completes all of the 
tests, and send the report with three copies to the Commanding Officer, 
USCG Marine Safety Center. The applicant may observe the tests. If an 
item does not complete testing, a new application must be made before 
retesting.
    (g) The Commanding Officer, USCG Marine Safety Center, sends a copy 
of the test report to the applicant and advises him whether the item is 
approved. If the item is approved, an approval certificate is sent to 
the applicant. The approval certificate lists conditions of approval 
applicable to the item.
    (h) A separator is approved under this subpart if--
    (1) It meets the design requirements in Sec.  162.050-21 and is 
tested in accordance with this subpart;
    (2) The oil content of each sample of separated water effluent taken 
during approval testing is 15 ppm or less;
    (3) During Test No. 3A an oily mixture is not observed at the 
separated water outlet of the separator;
    (4) During Test No. 5A its operation is continuous; and
    (5) Any substance used in operating the separator that requires 
certification under part 147 of this chapter as an article of ships' 
stores or supplies has been certified.
    (i) An oil content meter is approved under this subpart if--
    (1) It meets the design requirements in Sec.  162.050-25 and is 
tested in accordance with this subpart;
    (2) Each oil content reading recorded during approval testing is 
10 ppm or 10 percent, 
whichever is greater, of the oil content of the sample influent mixture 
taken at the time of the reading;
    (3) Its response time is twenty (20) seconds or less in Test No. 
3CM;
    (4) The time intervals between successive readings recorded in Test 
No. 4CM are twenty (20) seconds or less; and
    (5) Any substance used in operating the monitor that requires 
certification under part 147 of this chapter as an article of ships' 
stores or supplies has been certified.
    (j) A bilge alarm is approved under this subpart if--

[[Page 326]]

    (1) It meets the design requirements in Sec.  162.050-33 and is 
tested in accordance with this subpart;
    (2) The oil content of each sample taken during approval testing is 
15 ppm 5 ppm;
    (3) Its response time is five seconds or less; and
    (4) Any substance used in operating the alarm that requires 
certification under part 147 of this chapter as an article of ships' 
stores or supplies has been certified.

[44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979]

    Editorial Note: For Federal Register citations affecting Sec.  
160.050-7, see the List of CFR Sections Affected, which appears in the 
Finding Aids section of the printed volume and at www.govinfo.gov.



Sec.  162.050-9  Test report.

    (a) A report of approval testing must contain the following:
    (1) Name of the testing facility.
    (2) Name of the applicant.
    (3) Date of receiving the item for testing and the dates of the 
tests conducted.
    (4) Trade name and brief description of the item.
    (5) A listing of the following properties of the test oils used:
    (i) Relative density at 15 [deg]C.
    (ii) Viscosity in centistokes at 37.8 [deg]C.
    (iii) Flashpoint.
    (iv) Weight of ash content.
    (v) Weight of water content.
    (vi) Relative density at 15 [deg]C. the of water used during testing 
and the weight of solid content in the water.
    (vii) The data recorded during each test.
    (6) A statement that the lab followed the testing procedures 
prescribed in 46 CFR subpart 162.050.
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGD 76-088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG-2004-
18939, 74 FR 3383, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-11  Marking.

    (a) Each separator, oil content meter, and bilge alarm manufactured 
under Coast Guard approval must be plainly marked by the manufacturer 
with the information listed in paragraph (b) of this section. The 
marking must be securely fastened to the item.
    (b) Each marking must include the following information:
    (1) Name of the manufacturer.
    (2) Name or model number of the item.
    (3) If the item is a separator, the maximum throughput and the 
maximum influent pressure at which the separator is designed to operate.
    (4) The month and year of completion of manufacture.
    (5) The manufacturer's serial number for the item.
    (6) The Coast Guard approval number assigned to the item in the 
certificate of approval.
    (7) A list of bilge cleaners, solvents, and other chemical compounds 
that do not impair operation of the item.
    (8) If the item is an oil content meter, the oils for which use has 
been approved.
    (9) If the item is a separator that uses replaceable filter or 
coalescer elements, the part numbers of the elements.

[CGD 76-088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG-2004-
18939, 74 FR 3383, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-13  Factory production and inspection.

    (a) Equipment manufactured under Coast Guard approval must be of the 
type described in the current certificate of approval issued for the 
equipment.
    (b) Equipment manufactured under Coast Guard approval is not 
inspected on a regular schedule at the place of manufacture. However, 
the Commanding Officer, USCG Marine Safety Center, may detail Coast 
Guard personnel at any time to visit a factory where the equipment is 
manufactured to conduct an inspection of the manufacturing process.

[44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG-2001-10224, 66 FR 
48621, Sept. 21, 2001]



Sec.  162.050-15  Designation of facilities.

    (a) Each request for designation as a facility authorized to perform 
approval tests must be submitted to the Commandant (CG-ENG-3), Attn: 
Systems Engineering Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin 
Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.

[[Page 327]]

    (b) Each request must include the following:
    (1) Name and address of the facility.
    (2) Each type of equipment the facility proposes to test.
    (3) A description of the facility's capability to perform approval 
tests including detailed information on the following:
    (i) Management organization including personnel qualifications.
    (ii) Equipment available for conducting sample analysis.
    (iii) Materials available for approval testing.
    (iv) Each of the facility's test rigs, if any.
    (c) The Coast Guard reviews each request submitted to determine 
whether the facility meets the requirements of paragraphs (g)(1) through 
(g)(4) of this section.
    (d) If the facility meets the requirements in paragraphs (g)(1) 
through (g)(4) of this section, they must obtain 12 samples containing 
mixtures of oil in water that are within a 10-to-30 ppm range that can 
be verified by an independent third-party source mutually acceptable to 
the applying lab and the Coast Guard prior to verification.
    (e) The facility must measure the oil content of each sample using 
the method described in Sec.  162.050-39 and report the value of each of 
the 12 measurements to the Commandant (CG-ENG-3), Systems Engineering 
Division, 2100 2nd St., SW., Stop 7126, Washington, DC 20593-7126.
    (f) The measurements must meet the following criteria:
    (1) Except as provided in paragraph (f)(2) of this section, the 
absolute value of Tn for each measurement, as determined by the American 
Society for Testing and Materials, ``Standard Practice for Determination 
of Precision and Bias of Methods of Committee D-19 on Water'', D 2777 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.050-4), must be less than or 
equal to 2.29 at a confidence level of 0.05.
    (2) The absolute value of Tn for one measurement may exceed 2.29 if 
the Tn values for the other eleven measurements are less than or equal 
to 2.23 at a confidence level of 0.05. If the Tn value for one 
measurement exceeds 2.29, that measurement is not used in the method 
described in paragraph (f)(3) of this section.
    (3) The absolute value of Xd must be smaller than u based 
on the following analysis of paired observations:
    (i) Calculate the value of Xd and Sd. This is 
the mean and standard deviation, respectively, of the differences 
between the known sample concentrations and the values obtained by the 
facility with their equipment. The value of Xd for the 12 
measurements described in paragraph (e) of this section, or for 11 
measurements if paragraph (f)(2) of this section applies, must be within 
the range 1 <= Xd <= + 1.
    (ii) Determine the appropriate critical value of the Student's t-
distribution with (n-1) degrees of freedom for a confidence level of 
[alpha] = 0.01. If all 12 samples meet the criteria of paragraph (f)(1) 
of this section then (n-1) = 11 and the critical value,
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR16JA09.018


is 3.106. If paragraph (f)(2) of this section applies, then (n-1) = 10 
and
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR16JA09.019


 = 3.169.
    (iii) Compute the value of u, where
    [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR16JA09.020
    

where n = 12 if all samples meet the criteria of paragraph (f)(1) and n 
= 11 if paragraph (f)(2) applies.
    (iv) Compare the absolute value of Xd to the value of u. 
If [bond]Xd[bond] 
Sec.  162.050-17  Separator test rig.

    (a) This section contains requirements for test rigs used in 
approval testing of separators. A diagram of a typical test rig is shown 
in Figure 162.050-17(a).

                FIGURE 162.050-17(a)--SEPARATOR TEST RIG
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR16JA09.005

    (b) Each mixture pump on a test rig must--
    (1) Be a centrifugal pump capable of operating at 1,000 revolutions 
per minute or more;
    (2) Have a delivery capacity of at least 1.5 times the maximum 
throughput at which the separator being tested is designed to operate;
    (3) Have a maximum delivery pressure that is equal to or greater 
than the maximum influent pressure at which the separator is designed to 
operate; and
    (4) Have either bypass piping to its suction side or a throttle 
valve or orifice on its discharge side.
    (c) The inlet piping of the test rig must be sized so that--
    (1) Influent water flows at a Reynolds Number of at least 10,000;
    (2) The influent flow rate is between one and three meters per 
second; and
    (3) Its length is at least 20 times its inside diameter.
    (d) Each sample point on a test rig must meet the design 
requirements described in Figure 162.050-17(d) and must be in a vertical 
portion of the test rig piping.

                   FIGURE 162.050-17(d)--SAMPLE POINT

[[Page 329]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR16JA09.006


[CGD 76-088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG-2004-
18939, 74 FR 3384, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-19  Oil content meter and bilge alarm test rig.

    (a) This section contains requirements for test rigs used in 
approval testing of oil content meters and meter. A typical test rig is 
described in Figure 162.050-19. The mixture pipe shown in Figure 
162.050-19 is the portion of test rig piping between the oil injection 
point and the meter or bilge alarm piping.
    (b) Each sample point on a test rig must be of the type described in 
Figure 162.050-17(e) and must be in a vertical portion of the test rig 
piping.
    (c) Each test rig must have a centrifugal pump that is designed to 
operate at 1,000 revolutions per minute or more.
    (d) The mixture pipe on a test rig must have a uniform inside 
diameter.

           FIGURE 162.050-19--MONITOR AND BILGE ALARM TEST RIG

[[Page 330]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR16JA09.007


[CGD 76-088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG-2004-
18939, 74 FR 3385, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-20  Separator and bilge alarm test fluids.

    (a) Tests required in Sec. Sec.  162.050-23 and 162.050-35 must be 
performed using the following three types of test fluids:
    (1) Test Fluid A, which is a marine residual fuel oil in accordance 
with ISO 8217 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.050-4), type RMG 
380 (density at 15 [deg]C not less than 980 kg/m\3\);
    (2) Test Fluid B which is a marine distillate fuel oil in accordance 
with ISO 8217, type DMA (density at 15 [deg]C not less than 830 kg/
m\3\);
    (3) Test Fluid C must be a mixture of an oil-in-fresh water 
emulsion, where 1 kg of the mixture consists of:
    (i) 947.8 g of fresh water;
    (ii) 25.0 g of Test Fluid A;
    (iii) 25.0 g of Test Fluid B;
    (iv) 0.5 g of surfactant (sodium salt of dodecylbenzene sulfonic 
acid) in the dry form; and
    (v) 1.7 g of iron oxides, a black ferrosoferric oxide 
(Fe3O4) with a particle size distribution of which 
90 percent is less than 10 microns, the remainder having a maximum 
particle size of 100 microns.
    (b) Test Fluid C must be prepared as needed for Sec.  162.050-23 or 
Sec.  162.050-35 by using the following procedures:
    (1) Measure out 1.2 times the quantity of surfactant required from 
the WORKSHEET FOR DETERMINING CONSTITUENTS OF TEST FLUID C, see figure 
162.050-20;
    (2) Mix it with fresh water and stir well in a small container to 
make a mixture until the surfactant has been thoroughly dissolved, but 
use no more than the minimum amount of water necessary to make a 
complete solution;
    (3) Fill clean test fluid tank with fresh water with a quantity 1.2 
times the volume of the total quantity of water in Test Fluid C needed 
for the test described in Sec. Sec.  162.050-23 and 162.050-35;
    (4) Operate the centrifugal pump B running at a speed of not less 
than 3,000 rpm with a flow rate at which the volume of the test fluid 
has been changed out at least once per minute;
    (5) Add the surfactant mixture from paragraph (b)(2) of this section 
first, followed by oil and suspended solids (iron oxides) respectively, 
both 1.2 times of the required amounts, to the fresh water in the tank;
    (6) To establish a stable emulsion keep running the centrifugal pump 
B

[[Page 331]]

for one hour and confirm no oil floats on the surface of the test fluid; 
and
    (7) After the one hour stated in paragraph (b)(6) of this section, 
keep running the centrifugal pump B at reduced speed to approximately 10 
percent of original flow rate, until the end of the test.

                            FIGURE 162.050-20
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR16JA09.012


[[Page 332]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR16JA09.013


[[Page 333]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR16JA09.014


[USCG-2004-18939, 74 FR 3385, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-21  Separator: Design specification.

    (a) A separator must be designed to operate in each plane that forms 
an angle of 22.5[deg] with the plane of its normal operating position.
    (b) The electrical components of a separator that are to be 
installed in an explosive atmosphere must be approved by an independent 
laboratory as components that Underwriters Laboratories Standard 913 
(dated April 8, 1976) (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.050-4) 
defines as intrinsically safe for use in a Class I, Group D hazardous 
location.
    (c) Each separator component that is a moving part must be designed 
so that its movement during operation of the separator does not cause 
formation of static electricity.
    (d) Each separator must be designed in accordance with the 
applicable requirements in subchapters F and J of this chapter.
    (e) Each separator must be designed to be operated both 
automatically and manually. Each separator must be capable of operating 
automatically for at least 24 hours.

[[Page 334]]

    (f) Each separator must be designed so that adjustments to valves or 
other equipment are not necessary to start it.
    (g) Each part of a separator that is susceptible to wear and tear 
must be readily accessible for maintenance in its installed position.
    (h) A separator must be designed so that it does not rely in whole 
or in part on dilution of influent mixtures as a means of performing its 
function.

[CGD 76-088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG-2004-
18939, 74 FR 3388, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-23  Separator: Approval tests.

    (a) Test Conditions. (1) Each test described in this section must be 
performed at a throughput and influent pressure equal to the maximum 
throughput and pressure at which the separator being tested is designed 
to operate. The tests and each of the steps in the tests must be carried 
out in the order described in this section. Each test must be performed 
without time delay between steps in the test.
    (2) A test rig of the type described in Sec.  162.050-17 must be 
used in performing each test.
    (3) If a separator has a supply pump, it must be tested using that 
pump. If a separator does not have a supply pump, it must be tested 
using the mixture pump on the test rig.
    (4) The influent water used in each test must be clean fresh water 
or clean fresh water in solution with sodium chloride. In either case, 
the relative density of the water must be no greater than 1.015 at 20 
[deg]C.
    (5) Each test must be conducted at an ambient temperature of between 
10 [deg]C and 30 [deg]C.
    (6) The oil content of each sample must be measured using the method 
described in Sec.  162.050-39.
    (7) Influent oil content must be determined during testing by 
measuring the flow rates of the oil and water that are mixed to form the 
influent or by use of an oil content meter on the inlet piping of the 
test rig. If an oil content meter is used, a sample of influent and a 
meter reading must be taken at the beginning of each test. If the meter 
reading is not within 10 percent of the oil 
content of the sample, the meter readings subsequently taken during the 
test are unacceptable test results.
    (8) When collecting a sample at a sample point that has a stop cock, 
the first minute of fluid flow through the stop cock must not be 
included in the sample collected.
    (9) In each test, the separator must be operated in accordance with 
the procedures described in its instruction manual.
    (10) No maintenance, including replacement of parts, may be 
performed on a separator during or between the tests described in this 
section.
    (11) A 1 liter sample of each oil to be used in testing must be 
taken and provided for use in the sample analysis required by Sec.  
162.050-39 .
    (12) The separator may not be operated manually in Test No. 5A.
    (13) If a separator has an integral bilge alarm, the separator must 
be tested with the bilge alarm installed.
    (b) The following tests must be conducted using Test Fluid A:
    (1) Test No. 1A. The separator is filled with water and started. 
Next, the separator is fed with pure Test Fluid A for at least 5 minutes 
and then with a mixture of Test Fluid A and water influent containing 
Test Fluid A content of between 5,000 and 10,000 ppm until a steady flow 
rate at a steady, constant ppm occurs. After the flow rate is steady, 
the influent is fed to the separator for 30 minutes. Samples of 
separated water effluent are taken after the first 10 and 20 minutes. At 
the end of the 30-minute period, the air cock on the test rig is opened 
and, if necessary, the oil and water supply valves are closed to stop 
the flow of influent. A sample is then taken of the separated water 
effluent as the effluent flow ceases.
    (2) Test No. 2A. Repeat Test No. 1A in paragraph (b)(1) of this 
section using an influent containing approximately 25 percent oil and 75 
percent water. Percentage is on a by volume basis.
    (3) Test No. 3A. The separator is fed with 100 percent Test Fluid A 
until Fluid A is discharged at the oil discharge outlet of the separator 
at essentially the same rate that oil is being fed to the separator. The 
separator is then fed with 100 percent Test Fluid A for 5 additional 
minutes. If any oily

[[Page 335]]

mixture is discharged from the separated water outlet on the separator 
during the test, that observation is recorded.
    (4) Test No. 4A. The separator is fed with water for 15 minutes. 
Samples of the separated water effluent are taken at the beginning of 
the test and after the first 10 minutes.
    (5) Test No. 5A. The separator is operated automatically for 3 
hours. During the test, the separator is continuously fed with an 
influent varying from water to a mixture of 25 percent Test Fluid A in 
water and back to water every 15 minutes. The Test Fluid A concentration 
in the influent is varied in at least five equal increments during each 
15-minute period and the time intervals between the incremental changes 
are equal. During the last hour, the separator must be inclined at an 
angle of 22.5[deg] with the plane of its normal operating position. 
During the last time increment in which the unit is fed a 25 percent 
Fluid A mixture, a sample of the separated water effluent is taken. If 
the separator stops at any time during this test, that observation is 
recorded.
    (c) The following tests must be conducted using Test Fluid B:
    (1) Test No. 1B. Repeat Test No. 1A in paragraph (b)(1) of this 
section using Test Fluid B; and
    (2) Test No. 2B. Repeat Test No. 2A in paragraph (b)(2) of this 
section using Test Fluid B.
    (d) The following tests must be conducted using Test Fluid C: Test 
No. 1C. The separator is fed with a mixture composed of 6 percent Test 
Fluid C and 94 percent water by volume such that the emulsified Test 
Fluid C content is approximately 3,000 ppm in the test water until a 
steady flow rate occurs. After the flow rate is steady, the influent 
containing the 6 percent Test Fluid C solution is fed to the separator 
operating automatically for 3 hours. Samples of separated water effluent 
are taken at 50 minutes and 100 minutes. At the end of the 3-hour 
period, the air cock on the test rig is opened and, if necessary, the 
oil and water supply valves are closed to stop the flow of influent. A 
sample is then taken of the separated water effluent as the effluent 
flow ceases.

[CGD 76-088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG-2004-
18939, 74 FR 3388, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-25  Cargo monitor: Design specification.

    (a) This section contains requirements that apply to cargo monitors.
    (b) Each monitor must be designed so that it is calibrated by a 
means that does not involve manually mixing a known quantity of oil and 
a known quantity of water to form a mixture and manually feeding the 
mixture into the monitor.
    (c) The electrical components of a monitor that are to be installed 
in an explosive atmosphere must be approved by an independent laboratory 
as components that Underwriters Laboratories Standard 913 (dated April 
8, 1976) (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.050-4) defines as 
intrinsically safe for use in a Class I, Group D hazardous location.
    (d) Each monitor component that is a moving part must be designed so 
that its movement during operation of the monitor does not cause 
formation of static electricity.
    (e) A monitor must be designed to operate in each plane that forms 
an angle of 22.5[deg] with the plane of its normal operating position.
    (f) Each monitor must be designed in accordance with the applicable 
requirements contained in subchapters F and J of this chapter.
    (g) Each monitor must be designed so that it records each change in 
oil content of the mixture it is measuring within 20 seconds after the 
change occurs.
    (h) Each monitor must have a device that produces a warning signal 
and a signal that can be used to actuate valves in a vessel's fixed 
piping system, when--
    (1) The oil content of the mixture being measured exceeds the 
concentration limit set by the operator of the monitor; and
    (2) Malfunction, breakdown, or other failure of the monitor occurs.

[[Page 336]]

    (i) Each monitor must have a means to determine whether it is 
accurately calibrated.

[44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by CGD 76-088c, 48 FR 45727, 
Oct. 6, 1983; USCG-2004-18939, 74 FR 3389, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-27  Oil content meter: Approval tests.

    This section contains requirements that apply to performing each 
test.
    (a) Test conditions. (1) The tests and each step in the tests must 
be carried out in the order described in this section. Each test must be 
performed without time delay between steps in the test. No maintenance, 
including replacement of parts, may be performed on the meter during or 
between the tests described in this section.
    (2) A test rig of the type described in Sec.  162.050-19 must be 
used when performing each test.
    (3) Each mixture used during the tests must be prepared by combining 
oil supplied from the oil injection pipe of the test rig and water 
supplied from the mixture tank of the test rig. However, if the flow of 
oil through the oil injection pipe becomes intermittent, oil and water 
may be combined in the mixture tank to form the mixture.
    (4) A mixture may be circulated through a meter only once during 
testing.
    (5) Unless otherwise provided in a specific test, the water used in 
each test must be clean, fresh water.
    (6) The oil used in each test, except Test No. 2 in paragraph (c) of 
this section, must be Arabian light crude oil.
    (7) Each test must be performed at an ambient temperature of between 
10 [deg]C and 30 [deg]C.
    (8) Unless otherwise provided in a specific test, each test must be 
performed at the maximum mixture pressure, the maximum flow rate, and 
the power supply ratings at which the meter is designed to operate.
    (9) The particulate contaminant described in Test No. 5 in paragraph 
(f) of this section, if not attapulgite, must be of a type that does not 
lose more than 3 percent of its weight after ignition and must be 
insoluble in a 500 ppm mixture.
    (10) In each test the meter must be operated in accordance with the 
procedures described in its instructions manual.
    (11) Unless otherwise provided in a specific test, the centrifugal 
pump shown in Figure 162.050-19 in Sec.  162.050-19 must be operated at 
1,000 revolutions per minute or more in each test.
    (12) Whenever the oil content of a mixture is recorded, a sample of 
the mixture must also be taken. The oil content of the sample must be 
measured using the method described in Sec.  162.050-39.
    (13) A one-liter sample of each oil to be used in testing must be 
taken and provided for use in the sample analysis required by Sec.  
162.050-39.
    (b) Test No. 1 Calibration and Zero Test. The meter is calibrated 
and zeroed to manufacturer's instructions. It is then fed with water for 
15 minutes and then with mixtures in the following concentrations: 15 
ppm, 50 ppm, 100 ppm, and each additional concentration, in increments 
of 50 ppm up to the highest oil concentration that can be read on the 
meter. Each mixture is fed to the meter in the order listed in Table 
162.050-27(c) for 15 minutes. Water is fed to the meter for a 15-minute 
period between each mixture. At the end of each 15-minute period, an oil 
content reading is obtained and recorded, and a calibration curve must 
be created.
    (c) Test No. 2 Response to Different Oil Types Test. (1) If the 
meter is designed for use with crude oils, it is fed with a mixture of 
water and the first oil listed in Table 162.050-27(c) at the following 
concentrations: 15 ppm, 100 ppm, and a concentration that is 90 percent 
of the highest oil concentration in water that can be read on the meter. 
Each concentration is fed to the meter in the order listed until a 
steady reading occurs and is recorded. After each steady reading is 
recorded, the meter is fed with water for 15 minutes. At the end of each 
15-minute period of feeding the meter with water, an oil content reading 
is again obtained and recorded, and a calibration curve must be created.
    (2) The steps described in paragraph (c)(1) of this section are 
repeated using each of the other oils listed in Table 162.050-27(c). A 
calibration curve must be created for each oil tested.

[[Page 337]]



                                Table 162.050-27(c)--Oil Type and Characteristics
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  Oil type                                              Characteristics
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sahara blend crude oil......................  Density--low.
                                              Viscosity--low.
                                              Pour point--very low.
                                              Producing country--Algeria.
                                              General description--mixed base.
Arabian light crude oil.....................  Density--medium.
                                              Viscosity--medium.
                                              Pour point--low.
                                              Producing country--Saudi Arabia.
                                              General description--mixed base.
Nigerian medium crude oil...................  Density--high.
                                              Viscosity--medium.
                                              Pour point--low.
                                              Producing country--Nigeria.
                                              General description--naphthenic base.
Bachaquero 17 crude oil.....................  Density--very high.
                                              Viscosity--very high.
                                              Pour point--low.
                                              Producing country--Venezuela.
                                              General description--asphaltic base.
Minas crude oil.............................  Density--medium.
                                              Viscosity--high.
                                              Pour point--very high.
                                              Producing country--Indonesia.
                                              General description--paraffinic base.
Residual fuel oil...........................  Bunker C or No. 6 Fuel Oil.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (3) If any oil listed in Table 162.050-27(c) is unavailable, an oil 
with similar properties may be substituted in testing.
    (4) If the meter will be used with refined oil products, the steps 
described in paragraph (c)(1) of this section are performed using each 
of the following:
    (i) Leaded regular grade automotive gasoline;
    (ii) Unleaded automotive gasoline;
    (iii) Kerosene; and
    (iv) Light diesel or No. 2 fuel oil.
    (5) If the meter will be used with category C and D oil-like noxious 
liquid substances to meet the requirements of 33 CFR 151.41(b), the 
tests described in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section are to be 
performed using the substances for which approval is sought.
    (d) Test No. 3 Response Time Test. (1) The meter is fed with water, 
zeroed, and then fed with a 100 ppm mixture. The time at which the meter 
first detects oil in the mixture, the times of reading 63 ppm and 90 
ppm, and the time of reaching the highest steady reading of oil content 
are recorded. The oil content of the mixture at the highest steady 
reading is also recorded.
    (2) The metering pump is turned off and the time at which the 
highest reading starts to decrease, the times of reading 37 ppm and 10 
ppm, and the time of returning to the lowest steady oil content reading 
are recorded. The oil content of the mixture at the lowest steady 
reading is also recorded.
    (3) The time interval between first detecting oil in the mixture and 
reading 63 ppm, and the time interval between the first decrease in the 
highest reading and reading 37 ppm, are averaged and recorded as the 
response time for the meter.
    (e) Test No. 4 Oil Fouling and Calibration Shift Test. (1) The meter 
is fed with water, zeroed, and then fed with a mixture containing 10 
percent oil for one minute. The following must be recorded:
    (i) Time at which the meter first detects oil;
    (ii) Time of reading 15 ppm;
    (iii) Time of reading 100 ppm;
    (iv) Time of exceeding the highest oil concentration that can be 
read on the meter;
    (v) Time of returning to the highest oil concentration that can be 
read on the meter;
    (vi) Time of returning to a reading of 100 ppm;
    (vii) Time of returning to a reading of 15 ppm; and

[[Page 338]]

    (viii) Time of returning to the lowest steady oil content reading.
    (2) The oil content of the mixture at the lowest steady reading 
described in paragraph (e)(1)(viii) of this section is recorded.
    (3) The meter is fed with water, zeroed, and then fed with oil for 1 
minute after which the flow of water is resumed. The times described in 
paragraph (e)(1) of this section are recorded.
    (4) If it is necessary to clean the meter after each oil-fouling 
test for it to return to a zero reading, this fact and the time required 
to clean and recalibrate the meter must be noted and recorded in the 
test report.
    (5) The meter is fed with a 100 ppm mixture until a steady oil 
content reading is obtained and recorded.
    (f) Test No. 5 Contaminant Test. (1) The meter is fed with a 15 ppm 
mixture until a steady oil content reading is obtained and recorded.
    (2) The meter is fed with a 15 ppm oil mixture of contaminated water 
consisting of not less than 270 ppm by weight of the clay mineral 
attapulgite, or similar contaminant that is stable in both fresh and 
salt water and 30 ppm by weight of iron oxides. The test contaminant 
should have a particle size distribution with about 30 percent of 10 
microns or less and a maximum particle size of 100 microns. The oil 
content reading, when steady, is recorded.
    (3) Each of the two contaminants will be mixed sequentially in the 
following manner: the mixing of attapulgite shall be for a period of not 
less than 15 minutes so that a homogeneous suspension is formed; then, 
iron oxides will be added for an additional period of not less than 10 
minutes. The mixing process should maintain the contaminants in 
suspension throughout the test period.
    (4) The test in paragraph (f)(2) of this section is repeated for 100 
and 300 ppm oil mixtures in contaminated water.
    (g) Test No. 6 Air Entrainment Test. (1) The meter is fed with a 15 
ppm mixture until a steady oil content reading is obtained and recorded.
    (2) Air is injected into the meter test rig before the sample pump 
or, in the absence of such pump, immediately before any conditioning 
unit used to prepare the mixture for measurement. Injection must be by 
needle having an orifice dimension not exceeding 0.5 mm in diameter 
arranged in line with the sample flow. The quantity of air injected must 
be 1 percent of the designated flow rate of the sample pump or 
conditioning unit at the point of injection.
    (3) Air must be delivered to the system by direct injection or pump 
via a suitable measuring device designed to permit a constant 
controllable flow rate within 10 percent of the 
required rate of injection for an uninterrupted effective test period of 
not less than 15 minutes.
    (4) The oil content reading, when steady, is recorded.
    (h) Test No. 7 Oil Particle Size--Centrifugal Pump Test. (1) The 
meter is fed with a 100 ppm mixture until a steady oil content reading 
is obtained and recorded.
    (2) The meter is fed with a 100 ppm mixture that has first passed 
through the centrifugal pump of the test rig. The pump is run at one-
fourth of its design speed. The oil content reading, when steady, is 
recorded.
    (3) The steps described in paragraph (h)(2) of this section are 
repeated with the pump running at one-half of its design speed and then 
repeated at its design speed.
    (i) Test No. 8 Temperature Test. (1) The steps described in 
paragraph (h)(1) of this section are repeated.
    (2) The temperature of the mixture is adjusted to 10 [deg]C and the 
flow continued until a steady oil content reading is obtained and 
recorded.
    (3) The steps described in paragraph (i)(2) of this section are 
repeated with the temperature of the mixture at 65 [deg]C or the highest 
mixture temperature at which the meter is designed to operate, whichever 
is lower.
    (j) Test No. 9 Sample Pressure or Flow Test. (1) The steps described 
in paragraph (h)(1) of this section are repeated.
    (2) If the meter has a positive displacement mixture pump, the 
mixture pressure is lowered to one-half of the meter's maximum design 
pressure. If the meter has a centrifugal mixture

[[Page 339]]

pump, or is not equipped with a mixture pump, the mixture flow rate is 
reduced to one-half of the meter's design flow rate. The reduced flow 
rate or mixture pressure is maintained until a steady oil content 
reading is obtained and recorded.
    (3) If the meter has a positive displacement mixture pump, the 
mixture pressure is increased to twice the meter's design pressure. If 
the meter has a centrifugal mixture pump or does not have a mixture 
pump, the mixture flow rate is increased to twice the meter's maximum 
design flow rate. The increased flow rate or mixture pressure is 
maintained until a steady oil content reading is obtained and recorded.
    (k) Test No. 10 Shutoff Test. (1) The steps described in paragraph 
(h)(1) of this section are repeated.
    (2) The water and metering pumps on the test rig are stopped for 8 
hours after which the steps described in paragraph (h)(1) of this 
section are repeated.
    (l) Test No. 11 Supply Voltage Variation Test. (1) The supply 
voltage to the meter is increased to 110 percent of its design supply 
voltage. The meter is then fed a 100 ppm mixture for one hour. At the 
end of the 1-hour period, an oil content reading is obtained and 
recorded.
    (2) The steps described in paragraph (l)(1) of this section are 
repeated with the supply voltage to the meter lowered to 90 percent of 
its design supply voltage.
    (3) Upon completing the steps described in paragraph (l)(2) of this 
section, the supply voltage to the meter is returned to the design 
rating.
    (4) The steps described in paragraphs (l)(1) through (l)(3) of this 
section are repeated varying each power supply to the meter in the 
manner prescribed in those steps for supply voltage.
    (m) Test No. 12 Calibration and Zero Drift Test. (1) The meter is 
calibrated and zeroed.
    (2) The steps described in paragraph (h)(1) of this section are 
repeated.
    (3) A 100 ppm mixture is fed to the meter for 8 hours. At the end of 
the 8-hour period, an oil content reading is obtained and recorded.
    (4) The meter is fed with water until a steady oil content reading 
is obtained and recorded.
    (n) Test No. 13 Shutdown and Restart Test. (1) All power to the 
meter is shutoff for one week. After 1 week the meter is restarted, 
zeroed, and calibrated.
    (2) The meter is fed with a 100 ppm mixture for 1 hour. An oil 
content reading is then obtained and recorded.
    (3) The meter is fed with water for 1 hour. An oil content reading 
is then obtained and recorded.
    (4) The steps described in paragraphs (n)(2) and (n)(3) of this 
section are repeated three additional times. During the last hour in 
which the meter is fed with a 100 ppm mixture, the meter is inclined at 
an angle of 22.5[deg] with the plane of its normal operating position.

[USCG-2004-18939, 74 FR 3389, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-33  Bilge alarm: Design specification.

    (a) This section contains requirements that apply to bilge alarms.
    (b) Each bilge alarm must be designed to meet the requirements for 
an oil content meter in Sec.  162.050-25(b) through (f) and 162.050-
25(i), and the requirements in this section.
    (c) Each bilge alarm must have a device that produces a warning 
signal, and a signal that can be used to actuate stop valves in a 
vessel's fixed piping system, when--
    (1) the oil content of the mixture being measured by the bilge alarm 
exceeds 15 ppm 5 ppm, and
    (2) malfunction, breakdown, or other failure of the bilge alarm 
occurs.
    (d) Each bilge alarm must have a ppm display. Emulsions and/or the 
type of oil must not affect the ppm display. Calibrating the bilge alarm 
must not be necessary once installed on board the vessel, however, 
onboard testing in accordance with the manufacturer's operating 
instructions is permitted for the purposes of checking instrument drift 
and repeatability of the instrument reading, as well as the ability to 
re-zero the instrument. The accuracy of the readings must at all times 
remain within the limits described in paragraph (c)(1) of this section.
    (e) Each bilge alarm must be designed so that it displays each 
change

[[Page 340]]

in oil content of the mixture it is measuring within 5 seconds after the 
change occurs.
    (f) Access to the bilge alarm must require the breaking of a seal, 
except when--
    (1) Re-zeroing the instrument;
    (2) Checking the instrument drift; or
    (3) Checking the repeatability of the instrument reading.
    (g) Each bilge alarm must activate its alarm whenever clean water is 
used for cleaning or zeroing purposes.
    (h) The bilge alarm must record date, time, alarm status, and 
operating status of the 15 ppm bilge separator. The recording device 
must also store data for at least 18 months and be able to display or 
print a protocol. In the event the 15 ppm bilge alarm is replaced, means 
must be provided to ensure the data recorded remains available on board 
for 18 months.

[CGD 76-088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG-2004-
18939, 74 FR 3391, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-35  Bilge alarm: Approval tests.

    This section contains requirements that apply to bilge alarms.
    (a) Test Conditions. (1) Each test must be conducted under the 
conditions prescribed for meters in Sec.  162.050-27(a)(1) through 
(a)(5), (a)(7), (a)(8), (a)(10), (a)(11), and (a)(13).
    (2) The tests in this section must be performed using test fluids 
described in Sec.  162.050-20.
    (3) The oil content of each sample must be measured using the method 
described in Sec.  162.050-39.
    (b) Test No. 1A Calibration and Zero Test. (1) The bilge alarm is 
calibrated and zeroed to manufacturer's instructions.
    (2) It is then fed with water for 15 minutes and then with a mixture 
of Test Fluid A and water in the following concentrations: 0 ppm, 15 
ppm, and the highest oil concentration that can be read on the monitor. 
A sample of the mixture causing actuation of the alarm is taken. The 
alarm is then fed with water for 15 minutes.
    (3) Repeat steps in paragraphs (b)(2) of this section first using 
Test Fluid B and then again with Test Fluid C. Collect samples as 
required in the test for each run of Test Fluid B and Test Fluid C.
    (4) If the bilge alarm must be calibrated and re-zeroed between test 
fluids, this must be noted in the test report.
    (c) Test No. 2A Contaminant Test. (1) The bilge alarm is fed for 5 
minutes with a 10 ppm mixture of Test Fluid B and water. At the end of 
the 5-minute period an oil content reading is obtained and recorded.
    (2) The bilge alarm is then fed for 5 minutes with a 10 ppm mixture 
of Test Fluid B and water contaminated with a 10 ppm concentration of 
iron oxide. Any change in the bilge alarm reading during the 5 minutes 
is recorded.
    (3) Repeat steps in paragraphs (c)(1) and (2) of this section using 
iron oxide concentrations of 50 ppm and 100 ppm.
    (4) The bilge alarm is then fed for 5 minutes with a 10 ppm mixture 
of Test Fluid B and water. At the end of the 5-minute period an oil 
content reading is obtained and recorded.
    (5) The bilge alarm is fed for 5 minutes with a 10 ppm mixture of 
Test Fluid B and fresh water with 6 percent sodium chloride. Any change 
in the bilge alarm reading is recorded.
    (d) Test No. 3A Sample Pressure or Flow Test. (1) The bilge alarm is 
fed with a mixture of Test Fluid B and water and the test fluid content 
of the mixture is increased until the bilge alarm actuates. The ppm 
display is recorded and a sample of the mixture causing actuation of the 
alarm is taken.
    (2) If the alarm has a positive displacement mixture pump, the 
mixture pressure is reduced to one-half of the alarm's maximum design 
pressure. If the alarm has a centrifugal mixture pump or is not equipped 
with a mixture pump, the mixture flow rate is reduced to one-half of the 
alarm's maximum design flow rate. After reduction of pressure or flow 
rate, the oil content in the mixture is increased until the alarm 
actuates. The ppm display is recorded and a sample of the mixture 
causing actuation of the alarm is taken.
    (3) If the alarm has a positive displacement mixture pump, the 
influent pressure is increased to twice the alarm's minimum design 
pressure. If the alarm has a centrifugal mixture

[[Page 341]]

pump or if the alarm is not equipped with a mixture pump, the influent 
flow rate is increased to twice the alarm's maximum design flow rate. 
After increasing the pressure or flow rate, the oil content in the 
mixture is increased until the alarm actuates. The ppm display is 
recorded and a sample of the mixture causing actuation is taken.
    (e) Test No. 4A Shutoff Test. (1) The steps described in paragraph 
(d)(1) of this section are repeated.
    (2) The metering and water pumps of the test rig are stopped for 8 
hours with the bilge alarm left turned on with no other changes made.
    (3) The metering and water pumps are started and the Test Fluid B 
content of the mixture is increased until the bilge alarm actuates. A 
sample of the mixture causing actuation is taken. The bilge alarm ppm 
display readings before and after the 8-hour period will be recorded.
    (f) Test No. 5A Supply Voltage Variation Test. (1) The supply 
voltage to the bilge alarm is raised to 110 percent of its design supply 
voltage. The bilge alarm is fed with a mixture of Test Fluid B and water 
and the test fluid content of the mixture is increased until the bilge 
alarm actuates. The ppm display is recorded and a sample of the mixture 
causing actuation is taken.
    (2) The supply voltage to the alarm is lowered to 90 percent of its 
design supply voltage. The bilge alarm is fed with a mixture of Test 
Fluid B and water and the test fluid content of the mixture is increased 
until the bilge alarm actuates. The ppm display is recorded and a sample 
of the mixture causing actuation is taken.
    (3) Upon completion of the steps described in paragraph (f)(2) of 
this section, the supply voltage to the alarm is returned to its design 
value.
    (4) The steps described in paragraphs (f)(1) through (f)(3) of this 
section are repeated varying each other power supply to the alarm in the 
manner prescribed in those steps for supply voltage.
    (g) Test No. 6A Calibration and Zero Drift Test. (1) The steps 
described in paragraph (b)(1) of this section are repeated and then the 
steps in paragraph (d)(1) of this section are repeated.
    (2) The bilge alarm is fed with a 15 ppm mixture of Test Fluid B and 
water for eight hours and any calibration drift is recorded. Samples of 
the mixture must be taken at the beginning of the test and at 2-hour 
intervals until the completion of the 8-hour period.
    (3) Following the steps in paragraph (g)(2) of this section, the 
bilge alarm must be run on clean, oil-free water only and any zero drift 
must be recorded.
    (h) Test No. 7A Response Time Test. (1) The bilge alarm is fed with 
a 40 ppm mixture of Test Fluid B and water until the bilge alarm 
actuates. The time of turning on the metering pump of the test rig and 
the time of alarm actuation are recorded. The flow rate on the flow 
meter of the test rig is also recorded.
    (i) Test No. 8A Shutdown and Restart Test. (1) All power to the 
bilge alarm is shutoff for 1 week. After 1 week the alarm is then 
restarted, zeroed, and calibrated.
    (2) The steps described in paragraph (d)(1) of this section are 
repeated. Water is then fed to the bilge alarm for 1 hour.
    (3) The steps described in paragraph (i)(2) of this section are 
repeated seven additional times. During the last hour, the alarm must be 
inclined at an angle of 22.5[deg] with the plane of its normal operating 
position.

[USCG-2004-18939, 74 FR 3391, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-37  Vibration test.

    (a) Equipment submitted for Coast Guard approval must first be 
tested under the conditions prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section. 
The test must be performed at an independent laboratory that has the 
equipment to subject the item under test to the vibrating frequencies 
and amplitudes prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section. The test 
report submitted with the application for Coast Guard approval must be 
prepared by the laboratory and must contain the test results.
    (b)(1) Each oil content meter and bilge alarm and each control of a 
separator must be subjected to continuous sinusoidal vibration in each 
of the following directions for a 2 hour period in each direction:
    (i) Vertically up and down;

[[Page 342]]

    (ii) Horizontally from side to side; and
    (iii) Horizontally from end to end.
    (2) The vibrating frequency must be 80 Hz, except that the vibrating 
frequency of equipment that has a resonant frequency between 2 Hz and 80 
Hz must be the resonant frequency. If the vibrating frequency is between 
2 Hz and 13.2 Hz, the displacement amplitude must be 1 mm. If the vibrating frequency is between 13.2 Hz and 
80 Hz, the acceleration amplitude must be [(.7)(gravity)].
    (c) After completion of the tests specified in paragraph (b) of this 
section, a search must again be made for resonance and any significant 
change in the vibration pattern must be noted in the test report.

[CGD 76-088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG-2004-
18939, 74 FR 3392, Jan. 16, 2009]



Sec.  162.050-39  Measurement of oil content.

    The collection and testing of all samples of oil in water from the 
required test will be accomplished in accordance with ISO 9377-2 (2000), 
Water Quality--Determination of hydrocarbon oil index-Part 2: Method 
Using solvent extraction and Gas Chromatography (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  162.050-4).

[USCG-2004-18939, 74 FR 3393, Jan. 16, 2009]



            Subpart 162.060_Ballast Water Management Systems

    Authority: 16 U.S.C. 4711; Department of Homeland Security 
Delegation No. 0170.1.

    Source: USCG-2001-10486, 77 FR 17311, Mar. 23, 2012, unless 
otherwise noted.



Sec.  162.060-1  Purpose and scope.

    This subpart contains procedures and requirements for approval of 
complete ballast water management systems to be installed onboard 
vessels for the purpose of complying with the ballast water discharge 
standard of 33 CFR part 151, subparts C and D.



Sec.  162.060-3  Definitions.

    As used in this subpart--
    Active substance means a chemical or an organism, including a virus 
or a fungus, that has a general or specific action on or against 
nonindigenous species.
    Administration means the government of the nation/State under whose 
authority a vessel is operating.
    Ballast water means any water and suspended matter taken onboard a 
vessel to control or maintain trim, draught, stability, or stresses of 
the vessel, regardless of how it is carried.
    Ballast water management system (BWMS) means any system which 
processes ballast water to kill, render harmless, or remove organisms. 
The BWMS includes all ballast water treatment equipment and all 
associated control and monitoring equipment.
    Ballast water system means the tanks, piping, valves, pumps, sea 
chests, and any other associated equipment that the vessel uses for the 
purposes of ballasting.
    Ballast water treatment equipment means that part of the BWMS that 
mechanically, physically, chemically, or biologically processes ballast 
water, either singularly or in combination, to kill, render harmless, or 
remove organisms within ballast water and sediments.
    Challenge water means water just prior to treatment. In land-based 
tests, source water may be augmented to achieve required challenge water 
conditions.
    Control and monitoring equipment means that part of the BWMS 
required to operate, control, and assess the effective operation of the 
ballast water treatment equipment.
    Hazardous location means areas where fire or explosion hazards may 
exist due to the presence of flammable gases/vapors, flammable liquids, 
combustible dust, or ignitable fibers, as determined in accordance with 
the standards of construction applicable to the vessel on which the BWMS 
is to be installed.
    Hazardous materials means hazardous materials as defined in 49 CFR 
171.8; hazardous substances designated under 40 CFR part 116.4; 
reportable quantities as defined under 40 CFR 117.1; materials that meet 
the criteria for hazard classes and divisions in 49 CFR part 173; 
materials under 46 CFR 153.40 determined by the Coast Guard to be 
hazardous when transported in bulk; flammable liquids defined in 46 CFR 
30.10-

[[Page 343]]

22; combustible liquids as defined in 46 CFR 30.10-15; materials listed 
in Table 46 CFR 151.05, Table 1 of 46 CFR 153, or Table 4 of 46 CFR part 
154; or any liquid, liquefied gas, or compressed gas listed in 49 CFR 
172.101.
    Independent laboratory means an organization that meets the 
requirements in 46 CFR 159.010-3. In addition to commercial testing 
laboratories, which may include not-for-profit organizations, the 
Commandant may also accept classification societies and agencies of 
governments (including State and Federal agencies of the United States) 
that are involved in the evaluation, inspection, and testing of BWMS.
    In-line treatment means a treatment system or technology used to 
treat ballast water during normal flow of ballast uptake, discharge, or 
both.
    In-tank treatment means a treatment system or technology used to 
treat ballast water during the time that it resides in the ballast 
tanks.
    Pesticide means any substance or mixture of substances intended for 
preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any pest as defined 
under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 
136 et.seq.) and 40 CFR 152.3.
    Preparation means any commercial formulation containing one or more 
active substances, including any additives. This definition also 
includes any active substances generated onboard a vessel for the 
purpose of ballast water management to comply with the ballast water 
discharge standard codified in 33 CFR part 151 subpart C or D.
    Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) means a project-specific 
technical document reflecting the implementation of Quality Assurance 
and Quality Control activities, including specifics of the BWMS to be 
tested, the independent laboratory, and other conditions affecting the 
actual design and implementation of the required tests and evaluations.
    Relevant chemical means any transformation or reaction product that 
is produced during the treatment process or in the receiving environment 
and which may be of concern to the aquatic environment and human health 
when discharged.
    Representative sample means a random sample, in which every item of 
interest (organisms, molecules, etc.) in the larger population has an 
unbiased chance of appearing.
    Sampling port means the equipment installed in the ballast water 
piping through which representative samples of the ballast water being 
discharged are extracted. This is equivalent to the term ``sampling 
facility'' under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) 
Guidelines for Ballast Water Sampling (G2), published as IMO Resolution 
MEPC.173(58) on October 10, 2008.
    Source water means the body of water from which water is drawn for 
either land-based or shipboard testing.
    Test facility means the location where the independent laboratory 
conducts land-based, component, active substance, and relevant chemical 
testing and evaluations, as required by this subpart.



Sec.  162.060-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that 
specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish notice of change 
in the Federal Register and the material must be available to the 
public. All approved material is available for inspection at the 
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on 
the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to 
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_zlocations.html. Also, it is available for inspection from the at 
Coast Guard Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-5PS), Attn: Director of 
Commercial Regulations, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. The material is also 
from the sources listed in paragraphs (b) through (d) of this section.
    (b) International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), 3 rue Varembe, 
P.O. Box 131, 1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland.
    (1) IEC 60529, Classification of Degrees of Protection by Enclosures 
(IP Code), Edition 2.1 consolidated with

[[Page 344]]

amendment 1:1999 (dated February, 2001), IBR approved for Sec.  162.060-
30.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (c) International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO 
Central Secretariat, 1, ch. de la Voie-Creuse, Case postale 56 CH-1211 
Geneva 20, Switzerland.
    (1) ISO/IEC 17025:2005(E), General Requirements for the Competence 
of Calibration and Testing Laboratories, Second Edition (dated May 15, 
2005), IBR approved for Sec.  162.060-36.
    (2) ISO/IEC 17025:2005/Cor.1:2006(E), General Requirements for the 
Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories, Technical 
Corrigendum 1, (dated August 15, 2006), IBR approved for Sec.  162.060-
36.
    (d) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Environmental 
Technology Verification Program, National Risk Management Research 
Laboratory Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency, 2890 Woodbridge Avenue (MS-104), Edison, New Jersey 
08837.
    (1) EPA/600/R-10/146, Generic Protocol for the Verification of 
Ballast Water Treatment Technologies, version 5.1, (dated September 
2010), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  162.060-26 and 162.060-28 (ETV 
Protocol).
    (2) [Reserved]

[USCG-2001-10486, 77 FR 17311, Mar. 23, 2012, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60160, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  162.060-10  Approval procedures.

    (a) Not less than 30 days before initiating any testing of a ballast 
water management system (BWMS), the results of which are intended for 
use in an application for type approval, the manufacturer must submit a 
Letter of Intent (LOI) providing as much of the following information as 
possible to the Commanding Officer (MSC), Attn: Marine Safety Center, 
U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7430, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC 20593-7430, or by email to [email protected]:
    (1) Manufacturer's name, address, and point of contact, with 
telephone number or email address.
    (2) Name and location of independent laboratory and associated test 
facilities and subcontractors, plus expected dates and locations for 
actual testing.
    (3) Model name, model number, and type of BWMS.
    (4) Expected date of submission of full application package to the 
Coast Guard.
    (5) Name, type of vessel, and expected geographic locations for 
shipboard testing.
    (b) The manufacturer must ensure evaluation, inspection, and testing 
of the BWMS is conducted by an independent laboratory, accepted by the 
Coast Guard, in accordance with Sec. Sec.  162.060-20 through 162.060-40 
of this subpart. Testing may begin 30 days after submission of the LOI 
unless otherwise directed by the Coast Guard.
    (1) If an evaluation, inspection, or test required by this section 
is not practicable or applicable, a manufacturer or independent 
laboratory may submit a written request to the Commanding Officer (MSC), 
Attn: Marine Safety Center, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7430, 2703 Martin 
Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7430, or by email to 
[email protected], for approval of alternatives as equivalent to the 
requirements in this section. The request must include the 
manufacturer's justification for any proposed changes and contain full 
descriptions of any proposed alternative tests.
    (2) The Coast Guard will notify the manufacturer of its 
determination under paragraph (b)(1) of this section. Any limitations 
imposed by the BWMS on testing procedures and all approved deviations 
from any evaluation, inspection, or testing required by this subpart 
must be duly noted in the Experimental Design section of the Test Plan.
    (c) The manufacturer must submit an application for approval in 
accordance with Sec.  162.060-14 of this subpart.
    (d) Upon receipt of an application completed in compliance with 
Sec.  162.060-14 of this subpart, the MSC will evaluate the application 
and either approve, disapprove, or return it to the manufacturer for 
further revision.
    (e) In addition to tests and evaluations required by this subpart, 
the Coast Guard will independently conduct environmental analyses of 
each system in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act, 
the Endangered Species Act, and/or other environmental statutes. The 
Coast

[[Page 345]]

Guard advises applicants that applications containing novel processes or 
active substances may encounter significantly longer reviews during 
these environmental evaluations.
    (f) A BWMS is eligible for approval if--
    (1) It meets the design and construction requirements in Sec.  
162.060-20 of this subpart;
    (2) It is evaluated, inspected, and tested under land-based and 
shipboard conditions in accordance with Sec. Sec.  162.060-26 and 
162.060-28 of this subpart, respectively, and thereby demonstrates that 
it consistently meets the ballast water discharge standard in 33 CFR 
part 151, subparts C and D;
    (3) All applicable components of the BWMS meet the component testing 
requirements of Sec.  162.060-30 of this subpart;
    (4) The BWMS meets the requirements of Sec.  162.060-32 of this 
subpart if the BWMS uses an active substance or preparation; and
    (5) The ballast water discharge, preparation, active substance, or 
relevant chemical are not found to be persistent, bioaccumulative, or 
toxic when discharged.
    (g) After evaluation of an application, the Coast Guard will advise 
the applicant in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-13 whether the BWMS is 
approved. If the BWMS is approved, a certification number will be issued 
and an approval certificate sent to the applicant in accordance with 46 
CFR 2.75-5. The approval certificate will list conditions of approval 
applicable to the BWMS.

[USCG-2001-10486, 77 FR 17311, Mar. 23, 2012, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60161, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2015-0867, 80 FR 62470, Oct. 16, 
2015; USCG-2016-0498, 82 FR 35092, July 28, 2017]



Sec.  162.060-12  Use and acceptance of existing test data.

    (a) A manufacturer whose ballast water management system (BWMS) has 
completed approval testing for a foreign administration in accordance 
with the International Maritime Organization's Guidelines for Approval 
of Ballast Water Management Systems (G8) may use the data and 
information developed during such approval testing to support the 
submission of an application pursuant to Sec.  162.060-14 of this 
subpart. The applicant must submit the data and other information 
developed during approval testing and evaluation for another 
administration, and include a concise but thorough explanation of how 
the submission meets or exceeds the requirements of this subpart in 
respect to design, material and manufacture, and ability to meet the 
BWDS requirements.
    (b) Applications under paragraph (a) of this section will not need 
to comply with the requirements for advance notice under Sec.  162.060-
10(a) of this subpart for testing that has already occurred; or with the 
requirements that all evaluation, inspection, and testing of the BWMS is 
conducted by an independent laboratory, previously accepted by the Coast 
Guard, under Sec.  162.060-10(b) of this subpart. However--
    (1) If the applicant determines, prior to submission of an 
application, that one or more aspects of the Coast Guard's requirements 
for approval of a BWMS are not satisfied by the data and information 
developed for approval by another administration, and that additional 
testing and evaluation is required, the applicant will notify the Coast 
Guard of the intent to conduct the new testing in accordance with the 
requirements of Sec.  162.060-10(a) and (b)(1) of this subpart.
    (2) While laboratories and test facilities that conducted the test 
and evaluation for approval by another administration are not required 
to have been designated as independent laboratories under the 
requirements of this subpart at the time of such work, as would 
otherwise be required under Sec.  162.060-10(b) of this subpart, all 
laboratories and test facilities must have met the requirements under 46 
CFR 159.010-3 and 159.010-5(a) at the time of such work. It is the 
responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the satisfaction of this 
requirement is adequately documented in the application.



Sec.  162.060-14  Information requirements for the ballast water
management system (BWMS) application.

    (a) A complete BWMS application must contain all of the following 
information:

[[Page 346]]

    (1) The name and location of the independent laboratory conducting 
approval tests and evaluations.
    (2) Two sets of plans describing the BWMS, as specified in 46 CFR 
159.005-12.
    (3) An Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Manual for the BWMS that 
meets the requirements in Sec.  162.060-38 of this subpart.
    (4) A bill of materials showing all components and specifications of 
the BWMS.
    (5) A list of any systems or components of the BWMS that may require 
certification as marine portable tanks.
    (6) A list of any pressure vessels used as a part of the BWMS, along 
with a description of the pressure vessel building standard, or code, or 
why the pressure vessel should be considered exempt from any 
requirements. Manufacturers must also submit detailed pressure vessel 
plans if they intend to fabricate pressure vessels, heat exchangers, 
evaporators, and similar appurtenances.
    (7) Documentation of all necessary approvals, registrations, and 
other documents or certifications required for any active substances, 
preparations, or relevant chemicals used by the BWMS. The documentation 
must include the following:
    (i) A list of any active substances, preparations, or relevant 
chemicals that are used, produced, generated as a byproduct, and/or 
discharged in association with the operation of the BWMS.
    (ii) A list of all limitations or restrictions that must be complied 
with during the approval testing and evaluations, including any water 
quality limits established by the Environmental Protection Agency, 
States, or tribes, under the Clean Water Act.
    (8) A detailed description of Quality Control procedures, in-process 
and final inspections, tests followed in manufacturing the item, and 
construction and sales record keeping systems.
    (9) The completed Test Report required by Sec.  162.060-34 of this 
subpart prepared and submitted by the IL.
    (b) The completed application must be sent by the manufacturer to 
the Commanding Officer (MSC), Attn: Marine Safety Center, U.S. Coast 
Guard Stop 7430, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 
20593-7430, or by email to [email protected]''..
    (c) If examination of the application reveals that it is incomplete, 
the Coast Guard will return it to the applicant with an explanation.
    (d) Additional information, including electronic submission 
criteria, is available at http://homeport.uscg.mil/msc.

[USCG-2001-10486, 77 FR 17311, Mar. 23, 2012, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60161, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2016-0498, 82 FR 35093, July 28, 
2017; USCG-2018-0874, 84 FR 30883, June 28, 2019]



Sec.  162.060-16  Changes to an approved ballast water management system
(BWMS).

    (a) The manufacturer of a BWMS that is approved by the Coast Guard 
must notify the Commanding Officer, U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety 
Center (MSC), in writing of any change in design or intended operational 
conditions of the BWMS.
    (b) The notification required by paragraph (a) of this section must 
include--
    (1) A description of the change and its advantages; and
    (2) An indication of whether or not the original BWMS will be 
discontinued.
    (c) After receipt of the notice and information, the Coast Guard 
will notify the manufacturer, in writing, of any tests or evaluations 
that must be conducted, and then determine if BWMS recertification and/
or modification is required. The manufacturer may appeal this 
determination to the Director of Commercial Regulations. Contact 
Commandant (CG-5PS), Attn: Director of Commercial Regulations, U.S. 
Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC 20593-7509.

[USCG-2001-10486, 77 FR 17311, Mar. 23, 2012, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60161, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  162.060-18  Suspension, withdrawal, or termination of approval.

    The Coast Guard may suspend an approval issued under this subpart or 
alternate management system (AMS) determination issued under 33 CFR 
151.2026(d) of a ballast water management system (BWMS) in accordance

[[Page 347]]

with 46 CFR 2.75-40, withdraw an approval or AMS determination in 
accordance with 46 CFR 2.75-50(a), or terminate an approval or AMS 
determination in accordance with 46 CFR 2.75-50(b) if the BWMS or AMS, 
as manufactured--
    (a) Is found non-compliant with the conditions of approval;
    (b) Is unsuitable for the purpose intended by the manufacturer;
    (c) Does not meet the requirements of applicable laws, rules, and 
regulations, and other Federal requirements when installed and operated 
as intended by the manufacturer; or
    (d) Cannot be maintained to operate as designed, due to lack of 
parts or necessary support services.



Sec.  162.060-20  Design and construction requirements.

    (a) Unless otherwise authorized by the Commandant, each ballast 
water management system (BWMS) must be designed and constructed in a 
manner that--
    (1) Ensures simple and effective means for its operation;
    (2) Allows operation to be initiated, controlled, and monitored by a 
single individual, with minimal interaction or attention once normal 
operation is initiated;
    (3) Is robust and suitable for working in the shipboard environment 
and adequate for its intended service;
    (4) Meets recognized national or international standards for all 
related marine engineering and electrical engineering applications; and
    (5) Operates when the vessel is upright, inclined under static 
conditions at any angle of list up to and including 15[deg], and when 
the vessel is inclined under dynamic, rolling conditions at any angle of 
list up to and including 22.5[deg] and, simultaneously, at any angle of 
trim (pitching) up to and including 7.5[deg] by bow or stern. The Coast 
Guard may permit deviations from these angles of inclination by 
considering the type, size, and service of intended vessels and 
considering how the BWMS is to be operated. These deviations must be 
included on the certificate issued in accordance with Sec.  162.060-
10(g) of this subpart.
    (b) Each BWMS must have control and monitoring equipment that--
    (1) Automatically monitors and adjusts necessary treatment dosages, 
intensities, or other aspects required for proper operation;
    (2) Incorporates a continuous self-monitoring function during the 
period in which the BWMS is in operation;
    (3) Records proper functioning and failures of the BWMS;
    (4) Records all events in which an alarm is activated for the 
purposes of cleaning, calibration, or repair;
    (5) Is able to store data for at least 6 months and to display or 
print a record for official inspections as required; and
    (6) In the event that the control and monitoring equipment is 
replaced, actions must be taken to ensure the data recorded prior to 
replacement remain available onboard for a minimum of 24 months.
    (c) Each BWMS must be designed and constructed with the following 
operating and emergency controls:
    (1) Visual means of indicating (both on the BWMS and in a normally 
manned space) when the BWMS is operating, including a visual alarm 
activated whenever the BWMS is in operation for the purpose of cleaning, 
calibration, or repair.
    (2) Audio and visual alarm signals in all stations from which 
ballast water operations are controlled in case of any failure(s) 
compromising the proper operation of the BWMS.
    (3) Means to activate stop valves, as applicable, if the BWMS fails.
    (4) Suitable manual by-passes or overrides to protect the safety of 
the vessel and personnel in the event of an emergency.
    (5) Means that compensate for a momentary loss of power during 
operation of the BWMS so that unintentional discharges do not occur.
    (6) Means of automatic operation for BWMS installed in unoccupied 
machinery spaces, from the time placed on-line until the time secured.
    (7) Adequate alarms for the unintentional release of active 
substances, preparations, relevant chemicals, or hazardous materials 
used in or produced by the BWMS.

[[Page 348]]

    (d) A BWMS must comply with the relevant requirements for use in a 
hazardous location, as defined in 46 CFR subpart 111.105, or its foreign 
equivalent, if it is intended to be fitted in a hazardous location. Any 
electrical equipment that is a component of the BWMS must be installed 
in a non-hazardous location unless certified as safe for use in a 
hazardous location. Any moving parts which are fitted in hazardous 
locations must be arranged in a manner that avoids the formation of 
static electricity. Certificates issued under Sec.  162.060-10(g) for 
systems approved for installation in hazardous locations must be so 
noted.
    (e) To ensure continued operational performance of the BWMS without 
interference, the following conditions must be incorporated into the 
design:
    (1) Each part of the BWMS that the manufacturer's instructions 
require to be serviced routinely or that is liable to wear or damage 
must be readily accessible in the installed position(s) recommended by 
the manufacturer.
    (2) To avoid interference with the BWMS, every access of the BWMS 
beyond the essential requirements, as determined by the manufacturer, 
must require the breaking of a seal, and, where possible for the purpose 
of maintenance, activate an alarm.
    (3) Simple means must be provided aboard the vessel to identify 
drift and repeatability fluctuations and re-zero measuring devices that 
are part of the control and monitoring equipment.
    (f) Each BWMS must be designed so that it does not rely in whole or 
in part on dilution of ballast water as a means of achieving the ballast 
water discharge standard as required in 33 CFR part 151, subparts C or 
D.
    (g) Adequate arrangements for storage, application, mitigation, 
monitoring (including alarms), and safe handling must be made for all 
BWMS that incorporate the use of, produce, generate, or discharge a 
hazardous material, active substance, preparation and/or pesticide in 
accordance with Coast Guard regulations on handling/storage of hazardous 
materials (33 CFR part 126) and any other applicable Federal, State, and 
local requirements.
    (h) For any BWMS that incorporates the use of or generates active 
substances, preparations, or chemicals, the BWMS must be equipped with 
each of the following, as applicable:
    (1) A means of indicating the amount and concentration of any 
chemical in the BWMS that is necessary for its effective operation.
    (2) A means of indicating when chemicals must be added for the 
proper continued operation of the BWMS.
    (3) Sensors and alarms in all spaces that may be impacted by a 
malfunction of the BWMS.
    (4) A means of monitoring all active substances and preparations and 
relevant chemicals in the treated discharge.
    (5) A means to ensure that any maximum dosage or maximum allowable 
discharge concentration of active substances and preparations is not 
exceeded at any time.
    (6) Proper storage of each chemical defined as a hazardous material 
in 49 CFR 171.8 that is specified or provided by the manufacturer for 
use in the operation of a BWMS. Each such chemical that is stowed 
onboard must be labeled and stowed in accordance with the procedures in 
46 CFR part 147.



Sec.  162.060-22  Marking requirements.

    (a) Each ballast water management system (BWMS) manufactured under 
Coast Guard approval must have a nameplate which is securely fastened to 
the BWMS and plainly marked by the manufacturer with the information 
listed in paragraph (b) of this section.
    (b) Each nameplate must include the following information:
    (1) Coast Guard approval number assigned to the BWMS in the 
certificate of approval.
    (2) Name of the manufacturer.
    (3) Name and model number of the BWMS.
    (4) The manufacturer's serial number for the BWMS.
    (5) The month and year of manufacture completion.
    (6) The maximum allowable working pressure for the BWMS.
    (c) The information required by paragraph (b) of this section must 
appear on a nameplate attached to, or in lettering on, the BWMS. The 
nameplate

[[Page 349]]

or lettering must be capable of withstanding the combined effects of 
normal wear and tear and exposure to water, salt spray, direct sunlight, 
heat, cold, and any substance used in the normal operation and 
maintenance of the BWMS without loss of readability. The nameplate must 
not be obscured by paint, corrosion, or other materials that would 
hinder readability.

[USCG-2001-10486, 77 FR 17311, Mar. 23, 2012, as amended by 77 FR 33970, 
June 8, 2012]



Sec.  162.060-24  Test Plan requirements.

    (a) The Coast Guard requires Test Plans for land-based, shipboard, 
and component testing conducted to meet the requirements of Sec. Sec.  
162.060-26, 162.060-28 and 162.060-30 of this subpart, respectively. 
Test Plans must include an examination of all the manufacturer's stated 
requirements and procedures for installation, calibration, maintenance, 
and operations that will be used by the ballast water management system 
(BWMS) during each test, as appropriate for the specific test.
    (b) Test Plans must also include potential environmental, health, 
and safety issues; unusual operating requirements; and any issues 
related to the disposal of treated ballast water, by-products, or waste 
streams.
    (c) For land-based testing, a Test Plan prepared under the ETV 
Protocol may be submitted (ETV Protocol incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  162.060-5). Otherwise, each Test Plan must be in the following 
format:
    (1) Title page, including all project participants.
    (2) Table of contents.
    (3) Project description and treatment performance objectives.
    (4) Project organization and personnel responsibilities.
    (5) Description of the independent laboratory and all test 
facilities and subcontractors.
    (6) BWMS description.
    (7) Experimental design (including installation/start-up plan for 
tested equipment).
    (8) Challenge conditions and preparation (including the test 
facility's standard operating procedures for achieving such conditions).
    (9) Sampling, data acquisition, and analysis plan, including all 
necessary procedures.
    (10) Data management, analysis, and reporting.
    (11) Quality Assurance Project Plan, in accordance with the 
requirements of Sec.  162.060-36 of this subpart.
    (12) Environmental, health, and safety plans.
    (13) Applicable references.



Sec.  162.060-26  Land-based testing requirements.

    (a) Each ballast water management system (BWMS) must undergo land-
based tests and evaluations that meet the requirements of the ETV 
Protocol (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.060-5). The land-
based testing will determine if the biological efficacy of the BWMS 
under consideration for approval is sufficient to meet the applicable 
ballast water discharge standard (BWDS) and validate those aspects of 
the operating and maintenance parameters presented by the manufacturer 
that are appropriate for assessment under the relatively short-term, but 
well-controlled, circumstances of a land-based test.
    (b) The test set up must operate as described in the ETV Protocol 
Test Plan requirements during at least five consecutive, valid, and 
successful replicate test cycles. No adjustments to the BWMS are 
permitted unless specifically detailed in the Operation, Maintenance and 
Safety Manual. The BWMS must be operated by independent laboratory or 
independent laboratory subcontractor personnel.
    (c) Each valid test cycle must include--
    (1) Uptake of source water by pumping at a minimum of 200 m\3\/hr;
    (2) Treatment of a minimum of 200 m\3\ of challenge water with the 
BWMS;
    (3) Pumping of a minimum of 200 m\3\ of control water through the 
test facility in a manner that is in all ways identical to paragraph 
(c)(2) of this section, except that the BWMS is not used to treat the 
water;
    (4) Retention of the treated and control water in separate tanks for 
a minimum of 24 hours; and
    (5) Discharge of the treated and control water by pumping.

[[Page 350]]

    (d) The BWMS must be tested in water conditions for which it will be 
approved. For each set of test cycles, a salinity range must be chosen. 
With respect to the salinity of water bodies where the BWMS is intended 
to be used, the challenge water used in the test set-up must have 
dissolved and particulate content as described in the ETV Protocol.
    (e) The approval certificate issued in accordance with Sec.  
162.060-10(g) will list the salinity ranges for which the BWMS is 
approved.
    (f) The BWMS must be tested at its rated capacity or as specified in 
paragraph (f)(1) of this section for each test cycle and must function 
to the manufacturer's specifications during the test.
    (1) Treatment equipment may be downsized for land-based testing, but 
only when the following criteria are met:
    (i) Treatment equipment with a treatment rated capacity (TRC) equal 
to or less than 200 m\3\/h must not be downscaled.
    (ii) Treatment equipment with a TRC greater than 200 m\3\/h but less 
than 1,000 m\3\/h may be downscaled to a maximum of 1:5 scale, but must 
not be less than 200 m\3\/h.
    (iii) Treatment equipment with a TRC equal to or greater than 1,000 
m\3\/h may be downscaled to a maximum of 1:100 scale, but must not be 
less than 200 m\3\/h.
    (iv) The manufacturer of the BWMS must demonstrate by using 
mathematical modeling, computational fluid dynamics modeling, and/or by 
calculations, that any downscaling will not affect the ultimate 
functioning and effectiveness onboard a vessel of the type and size for 
which the BWMS will be approved.
    (2) Greater scaling may be applied and lower flow rates used other 
than those described in paragraph (f)(1) of this section if the 
manufacturer can provide evidence from full-scale shipboard testing, in 
accordance with paragraph (f)(1)(iv) of this section, that greater 
scaling and lower flow rates will not adversely affect the testing's 
ability to predict full-scale compliance with the BWDS. The procedures 
of Sec.  162.060-10(b)(1) of this subpart must be followed before 
scaling of flow rates other than those provided in paragraph (f)(1) of 
this section may be used.
    (g) The test set-up, TRC, and scaling of all tests (including 
mathematical and computational fluid dynamics modeling) must be clearly 
identified in the Experimental Design section of the Test Plan.



Sec.  162.060-28  Shipboard testing requirements.

    (a) The ballast water management system (BWMS) manufacturer is 
responsible for making all arrangements for a vessel on which to conduct 
shipboard tests, including the provision and installation of a BWMS.
    (b) Shipboard tests must be conducted throughout a period of 
operation of at least 6 months. During the period of testing, all 
ballast water discharged to waters of the United States must be treated 
by the BWMS.
    (c) BWMS approved under this subpart must undergo shipboard tests 
and evaluations that meet the requirements of this section. The 
shipboard testing will verify--
    (1) That the BWMS under consideration for approval, when installed 
and operated in the vessel in a location and configuration consistent 
with its final intended use on operating vessels (e.g., in the engine 
room or pump room), consistently results in the routine discharge of 
ballast water that meets the ballast water discharge standard (BWDS) 
requirements of 33 CFR part 151, subparts C and D; and
    (2) That the operating and maintenance parameters identified by the 
manufacturer in the Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Manual (OMSM) are 
consistently achieved.
    (d) The BWMS to be tested must be installed and operated in the 
vessel in a location and configuration consistent with its final 
intended use on operating vessels. Vessel crew must operate the BWMS 
during testing.
    (e) The vessel used as a platform for shipboard testing under this 
section must be selected to meet the following criteria:
    (1) The volumes and rates of ballast water used and treated are 
representative of the upper end of the treatment rated capacity for 
which the BWMS is

[[Page 351]]

intended to be used. Vessel tank size and flow rates must be equal to or 
exceed those used during land-based tests.
    (2) The circumstances of the vessel's operation during the period of 
shipboard testing provide an acceptable range of geographic and seasonal 
variability conditions.
    (i) The source water used for testing is representative of harbor or 
coastal waters. Testing must include temperate, semi-tropical, or 
tropical locations with ambient organism concentrations that will 
provide a significant challenge to the efficacy of the BWMS.
    (ii) Concentrations of organisms greater than or equal to 50 
micrometers, and organisms less than 50 micrometers and greater than or 
equal to 10 micrometers in the source water must exceed 10 times the 
maximum permitted values in the BWDS.
    (3) The ports that the vessel visits provide adequate availability 
of transportation and scientific support needed to accomplish the 
necessary sampling and analytical procedures during the shipboard tests.
    (f) The vessel's ballast water system must be provided with sampling 
ports arranged in order to collect representative samples of the 
vessel's ballast water. In addition to the sampling ports designed and 
installed in accordance with the specifications in the ETV Protocol 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.060-5), sampling ports must be 
located--
    (1) As close as practicable to the BWMS prior to treatment to 
determine concentrations of living organisms upon uptake;
    (2) As close as practicable to the BWMS overboard outlet prior to 
the discharge point to determine concentrations of living organisms 
prior to discharge; and
    (3) Elsewhere as necessary to ascertain the proper functioning of 
the BWMS.
    (g) All test results must be reported in accordance with paragraph 
(i) of this section. The efficacy of the BWMS must be confirmed during 
at least five consecutive valid test cycles.
    (1) A test cycle entails--
    (i) The uptake of ballast water by the vessel;
    (ii) The storage of ballast water on the vessel;
    (iii) Treatment of the ballast water by the BWMS, except in control 
tanks, if used, with no fine-tuning or adjustment of the system except 
as specifically detailed in the OMSM; and
    (iv) The discharge of ballast water from the vessel.
    (2) All test cycles must include quantification of the water quality 
parameters on uptake.
    (3) All test cycles must include discharge tests and quantification 
of the concentration of living organisms in the treated ballast water on 
discharge. Sampling and analysis for living organisms will be in 
accordance with the ETV Protocol.
    (4) A test cycle must meet the following criteria in order to be 
considered valid:
    (i) The uptake of the source water must be conducted in accordance 
with paragraph (e)(2)(i) of this section.
    (ii) Source waters must be analyzed for organisms greater than or 
equal to 50 micrometers and organisms less than 50 micrometers and 
greater than or equal to 10 micrometers. To simplify the testing 
program, these source water samples need only be collected and properly 
preserved and transported for counting by trained microscopists in land-
based laboratories. The reported data by taxa (to the lowest reasonably 
identifiable taxonomic grouping) will be used to characterize the source 
water biological test conditions.
    (iii) The BWMS must operate successfully as designed, maintaining 
control of all set points and treatment processes, including any pre-
discharge conditioning to remove or neutralize residual treatment 
chemicals or by-products.
    (iv) All design or required water quality parameters must be met for 
the discharged water.
    (v) Whole effluent toxicity testing must be conducted in accordance 
with the December 2008 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Vessel 
General Permit (VGP) requirements (VGP Section 5.8; available at http://
www.epa.gov/npdes/pubs/vessel_vgp_permit.pdf).

[[Page 352]]

    (5) The source water for all test cycles must be characterized by 
measurement of water quality parameters as follows:
    (i) For all BWMS tests, salinity, temperature, and turbidity must be 
measured either continuously during or at the beginning, middle, and end 
of the period of ballast water uptake, as appropriate and practicable 
for the parameters to be measured.
    (ii) Water quality parameters (e.g., dissolved and particulate 
organic material, pH, etc.) that may affect the efficacy of BWMS that 
make use of active substances or other processes, or water quality 
parameters identified by the manufacturer and/or the independent 
laboratory as being critical, must be measured either continuously 
during or at the beginning, middle, and end of the period of ballast 
water uptake, as appropriate and practicable for the parameters to be 
measured.
    (h) Samples of ballast water must be collected from in-line sampling 
ports in accordance with the sampling specifications in the ETV 
Protocol.
    (i) The following information must be documented during the entire 
period of BWMS testing operations conducted on the vessel:
    (1) All ballast water operations, including volumes and locations of 
uptake and discharge.
    (2) All test cycles, even those in which the BWMS failed to meet the 
BWDS, must be documented. The possible reasons for an unsuccessful test 
cycle must be investigated and included in the Test Report.
    (3) All weather conditions and resultant effects on vessel 
orientation and vibration.
    (4) Scheduled maintenance performed on the BWMS.
    (5) Unscheduled maintenance and repair performed on the BWMS.
    (6) Data for all engineering parameters monitored as appropriate to 
the specific BWMS.
    (7) Consumption of all solutions, preparations, or other consumables 
necessary for the effective operation of the BWMS.
    (8) All parameters necessary for tracking the functioning of the 
control and monitoring equipment.
    (9) All instrument calibration methods and frequency of calibration.
    (j) All measurements for numbers and viability of organisms, water 
quality parameters, engineering performance parameters, and 
environmental conditions must be conducted in accordance with the ETV 
Protocol. Where alternative methods are necessary, given constraints of 
the BWMS and/or the vessel, standard methods from recognized bodies such 
as EPA (in 40 CFR part 136), the International Standards Organization, 
or others accepted by the scientific community must be used, and must be 
accepted in advance by the Coast Guard.
    (k) Test vessels discharging treated ballast water into the waters 
of the United States must be enrolled in the U.S. Coast Guard's 
Shipboard Technology Evaluation Program. Test vessels discharging 
treated ballast water into waters of other countries must secure all 
necessary approvals and permits required for discharges of treated 
ballast water.



Sec.  162.060-30  Testing requirements for ballast water management
system (BWMS) components.

    (a) The electrical and electronic components, including each alarm 
and control and monitoring device of the BWMS, must be subjected to the 
following environmental tests when in the standard production 
configuration:
    (1) A resonance search vertically up and down, horizontally from 
side to side, and horizontally from end to end, at a rate sufficiently 
low as to permit resonance detection made over the following ranges of 
oscillation frequency and amplitude:
    (i) At 2 to 13.3 Hz with a vibration amplitude of 1 mm.
    (ii) At 13.2 to 80 Hz with an acceleration amplitude of 0.7 g.
    (2) The components must be vibrated in the planes specified in 
paragraph (a)(1) of this section at each major resonant frequency for a 
period of 4 hours.
    (3) In the absence of any resonant frequency, the components must be 
vibrated in each of the planes specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this 
section at 30 Hz with an acceleration of 0.7 g for 
a period of 4 hours.

[[Page 353]]

    (4) Components that may be installed in exposed areas on the open 
deck or in enclosed spaces not environmentally controlled must be 
subjected to a low temperature test of -25 [deg]C and a high temperature 
test of 55 [deg]C for a period of 2 hours at each temperature. At the 
end of each test, the components are to be switched on and must function 
normally under the test conditions.
    (5) Components that may be installed in enclosed spaces that are 
environmentally controlled, including an engine room, must be subjected 
to a low temperature test at 0 [deg]C and a high temperature test at 55 
[deg]C, for a period of 2 hours at each temperature. At the end of each 
test, the components are to be switched on and must function normally 
under the test conditions.
    (6) Components must be switched off for a period of 2 hours at a 
temperature of 55 [deg]C in an atmosphere with a relative humidity of 90 
percent. At the end of this period, the components must be switched on 
and must operate satisfactorily for 1 hour under the test conditions.
    (7) Components that may be installed in exposed areas on the open 
deck must be subjected to tests for protection against heavy seas in 
accordance with IP 56 of publication IEC 60529 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  162.060-5) or its equivalent.
    (8) Components must operate satisfactorily with a voltage variation 
of 10 percent together with a simultaneous 
frequency variation of 5 percent, and a transient 
voltage of 20 percent together with a simultaneous 
transient frequency of 10 percent and transient 
recovery time of 3 seconds.
    (9) The components of a BWMS must be designed to operate when the 
vessel is upright and inclined at any angle of list up to and including 
15[deg] either way under static conditions and 22.5[deg] under dynamic, 
rolling conditions either way and simultaneously inclined dynamically 
(pitching) 7.5[deg] by bow or stern. Deviation from these angles may be 
permitted only upon approval of a written waiver submitted to the Coast 
Guard in accordance with Sec.  162.060-10(b)(1) of this subpart, taking 
into consideration the type, size, and service conditions and locations 
of the vessels and operational functioning of the equipment for where 
the system will be used. Any deviation permitted must be documented in 
the type-approval certificate.
    (10) The same component(s) must be used for each test required by 
this section and testing must be conducted in the order in which the 
tests are described, unless otherwise authorized by the Coast Guard.
    (b) There must be no cracking, softening, deterioration, 
displacement, breakage, leakage, or damage of components or materials 
that affect the operation or safety of the BWMS after each test. The 
components must remain operable after all tests.



Sec.  162.060-32  Testing and evaluation requirements for active 
substances, preparations, and relevant chemicals.

    (a) A ballast water management system (BWMS) may not use an active 
substance or preparation that is a pesticide unless the sale and 
distribution of such pesticide is authorized under the Federal 
Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) for use in ballast 
water treatment prior to submission to the Coast Guard for approval of 
the BWMS. This requirement does not apply to the use of active 
substances or preparations generated solely by the use of a device (as 
defined under FIFRA) onboard the same vessel as the ballast water to be 
treated.
    (b) The manufacturer of a BWMS that uses an active substance or 
preparation that is not a pesticide, or that uses a pesticide that is 
generated solely by the use of a device (as defined under FIFRA) onboard 
the same vessel as the ballast water to be treated, must prepare an 
assessment demonstrating the effectiveness of the BWMS for its intended 
use, appropriate dosages over all applicable temperatures, hazards of 
the BWMS, and means for protection of the environment, and public 
health. This assessment must accompany the application package submitted 
to the Coast Guard.



Sec.  162.060-34  Test Report requirements.

    The Test Report prepared and submitted by an independent laboratory 
must be formatted as set out below.

[[Page 354]]

The Test Report must include, in addition to the information required by 
46 CFR 159.005-11, information as follows:
    (a) Summary statement with the following information:
    (1) Name of the independent laboratory (IL) and all test facilities, 
subcontractors, and test organizations involved in testing the ballast 
water management system (BWMS).
    (2) Name of manufacturer.
    (3) BWMS model name.
    (4) The IL's assessment that the BWMS--
    (i) Has demonstrated, under the procedures and conditions specified 
in this subpart for both land-based and shipboard testing, that it meets 
the ballast water discharge standard requirements of 33 CFR part 151, 
subparts C and D;
    (ii) Is designed and constructed according to the requirements of 
Sec.  162.060-20 of this subpart;
    (iii) Is in compliance with all applicable U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency (EPA) requirements;
    (iv) Operates at the rated capacity, performance, and reliability as 
specified by the manufacturer;
    (v) Contains control and monitoring equipment that operates 
correctly;
    (vi) Was installed in accordance with the technical installation 
specification of the manufacturer for all tests; and
    (vii) Was used to treat volumes and flow rates of ballast water 
during the shipboard tests consistent with the normal ballast operations 
of the vessel.
    (b) Executive summary.
    (c) Introduction and background.
    (d) Description of the BWMS.
    (e) For each test conducted, summary descriptions of--
    (1) Test conditions;
    (2) Experimental design;
    (3) Methods and procedures; and
    (4) Results and discussion.
    (f) Appendices, including--
    (1) Complete Test Plans for land-based, shipboard, and component 
tests, for which an EPA Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) 
Verification Report produced in accordance with the ETV Protocol can 
substitute for the land-based test plan;
    (2) Manufacturer supplied Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Manual 
that meets the requirements of Sec.  162.060-38 of this subpart;
    (3) Data generated during testing and evaluations;
    (4) Quality Assurance and Quality Control records;
    (5) Maintenance logs;
    (6) Relevant records and tests results maintained or created during 
testing;
    (7) Information on hazardous materials, active substances, relevant 
chemicals, and pesticides as detailed in paragraph (g) of this section; 
and
    (8) Permits, registrations, restrictions, and regulatory limitations 
on use.
    (g) The Test Report for a BWMS that may incorporate, use, produce, 
generate as a by-product and/or discharge hazardous materials, active 
substances, relevant chemicals and/or pesticides during its operation 
must include the following information in the appendix of the Test 
Report:
    (1) A list of each active substance or preparation used in the BWMS. 
For each active substance or preparation that is a pesticide and is not 
generated solely by the use of a device onboard the same vessel as the 
ballast water to be treated, the appendix must also include 
documentation that the sale or distribution of the pesticide is 
authorized under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act 
for use for ballast water treatment. For all other active substances or 
preparations, the appendix must include documentation of the assessment 
specified in Sec.  162.060-32(b) of this subpart.
    (2) A list of all hazardous materials, including the applicable 
hazard classes, proper shipping names, reportable quantities as 
designated by 40 CFR 117.1, and chemical names of all components.



Sec.  162.060-36  Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) requirements.

    The approval testing and evaluation process must contain a rigorous 
Quality Assurance and Quality Control program consisting of a QAPP 
developed in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025:2005(E), as amended ISO/IEC 
17025:2005/Cor.1:2006(E) (incorporated by

[[Page 355]]

reference, see Sec.  162.060-5). The independent laboratory performing 
approval tests and evaluations is responsible for ensuring the 
appropriate Quality Assurance and Quality Control procedures are 
implemented.



Sec.  162.060-38  Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Manual (OMSM).

    (a) Each OMSM must include the following sections:
    (1) Table of contents.
    (2) Manufacturer's information.
    (3) Principles of ballast water management system (BWMS) operation, 
including--
    (i) A complete description of the BWMS, methods and type(s) of 
technologies used in each treatment stage of the BWMS;
    (ii) The theory of the BWMS' operation;
    (iii) Any process or technology limitations of the BWMS;
    (iv) Performance ranges and expectations of the system; and
    (v) A description of the locations and conditions for which the BWMS 
is intended.
    (4) Major system components and shipboard application, including--
    (i) A general description of the materials used for construction and 
installation of the BWMS;
    (ii) A list of each major component that may be fitted differently 
in different vessels with a general description of the different 
arrangements schemes;
    (iii) Any vessel type(s), services, or locations where the BWMS is 
not intended to be used;
    (iv) Maximum and minimum flow and volume capacities of the BWMS;
    (v) The dimensions and weight of the complete BWMS and required 
connection and flange sizes for all major components;
    (vi) A description of all actual or potential effects of the BWMS on 
the vessel's ballast water, ballast water tanks, and ballast water 
piping and pumping systems;
    (vii) A list of all active substances, relevant chemicals, and 
pesticides generated or stored onboard the vessel to be used by the 
BWMS; and
    (viii) Information on whether the BWMS is designed to be used in 
hazardous locations.
    (5) System and major system component drawings as applicable, 
including--
    (i) Process flow diagram(s) of the BWMS showing the main treatment 
processes, chemicals, and monitoring and control devices for the BWMS;
    (ii) Footprint(s), drawings, and system schematics showing all major 
components and arrangements;
    (iii) Drawings, containing a bill of materials, for the pumping and 
piping arrangements, and all related equipment provided with the BWMS;
    (iv) All treatment application points, waste or recycling streams, 
and all sampling points integral to the BWMS;
    (v) All locations and the sizes of all piping and utility 
connections for power, water, compressed air or other utilities as 
required by the BWMS;
    (vi) Electrical wiring diagrams that include the location and 
electrical rating of power supply panels and BWMS control and monitoring 
equipment;
    (vii) Unit(s), construction materials, standards, and labels on all 
drawings of equipment, piping, instruments, and appurtenances; and
    (viii) An index of all drawings and diagrams.
    (6) A description of the BWMS's control and monitoring equipment and 
how it will be integrated with the existing shipboard ballast system, 
including--
    (i) Power demand;
    (ii) Main and local control panels;
    (iii) Power distribution system;
    (iv) Power quality equipment;
    (v) Instrumentation and control system architecture;
    (vi) Process control description;
    (vii) Operational set points, control loops, control algorithms, and 
alarm settings for routine maintenance, and emergency operations; and
    (viii) All devices required for measuring appropriate parameters, 
such as pressure, temperature, flow rate, water quality, power, and 
chemical residuals.
    (7) A description of all relevant standard operating procedures 
including, but not limited to--
    (i) BWMS start-up and shutdown procedures and times;

[[Page 356]]

    (ii) Emergency shutdown and system by-pass procedures;
    (iii) Requirements to achieve treatment objectives (e. g., time 
following initial treatment, critical dosages, residual concentrations, 
etc);
    (iv) Operating, safety, and emergency procedures;
    (v) BWMS limitations, precautions, and set points;
    (vi) Detailed instructions on operation, calibration and zeroing of 
each monitoring device used with the BWMS; and
    (vii) Personnel requirements for the BWMS, including number and 
types of personnel needed, labor burden, and operator training or 
specialty certification requirements.
    (8) A description of the preventive and corrective maintenance 
requirements of the BWMS, including--
    (i) Inspection and adjustment procedures;
    (ii) Troubleshooting procedures;
    (iii) An illustrated list of parts and spare parts;
    (iv) A list of recommended spare parts to have during installation 
and operation of the BWMS;
    (v) Use of tools and test equipment in accordance with the 
maintenance procedures; and
    (vi) Point(s) of contact for technical assistance.
    (9) A description of the health and safety risks to the personnel 
associated with the installation, operation, and maintenance of the BWMS 
including, but not limited to--
    (i) The storage, handling, and disposal of any hazardous wastes;
    (ii) Any health and safety certification/training requirements for 
personnel operating the BWMS; and
    (iii) All material safety data sheets for hazardous or relevant 
chemicals used, stored, or generated by or for the system.
    (b) If any information in the OMSM changes as a result of approval 
testing and evaluations, a new OMSM must be submitted.



Sec.  162.060-40  Requirements for Independent Laboratories (ILs).

    (a) For designation by the Coast Guard as an independent laboratory 
for the evaluation, inspection, and testing of BWMS, an independent 
laboratory must demonstrate compliance with 46 CFR 159.010-3, 46 CFR 
159.010-5, and 46 CFR 159.010-11 through 159.010-19.
    (b) Each request for designation as an independent laboratory 
authorized under paragraph (a) of this section must be delivered to the 
Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, 
U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, in a written or electronic format.
    (c) A list of independent laboratories designated by the Coast Guard 
under paragraph (b) of this section may be found at http://
cgmix.uscg.mil/, or may be obtained by contacting the Commandant (CG-
ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard 
Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-
7509.

[USCG-2001-10486, 77 FR 17311, Mar. 23, 2012, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60161, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  162.060-42  Responsibilities for Independent Laboratories (ILs).

    (a) Upon receipt of a request from a manufacturer for approval 
testing of a ballast water management system (BWMS), the independent 
laboratory will conduct a readiness evaluation and determine the 
acceptability of the BWMS for testing.
    (1) The readiness evaluation will examine the design and 
construction of the BWMS to determine whether there are any fundamental 
problems that might constrain the ability of the BWMS to manage ballast 
water as proposed by the manufacturer or to operate it safely onboard 
vessels. This evaluation must determine that the BWMS--
    (i) Is designed and constructed according to the requirements of 
Sec.  162.060-20 of this subpart;
    (ii) Meets all existing safety and environmental regulatory 
requirements for all locations and conditions where the system will be 
operated during the testing and evaluation period; and
    (iii) Meets the definition of a complete BWMS, as defined in this 
subpart,

[[Page 357]]

to include both ballast water treatment equipment and control and 
monitoring equipment. Only complete systems in the configurations in 
which they are intended for sale and use will be accepted for type-
approval testing.
    (2) The independent laboratory has the right to reject a proposed 
BWMS for type-approval testing if it does not satisfy the requirements 
in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, is not deemed ready for approval 
testing or if, for technical or logistical reasons, that independent 
laboratory does not have the capability to accommodate the BWMS for 
testing or evaluation.
    (3) Upon determination that the BWMS is ready for testing, the 
independent laboratory will notify the Commanding Officer (MSC), Attn: 
Marine Safety Center, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7430, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7430, or by email to 
[email protected]''., and provide the estimated date for commencement of 
type-approval testing.
    (b) The independent laboratory must prepare a written Test Plan for 
each approval test to be completed, in accordance with Sec.  162.060-24 
of this subpart.
    (c) Prior to land-based testing, the independent laboratory must 
ensure that the BWMS supplied by the manufacturer is set up in 
accordance with the BWMS' Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Manual 
(OMSM).
    (d) Prior to shipboard testing, the independent laboratory must 
ensure that the BWMS supplied by the manufacturer is installed in a 
vessel in accordance with the OMSM and the vessel's administration's 
requirements and can be tested in accordance with Sec.  162.060-28 of 
this subpart.
    (e) Prior to commencing land-based or shipboard testing required 
under this subpart, the independent laboratory must require the BWMS 
manufacturer to sign a written statement to attest that the system was 
properly assembled and installed at the test facility or onboard the 
test vessel.
    (f) The independent laboratory or its subcontractor(s) must conduct 
all approval testing and evaluations in accordance with testing 
requirements of this subpart and within the range or rated capacity of 
the BWMS.
    (g) Upon completion of all approval tests and evaluations, the 
independent laboratory must follow the requirements of Sec.  162.060-34 
of this subpart and forward a complete Test Report to the Commanding 
Officer (MSC), Attn: Marine Safety Center, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7430, 
2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7430, or by 
email to [email protected].

[USCG-2001-10486, 77 FR 17311, Mar. 23, 2012, as amended by 77 FR 33970, 
June 8, 2012; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60161, Sept. 30, 2013; USCG-2015-
0867, 80 FR 62470, Oct. 16, 2015 ; USCG-2016-0498, 82 FR 35093, July 28, 
2017; USCG-2018-0874, 84 FR 30883, June 28, 2019]



      Subpart 162.161_Fixed Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems

    Source: USCG-2006-24797, 77 FR 33886, June 7, 2012, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  162.161-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart applies to each engineered fixed fire extinguishing 
system using a halocarbon or an inert gas as an agent. It does not apply 
to pre-engineered systems.
    (b) Each system must be designed for protection against fires in 
both Class B flammable liquids and Class C energized electrical 
equipment, as those hazard classes are defined in NFPA 2001 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.161-2).
    (c) Each system must meet the requirements of this subpart, be 
listed or approved by an independent laboratory approved by the Coast 
Guard and listed at http://cgmix.uscg.mil/, bear the mark of the 
laboratory, and be approved by the Coast Guard under 46 CFR 159.005-13.



Sec.  162.161-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that 
specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish a notice of 
change in the Federal Register and the material must be available to the 
public. All approved material is available for inspection at Coast

[[Page 358]]

Guard Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-OES), Attn: Office of 
Operating and Environmental Standards, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. The 
material is also available from the sources indicated in this section, 
and is available from the sources listed below. It is also available for 
inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). 
For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-
741-6030 or go to http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 
4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, telephone + 44 
(0)20 7735 7611, www.imo.org.
    (1) MSC/Circ. 848, Revised Guidelines for The Approval of Equivalent 
Fixed Gas Fire-Extinguishing Systems, as Referred to in SOLAS 74, for 
Machinery Spaces and Cargo Pump-Rooms (June 8, 1998), (``MSC/Circ. 
848''), IBR approved for Sec.  162.161-6.
    (2) MSC.1/Circ. 1267, Amendments to Revised Guidelines for the 
Approval of Equivalent Fixed Gas Fire-Extinguishing Systems, as Referred 
to in SOLAS 74, for Machinery Spaces and Cargo Pump-Rooms (MSC/Circ. 
848) (June 4, 2008), (``MSC.1/Circ. 1267''), IBR approved for Sec.  
162.161-6.
    (c) National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch 
Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, telephone 617-770-3000, http://
www.nfpa.org.
    (1) NFPA 2001, Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems, 
2008 Edition, (``NFPA 2001''), IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  162.161-1 and 
162.161-3.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (d) Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL), 333 Pfingsten Road, 
Northbrook, IL 60062, telephone 847-272-8800, www.ul.com.
    (1) UL 2127, Standard for Safety forInert Gas Clean Agent 
Extinguishing System Units (Revised March 22, 2001), (``UL 2127''), IBR 
approved for Sec. Sec.  162.161-5, 162.161-6 and 162.161-7.
    (2) UL 2166, Standard for Safety for Halocarbon Clean Agent 
Extinguishing System Units (Revised March 22, 2001), (``UL 2166''), IBR 
approved for Sec. Sec.  162.161-5, 162.161-6 and 162.161-7.

[USCG-2006-24797, 77 FR 33886, June 7, 2012, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60161, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  162.161-3  Materials.

    (a) All system components must meet the requirements of NFPA 2001 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.161-2) and be made of metal, 
except for bushings, o-rings, and gaskets. Aluminum or aluminum alloys 
may not be used.
    (b) Metal components must:
    (1) Have a solidus melting point of at least 1700 [deg]F;
    (2) Be corrosion resistant; and
    (3) Be galvanically compatible with each adjoining metal component, 
or if galvanically incompatible, be separated by a bushing, o-ring, 
gasket, or similar device.
    (c) Each extinguishing agent must be:
    (1) Listed as an acceptable total flooding agent for occupied areas 
on the Environmental Protection Agency's Significant New Alternative 
Products (SNAP) list, 40 CFR part 82, subpart G, Appendix A; and
    (2) Identified as an extinguishing agent in NFPA 2001 (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  162.161-2).
    (d) The extinguishing concentration of extinguishing agent required 
for each system must be determined by the cup burner method, described 
in NFPA 2001 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.161-2), for the 
specific fuel requiring the highest extinguishing concentration.
    (e) The design concentration of the agent required for each 
protected space must be calculated using a safety factor of 1.3 times 
the extinguishing concentration. The quantity must be calculated at the 
minimum expected ambient temperature using the design concentration 
based on either:
    (1) Gross volume, including the casing, bilge, and free air 
contained in air receivers; or
    (2) Net volume, calculated as shown in NFPA 2001 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  162.161-2), including the casing, bilge, and free 
air contained in air receivers, if one of the following is 
satisfactorily performed:

[[Page 359]]

    (i) Full discharge test; or
    (ii) Enclosure integrity procedure in accordance with Annex C of 
NFPA 2001; for discharge or enclosure integrity tests, the minimum 
concentration hold time must be 15 minutes, and the extinguishing agent 
concentration at the end of the hold time must be at least 85 percent of 
the design concentration.
    (f) If fuel can drain from the compartment being protected to an 
adjacent compartment or if the compartments are not entirely separate, 
the quantity must be sufficient for both compartments.



Sec.  162.161-4  Construction.

    (a) Each pressure vessel must comply with 46 CFR 147.60(a) and (b).
    (b) Each system must be capable of operation without an external 
power source.
    (c) Manual actuation for the system must be by mechanical or 
pneumatic means.
    (d) Automatically actuated systems must be released by pneumatic or 
fusible element detection systems.
    (e) Each system installed with the extinguishing agent cylinders 
stored inside a protected space of 6,000 cubic feet or less must use 
automatic actuation as the primary means of actuation and have a remote 
backup manual mechanical actuator.
    (f) Each container charged with nitrogen must have a pressure gauge.



Sec.  162.161-5  Instruction manual for design, installation, operation,
and maintenance.

    (a) The manufacturer must prepare a system instruction manual for 
design, installation, operation, and maintenance of the system. The 
manual must be reviewed and accepted by an independent laboratory listed 
in 46 CFR 162.161-10 and approved by the Coast Guard under 46 CFR 
159.005-13.
    (b) The manual must include:
    (1) The design information as required in the Design Manual as 
detailed in UL 2166 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.161-2) for 
halocarbon systems and UL 2127 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
162.161-2) for inert gas systems;
    (2) Installation, operation, and maintenance instructions as 
required in the Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Instruction 
Manual detailed in UL 2166 for halocarbon systems and UL 2127 for inert 
gas systems;
    (3) Identification of the computer program listed or approved by the 
independent laboratory for designing the system;
    (4) A sample diagram and calculation for a marine system for a large 
inspected vessel with several spaces to be protected by the same system;
    (5) The approval number issued by the Coast Guard for the system 
under 46 CFR 159.005-13;
    (6) A parts list with manufacturer's part numbers and a description 
of each system component;
    (7) An index of chapters; and
    (8) Issue and revision dates for each page.
    (c) The manufacturer of each system must provide at least one copy 
of the system manual with each system.



Sec.  162.161-6  Tests for approval.

    Prior to approval by an independent laboratory each system must:
    (a) Satisfy the test method of MSC/Circ. 848 as amended by MSC.1/
Circ. 1267 (both incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.161-2), except 
that:
    (1) The Fire Type A (Tell tale) test must be conducted when the 
charged system cylinders have been conditioned for 24 hours at 32 [deg]F 
or at the expected service temperature, if lower than 32 [deg]F.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (b) Satisfy the following test requirements as indicated in UL 2166 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.161-2) for halocarbon systems 
or UL 2127 for inert gas systems (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
162.161-2):
    (1) Nozzle distribution;
    (2) Flow calculation method verification to determine that the 
manufacturer's calculation method accurately predicts the discharge 
time, nozzle pressure, and distribution of the extinguishing agent;
    (3) Salt spray corrosion resistance for marine-type systems;
    (4) Vibration resistance of installed components for marine-type 
systems; and
    (5) Any additional tests contained in UL 2166 for halocarbon systems 
or UL

[[Page 360]]

2127 for inert gas systems, as required for listing by the independent 
laboratory.
    (c) Equivalent length of installed components must be identified and 
included in the test report in accordance with UL 2166 (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  162.161-2) for halocarbon systems or UL 2127 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.161-2) for inert gas systems.



Sec.  162.161-7  Inspections at production.

    (a) The system must be inspected in accordance with this section and 
46 CFR 159.007-1 through 159.007-13, and tested using any additional 
tests that the Commandant (CG-5214) may deem necessary to maintain 
control of quality and to ensure compliance with this subpart.
    (b) The manufacturer must:
    (1) Institute procedures to maintain control over the materials 
used, over the manufacturing of the systems, and over the finished 
systems;
    (2) Admit the independent laboratory inspector and any 
representative of the Coast Guard to any place where work is being done 
on systems and any place where parts or complete systems are stored;
    (3) Allow the independent laboratory inspector and any 
representative of the Coast Guard to take samples of systems for tests 
prescribed by this subpart; and
    (4) Conduct a leakage test on each system cylinder-valve assembly in 
accordance with subsections 57.1 through 57.4.2 of UL 2166 (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  162.161-2) for halocarbon systems or subsection 
55.4 of UL 2127 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.161-2) for 
inert gas systems.



Sec.  162.161-8  Marking.

    The following information must be displayed on a permanent metal or 
pressure-sensitive nameplate attached to each agent storage cylinder/
valve assembly:
    (a) Manufacturer's name, address, and telephone number;
    (b) Coast Guard approval number assigned to the system under 46 CFR 
159.005-13;
    (c) Identifying mark of the laboratory;
    (d) Reference to the laboratory's listing standard;
    (e) Type of extinguishing agent;
    (f) Operating pressure at 70 [deg]Fahrenheit;
    (g) Storage temperature range;
    (h) Factory test pressure of the cylinder;
    (i) Reference to the manufacturer's marine design, installation, 
operation, and maintenance manual;
    (j) Weight of agent charge and gross weight of cylinder/valve 
assembly;
    (k) Minimum maintenance instructions; and
    (l) Any other information required by the laboratory or another 
government agency.



Sec.  162.161-9  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Preapproval review is required as detailed in 46 CFR 159.005-5 
and 159.005-7.
    (b) Applications for approval must be submitted in accordance with 
46 CFR 159.005-9 through 159.005-12 to the Commandant (CG-5214). In 
addition to the listed requirements:
    (1) Evidence must be shown that an acceptable follow-up factory 
inspection program is in place in each factory location. This could be 
demonstrated by providing an original copy of the contract for a follow-
up program between the manufacturer and the independent laboratory. The 
follow-up program must include provisions that prohibit changes to the 
approved equipment without review and approval by the independent 
laboratory.
    (2) Two design, installation, operation and maintenance manuals must 
be submitted.



                Subpart 162.163_Portable Foam Applicators

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48279, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  162.163-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of portable foam 
applicators, each consisting of a portable foam nozzle, eductor, pick-up 
tube, and a portable supply of foam concentrate, in ro-ro spaces and 
certain machinery

[[Page 361]]

spaces, as required by the International Convention for the Safety of 
Life at Sea (SOLAS).



Sec.  162.163-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that 
specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish a notice of 
change in the Federal Register and the material must be available to the 
public. All approved material is available for inspection at the U.S. 
Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, 
and is available from the sources listed below. It is also available for 
inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). 
For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-
741-6030 or go to http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
    (b) UL (formerly Underwriters Laboratories), 12 Laboratory Drive, 
P.O. Box 13995, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, 919-549-1400, http://
www.ul.com.
    (1) UL 162, Standard for Safety for Foam Equipment and Liquid 
Concentrates, Seventh Edition, dated March 30, 1994, as amended through 
October 10, 2014, IBR approved for Sec. Sec.  162.163-3(d) through (f), 
and 162.163-4(a) and (c).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  162.163-3  Performance, design, construction, testing, and marking
requirements.

    (a) The portable foam applicator must produce foam suitable for 
extinguishing an oil fire at a minimum foam solution rate of 200 l/min 
(53 gpm).
    (b) The portable foam applicator must have a portable tank 
containing 20 liters or more of foam concentrate, along with one 20-
liter spare tank. Five gallon (19 liter) foam concentrate pails are an 
acceptable substitute for the 20-liter tanks.
    (c) Requirements for carriage of portable foam applicators may be 
met by the carriage of either:
    (1) Portable foam applicators in accordance with this subpart, with 
either integral or separate eductors of fixed percentage and foam 
concentrate designed, constructed, tested, marked, and approved in 
accordance with the provisions of this section; or
    (2) Components and foam concentrate from deck and heli-deck foam 
systems approved under approval series 162.033 of this part. Suitable 
components include mechanical foam nozzles with pick-up tubes, and 
mechanical foam nozzles with separate inline eductors, along with the 
corresponding foam concentrate.
    (d) Each portable foam applicator to be approved under the 
provisions of this subpart must be of brass or bronze, except for 
hardware and other incidental parts which may be of rubber, plastic, or 
stainless steel and, in combination with a foam concentrate, must be 
designed, constructed, tested, and marked in accordance with the 
requirements of UL 162 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  162.163-1).
    (e) All inspections and tests required by UL 162 must be performed 
by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under subpart 
159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories accepted by 
the Coast Guard as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter may be 
obtained by contacting the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) or at http://
cgmix.uscg.mil/eqlabs/.
    (f) The independent laboratory must prepare a report on the results 
of the testing and must furnish the manufacturer with a copy of the test 
report upon completion of the testing required by UL 162.



Sec.  162.163-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Portable foam applicators designed, constructed, tested, and 
marked in accordance with UL 162 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  
162.163-1) are eligible for approval under the provisions of this 
chapter.
    (b) A follow-up program must be established and maintained to ensure 
that no unauthorized changes have been made to the design or manufacture 
of type approved portable foam applicators. Acceptable follow-up 
programs include factory inspection programs administered by the 
accepted

[[Page 362]]

independent laboratory that performed the initial inspections and tests 
relied on by the type approval holder, or special configuration control 
programs implemented through a quality control flow chart and core 
procedures administered by the manufacturer and certified by an 
international standards agency such as the International Organization 
for Standardization (ISO).
    (c) Applicants seeking type approval of portable foam applicators 
must submit:
    (1) A cover letter requesting type approval of the equipment;
    (2) A test report from the accepted independent laboratory showing 
compliance of the portable foam applicator with UL 162;
    (3) A copy of the contract for a follow-up program with the accepted 
independent laboratory; and
    (4) Documentation of the portable foam applicator, including an 
exterior drawing, assembly drawing, components list, and bill of 
material.
    (d) All documentation must either be mailed to Commandant (CG-ENG-
4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., 
Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509 or electronically submitted to 
[email protected].
    (e) Upon evaluation of the submittal package and approval by the 
Commandant, a Coast Guard Certificate of Approval will be issued valid 
for 5 years so long as the follow-up program for the portable foam 
applicators is maintained.
    (f) Upon application, a Certificate of Approval for a portable foam 
applicator may be renewed for successive 5-year periods without further 
testing so long as no changes have been made to the products, the 
follow-up program has been maintained, and no substitutions of or 
changes to the standards listed in Sec.  162.027-2 have been made.



PART 163_CONSTRUCTION--Table of Contents



Subpart 163.001 [Reserved]

                       Subpart 163.002_Pilot Hoist

Sec.
163.002-1 Scope.
163.002-3 Applicable technical regulations.
163.002-5 Definitions.
163.002-7 Independent laboratory.
163.002-9 Approval procedure.
163.002-11 Materials.
163.002-13 Construction.
163.002-15 Performance.
163.002-17 Instructions and marking.
163.002-21 Approval tests.
163.002-25 Marking.
163.002-27 Production tests and examination.

                      Subpart 163.003_Pilot Ladder

163.003-1 Scope.
163.003-3 ASTM standard.
163.003-7 Independent laboratory.
163.003-9 Approval procedure.
163.003-11 Materials.
163.003-13 Construction.
163.003-15 Performance.
163.003-17 Strength.
163.003-21 Approval tests.
163.003-25 Marking.
163.003-27 Production tests and examination.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3703; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 
1980 Comp., p. 277; DHS Delegation No. 00170.1, Revision No. 01.3.

    Source: CGFR 50-30, 16 FR 1086, Feb. 6, 1951, unless otherwise 
noted.

Subpart 163.001 [Reserved]



                       Subpart 163.002_Pilot Hoist

    Source: CGD 74-140, 46 FR 63287, Dec. 31, 1981, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  163.002-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart contains standards and approval and production 
tests for pilot hoists used on merchant vessels.
    (b) The requirements in this subpart apply to a pilot hoist designed 
for use along a vertical portion of a vessel's hull.



Sec.  163.002-3  Applicable technical regulations.

    (a) This subpart makes reference to the following Coast Guard 
regulations in this chapter:
    (1) Subpart 58.30 (Fluid Power and Control Systems).
    (2) Section 94.33-10 (Description of Fleet Angle).
    (3) Part 111 (Electrical System, General Requirements).
    (4) Subpart 163.003 (Pilot Ladder).
    (b) [Reserved]

[[Page 363]]



Sec.  163.002-5  Definitions.

    (a) Maximum persons capacity means--
    (1) If the hoist has a rigid ladder, one person; or
    (2) If the hoist has a platform, one person per square meter (10.75 
sq. ft.) or fraction thereof of platform area (including hatch area);
    (b) Working load means the sum of the weights of--
    (1) The rigid ladder or lift platform, the suspension cables (if 
any) and the pilot ladder on a pilot hoist; and
    (2) 150 kilograms (330 pounds) times the maximum persons capacity of 
the hoist;
    (c) Lift height means the distance from the lowest step of the pilot 
ladder on a pilot hoist to the deck of a vessel on which the hoist is 
designed for installation when--
    (1) The suspension cables of the hoist are run out until only three 
turns of cable remain on each drum; or
    (2) If the hoist does not have suspension cables, the ladder or lift 
platform is in its lowest position.



Sec.  163.002-7  Independent laboratory.

    (a) The approval and production tests in this subpart must be 
conducted by, or under the supervision of, an independent laboratory 
accepted by the Coast Guard under subpart 159.010 of this chapter.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  163.002-9  Approval procedure.

    (a) General. A pilot hoist is approved by the Coast Guard under the 
procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) Approval testing. Each approval test must be conducted in 
accordance with Sec.  163.002-21.
    (c) Approval of alternative designs. A pilot hoist that does not 
meet the materials, construction, or performance requirements of this 
subpart may be approved if the application and any approval tests 
prescribed by the Commandant in place of or in addition to the approval 
tests required by this subpart, show that the alternative materials, 
construction, or performance is at least as effective as that specified 
by the requirements of this subpart.



Sec.  163.002-11  Materials.

    (a) Gears. Each gear in a pilot hoist must be made of machine cut 
steel or machine cut bronze, or must be of a design of equivalent 
strength, durability, reliability and accuracy.
    (b) Suspension cables. Each suspension cable on a pilot hoist must 
be a corrosion-resistant wire rope other than galvanized wire rope.
    (c) Corrosion-resistant materials. Materials of a pilot hoist that 
are not in watertight enclosures must be--
    (1) Corrosion-resistant or must be treated to be corrosion-
resistant; and
    (2) Galvanically compatible with each other adjoining material.
    (d) Aluminum alloys. Any aluminum alloy which is not resistant to 
stress corrosion in marine atmospheres (i.e., contains more than 0.6 
percent copper), must not be used in a structural component or in any 
other hoist component subject to stress.



Sec.  163.002-13  Construction.

    (a) General. Each hoist must have a rigid ladder or a lift platform 
on which a person being raised or lowered may stand.
    (b) Spreader. Each hoist must have a spreader or other device to 
prevent twisting of its ladder or lift platform. If a spreader is 
provided, it must be at least 1800 millimeters (5 feet, 10 inches) long.
    (c) Rollers. The rigid ladder or lift platform on a pilot hoist and 
the ends of its spreader (if a spreader is provided) must have rollers 
at each point of contact with the vessel that allow the ladder or 
platform to move smoothly over the side of the vessel.
    (d) Load carrying parts. Each load carrying part of a pilot hoist 
must be designed to have a minimum breaking strength of at least six 
times the load imposed on the part by the working load during operation 
of the hoist.
    (e) Exposed moving parts. Each exposed moving part of a pilot hoist 
that poses a hazard to personnel must have a screen or guard.
    (f) Nonfunctional sharp edges and projections of excessive length. A 
pilot hoist must not have nonfunctional sharp edges and must not have 
fastening devices or other projections of excessive length.

[[Page 364]]

    (g) Installation requirements. Each pilot hoist must be designed to 
allow--
    (1) Its installation along the edge of a deck at a vertical portion 
of the hull;
    (2) Its installation on the deck in a manner that does not require 
use of the vessel's side rails for support; and
    (3) Unobstructed passage between the ladder or lift platform of the 
hoist and the deck of a vessel.
    (h) Deck interlock for portable hoist. A pilot hoist, if portable, 
must have a deck interlock that prevents movement of the ladder or lift 
platform when the hoist is not installed.
    (i) Power source. Each hoist must be designed to operate on 
electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic power or a combination of these.
    (j) Electrical equipment. Electrical equipment of a pilot hoist must 
meet the electrical engineering regulations in part 111 of this chapter. 
The operating voltage of electrical equipment on the ladder or lift 
platform of a pilot hoist must not exceed 25 volts.
    (k) Pneumatic and hydraulic equipment. Pneumatic and hydraulic 
equipment of a pilot hoist must comply with the marine engineering 
regulations of subpart 58.30 of this chapter. Each pneumatically powered 
hoist must have a water trap, air filter, air regulator, pressure gauge, 
and oil lubricator in the air line between the vessel's compressed air 
source and the pneumatic motor.
    (l) Hoist control lever. Each pilot hoist must have a control lever 
for raising and lowering its ladder or lift platform. Movement of the 
lever upward or toward the operator must result in upward movement of 
the ladder or lift platform. Movement of the control in the opposite 
direction must result in downward movement of the ladder or lift 
platform. The control must be designed so that when released by the 
operator the ladder or lift platform stops immediately.
    (m) Emergency disconnect device. Each pilot hoist must have a switch 
or valve for disconnecting the main power source in an emergency.
    (n) Power indicator. Each pilot hoist must have an indicator to show 
the operator when power is being supplied to the hoist.
    (o) Arrangement of controls and power indicator. The hoist control 
lever, the emergency disconnect device, and the power indicator on a 
pilot hoist must be arranged so that the hoist operator, when standing, 
can view all movement of the ladder or lift platform while using this 
equipment.
    (p) Hand-operated device and interlock. Each pilot hoist must have a 
hand-operated device for raising and lowering its ladder or lift 
platform. The device must be operable from a standing position. The 
hoist must have an interlock that prevents simultaneous operation of its 
hand-operated device and its power source. Any removable hand gear, 
crank, or wheel of the hand-operated device must be securely stowed on 
the hoist.
    (q) Upper position step. Unless a hoist has a pneumatic motor that 
stalls at the end of cable travel without jarring, jerking, or damaging 
the hoist, it must have one or more limit switches or valves that stop 
the ladder or lift platform at its upper end of travel without jarring, 
jerking, or damaging the hoist.
    (r) Means of lubrication. Each hoist must have a means to lubricate 
its bearings. Sliding-contact gearing, such as worm gears, must operate 
in an oil bath, or have another means of lubricating the gear teeth on 
each revolution. Each lubricant enclosure must be designed so that it 
can be readily filled, drained, and checked for lubricant level.
    (s) Machinery housing. Each machinery housing on a pilot hoist 
except gear boxes and other enclosures that retain lubricants, must have 
means that permit examination of all internal moving parts using common 
tools or without tools. Each machinery housing, except gear boxes and 
other enclosures that retain lubricants, must be designed to prevent 
moisture accumulation.
    (t) Suspension cable. If a hoist has suspension cables, at least 2 
cables must be provided and they must be arranged so that the ladder or 
lift platform remains level and stationary if one of the cables breaks. 
Each cable must be arranged to lead fair in a 15 degree vessel list 
toward the side of the vessel on which the hoist is installed. The 
devices for attaching the cables to their

[[Page 365]]

winch drums must be capable of supporting 2.2 times the working load 
with the cables run all the way out.
    (u) Sheaves and drums. Each sheave and each winch drum for a 
suspension cable on a pilot hoist must be of a size recommended by the 
cable supplier for the diameter and construction of the cable. Each 
sheave must have a device that prevents the cable from jumping out of 
the sheave groove. Each drum must be designed to accept one level wind 
of wrap. The fleet angle of a grooved drum must not exceed 8 degrees, 
and the fleet angle of a non-grooved drum must not exceed 4 degrees.

    Note: The term fleet angle is defined in Sec.  94.33-10 of this 
chapter.

    (v) Rigid ladder. A rigid ladder on a pilot hoist must have 
thermally insulated handholds and a padded backrest so that the person 
being raised or lowered may firmly brace himself or herself between the 
ladder and the backrest. The ladder must be at least 2.5 m (100 in.) 
long from the bottom rung to the top of the handholds.
    (w) Ladder rungs. Each rigid ladder must have at least six rungs, 
each with a non-skid surface that does not retain water. Adhesive non-
skid sheets may not be used. (For example, a suitable surface for a 
wooden rung is one that has grooves at least 3 mm (\1/8\ in.) deep cut 
in a diamond pattern so that water runs off the edge of the step. Non-
skid grit is applied directly to the step surface.) The stepping surface 
of each rung must be not less than 115 mm (4\1/2\ in.) wide and not less 
than 400 mm (16 in.) long. The distance from the top of one rung to the 
top of the next must be uniform, between 300 mm (12 in.) and 350 mm 
(13\3/4\ in.).
    (x) Platform railing. A lift platform on a pilot hoist must be 
enclosed by a guardrail that has a diameter of between 30 millimeters 
(1\1/4\ inches) and 75 millimeters (3 inches). The center of the 
guardrail must be at least 900 millimeters (3 feet) above the platform. 
At least one intermediate rail must be provided between the guardrail 
and the platform. Each rail must be set back from the edge of the 
platform at least 50 millimeters (2 inches). Each gate in the rails must 
have a latch that can keep the gate securely closed.
    (y) Platform floor. The platform floor of a pilot hoist must have a 
non-skid surface and must be at least 750 millimeters (30 inches) by 750 
millimeters, exclusive of the surface area of any hatch. Each hatch in 
the platform floor must be at least 750 millimeters (30 inches) by 750 
millimeters. Each hatch must have a means to keep it securely positioned 
both when opened and closed.
    (z) Pilot ladder fittings. The bottom of the rigid ladder or lift 
platform on a pilot hoist must have fittings to attach a pilot ladder of 
the type that meets the requirements of subpart 163.003 of this chapter. 
The fittings must be arranged so that--
    (1) The distance between the top of the highest step on the pilot 
ladder and the surface of the lift platform or top of the bottom rung on 
the rigid ladder is between 300 and 350 millimeters (12 and 13\3/4\ 
inches);
    (2) The steps of the pilot ladder are directly below and in line 
with the steps of the rigid ladder or edge of the lift platform; and
    (3) The pilot ladder can bear on the side of the vessel when in use.
    (aa) Emergency stop switch. Each pilot hoist must have an emergency 
stop switch that can be operated by a person on the ladder or lift 
platform.
    (bb) Fasteners. Each fastening device securing a part of a pilot 
hoist must have a means to prevent the device from loosening.
    (cc) Gears. Each gear must be keyed to its shaft.
    (dd) Welding. Each weld must be made using automatic welding 
equipment or be made by a welder who is qualified by the U.S. Coast 
Guard, U.S. Navy, American Bureau of Shipping, American Welding Society, 
American Society of Mechanical Engineers, or other organization that has 
similar procedures for welder qualifications that are acceptable to the 
Commandant.

[CGD 74-140, 46 FR 63287, Dec. 31, 1981, as amended by USCG-2014-0688, 
79 FR 58286, Sept. 29, 2014]

[[Page 366]]



Sec.  163.002-15  Performance.

    (a) Each pilot hoist must have sufficient performance capability to 
pass the approval tests in Sec.  163.002-21.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  163.002-17  Instructions and marking.

    (a) Instruction plates or placards. Each pilot hoist must have 
instructions that show its method of operation and lubrication of its 
working parts. The instructions must be on one or more corrosion-
resistant plates, or must be weatherproof placards. The instructions 
must be attached to the hoist. Each instruction must be in English or 
must have understandable symbols or pictograms. The operator of the 
hoist must be able to see and read the operating instructions when 
operating the hoist control lever. The lubricating instructions must 
state the recommended lubricants for the temperature range in which the 
hoist is designed to operate. The temperature range must be stated in 
both degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit.
    (b) Marking of controls. Each control on a pilot hoist and each 
position of the control must be identified by a marking on the hoist.
    (c) Marking of gauges. Each gauge on a pilot hoist must be marked 
with its normal operating range.
    (d) Manual. Each pilot hoist must have a manual of installation 
instructions, operating instructions, maintenance and repair 
instructions, a lubrication chart, a parts list, a list of sources of 
repair parts, and a log for keeping maintenance records. Each manual 
must be in English.



Sec.  163.002-21  Approval tests.

    (a) General. If a pilot hoist fails one of the tests in this section 
the cause of the failure must be identified and any needed design 
changes made. After a test failure and any design change, the failed 
test, and any other previously completed tests affected by the change, 
must be rerun.
    (b) Visual examination. Before starting the tests described in this 
section an assembled pilot hoist is examined for evidence of 
noncompliance with the requirements in Sec. Sec.  163.002-11 and 
163.002-13.
    (c) The following approval tests must be conducted:
    (1) Rung strength. If the pilot hoist has a rigid ladder a static 
load of 900 kilograms (2000 pounds) is applied to the center of a ladder 
rung for one minute. The load must be uniformly distributed over a 100 
millimeter (4 inch) wide contact surface. The test must be repeated 
using a second ladder rung. The rungs must not break or crack during 
these tests.
    (2) Platform strength. If the pilot hoist has a lift platform, the 
platform is lifted to a level where it is supported only by its 
suspension components. A static load of 900 kilograms (2000 pounds) is 
then applied to the center of the platform for one minute. The load must 
be uniformly distributed over a 100 millimeter (4 inch) square contact 
surface. The test must be repeated enough additional times so that the 
load is placed in the center of each hatch cover when in its closed 
position, and in the center of each area of the platform located between 
floor supports. The platform must not break or crack during these tests.
    (3) Deck interlock. If the pilot hoist is portable, it is placed in 
an uninstalled position. Its hoist control lever is then activated. The 
deck interlock must prevent movement of the ladder or lift platform when 
the lever is activated.
    (4) Lifting and lowering speed and level wind. The hoist is 
installed in a level operating position and a weight equal to the weight 
of the pilot ladder plus 150 kg (330 lb.) times the maximum persons 
capacity of the hoist is placed on its ladder or lift platform. The 
ladder or lift platform is repeatedly raised and lowered under power 
operation until a total distance of at least 150 meters (500 feet) has 
been traversed. The ladder or lift platform is raised and lowered each 
time through a distance of at least 5 meters (16 feet). The average 
speed of raising the ladder or lift platform and the average lowering 
speed during this test must both be between 15 and 21 meters per minute 
(50 and 70 feet per minute). During the test, each suspension cable must 
have one level wind of wrap each time it is rewound onto its drum.
    (5) Upper position stop. The hoist is installed in a level operating 
position

[[Page 367]]

and a weight equal to the weight of the pilot ladder plus 150 kg (330 
lb.) times the maximum persons capacity is attached to the hoist. The 
hoist must be able to raise the weight to the upper limit of travel of 
the ladder or lift platform and must be able to stop at the upper limit 
without jarring, jerking, or damage. The test is repeated with no weight 
on the ladder or lift platform.
    (6) Cable securing device. If the hoist has suspension cables, it is 
installed in a level operating position and the cables are run all the 
way out. A weight equal to 2.2 times the working load is then attached 
to the cables. The cables must remain securely attached to the drums for 
at least one minute after the weight has been attached.
    (7) Controls and power indicator. The hoist is installed in a level 
operating position and a weight equal to the working load is attached to 
the hoist. The hoist control lever is then operated with the power both 
on and off. The lever, when operated, must meet the requirements in 
Sec.  163.002-13(l). The power indicator must meet the requirements in 
Sec.  163.002-13(n) during the test. When the power is turned off, the 
ladder or lift platform must stop immediately and remain stationary 
until power is turned on. The emergency stop switch on the ladder or 
lift platform is activated at some point when the ladder or lift 
platform is being raised or lowered. Upon activation, the ladder or lift 
platform must stop and remain stationary.
    (8) Hand operation and interlock. The hoist is installed in a level 
operating position and a weight equal to the working load is attached to 
the hoist. The hand operated device is then engaged. One person, when 
using the hand operated device, must be able to raise and lower the 
weight through a distance of at least 5 meters (16 ft.) in each 
direction and must be able to raise and lower it at a speed of at least 
1.5 meters per minute (5 ft. per minute). When raising or lowering the 
hoist with the hand operated device, the power source for the hoist is 
turned on, or an attempt is made to turn it on. Then, with power source 
turned off, the hand operated device is disengaged. The power source is 
then turned on and an attempt made to engage the hand operated device. 
The interlock must prevent simultaneous operation of the power source 
and the hand operated device.
    (9) 2.2x overload. The hoist is installed in a level operating 
position. Each roller on the ladder or lift platform is placed in 
contact with a vertical surface. A weight equal to the difference 
between 2.2 times the working load and the weight of the ladder or lift 
platform is placed on the ladder or lift platform. The ladder or lift 
platform is raised through a distance of at least 5 meters (16 feet) and 
the hoist control lever is then released. The ladder or lift platform 
must stop without jarring or damage and must hold the weight for at 
least one minute. The weight is then lowered through a distance of not 
less than 5 meters (16 feet) and the control lever is then released. The 
ladder or lift platform must stop within 600 millimeters (2 ft.) of 
where the hoist was when the lever was released and the ladder or lift 
platform must remain stationary for at least one minute thereafter. Each 
roller must move smoothly over the vertical surface without jamming or 
sliding during the test.
    (10) 6x overload. The hoist is installed in a level operating 
position. A load of six times the working load is attached to the hoist. 
(If the hoist has suspension cables, the cables must be run out at least 
one meter (3 ft.) before adding the load to the hoist). The weight must 
remain stationary for at least one minute without damage to any part of 
the hoist. The test is repeated simulating a vessel list of 15 degrees 
toward the side on which the hoist is installed.
    (11) Level wind suspension cable. If the hoist has suspension 
cables, it is installed in a level operating position with the cables 
wound onto the drums. A weight equal to the working load is attached to 
the hoist. The cables are run all the way out and then rewound back onto 
the drums at least ten times. Each drum and cable is observed for level 
winding as the cable is wound onto the drum. The test must be repeated 
with a weight equal to the weight of the rigid ladder or lift platform. 
In each test, each cable must always rewind onto the drum in one level 
wind of wrap.

[[Page 368]]

    (12) Rung friction test. One rung of each type used on a rigid 
ladder must be subjected to this test. This test compares the dry and 
wet surface friction characteristics of ladder rungs with those of a 
standard oak step.
    (i) The standard step must have a surface of clean oak that meets 
Sec.  163.003-11(b) of this chapter and that is 115 mm (4\1/2\ in.) wide 
by 400 mm (16 in.) long. The stepping surface must have grooves that are 
3 mm (\1/8\ in.) deep and 3 mm wide. The grooves must run in two 
different directions at right angles to each other, and at 45 degree 
angles with each edge of the stepping surface, so that the grooves form 
a diamond pattern covering the stepping surface. The centers of all 
parallel grooves must be 13 mm (\1/2\ in.) apart.
    (ii) The standard step must be set in a level position. A metal 
block must be placed on one end of the step so that the block is in 
contact with the stepping surface. The metal block must weigh between 
1.5 kg (3.3 lb.) and 3.0 kg (6.6 lb.) and must not be more than 100 mm 
(4 in.) wide by 135 mm (5\3/8\ in.) long. The surface of the block in 
contact with the step must have leather or composition shoe sole 
material attached to it.
    (iii) The end of the step that has the metal block on it must be 
slowly raised until the block starts to slide. The angle of the step in 
this position must be measured and recorded. The step and block must 
then be placed under water and the procedure repeated.
    (iv) The procedure in paragraph (c)(12)(iii) of this section must be 
repeated using a rigid ladder rung in place of the standard step.
    (v) The ladder rung must then be secured in a horizontal position 
with a block resting on its stepping surface. The block must be of a 
size similar to the one used in the previous tests and have the same 
shoe sole surface used in the previous tests. The block must be arranged 
to apply a vertical load of 40 kg (88 lb.) to the rung. The block must 
be then moved back and forth in the same line from one end of the 
stepping surface to the other. This must be done for a total of 1,500 
cycles.
    (vi) The rung must again be tested as described in paragraph 
(c)(12)(iii) of this section, except that the initial position of the 
block must be on a part of the stepping surface that was subjected to 
the 1,500 cycles of rubbing.
    (vii) The angles at which the block starts to slide on a wet and dry 
ladder rung when tested under paragraphs (c)(12)(iv) and (c)(12)(vi) of 
this section must be equal to or greater than the corresponding angles 
measured for the standard step when tested under paragraph (c)(12)(iii) 
of this section.



Sec.  163.002-25  Marking.

    (a) Each pilot hoist manufactured under Coast Guard approval must 
have a corrosion-resistant nameplate. The nameplate must contain the--
    (1) Name of the manufacturer;
    (2) Manufacturer's brand or model designation;
    (3) Working load;
    (4) Lift height;
    (5) Maximum persons capacity;
    (6) Hoist serial number;
    (7) Date of manufacture; and
    (8) Coast Guard approval number.
    (b) The hoist must be permanently and legibly marked with the name 
of the laboratory that conducted the production tests.



Sec.  163.002-27  Production tests and examination.

    Each pilot hoist manufactured under Coast Guard approval must be 
tested as prescribed in Sec.  163.002-21(c)(9) and subpart 159.007 of 
this chapter. The tests must be conducted by an independent laboratory. 
If the hoist fails the tests its defects must be corrected and retested 
until it passes. The laboratory must also conduct the visual examination 
described in Sec.  163.002-21(b). The hoist may not be sold as Coast 
Guard approved unless it passes testing and unless each defect 
discovered in the visual examination is corrected



                      Subpart 163.003_Pilot Ladder

    Source: CGD 74-140, 46 FR 63291, Dec. 31, 1981, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  163.003-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart contains standards and approval and production 
tests for a pilot ladder used on a merchant vessel to embark and 
disembark pilots and

[[Page 369]]

other persons when away from the dock.
    (b) The requirements in this subpart apply to a pilot ladder 
designed for use along a vertical portion of a vessel's hull.



Sec.  163.003-3  ASTM standard.

    The following standard of the American Society for Testing and 
Materials (ASTM) is incorporated by reference into this subpart: ASTM D 
1435-94, Standard Practice for Outdoor Weathering of Plastics. You may 
obtain this standard from the Society at 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West 
Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.

[USCG-1999-5151, 64 FR 67185, Dec. 1, 1999]



Sec.  163.003-7  Independent laboratory.

    The approval and production tests in this subpart must be conducted 
by or under the supervision of an independent laboratory accepted by the 
Coast Guard under subpart 159.010 of this chapter.



Sec.  163.003-9  Approval procedure.

    (a) General. A pilot ladder is approved by the Coast Guard under the 
procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.
    (b) Approval testing. Each approval test must be conducted in 
accordance with Sec.  163.003-21.
    (c) Approval of alternatives. A pilot ladder that does not meet the 
materials, construction, or performance requirements of this subpart may 
be approved if the application and any approval tests prescribed by the 
Commandant in place of or in addition to the approval tests required by 
this subpart, show that the alternative materials, construction, or 
performance is at least as effective as that specified by the 
requirements of this subpart. The Commandant may also prescribe 
different production tests if the tests required by this subpart are not 
appropriate for the alternative ladder configuration.



Sec.  163.003-11  Materials.

    (a) Suspension members. Each suspension member must be mildew-
resistant manila rope or a dacron polyester rope with a polypropylene 
core of a color that contrasts with the dacron. Each suspension member 
must have a breaking strength of not less than 24 kN (5,400 lb.) and a 
nominal circumference of not less than 60 mm (2\1/4\ in.).
    (b) Wooden parts. Each wooden part of a pilot ladder must be 
hardwood that is free from knots and any other defects affecting its 
strength or durability.
    (c) Wood preservative. After each wooden part is formed and 
finished, it must be treated with water-repellant wood preservative that 
is properly applied.
    (d) Molded steps. Each step made of molded construction must be 
rubber or resilient plastic.
    (e) Metal parts. Each metal fastener must be made of a corrosion 
resistant metal. Each other metal part must be made of corrosion-
resistant metal or of steel galvanized by the hot dip process after the 
part is formed.
    (f) Plastics. Each plastic material must be of a type that retains 
at least 30 percent of its original tensile strength and at least 80 
percent of its original impact strength when subjected to the one year 
outdoor weathering test described in ASTM D 1435.



Sec.  163.003-13  Construction.

    (a) General. Each pilot ladder must have two suspension members on 
each side. Each step in the ladder must be supported by each suspension 
member.
    (b) Suspension member. The suspension members of a pilot ladder must 
meet the following requirements:
    (1) Each suspension member must be continuous from the top of the 
ladder to the bottom and must not be painted or otherwise coated or 
covered.
    (2) Except as provided in paragraph (g) of this section--
    (i) The top end of one suspension member on each side of the ladder 
must extend at least 3 m (10 ft.) beyond the top ladder step; and
    (ii) The top ends of the other suspension members must be just above 
the top step and must have an eye splice or thimble large enough to fit 
two passes of a suspension member.
    (3) The top end of each suspension member that does not have an eye 
splice or thimble must be served or treated to prevent fraying.
    (4) Each pair of suspension members must be clamped together both 
above

[[Page 370]]

and below each step. Marline seizing may not be used.
    (5) The clear space between the suspension members on one side of a 
ladder and those on the other side must be at least 400 mm (16 in.), but 
not more than 480 mm (19 in.).
    (6) The suspension members must not have fittings at the bottom of 
the ladder that can be used for attaching additional ladder sections.
    (c) Steps. Pilot ladder steps must meet the following requirements:
    (1) The four lowest steps must be molded steps and the rest of the 
steps must be either wooden or molded steps.
    (2) The top face of each step must have a rectangular surface that 
is at least 115 mm (4\1/2\ in.) wide with a non-skid surface that does 
not retain water. Adhesive non-skid sheets may not be used. (For 
example, a suitable surface for a step is one that has grooves at least 
3 mm (\1/8\ in.) deep cut in a diamond pattern so that water runs off 
the edge of the step. Non-skid grit is applied directly to the step 
surface extending to almost the full width of the step.)
    (3) Each step at its thinnest point must be at least 25 mm (1 in.) 
thick and in determining this thickness, the depth of the grooves in the 
non-skid surface and the diameter of any hole extending from one side of 
the step to the other must not be counted.
    (4) Each step must be at least 480 mm (19 in.) long.
    (5) Each step must be designed so that it can be removed and 
replaced without unstringing the ladder. If special replacement steps 
are made to meet this requirement, the replacement steps must meet the 
requirements of this section.
    (6) If a step has grooves for its suspension members, the grooves 
must be in the sides of the steps.
    (7) The spacing from the top of one step to the top of the next step 
must be uniform and this spacing must be between 300 mm (12 in.) and 350 
mm (13\3/4\ in.).
    (8) Each step must be a bright orange color, except that this color 
is not required for the non-skid surface. If a step is painted, it must 
be painted with a two-part epoxy paint intended for marine use, or a 
paint of equivalent durability.
    (9) The height of each device attached to the step for securing the 
suspension members must not be more than one-half the width of the step 
so that the step is not prevented from rolling if the ladder is caught 
between a pilot boat and the hull of the vessel.
    (10) Each replacement step must be either white or yellow instead of 
the orange color required under paragraph (c)(8) of this section, and 
must have the special marking required in Sec.  163.003-25(b).
    (d) Spreaders. Each pilot ladder with 5 or more steps must have one 
or more spreaders that meet the following requirements:
    (1) Each spreader must be at least 1.8 m (70 in.) long.
    (2) The spreaders must be positioned at intervals of not more than 9 
steps.
    (3) The lowest spreader on a ladder must be on the fifth step from 
the bottom.
    (e) Fasteners. Each fastening device securing a part of a pilot 
ladder must have a means to prevent the device from loosening.
    (f) Workmanship. A pilot ladder must not have splinters, burrs, 
sharp edges, corners, projections, or other defects that could injure a 
person using the ladder.
    (g) Special arrangements for pilot hoists. Each pilot ladder 
produced for use with an approved pilot hoist must have at least 8 
steps. The top ends of its suspension members need not have an eye 
splice or thimble or be arranged as required in paragraph (b) of this 
section if necessary to permit attaching the ladder to fittings of a 
particular pilot hoist. The spreader required in paragraph (d) of this 
section may be omitted from an 8 step ladder for a pilot hoist.

[CGD 74-140, 46 FR 63291, Dec. 31, 1981, as amended by CGD 79-032, 49 FR 
25456, June 21, 1984]



Sec.  163.003-15  Performance.

    (a) Each pilot ladder must be capable of being rolled up for 
storage.
    (b) Each ladder when rolled up must be able to unroll freely and 
hang vertically.

[[Page 371]]

    (c) Each suspension member must be arranged so that, when the ladder 
is in use on a vessel, the suspension member cannot come in contact with 
the vessel's side.
    (d) Each step must be arranged so that it can bear on the side of 
the vessel when the ladder is in use.



Sec.  163.003-17  Strength.

    (a) Each pilot ladder must be designed to pass the approval tests in 
Sec.  163.003-21.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  163.003-21  Approval tests.

    (a) General. Each approval test must be conducted on a ladder of the 
longest length for which approval has been requested. If the ladder 
fails one of the tests, the cause of the failure must be identified and 
any needed design changes made. After a test failure and any design 
change, the failed test, and any other previously completed tests 
affected by the change, must be rerun. Any ladder step that has a 
residual deflection after testing under this section may not be used 
thereafter in any ladder represented as Coast Guard approved.
    (b) Visual examination. Before starting the approval tests, an 
assembled pilot ladder is examined for evidence of noncompliance with 
the requirements in Sec. Sec.  163.003-11, 163.003-13, and 163.003-15.
    (c) The following approval tests must be conducted:
    (1) Step flexibility test. This test is performed on six different 
steps, one of which must be a molded step and one of which must be a 
replacement step if special replacement steps are made by the 
manufacturer. Each step is placed on a pair of supports located at the 
points where the step would ordinarily be attached to the suspension 
members. A static load must be applied uniformly for a period of at 
least one minute over a contact surface that is at the center of the 
step and is approximately 100 mm (4 in.) wide. The load must be 150 kg 
(330 lb.) for each molded step that is used only as one of the four 
bottom steps in the ladder. The load must be 320 kg (700 lb.) for each 
other step. The deflection of the step is measured while the step is 
under load and after the load is removed. The step must not deflect more 
than 20 mm (\3/4\ in.) under the load, and there must be no residual 
deflection after the load is removed.
    (2) Strength test 1. An assembled ladder is supported so that a 
static load, if placed on any of its steps, would exert a force on both 
the step and each suspension member. A static load of 900 kg (2,000 lb.) 
is then placed on one step for at least one minute. The load must be 
uniformly distributed over a contact surface that is approximately 100 
mm (4 in.) wide. The center of the contact surface must be at the center 
of the step. This test is performed on six different steps, one of which 
must be a molded step. None of the steps may break or crack. No 
attachment between any step and a suspension member may loosen or break 
during this test.
    (3) Strength test 2. An assembled ladder is suspended vertically to 
its full length. A static load of 900 kg (2,000 lb.) is then applied to 
the bottom step of the ladder so that it is distributed equally between 
the suspension members. The suspension members, and inserts must not 
break, incur any elongation or deformation that remains after the test 
load is removed, or be damaged in any other way during this test.
    (4) Strength test 3. A rolled up ladder is attached to anchoring 
fixtures in a location away from any wall or structure that would 
prevent it from falling freely, and where it can hang to its full length 
vertically. The ladder when dropped must unroll freely. When unrolling 
the ladder, its steps and attachments must not become cracked, broken, 
or loosened. Other similar damage making the ladder unsafe to use must 
likewise not occur.
    (5) Step friction test. One step of each type used on a pilot ladder 
must be subjected to this test. This test compares the dry and wet 
surface friction characteristics of ladder steps with those of a 
standard oak step.
    (i) The standard step must have a surface of clean oak that meets S/
163.003-11(b) and that is 115 mm (4\1/2\ in.) wide by 400 mm (16 in.) 
long. The stepping surface must have grooves that are 3 mm (\1/8\ in.) 
deep and 3 mm wide. The grooves must run in two different

[[Page 372]]

directions at right angles to each other, and at 45 degree angles with 
each edge of the stepping surface, so that the grooves form a diamond 
pattern covering the stepping surface. The centers of all parallel 
grooves must be 13 mm (\1/2\ in.) apart.
    (ii) The standard step must be set in a level position. A metal 
block must be placed on one end of the step so that the block is in 
contact with the stepping surface. The metal block must weigh between 
1.5 kg (3.3 lb.) and 3.0 kg (6.6 lb.) and must not be more than 100 mm 
(4 in.) wide by 135 mm (5\3/8\ in.) long. The surface of the block in 
contact with the step must have leather or composition shoe sole 
material attached to it.
    (iii) The end of the step that has the metal block on it must be 
slowly raised until the block starts to slide. The angle of the step in 
this position must be measured and recorded. The step and block must 
then be placed under water and the procedure repeated.
    (iv) The procedure in paragraph (c)(6)(iii) of this section must be 
repeated using a pilot ladder step in place of the standard step.
    (v) The ladder step must then be secured in a horizontal position 
with a block resting on its stepping surface. The block must be of a 
size similar to the one used in the previous tests and have the same 
shoe sole surface used in the previous tests. The block must be arranged 
to apply a vertical load of 40 kg (88 lb.) to the step. The block must 
be then moved back and forth in the same line from one end of the 
stepping surface to the other. This must be done for a total of 1,500 
cycles.
    (vi) The step must again be tested as described in paragraph 
(c)(6)(iii) of this section, except that the initial position of the 
block must be on a part of the stepping surface that was subjected to 
the 1,500 cycles of rubbing.
    (vii) The angles at which the block starts to slide on a wet and dry 
ladder step when tested under paragraphs (c)(6)(iv) and (c)(6)(vi) of 
this section must be equal to or greater than the corresponding angles 
measured for the standard step when tested under paragraph (c)(6)(iii) 
of this section.



Sec.  163.003-25  Marking.

    (a) Each pilot ladder step manufactured under Coast Guard approval 
must be branded or otherwise permanently and legibly marked on the 
bottom with--
    (1) The name of the manufacturer;
    (2) The manufacturer's brand or model designation;
    (3) The lot number or date of manufacture; and
    (4) The Coast Guard approval number.
    (b) In addition to the markings required under paragraph (a) of this 
section each step sold as a replacement step must be branded or 
otherwise permanently and legibly marked with the words ``REPLACEMENT 
STEP ONLY.''

[CGD 74-140, 46 FR 63291, Dec. 31, 1981, as amended by CGD 79-032, 49 FR 
25456, June 21, 1984]



Sec.  163.003-27  Production tests and examination.

    (a) General. Each ladder produced under Coast Guard approval must be 
tested in accordance with this section and subpart 159.007 of this 
chapter. Steps that fail testing may not be marked with the Coast Guard 
approval number and each assembled ladder that fails testing may not be 
sold as Coast Guard approved.
    (b) Test No. 1: Steps. Steps must be separated into lots of 100 
steps or less. Steps of different types must be placed in separate lots. 
One step from each lot must be selected at random and tested as 
described in Sec.  163.003-21(c)(2) except that supports are placed 
under the step at the points where it would be attached to suspension 
members in an assembled ladder. If the step fails the test, ten more 
steps must be selected at random from the lot and tested. If one or more 
of the ten steps fails the test, each step in the lot must be tested. No 
step that has any residual deflection after the test may be used in a 
ladder represented by the manufacturer as Coast Guard approved.
    (c) Test No. 2: Ladders. Assembled ladders must be separated into 
lots of 20 ladders or less. One ladder must be selected at random from 
the ladders in each lot. The ladder selected must be at least 3 m (10 
ft.) long or, if each ladder in the lot is less than 3 m long, a

[[Page 373]]

ladder of the longest length in the lot must be selected. The ladder 
must be tested as prescribed in Sec.  163.003-21(c)(3) except that only 
a 3 m section of the ladder need be subjected to the static load. If the 
ladder fails the test, each other ladder in the lot must be tested.
    (d) Independent laboratory. Each production test must be conducted 
or supervised by an independent laboratory. However, if a test is 
performed more than 4 different times per year, laboratory participation 
is required only 4 times per year. If the laboratory does not 
participate in all tests, the times of laboratory participation must be 
as selected by the laboratory. The times selected must provide for 
effective monitoring throughout the production schedule.
    (e) Visual examination. The visual examination described in Sec.  
163.003-21(b) must be conducted as a part of each production test.

[CGD 74-140, 46 FR 63291, Dec. 31, 1981, as amended by USCG-2014-0688, 
79 FR 58286, Sept. 29, 2014]



PART 164_MATERIALS--Table of Contents



                    Subpart 164.003_Kapok, Processed

Sec.
164.003-1 Applicable specifications.
164.003-2 Grades.
164.003-3 Material and workmanship.
164.003-4 Inspections and tests.
164.003-5 Procedure for approval.

           Subpart 164.006_Deck Coverings for Merchant Vessels

164.006-1 Applicable specifications.
164.006-2 Grades.
164.006-3 Construction, materials, and workmanship.
164.006-4 Inspection and testing.
164.006-5 Procedure for approval.
164.006-6 Alternative materials.

                 Subpart 164.007_Structural Insulations

164.007-1 Applicable specification and referenced material.
164.007-2 Purpose.
164.007-3 Conditions of approval.
164.007-4 Testing procedure.
164.007-5 Test requirements.
164.007-6 Test report.
164.007-7 Analysis of results.
164.007-8 Retests.
164.007-9 Procedure for approval.
164.007-10 Alternative materials.

                     Subpart 164.008_Bulkhead Panels

164.008-1 Applicable specification and reference material.
164.008-2 Conditions of approval.
164.008-3 Testing procedure.
164.008-4 Test requirements.
164.008-5 Test report.
164.008-6 Retests.
164.008-7 Procedure for approval.
164.008-8 Alternative materials.

      Subpart 164.009_Noncombustible Materials for Merchant Vessels

164.009-1 General.
164.009-3 Noncombustible materials not requiring specific approval.
164.009-7 Contents of application.
164.009-9 Procedure for approval.
164.009-11 Furnace apparatus.
164.009-13 Furnace calibration.
164.009-15 Test procedure.
164.009-17 Density measurement.
164.009-19 Measurement of moisture and volatile matter content.
164.009-21 Laboratory report.
164.009-23 Factory inspection.
164.009-25 Marking.
164.009-26 Alternative materials.

         Subpart 164.012_Interior Finishes for Merchant Vessels

164.012-1 Applicable specifications.
164.012-5 Scope.
164.012-10 Requirements.
164.012-11 Marking.
164.012-12 Recognized laboratory.
164.012-13 Examinations, tests, and inspections.
164.012-14 Procedure for listing and labeling.
164.012-15 Termination of listing and labeling.
164.012-16 Alternative materials.

 Subpart 164.013_Foam, Unicellular Polyethylene (Buoyant, Slab, Slitted 
                            Trigonal Pattern)

164.013-1 Scope.
164.013-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.013-3 Material properties and workmanship.
164.013-4 Samples submitted for acceptance.
164.013-5 Acceptance tests.
164.013-6 Production tests, inspections, and marking.
164.013-7 Marking.

  Subpart 164.015_Plastic Foam, Unicellular, Buoyant, Sheet and Molded 
                                  Shape

164.015-1 Applicable specifications and standards.
164.015-2 Types.
164.015-3 Material and workmanship.

[[Page 374]]

164.015-4 Inspections and tests.
164.015-5 Procedure for acceptance.

    Subpart 164.018_Retroreflective Material for Lifesaving Equipment

164.018-1 Scope.
164.018-3 Classification.
164.018-5 Specifications and standards incorporated by reference.
164.018-7 Approval procedures.
164.018-9 Design requirements.
164.018-11 Approval tests.
164.018-13 Production inspections.

          Subpart 164.019_Personal Flotation Device Components

164.019-1 Scope.
164.019-3 Definitions.
164.019-4 Component requirements.
164.019-5 Standard components; acceptance criteria and procedures.
164.019-7 Non-standard components; acceptance criteria and procedures.
164.019-9 Procedure for acceptance of revisions of design, process, or 
          materials.
164.019-11 Certification (affidavits).
164.019-13 Production quality control requirements.
164.019-15 Component manufacturer records.
164.019-17 Recognized laboratory.

          Subpart 164.023_Thread for Personal Flotation Devices

164.023-1 Scope.
164.023-3 Specifications and standards incorporated by reference.
164.023-5 Performance; standard thread.
164.023-7 Performance; non-standard thread.
164.023-9 Samples submitted for acceptance.
164.023-11 Acceptance tests.
164.023-13 Production tests and inspections.
164.023-15 Marking.

        Subpart 164.105_Deck Assemblies (A	60) For SOLAS Vessels

164.105-1 Scope.
164.105-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.105-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.105-4 Approval procedures.

        Subpart 164.106_Primary Deck Coverings for SOLAS Vessels

164.106-1 Scope.
164.106-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.106-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.106-4 Approval procedures.

     Subpart 164.107_Structural Insulation (A	60) for SOLAS Vessels

164.107-1 Scope.
164.107-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.107-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.107-4 Approval procedures.

       Subpart 164.108_Bulkheads (B	0 and B	15) for SOLAS Vessels

164.108-1 Scope.
164.108-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.108-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.108-4 Approval procedures.

            Subpart 164.109_Non-combustible Materials (SOLAS)

164.109-1 Scope.
164.109-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.109-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.109-4 Approval procedures.

       Subpart 164.110_Continuous Ceilings (B	0 and B	15) (SOLAS)

164.110-1 Scope.
164.110-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.110-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.110-4 Approval procedures.

    Subpart 164.111_Draperies, Curtains, and Other Suspended Textiles

164.111-1 Scope.
164.111-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.111-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.111-4 Approval procedures.

Subpart 164.112_Interior Finish (Bulkheads and Ceiling Finishes) (SOLAS)

164.112-1 Scope.
164.112-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.112-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.112-4 Approval procedures.

                  Subpart 164.117_Floor Finish (SOLAS)

164.117-1 Scope.
164.117-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.117-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.117-4 Approval procedures.

  Subpart 164.120_Fire Retardant Resins for Lifeboats and Rescue Boats

164.120-1 Scope.
164.120-3 Definitions.
164.120-5 Incorporation by reference.
164.120-7 Acceptance criteria.
164.120-9 Procedure for acceptance.
164.120-11 Production quality control requirements.

[[Page 375]]

164.120-13 Marking, labeling, and instructions for use.
164.120-15 Procedure for acceptance of material change.

                       Subpart 164.136_Fire Doors

164.136-1 Scope.
164.136-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.136-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.136-4 Approval procedures.

                         Subpart 164.137_Windows

164.137-1 Scope.
164.137-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.137-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.137-4 Approval procedures.

             Subpart 164.138_Fire Stops (Penetration Seals)

164.138-1 Scope.
164.138-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.138-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.138-4 Approval procedures.

                         Subpart 164.139_Dampers

164.139-1 Scope.
164.139-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.139-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.139-4 Approval procedures.

                      Subpart 164.141_Plastic Pipes

164.141-1 Scope.
164.141-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.141-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.141-4 Approval procedures.

                   Subpart 164.142_Bedding Components

164.142-1 Scope.
164.142-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.142-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.142-4 Approval procedures.

                  Subpart 164.144_Upholstered Furniture

164.144-1 Scope.
164.144-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.144-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.144-4 Approval procedures.

            Subpart 164.146_Fire Door Control System (SOLAS)

164.146-1 Scope.
164.146-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.146-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.146-4 Approval procedures.

      Subpart 164.201_Fire-resisting Materials for High-speed Craft

164.201-1 Scope.
164.201-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.201-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.201-4 Approval procedures.

      Subpart 164.207_Fire-resisting Divisions for High-speed Craft

164.207-1 Scope.
164.207-2 Incorporation by reference.
164.207-3 Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.
164.207-4 Approval procedures.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3703, 4302; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 
CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; and Department of Homeland Security Delegation 
No. 0170.1.

    Editorial Note: Nomenclature changes to part 164 appear by USCG-
2012-0832, 77 FR 59787, Oct. 1, 2012.



                    Subpart 164.003_Kapok, Processed

    Source: 11 FR 188, Jan. 3, 1946, unless otherwise noted.



Sec.  164.003-1  Applicable specifications.

    (a) There are no other specifications applicable to this subpart.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.003-2  Grades.

    (a) Processed kapok shall be of but one grade as in this subpart.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.003-3  Material and workmanship.

    (a) The raw kapok fiber shall be long, clean, creamy white in color, 
lustrous, free from discoloration and adulteration with other fiber, and 
of a quality equal to that grown in Java.
    (b) Kapok shall be processed by teasing in a machine using the air-
blow method. Mechanical separation of fiber masses is permitted, but 
machines using violent beating which breaks down the fibers or causes 
undue powdering or pulverizing are not permitted. Provision shall be 
made for trapping seeds and heavy objects in gravity traps and the dust 
or powder in an efficient dust collector.

[[Page 376]]

    (c) Processed kapok shall have a buoyancy in fresh water of at least 
48 pounds per cubic foot when tested in accordance with Sec.  164.003-
4(d). Rejected kapok shall not be used in lifesaving products inspected 
by the Coast Guard.
    (d) The processed kapok shall contain not more than 5 percent by 
weight of sticks, seeds, dirt or other foreign material and shall be 
free from objectionable odor and adulteration with other fibers.

[11 FR 188, Jan. 3, 1946, as amended by USCG-2014-0688, 79 FR 58286, 
Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  164.003-4  Inspections and tests.

    (a) Kapok fibers to be used in a finished product subject to 
inspection by the Coast Guard shall be subject to inspection and tests 
at the plant of the manufacturer of such product, who shall furnish the 
necessary testing tank, test cages, and scales.
    (b) Acceptance of kapok prior to being incorporated into finished 
products, or during the course of manufacture, shall in no case be 
construed as a guarantee of the acceptance of the finished product.
    (c) Not less than a one-pound sample from each 1,000 pounds of kapok 
shall be tested for buoyancy by the inspector. At his discretion, the 
inspector may select additional samples for tests if deemed advisable.
    (d) The buoyancy test shall be made with 16 ounces of processed 
kapok uniformly packed in a rigid wire box or cage with metal reinforced 
edges, and submerged by weights in a tank of fresh water to a depth of 
12 inches below the surface of the water, measurement made to the top of 
box, for 48 hours. The test box shall be cylindrical in shape, and as 
nearly as practicable \1/3\ cubic foot in volume, 4 inches deep, 13.54 
inches diameter, all inside measurements; constructed of about 0.065 
inch galvanized iron wire with about \1/4\ inch mesh, and lined with 
about 0.007 inch copper wire screen about 18 meshes to the inch, to 
prevent the kapok from pushing out through the larger wire meshes. At 
the end of forty-eight hours submergence, the buoyancy shall be 
determined by subtracting the submerged weight of the box, accessory 
weights and kapok from the submerged weight of the box and weights 
without the kapok, and dividing the remainder by the volume of the kapok 
expressed in cubic feet.
    (e) Kapok fiber shall, at the option of the inspector, be subjected 
to a microscopic examination to detect adulteration with other fiber.
    (f) Processed kapok shall, at the option of the inspector, be 
subjected to separation of kapok fibers from foreign matter by hand, the 
portions of each weighed, and percentage of foreign matter computed for 
compliance with Sec.  164.003-3(d).



Sec.  164.003-5  Procedure for approval.

    (a) Processed kapok is not subject to formal approval, but will be 
accepted by the inspector on the basis of this subpart for use in the 
manufacture of lifesaving equipment utilizing it.
    (b) [Reserved]



           Subpart 164.006_Deck Coverings for Merchant Vessels

    Source: CGFR 53-25, 18 FR 7874, Dec. 5, 1953, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.006-1  Applicable specifications.

    (a) There are no other specifications applicable to this subpart.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.006-2  Grades.

    (a) Deck coverings shall be of but one grade as specified in this 
subpart, and shall be known as ``an approved deck covering.''
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.006-3  Construction, materials, and workmanship.

    (a) It is the intent of this specification to obtain a deck covering 
made largely of incombustible materials with low heat transmission 
qualities which will produce a minimum of smoke when exposed to high 
temperatures.
    (b) Deck coverings shall be of such a quality as to successfully 
pass all of the tests set forth in Sec.  164.006-4.



Sec.  164.006-4  Inspection and testing.

    (a) All tests shall be conducted at the National Bureau of Standards 
or other

[[Page 377]]

laboratories designated by the Coast Guard.
    (b) Smoke tests. (1) A sample of each thickness submitted shall be 
tested for smoke emission. Each sample shall be laid on a \1/
4\ x 12 x 27 steel plate. Normal 
protective coatings and deck attachments shall be incorporated in the 
samples. Each sample shall be heated in a furnace whose temperature is 
limited to the standard decking curve reaching 1,325 degrees F. at the 
end of one hour. Smoke observations shall be made at intervals not 
greater than five minutes during the one-hour period of test.
    (2) Instantaneous values of the percent of light transmission shall 
be calculated from the observations noted in paragraph (b)(1) of this 
section. A plot of light transmission values shall be made using 
straight lines between instantaneous values.
    (3) Any instantaneous value of 10 percent light transmission or less 
shall be considered sufficient cause for rejection of a deck covering.
    (4) Average values of light transmission shall be calculated for 15, 
30, and 60 minutes. Averages shall be an arithmetic mean with values 
taken at one minute intervals from the plotted curve noted in paragraph 
(b)(2) of this section. If any of the three average values of light 
transmission is less than the values set forth below, it will be 
considered sufficient cause for rejection of a deck covering:

15 minutes--90 percent light transmission.
30 minutes--60 percent light transmission.
60 minutes--50 percent light transmission.

    (c) Fire resistance and integrity tests. (1) A sample of each 
thickness submitted shall be tested for fire resistance and integrity. 
Each sample shall be laid on a \1/4\ x 12 x 
27 steel plate. Normal protective coatings and deck 
attachments shall be incorporated in the samples. Each sample shall be 
heated in a furnace whose temperature is controlled according to the 
standard fire exposure curve reaching 1,700 degrees F. at the end of one 
hour. Temperature of the unexposed side as indicated by a thermocouple 
under a 0.40 inch asbestos pad shall be observed at intervals not 
greater than 5 minutes during the one-hour period of test.
    (2) Data from these tests shall be analyzed to determine the 
thicknesses necessary to limit the average temperature rise on the 
unexposed surface to 250 degrees F. above the original temperature at 
the end of 15, 30, and 60 minutes.
    (3) Excessive cracking, buckling, or disintegration may be 
considered cause for rejection.
    (d) Organic carbon content test. (1) The organic carbon content 
shall be determined and shall not exceed 0.12 gram per cubic centimeter 
of the molded deck covering.
    (e) Spot check tests. (1) Deck coverings are not inspected at 
regularly scheduled factory inspections; however, the cognizant Officer 
in Charge, Marine Inspection, may detail a marine inspector at any time 
to visit any place where deck coverings are manufactured to conduct any 
inspections or examinations deemed advisable and to select 
representative samples for further examination, inspection or tests. The 
marine inspector shall be admitted to any place where work is done on 
deck coverings or component materials.
    (2) Manufacturers of approved deck coverings shall maintain quality 
control of materials used, manufacturing methods, and the finished 
product so as to meet the requirements of this specification, and any 
other conditions outlined on the certificate of approval, but the Coast 
Guard also reserves the right to make spot-check tests of approved deck 
coverings at any time on samples selected by a marine inspector at the 
place of manufacture or samples obtained from other sources in the 
field. The manufacturer will incur no expense for such tests, but the 
results shall be binding upon the approval of his product. The 
manufacturer will be advised in advance of the time of testing of the 
samples selected and may witness the tests if he so desires.

[CGFR 53-25, 18 FR 7874, Dec. 5, 1953, as amended by CGFR 61-15, 26 FR 
9302, Sept. 30, 1961]



Sec.  164.006-5  Procedure for approval.

    (a) If a manufacturer desires to have a deck covering approved, a 
request shall be presented to the Commandant of the Coast Guard, 
together with the following information:

[[Page 378]]

    (1) The trade name and designation of the deck covering.
    (2) The range of thicknesses in which it is proposed to lay the deck 
covering together with any information the manufacturer may have as to 
maximum or minimum thicknesses.
    (3) Description of method of attachment to or protection of the 
steel deck together with the trade name and designation of adhesive or 
protective coating if used.
    (4) A sample of the molded deck covering at least 6 inches square 
and \1/4\ inch thick. This may or may not be attached to a backing 
material at the manufacturer's option.
    (b) The material submitted will be examined and the manufacturer 
advised as to the number and thicknesses of samples to be submitted 
together with the estimated cost of the tests.
    (c) If the deck covering is indicated as being suitable, the 
manufacturer shall then submit the following:
    (1) Two samples of each thickness to be tested laid in the manner 
designated on a \1/4\ x 12 x 27 steel 
plate for the purpose of the smoke test and fire resistance and 
integrity test noted in Sec.  164.006-4 (b) and (c).
    (2) Sufficient bulk material (unmixed) to lay a sample one inch 
thick on an area of 12 x 27. If an adhesive or 
protective coating is used, a liberal sample shall be supplied.
    (3) If the manufacturer desires to witness the tests, he should so 
indicate at this time.
    (4) A commitment that he will reimburse the National Bureau of 
Standards for the cost of the tests when billed by them.
    (d) The above material will be submitted to the National Bureau of 
Standards by the Coast Guard for testing. The tests noted in Sec.  
164.006-4 will be conducted and a report submitted to the Coast Guard.
    (e) A copy of the test report will be forwarded to the manufacturer 
and he will be advised if his material is approved under this 
specification, and if approved, in what thicknesses it may be laid, and 
in what thicknesses it must be laid to meet the requirements for Class 
A-60 decks without the use of any other insulating material. If 
approved, this information will be published in the Federal Register.

[CGFR 53-25, 18 FR 7874, Dec. 5, 1953, as amended by CGFR 61-62, 27 FR 
180, Jan. 6, 1962]



Sec.  164.006-6  Alternative materials.

    Products approved under approval series 164.106 may be used where 
products approved under this subpart are required.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48280, July 22, 2016]



                 Subpart 164.007_Structural Insulations

    Source: CGFR 69-72, 34 FR 17498, Oct. 29, 1969, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.007-1  Applicable specification and referenced material.

    (a) Specification. The following specification of the issue in 
effect on the date of manufacture of the structural insulation shall 
form a part of the regulations of this subpart (see Sec. Sec.  2.75-17 
through 2.75-19 of subchapter A (Procedures Applicable to the Public) of 
this chapter:
    (1) Coast Guard specification:

    Subpart 164.009 of this part, Incombustible Materials for Merchant 
Vessels.

    (b) Guidance. For guidance you may use the following technical 
reference: ASTM E 119-98, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of 
Building Construction and Materials. You may obtain it from The American 
Society for Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West 
Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
    (c) Copies on file. A copy of the specification listed in paragraph 
(a) of this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together 
with the certificate of approval and this specification. It is the 
manufacturer's responsibility to have the latest issue of the 
specification on hand together with the certificate of approval and 
approved plans when manufacturing under this specification subpart.
    (1) The Coast Guard specification may be obtained from the Coast 
Guard Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design 
and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard

[[Page 379]]

Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-
7509.

[CGFR 69-72, 34 FR 17498, Oct. 29, 1969, as amended by CGD 82-063b, 48 
FR 4783, Feb. 3, 1983; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34537, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-
072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 
1996; USCG-1999-5151, 64 FR 67185, Dec. 1, 1999; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 
49238, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60161, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  164.007-2  Purpose.

    The purpose of this specification is to set forth tests necessary to 
measure the insulation value of structural insulation specimens under 
fire exposure conditions. The tests are not intended to measure the 
integrity of structural components of an assembly Insulation meeting 
this specification is adequate to limit the average temperature rise of 
a steel bulkhead to 139 [deg]C. (250 [deg]F.) at the end of a 60-minute 
standard fire test.



Sec.  164.007-3  Conditions of approval.

    (a) Structural insulation shall be of such quality as to 
successfully meet the requirements for an incombustible material as set 
forth in subpart 164.009 of this part.
    (b) Structural insulation shall be of such quality and thickness as 
to successfully pass all of the tests set forth in Sec.  164.007-4, and 
the retests required by Sec.  164.007-8.
    (c) The product shall be so marked as to be readily identifiable to 
an inspector in the field. The marking shall include the Coast Guard 
approval number.



Sec.  164.007-4  Testing procedure.

    (a) Tests. All tests, including the retests, shall be conducted at 
the National Bureau of Standards or other laboratories designated by the 
Coast Guard.
    (b) Test of physical properties. (1) Density measurement: The 
smallest sample for density measurements of solid materials shall be 30 
cm x 30 cm (12 x 12) by the submitted thickness. 
Length and width measurements shall be made to the nearest 1 mm. (\1/
32\), thickness to the nearest 0.25 mm. (0.01), 
allowance being made of any nonflatness of the major surfaces of the 
specimen. Measurements of dimensions of fibrous insulations shall be 
made to the nearest 1.5 mm. (\1/16\) on a nominal 30 cm. 
(12) cube assembled from sheets of thickness as received. The 
average of at least four measurements of each dimension shall be 
reported. The weight shall be determined with a scale or balance 
sensitive and accurate to 0.5 percent or less of the total weight. The 
dimensional and weight measurements shall not be made until the sample 
has been conditioned 1 week, or longer if required to reach constant 
weight, in an atmosphere at 23[deg] 1 [deg]C. (73 
[deg]F. 2[deg]) and 50 percent relative humidity.
    (2) Transfer to a previously dried and weighed wide-mouth weighing 
bottle provided with a glass stopper. Remove the stopper and heat the 
bottle and sample at 105[deg] 5 [deg]C. (221[deg] 
9 [deg]F.) for 4 hours, insert the stopper, cool 
and weigh. Calculate the content of moisture and other volatiles as 
percent of the final dry weight of the sample.
    (c) Preparation of fire test specimens. (1) The fire test specimens 
shall be conditioned to approximately constant weight with air being 
maintained at a relative humidity of 40 to 70 percent and a temperature 
of 15[deg] to 25 [deg]C. (50[deg] to 77 [deg]F.). After conditioning, 
but before testing, the temperature of the specimens shall not exceed 40 
[deg]C. (104 [deg]F.).
    (2) Representative samples of the structural insulation, of a 
thickness or thicknesses and density as specified in Sec.  164.007-
9(a)(5), shall be tested as part of an assembly which forms a portion of 
a vertical wall of a furnace. The assembly shall be at least 100 cm. x 
150 cm. (40 x 60) in size. More than one sample 
may be tested, see Sec.  164.007-7.
    (3) The specimens shall be attached to a 5 0.3 
mm. (\3/16\) thick steel plate and mounted in the furnace 
with the steel plate forming the exterior wall of the furnace. Any 
stiffening members on the steel plate shall be installed on the face not 
adjacent to the insulation. Spacer strips of asbestos cement board or 
similar material, up to 5 cm. (2) in width, shall be 
installed around the periphery of the panel. For fibrous insulations, 
the attachment to the steel plate shall be made by means of 5 mm. 
(0.19) diameter steel pins on 30 cm. (12) centers 
covered by 18-gage, 4 cm. (1\1/2\) mesh expanded metal. 
Alternate methods will be given consideration.

[[Page 380]]

For other materials, typical installation practice shall be used.
    (d) Furnace control. (1) The furnace temperature shall be determined 
by at least four mineral insulated thermocouples having rapid response, 
and distributed so as to represent fairly the furnace temperature and to 
insure as uniform heating as possible. The thermocouples shall be 
arranged so that the hot junction is approximately 10 cm. from the 
nearest point of the specimen.
    (2) The furnace temperature shall be continuously controlled so as 
to follow the standard time-temperature curve within the accuracy 
specified in paragraph (d)(4) of this section.
    (3) The standard time-temperature curve is defined by a smooth curve 
drawn through the following points:

At the beginning of the test, 20 [deg]C. (68 [deg]F.)
At the end of the first 5 minutes, 538 [deg]C. (1,000 [deg]F.).
At the end of the first 10 minutes, 704 [deg]C. (1,300 [deg]F.).
At the end of the first 30 minutes, 843 [deg]C. (1,550 [deg]F.).
At the end of the first 60 minutes, 927 [deg]C. (1,700 [deg]F.).


For a further definition of the time-temperature curve, see Appendix I 
of the ASTM Standard E-119, ``Fire Tests of Building Construction and 
Materials''.
    (4) The accuracy of the furnace control shall be such that the area 
under the mean time-temperature curve is within 15 percent of the area 
under the standard time-temperature curve during the first 10 minutes of 
the test, within 10 percent during the first one-half hour, and within 5 
percent for any period after the first one-half hour. At any time after 
the first 10 minutes of the test the mean furnace temperature shall not 
differ from the standard curve by more than 100 [deg]C. (180 [deg]F.). 
Consideration will be given to adjusting the results for variation of 
the furnace exposure from that prescribed. If corrections are made, they 
shall be in accordance with the procedures set forth in the ASTM E-119.
    (e) Temperature of unexposed surface. For the unexposed surface 
temperature measurement a thermocouple of 0.5 mm. (0.020) 
diameter wires shall be soldered centrally with high temperature solder 
to one surface of a disc of copper 12 mm. in diameter and 0.2 mm. thick. 
The discs shall be covered with an oven-dry asbestos pad 50 mm. x 50 mm, 
and 4 mm. thick. The disc and the pad may be fixed to the surface of the 
steel plate by pins, tape, or a suitable adhesive. The asbestos pad 
shall have a density of approximately 1,000 kg./m.\3\ and thermal 
conductivity of 0.11 kcal/m/hr. x [deg]C. at 100 [deg]C. (212 [deg]F.).
    (f) Temperature observations. (1) All observations shall be taken at 
intervals not exceeding 5 minutes. The surface temperature on the 
exterior side of the steel plate shall be measured by thermocouples 
located as follows:
    (i) One thermocouple located approximately in the center of each 
quadrant of the steel plate (four thermocouples total).
    (ii) One thermocouple close to the center of the steel plate.
    (iii) One thermocouple in way of or as close as possible to one of 
the pins or other through metallic connections (if any) used for holding 
the insulation in place.
    (iv) Further thermocouples at the discretion of the testing 
laboratory or Coast Guard for the purpose of determining the temperature 
at points deemed likely to give a greater temperature rise than any of 
the above-mentioned thermocouples.
    (2) The average temperature rise on the unexposed surface shall be 
obtained by averaging the readings of the thermocouples mentioned in 
paragraphs (f)(1) (i) and (ii) of this section.
    (g) Other observations. Throughout the test observations shall be 
made of all changes and occurrences, which are not criteria of 
performance, but which may create hazard in case of a fire; for example 
the emission of appreciable volumes of smoke or noxious vapors from the 
unexposed side of the test specimen. The specimen shall be examined 
after the test for changes that have taken place and the information 
shall be noted in the test report.
    (h) Duration of testing. The test shall be continued for at least 
one hour or until the maximum surface temperature rise values noted in 
Sec.  164.007-5(a) have been reached, whichever occurs later.

[[Page 381]]



Sec.  164.007-5  Test requirements.

    The insulation value of the specimens for the full scale test shall 
be such that the average temperature of the thermocouples on the 
unexposed surface described in Sec.  164.007-4(f)(2) will not rise more 
than 139 [deg]C. (250 [deg]F.) above the initial temperature, nor will 
the temperature at any one point on the surface, including any through 
metallic connection, rise more than 181 [deg]C. (325 [deg]F.) above the 
original temperature at the end of 60 minutes. The results obtained on 
the small scale test 2[foot] x 2[foot] (60 cm. x 60 cm.) shall be 
recorded.



Sec.  164.007-6  Test report.

    (a) The test report required shall contain at least the following:
    (1) Name of manufacturer.
    (2) Purpose of test.
    (3) Test conditions and date of test.
    (4) Description of the panel tested giving the details of the 
assembly comprising a steel plate, insulation (thickness and density) 
spacer strips and fastening and the method of mounting the panel 
assembly in the test furnace.
    (5) Complete time-temperature data, including initial temperature, 
for each thermocouple together with curves of average temperature for 
the unexposed surface of the insulation and the thermocouple recording 
the highest temperature. In addition, for Sec.  164.007-9(g)(2), 
complete time-temperature data consisting of a numerical time-
temperature table for each furnace and each surface of insulation 
thermocouple together with the initial temperature of each thermocouple.
    (6) A log maintained by the owner relative to deflections, cracking 
or loosening of the insulation, smoke or gas emission, glow, flame 
emission, and any other important data. The time of each observation 
should be noted.
    (7) Photographs of both sides of the panel before and after testing.
    (8) Summary of test results.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.007-7  Analysis of results.

    (a) When only one sample is tested, the results of the test shall be 
binding and no analysis by the Coast Guard will be undertaken.
    (b) When more than one sample of the same density material is tested 
simultaneously and the results are not exact, the Coast Guard may 
analyze the results. Data from the tests may be analyzed to determine 
the minimum thickness to meet the requirements of Sec.  164.007-5(a).
    (c) Consideration will be given to correction for inaccurate furnace 
control in accordance with Sec.  164.007-4(d)(4).

[CGFR 69-72, 34 FR 17498, Oct. 29, 1969; 34 FR 19030, Nov. 29, 1969]



Sec.  164.007-8  Retests.

    (a) Manufacturers of approved structural insulation shall maintain 
quality control of materials used, manufacturing methods, and the 
finished product utilizing appropriate quality control testing so as to 
meet the requirements of this specification, and any other conditions 
outlined on the certificate of approval. Structural insulation materials 
are not inspected at regularly scheduled factory inspections; however, 
approved materials are subject to retest for continued compliance with 
the requirements of this subpart on the following basis:
    (1) The Coast Guard may detail a marine inspector or other Coast 
Guard designated inspector at any time to visit any place where 
structural insulation is manufactured to conduct any inspections or 
examinations deemed advisable and to select representative samples for 
further examination, inspection, or tests. The inspector shall be 
admitted to any place where work is done on structural insulation or 
component materials.
    (2) At a frequency of not less than once every 5 years following 
issuance of approval, samples of an approved material selected from 
production stock shall be forwarded by the inspector to the Commandant 
for testing in accordance with the requirements of this subpart. Where 
the plant is outside the jurisdiction of a Coast Guard District 
Commander, the frequency of such testing shall be once every 2 years. 
The cost of such testing shall be borne by the manufacturer. The nature 
of the product or its production may dictate a differing retest 
frequency.

[[Page 382]]

    (3) The Coast Guard reserves the right to make spot-check tests of 
approved structural insulation at any time on samples selected by a 
marine inspector obtained during installation on a vessel. The 
manufacturer will incur no expense for such tests, but the results, 
shall be binding upon the approval of his product.
    (b) A small scale furnace test (2[foot] x 2[foot] furnace test 60 
cm. x 60 cm.) shall be conducted. The time of failure shall not vary 
from the original small scale test values by more than 10 percent. In 
addition tests shall be conducted to determine incombustibility (Sec.  
164.009), density and thickness. Values of retesting for density and 
thickness shall not vary from the original test values by more than 10 
percent.



Sec.  164.007-9  Procedure for approval.

    The following items shall be accomplished in sequential order.
    (a) Test request information. If a manufacturer desires to have a 
structural insulation approved, a written request shall be submitted to 
the Commandant of the Coast Guard together with the following:
    (1) If the material has already been approved as an incombustible 
material under subpart 164.009 of this part, the approval number of the 
material shall be indicated. If not, the procedure set forth in subpart 
164.009 of this part shall be followed; and such approval shall be 
obtained prior to submittal under this specification.
    (2) A description and trade name of the structural insulation.
    (3) A statement of the composition of the material and the 
percentage of each component.
    (4) A sample of the material at least 1 foot square in the thickness 
and density proposed by the manufacturer to be tested. When more than 
one thickness of a material of the same density is to be tested, only a 
sample of a single thickness need be submitted.
    (5) The range of thicknesses and densities in which it is proposed 
to manufacture or use the material together with any information or 
recommendations that the manufacturer may have as to maximum or minimum 
thickness or density.
    (6) The location of the place or places where the material will be 
manufactured.
    (7) Description of attachment to or protection of the bulkhead or 
deck. If an adhesive is used, a liberal sample shall be supplied.
    (8) A sketch showing typical installation methods and indicating 
limitations if any.
    (9) A general statement describing manufacturing procedures 
indicating the degree of quality control exercised and the degree of 
inspection performed by outside organizations.
    (10) A statement indicating proposed methods for field 
identification of the products as being approved. Identification shall 
include the Coast Guard approval numbers.
    (b) Test suitability. The above information will be examined by the 
Coast Guard, and if it is indicated that the material is in all respects 
suitable for testing, the manufacturer will be so advised. Coast Guard 
comments on the manufacturer's recommended thickness and density of the 
sample or samples for the fire resistance test will be given at this 
time, together with the estimated cost of the required test.
    (c) Samples to be submitted. If the material is indicated as being 
suitable for testing, the manufacturer shall submit a 100 cm. x 150 cm. 
(40 x 60) sample, a 30 cm. x 30 cm. (12 
x 12) sample and a 60 cm. x 60cm. (24 x 
24) sample for each thickness and density proposed to the 
Fire Research section of the National Bureau of Standards, Washington, 
DC 20234, and shall advise the Coast Guard of the shipment. A separate 
test will be made for each density of the material for which approval is 
desired.
    (d) Pretest information. At this time the manufacturer shall submit 
to the Coast Guard the following:
    (1) A statement that the material is offered for testing as 
described pursuant to paragraph (a)(3) of this section is completely 
representative of the product which will be manufactured and sold under 
U.S. Coast Guard approval if such approval is granted and that the 
shipbuilder will be advised of the proper installation methods and the 
limitations of the approval.

[[Page 383]]

    (2) A commitment that he will reimburse the National Bureau of 
Standards for the cost or review of the tests when billed by them.
    (3) If the manufacturer desires to witness the test, he should so 
indicate at this time.
    (e) Test authorization. The National Bureau of Standards will then 
be authorized to conduct the tests noted in Sec.  164.007-4 and, upon 
completion of all testing, the manufacturer will be billed directly by 
the National Bureau of Standards. Four copies of the test report 
containing the information required by Sec.  164.007-6 will be submitted 
to the Coast Guard.
    (f) Notification of results. A copy of the report will be forwarded 
to the manufacturer and he will be advised if his material is approved 
under this subpart. If approved, any stipulations of the approval will 
be specified. This information will be published in the Federal 
Register, and a certificate of approval will be issued to the 
manufacturer.
    (g) Other laboratories. (1) If the manufacturer desires to have the 
test conducted at some laboratory other than the National Bureau of 
Standards, this information shall be supplied at the time of initial 
contact with the Coast Guard. If the proposed laboratory is acceptable 
to the Coast Guard, the manufacturer will be so advised, and any special 
testing requirements together with any estimated cost of expenses 
incurred by the National Bureau of Standards for their review will be 
specified at this time. The Coast Guard shall be notified in advance of 
the date of the test so that a representative may be present.
    (2) The laboratory shall submit four copies of a detailed test 
report to the Coast Guard together with representative samples of the 
material taken before and after testing. The test report and samples 
will be examined by the National Bureau of Standards for compliance with 
this subpart. The test report shall include the information required by 
Sec.  164.007-6 together with any other pertinent data.



Sec.  164.007-10  Alternative materials.

    Products approved under approval series 164.107 may be used where 
products approved under this subpart are required.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48280, July 22, 2016]



                     Subpart 164.008_Bulkhead Panels

    Source: CGFR 69-72, 34 FR 17500, Oct. 29, 1969, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.008-1  Applicable specification and reference material.

    (a) Specification. The following specification of the issue in 
effect on the date of manufacture of the bulkhead panel shall form a 
part of the regulations of this subpart (see Sec. Sec.  2.75-17 through 
2.75-19 of subchapter A, Procedures Applicable to the Public, of this 
chapter):
    (1) Coast Guard specification:

Subpart 164.009 of this part, Incombustible Materials for Merchant 
Vessels.

    (b) Guidance. For guidance you may use the following technical 
reference: ASTM E 119-98, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of 
Building Construction and Materials. You may obtain it from the American 
Society for Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West 
Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
    (c) Copies on file. A copy of the specification listed in paragraph 
(a) of this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together 
with the certificate of approval and this specification. It is the 
manufacturer's responsibility to have the latest issue of the 
specification on hand together with the certificate of approval and 
approved plans when manufacturing under this specification subpart.
    (1) The Coast Guard specification may be obtained from the 
Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and Engineering Systems, 
U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC 20593-7509.

[CGFR 69-72, 34 FR 17500, Oct. 29, 1969, as amended by CGD 82-063b, 48 
FR 4783, Feb. 3, 1983; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34537, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-
072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 
1996; USCG-1999-5151, 64 FR 67185, Dec. 1, 1999; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 
49238, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60162, Sept. 30, 2013]

[[Page 384]]



Sec.  164.008-2  Conditions of approval.

    (a) Bulkhead panel material shall be of such quality as to 
successfully meet the requirements for an incombustible material as set 
forth in subpart 164.009 of this part.
    (b) Bulkhead panels used in Class B-15 construction and as a 
component in Class A-30 or Class A-15 construction shall meet the 
thermal insulation requirements of Sec.  164.008-4(a) for at least 15 
minutes, and the integrity requirements of Sec.  164.008-4(b) for at 
least 30 minutes.
    (c) Bulkhead panels for use as a component in Class A-60 
construction shall meet the thermal insulation requirements of Sec.  
164.008-4(a) for at least 15 minutes and the integrity requirements of 
Sec.  164.008-4(b) for at least 60 minutes.
    (d) The product shall be so marked as to be readily identifiable to 
an inspector in the field. The marking shall include the Coast Guard 
approval number.
    (e) The specimen to be tested shall be representative of the typical 
installation on board a vessel and any limitations shall be shown on the 
sketch required by Sec.  164.008-7(a)(7).
    (f) The bulkhead panel shall successfully pass the retests required 
by Sec.  164.008-6.



Sec.  164.008-3  Testing procedure.

    (a) Tests. All tests, including the retests, shall be conducted at 
the National Bureau of Standards or other laboratories designated by the 
Coast Guard.
    (b) Preparation of test specimen. (1) The test specimens shall be 
conditioned to approximately constant weight with the air being 
maintained at a relative humidity of 40 to 70 percent and a temperature 
of 15[deg] to 25 [deg]C. (59[deg] to 77 [deg]F.). After conditioning, 
but before testing, the temperature of the specimen should not exceed 40 
[deg]C. (104 [deg]F.).
    (2) The specimens shall be mounted in the furnace in a vertical 
position in such a way as to give an exposed surface of at least 4.65 
square meters (50 square feet) and a height of at least 2.44 meters (8 
feet).
    (3) The specimen shall be supported at the top and secured on the 
vertical sides and at the bottom in a manner representative of 
conditions in service. If provision for movement at the edges of a 
bulkhead panel is made for a particular construction in service, the 
specimen should stimulate these conditions.
    (4) The method of securing shall be such that there is no 
possibility of misinterpretation of test results due to the passage of 
flame at the edges of the specimen when the method of fixing is not the 
subject of the test.
    (c) Furnace control. (1) The furnace temperature shall be determined 
by at least four mineral insulated thermocouples having rapid response 
and distributed so as to represent fairly the furnace temperature and to 
insure as uniform heating as possible. The thermocouples shall be 
arranged so that the hot junction is approximately 10 cm. (4) 
from the nearest point of the specimen.
    (2) The furnace temperature shall be continuously controlled so as 
to follow the standard time-temperature curve within the accuracy 
specified in paragraph (c)(4) of this section.
    (3) The standard time-temperature curve is defined by a smooth curve 
drawn through the following points:

At the beginning of the test, 20 [deg]C. (68 [deg]F.).
At the end of the first 5 minutes, 538 [deg]C. (1,000 [deg]F.).
At the end of the first 10 minutes, 704 [deg]C. (1,300 [deg]F.).
At the end of the first 30 minutes, 843 [deg]C. (1,550 [deg]F.).
At the end of the first 60 minutes, 927 [deg]C. (1,700 [deg]F.).


For a further definition of the time-temperature curve, see Appendix I 
of the ASTM Standard E119, ``Fire Tests of Building Construction and 
Materials''.
    (4) The accuracy of the furnace control shall be such that the area 
under the mean time-temperature curve is within 15 percent of the area 
under the standard curve during the first 10 minutes of the test, within 
10 percent during the first one-half hour, and within 5 percent for any 
period after the first one-half hour. At any time after the first 10 
minutes of the test the mean furnace temperature shall not differ from 
the standard curve by more than 100 [deg]C. (180 [deg]F.). Consideration 
will be

[[Page 385]]

given to adjusting the results for variation of the furnace exposure 
from that prescribed. If corrections are made, they shall be in 
accordance with the procedures set forth in ASTM E-119.
    (5) The pressure in the furnace shall be equal to that in the 
laboratory at about one-third of the height of the specimen.
    (d) Temperature of unexposed surface. For the unexposed surface 
temperature measurement, a thermocouple of 0.5 mm. (0.020) 
diameter wires shall be soldered centrally with high temperature solder 
to one surface of a disc of copper 12 mm. diameter and 0.2 mm. thick. 
The discs shall be covered with an oven-dry asbestos pad 50 mm. x 50 mm. 
and 4 mm. thick. The disc and the pad may be fixed to the surface of the 
specimen by pins, tape or a suitable adhesive, depending on the nature 
of the specimen material. The asbestos pad shall have a density of 
approximately 1,000 kg./m.\3\ and thermal conductivity of 0.11 kcal./m./
hr. x C. at 100 [deg]C. (212 [deg]F.).
    (e) Flame penetration. (1) Where cracks or openings are formed 
during the test, an ignition test as prescribed in Sec.  164.008-4(b) 
shall take place immediately after the appearance of cracks or damage, 
followed by similar tests at frequent intervals. The purpose of the test 
is to indicate whether cracks and openings formed during the test are 
such that they would lead to passage of flame.
    (2) The cotton wool used for the tests prescribed in Sec.  164.008-
4(b) shall consist of new undyed soft fibers without any admixture of 
artificial fibers, and shall be free from thread, leaf, and shell fiber 
dust. A suitable material for this purpose is sold in the form of rolls 
for surgical use. A pad shall be cut measuring 10 cm. x 10 cm. 
approximately 2 cm. thick and weighing between 3 and 4 grams. It shall 
be oven-dried prior to the test. The pad shall be attached by means of 
wire clips to a 10 cm. x 10 cm. frame of 1 mm. diameter. A wire handle 
approximately 75 cm. long attached to the frame would facilitate its use 
on the specimen.
    (3) When testing for cracks or openings during the test, the pad 
shall be held in a vertical position facing the crack or opening with 
the aperture located in a central part of the cotton wool. The pad may 
be reused if it has not absorbed any moisture or become charred during 
the previous application.
    (f) Temperature observations. (1) All observations shall be taken at 
intervals not exceeding 5 minutes. The surface temperatures on the 
unexposed side of the test specimen shall be measured by thermocouples 
located as follows:
    (i) One thermocouple located approximately in the center of each 
quadrant of the steel plate (four thermocouples total).
    (ii) One thermocouple close to the center of the test specimen, but 
away from the joint, if any.
    (iii) At least one thermocouple at the vertical joint of the test 
specimen.
    (iv) Further thermocouples at the discretion of the testing 
laboratory or Coast Guard for the purpose of determining the temperature 
at points deemed likely to give a greater temperature rise than any of 
the above mentioned thermocouples.
    (2) The average temperature rise on the unexposed surface shall be 
obtained by averaging the readings of the thermocouples mentioned in 
paragraphs (f)(1) (i) and (ii) of this section.
    (g) Other observations. Throughout the test, observations shall be 
made of all changes and occurrences, which are not criteria of 
performance but which may create hazard in case of a fire; for example 
the emission of appreciable volumes of smoke or noxious vapors from the 
unexposed side of the test specimen. The specimen shall be examined 
after the test for changes that have taken place and the information 
shall be noted in the test report.
    (h) Duration of testing. The test shall be continued for at least 30 
minutes to meet the requirements of Sec.  164.008-2(b) or at least 60 
minutes to meet the requirements of Sec.  164.008-2(c). In either case, 
the test shall be continued until the maximum surface temperature rise 
values noted in Sec.  164.008-4(a) have been reached, or until cracks 
which lead to flaming as specified in Sec.  164.008-4(b) are formed.

[[Page 386]]



Sec.  164.008-4  Test requirements.

    (a) Thermal insulation: The insulation value of the specimens for 
the full scale test shall be such that the average temperature of 
thermocouples on the unexposed surface described in Sec.  164.008-
3(f)(2) will not rise more than 139 [deg]C. (250 [deg]F.) above the 
initial temperature, nor will the temperature at any point on the 
surface, including any joint, rise more than 225 [deg]C. (405 [deg]F.) 
above the initial temperature at the end of 15 minutes. When failure is 
due to excessive temperature rise on the joint, consideration will be 
given to alternate joint construction. The results obtained on the small 
scale test (2[foot] x 2[foot]) (60 cm. x 60 cm.) shall be recorded.
    (b) The test shall determine the length of time, up to one hour, 
that the bulkhead panel, including the joint can withstand the passage 
of flame. Cracks and openings shall not be such as to lead to flaming of 
a cotton wool test pad as prescribed in Sec.  164.008-3(e)(3) held 
facing the aperture at about 25 mm. for a period of 30 seconds. If no 
flaming occurs, the pad shall be removed and reapplied after a suitable 
interval.



Sec.  164.008-5  Test report.

    (a) The test report required by Sec.  164.008-7 (e) and (g) shall 
include at least the following:
    (1) Name of manufacturer.
    (2) Purpose of test.
    (3) Test conditions and date of test.
    (4) Description of the panel tested giving size, thickness, density, 
detail of joint and method of assembling in test furnace.
    (5) Complete time-temperature data, including initial temperature, 
for each thermocouple together with curves of average temperature for 
the unexposed surface of the insulation and the thermocouple recording 
the highest temperature. In addition, for Sec.  164.008-7(g)(2) complete 
time-temperature data consisting of a numerical time-temperature table 
for each furnace and each surface of insulation thermocouple together 
with the initial temperature of each thermocouple.
    (6) A log setting forth the observer's notes relative to 
deflections, smoke or gas emission, glow, flame emission, and any other 
important data. The time of each observation should be noted.
    (7) Complete observations on the appearance of cracks and data on 
the testing of the cracks as specified in Sec.  164.008-4(b).
    (8) Photographs of both sides of the panel before and after testing.
    (9) Summary of test results.
    (b) [Reserved]

[CGFR 69-72, 34 FR 17500, Oct. 29, 1969; 34 FR 19030, Nov. 29, 1969]



Sec.  164.008-6  Retests.

    (a) Manufacturers of approved bulkhead panels shall maintain quality 
control of materials used, manufacturing methods, and the finished 
product utilizing appropriate quality control testing so as to meet the 
requirements of this specification, and any other conditions outlined on 
the certificate of approval. Bulkhead panels are not inspected at 
regularly scheduled factory inspections; however, approved bulkhead 
panels are subject to retest for continued compliance with the 
requirements of this subpart on the following basis:
    (1) The Coast Guard may detail a marine inspector or other Coast 
Guard designated inspector at any time to visit any place where bulkhead 
panels are manufactured to conduct any inspections or examinations 
deemed advisable and to select representative samples for further 
examination, inspection, or tests. The inspector shall be admitted to 
any place where work is done on bulkhead panels or component materials.
    (2) At a frequency of not less than once every 5 years following 
issuance of approval, samples of an approved bulkhead panel selected 
from production stock shall be forwarded by the inspector to the 
Commandant for testing in accordance with the requirements of this 
subpart. Where the plant is outside the jurisdiction of a Coast Guard 
District Commander, the frequency of such selection and testing shall be 
every 2 years. The cost of such testing shall be borne by the 
manufacturer. The nature of the product or its production may dictate a 
differing retest frequency.

[[Page 387]]

    (3) The Coast Guard reserves the right to make spot-check tests of 
approved bulkhead panels at any time on samples selected by a marine 
inspector obtained during installation on a vessel. The manufacturer 
will incur no expense for such tests, but the results shall be binding 
upon the approval of his product.
    (b) A small scale furnace test (2[foot] x 2[foot] furnace test) 
shall be conducted. The time of failure shall not vary from the original 
(2[foot] x 2[foot] furnace) test values by more than 10 percent. In 
addition, tests shall be conducted to determine incombustibility (Sec.  
164.009), density and thickness. Values on retesting for density and 
thickness shall not vary from the original test values by more than 10 
percent.



Sec.  164.008-7  Procedure for approval.

    The following items shall be accomplished in sequential order.
    (a) Test request information. If a manufacturer desires to have a 
bulkhead panel approved, a written request shall be submitted to the 
Commandant of the Coast Guard, together with the following:
    (1) If the material has already been approved as an ``Incombustible 
Material'' under subpart 164.009 of this part, the approval number of 
the material shall be indicated. If not, the procedure set forth in 
subpart 164.009 of this part shall be followed; and such approval shall 
be obtained prior to submittal under this specification.
    (2) The description and trade name of the bulkhead panel.
    (3) A statement of the composition of the material and the 
percentage of each component.
    (4) A sample of the material at least 1 foot square in each 
thickness and density of the material as manufactured.
    (5) The range of thicknesses and/or densities in which it is 
proposed to manufacture or use the material, together with any 
information or recommendations the manufacturer may have as maximum or 
minimum thickness or density.
    (6) The location of the place or places where the material will be 
manufactured.
    (7) A sketch showing typical installation methods and indicating 
limitations, if any.
    (8) A general statement describing manufacturing procedures 
indicating the degree of quality control exercised and the degree of 
inspection performed by outside organizations.
    (9) A statement indicating proposed methods for field identification 
of the products as being approved. Identification shall include the 
Coast Guard approval number.
    (b) Test suitability. The above information will be examined by the 
Coast Guard and if it is indicated that the material is in all other 
respects suitable for testing, the manufacturer will be so advised. 
Coast Guard comments on the manufacturer's recommended thickness and 
density of the panel for the fire resistance and integrity test will be 
given at this time together with the estimated cost of the tests.
    (c) Samples to be submitted. If the material is indicated as being 
suitable for testing, the manufacturer shall submit the samples required 
by paragraph (c)(1) of this section to the Fire Research Section of the 
National Bureau of Standards, Washington, DC 20234, and shall advise the 
Coast Guard of the shipment.
    (1) One representative panel of the material having a surface 
approximately 4.65 square meters (50 square feet) and a height of 2.44 
meters (8 feet) containing at least one vertical joint, located at 
approximately one-third panel width from one edge (20-24 inches), and 
one representative panel of the material having 60 cm. x 60 cm. (2[foot] 
x 2[foot]) dimensions. If the manufacturer desires to submit the panel 
in thickness or size other than that recommended, prior approval shall 
be obtained from the Commandant. The manufacturer shall supply any labor 
required for fabrication of the panel and for attaching the panel to the 
frame for testing.
    (d) Pretest information. At this time the manufacturer shall submit 
to the Coast Guard the following:
    (1) A statement that the material as offered for testing and as 
described pursuant to Sec.  164.008-6(a)(3) is completely representative 
of the product which will be manufactured and sold under

[[Page 388]]

U.S. Coast Guard approval if such approval is granted and that the 
shipbuilder will be advised of the proper installation methods and the 
limitations of the conditions of approval.
    (2) A commitment from the manufacturer that he will reimburse the 
National Bureau of Standards for the cost of the tests or review when 
billed by them.
    (3) If the manufacturer desires to witness the test, he should so 
indicate at this time.
    (e) Test authorization. The National Bureau of Standards will then 
be authorized to conduct the test noted in Sec.  164.008-4(a) and, upon 
completion of all testing, the manufacturer will be billed directly by 
the National Bureau of Standards, four copies of the report containing 
the information required by Sec.  164.008-5 shall be submitted to the 
Coast Guard.
    (f) Notification of results. A copy of the report will be forwarded 
to the manufacturer, and he will be advised if his material is approved 
under this subpart. If approved, any stipulations of the approval will 
be specified. This information will be published in the Federal 
Register, and a certificate of approval will be issued to the 
manufacturer.
    (g) Other laboratories. (1) If the manufacturer desires to have the 
tests conducted at some laboratory other than the National Bureau of 
Standards, this information shall be supplied at the time of initial 
contact with the Coast Guard. If the proposed laboratory is acceptable 
to the Coast Guard, the manufacturer will be so advised and any special 
testing requirements together with an estimated cost of expenses 
incurred by the National Bureau of Standards for their review will be 
specified at this time. Payment will be made as noted in paragraph 
(d)(2) of this section. The Coast Guard shall be notified in advance of 
the date of the test so that a representative may be present.
    (2) The laboratory shall submit four copies of a detailed test 
report to the Coast Guard, together with representative samples of the 
material being taken before and after testing. The test report and 
samples will be examined by the National Bureau of Standards for 
compliance with this subpart. The test report shall include the 
information required by Sec.  164.008-5 together with any other 
pertinent data.

[CGFR 69-72, 34 FR 17500, Oct. 29, 1969, as amended by USCG-2014-0688, 
79 FR 58286, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  164.008-8  Alternative materials.

    Products approved under approval series 164.108 may be used where 
products approved under this subpart are required.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48280, July 22, 2016]



      Subpart 164.009_Noncombustible Materials for Merchant Vessels

    Source: CGD 74-129, 41 FR 41701, Sept. 23, 1976, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.009-1  General.

    (a) This subpart contains--
    (1) Procedures for approval of noncombustible materials used in 
merchant vessel construction;
    (2) The test and measurements required for approval of materials; 
and
    (3) A list of noncombustible materials for which specific approval 
under this subpart is not required.
    (b) The test and measurements described in this subpart are 
conducted by a laboratory designated by the Commandant. The following 
laboratories are so designated:

Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 
60062
Dantest, National Institute for Testing and Verification, Amager 
Boulevard 115, DK 2300 Copenhagen S., Denmark

[CGD 74-129, 41 FR 41701, Sept. 23, 1976, as amended by CGD 86-035, 54 
FR 36316, Sept. 1, 1989]



Sec.  164.009-3  Noncombustible materials not requiring specific approval.

    The following noncombustible materials may be used in merchant 
vessel construction though not specifically approved under this subpart:
    (a) Sheet glass, block glass, clay, ceramics, and uncoated fibers.
    (b) All metals, except magnesium and magnesium alloys.

[[Page 389]]

    (c) Portland cement, gypsum, and magnesite concretes having 
aggregates of only sand, gravel, expanded vermiculite, expanded or 
vesicular slags, diatomaceous silica, perlite, or pumice.
    (d) Woven, knitted or needle punched glass fabric containing no 
additives other than lubricants not exceeding 2.5 percent.

[CGD 86-035, 54 FR 36316, Sept. 1, 1989]



Sec.  164.009-7  Contents of application.

    An application for approval of a material under this subpart must 
contain the following:
    (a) The trade name of the material.
    (b) The thickness or density, or both, of the material, or the range 
of thicknesses or densities, or both, of the material as manufactured.
    (c) The composition of the material.
    (d) The density and percentage of moisture and volatile matter of 
each component of the material.
    (e) The address of the factory manufacturing the material.
    (f) A sample representative of the material that is 305 mm long and 
305 mm wide and that has a height equal to the largest thickness of the 
material as manufactured.
    (g) If the applicant intends to observe the test and measurements of 
the sample, a statement to that effect.
    (h) A commitment by the applicant to pay for the cost of the test 
and measurements when billed by the designated laboratory.



Sec.  164.009-9  Procedure for approval.

    (a) An application for approval of a material under this subpart 
must be sent to the Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: Office of Design and 
Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King 
Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.
    (b) The application is examined by the Coast Guard to determine the 
probability that the material meets the requirements for approval. The 
Coast Guard notifies the applicant of the results of the examination and 
of the sample size necessary for submission to the designated 
laboratory.
    (c) The designated laboratory notifies the applicant of the time and 
place for submission and testing of the sample.
    (d) The designated laboratory conducts the tests and measurements of 
the sample in accordance with the procedures in this subpart, prepares a 
test report, and sends four copies of the report to the Commandant (CG-
ENG). The applicant may observe the test and measurements.
    (e) The Commandant sends a copy of the test report to the applicant 
and advises him whether the material is approved. If the material is 
approved, an approval certificate is sent to the applicant.

[CGD 74-129, 41 FR 41701, Sept. 23, 1976, as amended by CGD 82-063b, 48 
FR 4783, Feb. 3, 1983; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34537, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-
072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 
1996; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49238, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 
60162, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  164.009-11  Furnace apparatus.

    (a) The test furnace apparatus consists of a furnace tube, 
stabilizer, draft shield, furnace stand, temperature coil controls with 
a voltage stabilizer, specimen holder, specimen insertion device, and 
three thermocouples (a furnace thermocouple to measure furnace 
temperature, a surface thermocouple to measure temperature at the 
surface of a specimen, and a specimen thermocouple to measure 
temperature at the center of a specimen). A detailed plan of the 
construction and arrangement of the furnace apparatus may be obtained 
from the Commandant (CG-521).
    (b) Temperatures measured by the thermocouples are recorded by an 
instrument having a measuring range that corresponds to the temperature 
changes that occur during a furnace calibration or test. The temperature 
recording equipment is accurate to within at least 0.5 percent of 
temperatures recorded during a test.

[CGD 74-129, 41 FR 41701, Sept. 23, 1976, as amended by CGD 82-063b, 48 
FR 4783, Feb. 3, 1983; CGD 95-072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-
041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49238, Sept. 25, 
2009]



Sec.  164.009-13  Furnace calibration.

    A calibration is performed on each new furnace and on each existing 
furnace as often as necessary to ensure

[[Page 390]]

that the furnace is in good working order. In each calibration the 
energy input to the furnace is adjusted so that the furnace thermocouple 
gives a steady reading of 750 10 [deg]C. The wall 
temperature of the furnace tube is then measured by an optical micro-
pyrometer at intervals of 10mm on 3 equally spaced vertical axes. The 
furnace is correctly calibrated if the temperature of the furnace tube 
wall is between 825 and 875 [deg]C. 50 mm above and below the midline of 
the wall and if the average wall temperature is approximately 850 
[deg]C.



Sec.  164.009-15  Test procedure.

    (a) General. Paragraphs (b) through (k) of this section contain the 
test procedures for each material submitted for approval, except 
fiberglass and other materials that melt at 750[deg] 10 [deg]C. Paragraph (l) of this section contains test 
procedures for fiberglass and other materials that melt at 750[deg] 
10 [deg]C.
    (b) Preparation of specimens. (1) The designated laboratory prepares 
5 cylindrical specimens representative of the properties of the sample 
submitted for testing. The dimensions of each specimen are as follows:

diameter: 45(+2/-0) mm
height: 50 3 mm
volume: 80 5 cm\3\

    (2) If the height of the sample, except a composite material, is 
less than 47 mm, the specimens prepared consist of layers of the sample.
    (3) If the sample is a composite material and has a height that is 
not 50 3mm, the layers of the specimen prepared 
are proportional in thickness to the layers of the sample.
    (4) The top and bottom faces of each specimen prepared are the faces 
of the material as manufactured.
    (5) If it is not practicable to prepare a specimen by the procedures 
described in paragraphs (b)(2) through (b)(4) of this section, the test 
is performed on five specimens of each component of the sample made to 
the dimensions prescribed in paragraph (b)(1) of this section.
    (c) Conditioning of specimen. Each specimen is conditioned for at 
least 20 hours in a ventilated oven maintained at 60 5 [deg]C. and is then cooled to room temperature in a 
desiccator.
    (d) Weight of specimen. The weight of each conditioned specimen 
after cooling is determined before it is tested.
    (e) Placement of specimen in holder. After a specimen is conditioned 
and weighed, it is placed in the specimen holder. A specimen that is 
made of layers of a composite material is held firmly together in the 
specimen holder.
    (f) Attachment of thermocouples. After the specimen is placed in the 
specimen holder, the thermocouples are attached to the specimen as 
follows: A vertical hole with a diameter of 2 mm and a depth that is 
half the height of the specimen is made in the center of the top of the 
specimen. The specimen thermocouple is then inserted into the hole so 
that its hot junction is at the center of the specimen. The surface 
thermocouple is put in contact with the surface of the specimen at its 
mid-height.
    (g) Preparation of the apparatus. The apparatus is examined to 
determine whether it is in good working order and to ensure that the 
equipment is protected against drafts and is not exposed to direct 
sunlight or artificial illumination. The furnace temperature is 
stabilized at 750 [deg]C. 10 [deg]C. and kept at 
that temperature for the duration of the test. The furnace temperature 
is stabilized when no adjustments are needed in the energy input to the 
furnace to keep the temperature constant.
    (h) Insertion of specimen. After the furnace temperature is 
stabilized for at least 10 minutes, the specimen is inserted into the 
furnace. The insertion is completed within 5 seconds. The specimen is 
positioned so that the hot junction of the surface thermocouple is 
diametrically opposite the hot junction of the furnace thermocouple.
    (i) Heating period. The heating period begins upon insertion of the 
specimen into the furnace and continues for 20 minutes, or until peak 
temperatures have passed.
    (j) Test observations. Temperature measurements at each thermocouple 
are made at intervals of not more than 10 seconds during the heating 
period, and note is taken of the occurrence and duration of any flaming. 
At the end of

[[Page 391]]

the heating period, the specimen is removed from the furnace and weighed 
while still hot.
    (k) Test results. Material is approved under this subpart if the 
test results of the sample submitted are within the following limits:
    (1) The highest temperature recorded for each specimen during the 
test by the furnace thermocouple, when averaged with the highest 
temperatures recorded for the other specimens, is not more than 50 
[deg]C. above the stabilized furnace temperature.
    (2) The highest temperature recorded for each specimen during the 
test by the surface thermocouple, when averaged with the highest 
temperatures recorded for the other specimens, is not more than 50 
[deg]C. above the stabilized furnace temperature.
    (3) The duration of flaming of each specimen during the test, when 
averaged with duration of flaming recorded for the other specimens, is 
not more than 10 seconds.
    (4) The average weight loss of the specimens after heating is not 
more than 50 percent of their average weight after conditioning.
    (l) Fiberglass and other materials that melt at 750 [deg]C. 10 [deg]C. If the material submitted for approval is 
fiberglass or other material that melts at 750[deg] 10 [deg]C., it is tested as described in paragraphs (b) 
through (k) of this section, except the average weight loss of the 
sample is determined as follows:
    (1) Five cylindrical specimens in addition to the five cylindrical 
specimens required in paragraph (b) of this section are prepared as 
described in paragraph (b) of this section.
    (2) Each of the additional specimens is placed on a weighing dish 
and both the specimen and the weighing dish are conditioned as described 
in paragraph (c) of this section.
    (3) The weight of each specimen and its weighing dish is determined 
as described in paragraph (d) of this section.
    (4) After a specimen and weighing dish are conditioned and weighed, 
they are placed in the specimen holder with the specimen supported by 
weighing dish. No specimen thermocouple or surface thermocouple is 
attached to the specimen.
    (5) The apparatus is prepared as described in paragraph (g) of this 
section, and after the furnace temperature has stabilized for at least 
10 minutes, the specimen and weighing dish are inserted into the 
furnace. The specimen and weighing dish are then heated for 20 minutes 
or until peak temperatures have passed. At the end of the heating 
period, the specimen and weighing dish are removed from the furnace and 
weighed while still hot.
    (6) The average weight loss of the specimens after heating may not 
be more than 50 percent of their average weight before heating.



Sec.  164.009-17  Density measurement.

    (a) The measurements described in this section are made to determine 
the density of a sample.
    (b) If the sample is a solid material, a specimen that has a length 
of 305 mm, a width of 305 mm, and thickness equal to that of the sample 
is prepared. The length and width are measured to the nearest 0.80 mm 
and the thickness to the nearest 0.25 mm. Allowance is made for any 
irregularity in the surfaces of the specimen. The average of at least 
four measurements of each dimension is determined.
    (c) If the sample is fibrous insulation, a specimen is prepared from 
sheets of the sample submitted. The sample is a cube and each dimension 
is 305 mm 1.60 mm. The average of at least four 
measurements of each dimension is determined.
    (d) The weight of a specimen is determined with a sensitive balance 
scale accurate to at least 0.5 percent of the weight of the specimen.
    (e) The dimension and weight measurements of a specimen are made 
after it has been conditioned for at least one week, and for any 
additional time needed for the specimen to reach a constant weight, in 
an atmosphere that is 22.8 [deg]C. 2 [deg]C. and 
50 percent 5 percent relative humidity.



Sec.  164.009-19  Measurement of moisture and volatile matter content.

    (a) The measurements described in this section are made to determine 
the moisture and volatile matter content of a sample.

[[Page 392]]

    (b) A specimen cut from the density specimen of a sample is 
conditioned for at least one week, and for any additional time needed 
for the specimen to reach a constant weight, in an atmosphere that is 
22.8 [deg]C. 2 [deg]C., and 50 percent 5 percent relative humidity. The conditioned specimen is 
then weighed and transferred to a previously weighed wide mouth weighing 
bottle that has a glass stopper. With the stopper removed, the bottle, 
stopper, and specimen are heated at 105 [deg]C. 5 
[deg]C. for four hours. After four hours, the stopper is inserted in the 
bottle and the bottle and sample are cooled and weighed.
    (c) The content of moisture and volatile matter is the difference 
between the two weighings and is reported as a percentage of the weight 
of the conditioned specimen.



Sec.  164.009-21  Laboratory report.

    The laboratory report of the test and measurements of a material 
contains the following:
    (a) Name of the designated laboratory.
    (b) Name of manufacturer of the material.
    (c) Date of receipt of the material and dates of the test and 
measurements.
    (d) Trade name of the material.
    (e) Description of the material.
    (f) Density of the sample.
    (g) Percentage of moisture and volatile matter in the sample.
    (h) Description of the specimens tested if the specimens are 
prepared from composite material.
    (i) If the test was done on individual components of the sample, a 
description of the components.
    (j) Test results including the following:
    (1) Complete time and temperature data for each thermocouple.
    (2) Each observation of flame emission and the time and duration of 
each emission.



Sec.  164.009-23  Factory inspection.

    The Coast Guard does not inspect noncombustible materials approved 
under this subpart on a regular schedule. However, the Commander of the 
Coast Guard District in which a factory is located may detail a marine 
inspector at any time to visit a factory where a noncombustible material 
is manufactured to conduct an inspection of the manufacturing and 
quality control procedures and to select representative samples of the 
material for examination or tests to verify that the material is as 
stated in the original application for approval. The manufacturer is 
advised in advance of the time of testing samples selected and may 
witness the tests upon request.



Sec.  164.009-25  Marking.

    The manufacturer must mark each shipping container for an approved 
noncombustible material with the approval number and date of approval of 
the material.



Sec.  164.009-26  Alternative materials.

    Products approved under approval series 164.109 may be used where 
products approved under this subpart are required.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48280, July 22, 2016]



         Subpart 164.012_Interior Finishes for Merchant Vessels



Sec.  164.012-1  Applicable specifications.

    (a) The following specifications, of the issue in effect on the 
contract date for the particular installation on any vessel, form a part 
of this subpart:
    (1) American Society for Testing Materials' standard: E 84-98, 
Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building 
Materials.
    (2) National Fire Protection Association's standard: NFPA No. 255--
Method of Test of Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials.
    (3) Coast Guard specifications: 164.008--Bulkhead Panels for 
Merchant Vessels. 164.009--Incombustible Materials for Merchant Vessels.
    (b) A copy of this subpart, together with copies of the 
specifications referred to in this section, shall be kept on file by the 
manufacturer of any Interior Finish except those qualifying under Sec.  
164.012-5(c). It should be noted that the standards listed in paragraphs 
(a) (1) and (2) of this section are identical and, therefore, only one 
need to be kept on file. The Coast Guard specifications may be obtained 
upon request

[[Page 393]]

from the Coast Guard Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-ENG), Attn: 
Office of Design and Engineering Systems, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 
2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. ASTM 
International's standards may be purchased from that organization at 100 
Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. The 
National Fire Protection Association Standard may be purchased from that 
association at 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.

[CGFR 61-15, 26 FR 9303, Sept. 30, 1961, as amended by CGFR 65-16, 30 FR 
10903, Aug. 21, 1965; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34537, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-
072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 
1996; USCG-1999-5151, 64 FR 67185, Dec. 1, 1999; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 
49238, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60162, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  164.012-5  Scope.

    (a) The purpose of this specification is to set forth the fire 
protection standards for ``Interior Finishes'' applied to ``Bulkhead 
Panels'' or ``Incombustible Materials'' approved under subpart 164.008 
or 164.009 of this subchapter. The term ``Interior Finish'' means any 
coating, overlay, or veneer except standard paint which is applied for 
decorative or other purpose. It includes not only the visible finish, 
but all material used in its composition and in its application to the 
approved ``Bulkhead Panel'' or ``Incombustible Material.'' When finishes 
are applied to both sides of a panel, each must comply with this 
specification.
    (b) ``Interior Finishes'' of not more than 0.075 
thickness qualifying under Sec.  164.012-10 and those materials which 
are described in paragraph (c) of this section, may be used without 
restriction on all merchant vessels, including those locations where 
combustible veneers, trim, moldings, and decorations are specifically 
prohibited by subpart 72.05 of subchapter H (Rules and Regulations for 
Passenger Vessels) of this chapter.
    (c) With the exception of nitrocellulose or other highly inflammable 
or noxious fume-producing paints or lacquers (which are prohibited), a 
limited number of coats of any standard paint, or any ``Incombustible 
Material'' approved under subpart 164.009 of this subchapter in any 
thickness, or a combination thereof, are considered as automatically 
satisfying the intent of this specification and no test or proof of 
compliance will be required. Paint may be applied to one or both sides 
of ``Bulkhead Panels'' or ``Incombustible Materials,'' but it shall 
never be applied as an internal layer in sandwich or laminar 
construction.

[CGFR 61-15, 26 FR 9303, Sept. 30, 1961]



Sec.  164.012-10  Requirements.

    (a) For an ``Interior Finish'' to qualify under this specification 
it shall not be more than 0.075 inch thick (including adhesive and any 
underlayment) and shall be subjected to the test described in either 
standard listed in Sec.  164.012-1(a) (1) or (2). The ``Interior 
Finish'' shall be applied to a \1/4\-inch asbestos cement board, 
``Bulkhead Panel'' or ``Incombustible Material'' approved under subparts 
164.008 and 164.009, in the same manner as will be employed for the 
shipboard installation. The classification ratings determined by this 
test shall not exceed the following values:

Flame spread classification..................................         20
Smoke classification.........................................         10
 

    (b) [Reserved]

[CGFR 70-143, 35 FR 19967, Dec. 30, 1970]



Sec.  164.012-11  Marking.

    In addition to that information required by the recognized 
laboratory, the following information and special markings shall be 
included:

    Complies with USCG subpart 164.012. Approval No. 164.012/--.

[CGFR 70-143, 35 FR 19967, Dec. 30, 1970]



Sec.  164.012-12  Recognized laboratory.

    A recognized laboratory is one which is operated as a nonprofit 
public service and is regularly engaged in the examination, testing, and 
evaluation as to the safety of insulation and surfacing materials; which 
has an established factory inspection, listing, and labeling program; 
and which has standards for evaluating listing and labeling which are 
acceptable to the Commandant. The following laboratories are recognized:


[[Page 394]]


Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc.
333 Pfingston Road
Northbrook, IL 60062-2096

[CGFR 70-143, 35 FR 19967, Dec. 30, 1970, as amended by USCG-1998-4442, 
63 FR 52192, Sept. 30, 1998]



Sec.  164.012-13  Examinations, tests, and inspections.

    (a) Manufacturer's inspection and tests. Manufacturers of listed and 
labeled Interior Finishes shall maintain quality control of the 
materials used, manufacturing methods and the finished product so as to 
meet the applicable requirements, and shall make sufficient inspections 
and tests of representative samples and components produced to maintain 
the quality of the finished product. Records of tests conducted by the 
manufacturer and records of materials, including affidavits by suppliers 
that applicable requirements are met, entering into manufacture shall be 
made available to the recognized laboratory inspector or the Coast Guard 
marine inspector, or both, for review upon request.
    (b) Laboratory inspection and tests. Such examinations, inspections 
and tests as are required by the recognized laboratory for listed and 
labeled material produced will be conducted by the laboratory inspector 
at the place of manufacture or other location at the option of the 
laboratory.
    (c) Test facilities. The laboratory inspector, or the Coast Guard 
marine inspector assigned by the Commander of the District in which the 
factory is located, or both, shall be admitted to any place in the 
factory where work is being done on listed and labeled products, and 
either or both inspectors may take samples of parts or materials 
entering into construction of final assemblies, for further 
examinations, inspections, or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a 
suitable place and the apparatus necessary for the performance of the 
tests which are done at the place of manufacture.
    (d) Additional tests, etc. Unannounced examinations, tests, and 
inspections of samples obtained either directly from the manufacturer or 
through commercial channels may be made to determine the suitability of 
a product for listing and labeling, or to determine conformance of a 
labeled product to the applicable requirements. These may be conducted 
by the recognized laboratory or the U.S. Coast Guard.

[CGFR 70-143, 35 FR 19967, Dec. 30, 1970]



Sec.  164.012-14  Procedure for listing and labeling.

    (a) Manufacturers having a surfacing material which they consider 
has characteristics suitable for general use on merchant vessels may 
make application for listing and labeling as an interior finish by 
addressing a request directly to a recognized laboratory. The laboratory 
will inform the submitter as to the requirements for inspection, 
examinations, and testing necessary for such listing and labeling. The 
request shall include a permission for the laboratory to furnish a 
complete test report together with a description of the quality control 
procedures to the Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard.
    (b) The U.S. Coast Guard will review the test report and quality 
control procedures to determine if the approval requirements have been 
met. If this is the case, the Commandant will notify the laboratory that 
the material is approved and that when the material is listed and 
labeled it may be marked as being U.S. Coast Guard approved. Notice of 
U.S. Coast Guard approval will be published in CG-190.
    (c) If disagreements concerning procedural, technical or inspection 
questions arise over U.S. Coast Guard approval requirements the opinion 
of the Commandant shall be requested by the laboratory.
    (d) The manufacturer may at any time request clarification or advice 
from the Commandant on any question which may arise regarding 
manufacturing and approval of approved devices.

[CGFR 70-143, 35 FR 19967, Dec. 30, 1970]



Sec.  164.012-15  Termination of listing and labeling.

    (a) Listing and labeling as an interior finish acceptable to the 
Commandant as approved may be terminated, withdrawn, canceled, or 
suspended by written notice to the recognized laboratory from the 
Commandant, or by written notice to the manufacturer from the

[[Page 395]]

recognized laboratory or from the Commandant.
    (b) The condition which may be the cause for termination of listing 
and labeling may be any of the following:
    (1) When the manufacturer does not desire to retain the service.
    (2) When the listed product is no longer being manufactured.
    (3) When manufacturer's own program does not provide suitable 
assurance of the quality of the listed and labeled product being 
manufactured.
    (4) When the product manufactured no longer conforms to the current 
applicable requirements of the U.S. Coast Guard and the recognized 
laboratory.
    (5) When service experience or laboratory or U.S. Coast Guard 
reports indicate a product is unsatisfactory.

[CGFR 70-143, 35 FR 19967, Dec. 30, 1970]



Sec.  164.012-16  Alternative materials.

    Products approved under approval series 164.112 may be used where 
products approved under this subpart are required.

[USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48280, July 22, 2016]



 Subpart 164.013_Foam, Unicellular Polyethylene (Buoyant, Slab, Slitted 
                            Trigonal Pattern)

    Source: CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51216, Sept. 30, 1997, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.013-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart contains performance requirements, acceptance 
tests, and production testing and inspection requirements for 
polyethylene foam used in the construction of personal flotation devices 
(PFDs) approved under part 160 of this subchapter. Manufacturers shall 
also comply with the requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter.
    (b) All polyethylene foams accepted under this subpart are non-
standard components. Acceptance of polyethylene foam prior to being 
incorporated into finished PFDs, or during the course of manufacture, 
shall in no case be construed as a guarantee of the acceptance of the 
finished PFD.



Sec.  164.013-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain materials are incorporated by reference into this 
subpart with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register in 
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any 
edition other than the one listed in paragraph (b) of this section, 
notice of change must be published in the Federal Register and the 
material made available to the public. All approved material 
incorporated by reference may be inspected at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA), and at the Coast Guard Headquarters. 
Contact Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety 
Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue 
SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. The material is also available from the 
source indicated in paragraph (b) of this section. For information on 
the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: 
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) The materials approved for incorporation by reference in this 
subpart, and the sections affected are as follows:

Underwriters Laboratories (UL)
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., P.O. Box 13995, Research Triangle Park, 
          NC 27709-3995 (Phone (919) 549-1400; Facsimile: (919) 549-
          1842).
    UL 1191, Standards for Components for Personal Flotation Devices, 
May 16, 1995--164.013-3; 160.013-5.

    1(c) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications and letter of 
acceptance shall be kept on file by the manufacturer.

[CGD 95-028, 62 FR 51216, Sept. 30, 1997, as amended at 69 FR 18803, 
Apr. 9, 2004; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49238, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60162, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  164.013-3  Material properties and workmanship.

    (a) General. The unicellular polyethylene foam shall be all new 
material complying with the requirements outlined in this specification. 
Unicellular polyethylene foam must comply with the requirements of UL 
1191, sections 24, 25, and 26 and its assigned Use Code. Thickness 
tolerances of the foam must permit the manufacture of

[[Page 396]]

PFDs complying with their required buoyancy tolerances.
    (b) Use Codes 4BC, 4H. Each foam which has a C-factor of at least 94 
according to UL 1191 may be assigned Use Codes 4BC and 4H.
    (c) Use Codes 2, 3, 5R. Each foam which has a V-factor of at least 
85 according to UL 1191 may be assigned Use Codes 2, 3, 5R (recreational 
use applications).



Sec.  164.013-4  Samples submitted for acceptance.

    Application samples. A product sample submitted for acceptance as 
required by Sec.  164.019-7(c)(4) must consist of at least one square 
foot by the thickness of foam produced.



Sec.  164.013-5  Acceptance tests.

    Manufacturers shall ensure that the performance and identification 
tests described in UL 1191, as appropriate, are performed on a minimum 
of five samples in each of the lightest and darkest colors submitted for 
acceptance by a recognized laboratory accepted under Sec.  164.019.



Sec.  164.013-6  Production tests, inspections, and marking.

    Manufacturers shall provide in-plant quality control of polyethylene 
foam in accordance with the requirements of Sec.  164.019-13 and any 
requirements of the recognized laboratory. The manufacturer of the foam 
has primary responsibility for quality control over the production of 
the foam.



Sec.  164.013-7  Marking.

    (a) General. The manufacturer must ensure that each shipping label, 
and each unit of put-up, is permanently and clearly marked in a color 
which contrasts with the color of the surface on which the marking is 
applied. Each label must be marked with--
    (1) The manufacturer's or supplier's name, trade name, or symbol;
    (2) The unique style, part, or model number of the material;
    (3) The thickness of the material;
    (4) The lot number of the material; and
    (5) The product Use Code or Codes.
    (b) Each unit of put-up must be marked with the appropriate 
recognized laboratory's certification marking(s).



  Subpart 164.015_Plastic Foam, Unicellular, Buoyant, Sheet and Molded 
                                  Shape

    Source: CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11593, Sept. 10, 1965, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.015-1  Applicable specifications and standards.

    (a) Specifications. The following specification and standard, of the 
issue in effect on the date the plastic foam material is manufactured, 
form a part of this subpart:
    (1) Military specification:

MIL-F-859--Fuel Oil, Boiler.

    (2) Federal specification:

C-C-91--Candle illuminating.

    (3) Federal standard:

Standard 601--Rubber: Sampling and Testing.

    (4) ASTM

D4986-98, Standard Test Method for Horizontal Burning Characteristics of 
Cellular Polymeric Materials.

    (b) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications and standards 
referred to in this section shall be kept on file by the plastic foam 
manufacturer with this subpart.
    (1) The Federal Specification and the Federal Standard may be 
purchased from the General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition 
Service, Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, 
Arlington, VA 22202; telephone 703-605-5400.
    (2) The Military Specification may be obtained from the Military 
Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, 
Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://
assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
    (3) The A.S.T.M. Standard may be purchased from the American Society 
for Testing Materials, 100 Barr Harbor

[[Page 397]]

Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11593, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 65-64, 31 
FR 563, Jan. 18, 1966; USCG-1999-5151, 64 FR 67186, Dec. 1, 1999; USCG-
2013-0671, 78 FR 60162, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  164.015-2  Types.

    (a) Unicellular expanded polyvinyl chloride-acetate copolymer or 
synthetic rubber modified polyvinyl chloride, polymer or copolymer 
plastic foam shall be of three types as follows:
Type A--for life preservers, buoyant vests or buoyant cushions.
Type B--for buoyant vests or buoyant cushions.
Type C--for ring life buoys.
    (b) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.015-3  Material and workmanship.

    (a) The unicellular plastic foam shall be all new material complying 
with the requirements of this specification. The results of the tests 
described in Sec.  164.015-4 shall yield property values within the 
limits shown in Table 164.015-4(a).
    (b) The unicellular plastic foam shall be produced in sheet stock or 
molded shapes.



Sec.  164.015-4  Inspections and tests.

    (a) General. Unicellular plastic foam to be used in a finished 
product subject to inspection by the Coast Guard also shall be subject 
to inspection at the plant where the foam is manufactured. The 
manufacturer of the foam has primary responsibility for quality control 
over the production of the foam. A marine inspector shall be admitted to 
any place in the factory where production or partial processing of the 
foam takes place, and he may take samples of the foam or other materials 
for further inspections or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a 
suitable place and the apparatus necessary for the performance of 
certain tests to be witnessed by the marine inspector, the results of 
which shall comply with Table 164.015-4(a). Unless otherwise specified, 
all tests shall be conducted at a temperature of 21[deg] 3 [deg]C. (70[deg] 5 [deg]F.) The 
properties listed in Table 164.015-4(a) shall be determined on specimens 
of sheet foam or molded shapes.

                                               Table 164.015-4(a)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            Properties                    Test method                  Units            Type A   Type B   Type C
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Density (maximum)                  164.015-4(b)              Pounds/feet\3\                5.0      5.0      8.5
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Buoyancy in fresh water (minimum)  164.015-4(c)              Pounds/feet\3\               54.0     54.0     52.0
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Volume loss on heat aging          164.015-4(d)              Percent                       5.0      5.0      4.0
 (maximum).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Compression deflection at 25       164.015-4(e)              P.s.i.                        3.0      3.0      7.0
 percent.                                                                                 max.     max.     min.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Compression set (maximum)          164.015-4(f)              Percent                        24       24       20
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fire retardance (maximum)          164.015-4(g)(1)           Seconds                         2  .......       30
                                                            ----------------------------------------------------
                                   ........................  Inches                          1  .......        3
                                  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   164.015-4(g)(2)           Inches per minute         .......        4  .......
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tensile strength (minimum)         164.015-4(h)              P.s.i.                         30       20       60
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ultimate elongation (minimum)      164.015-4(h)              Percent                        75       75  .......
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Water absorption (maximum)         164.015-4(i)              Pounds/feet \2\               .06      .06      .06
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Flexibility at 0 2F
164.015-4(j)
No cracking
No cracking
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oil resistance                     164.015-4(k)              ........................    \(1)\    \(1)\    \(1)\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Odor                               164.015-4(l)              ........................    \(2)\    \(2)\    \(2)\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 \1\ No softening or swelling.
 \2\ Not objectionable.


[[Page 398]]

    (b) Density. The density of the material shall be determined by 
dividing the weight of the material by its volume and shall be expressed 
in pounds per cubic foot. The volume shall be determined by measuring 
the volume of water displaced by the material or by direct measurement 
of the specimen using vernier calipers reading to 0.001 inch A sheet 
specimen 4 x 4 x thickness furnished shall be used 
unless the foam is molded shape, then the largest single piece so molded 
shall be used.
    (c) Buoyancy in fresh water--(1) Specimens. The buoyancy test shall 
be made with a sample of the sheet material measuring 12 x 
12 x thickness of material furnished or with the largest 
molded shape furnished.
    (2) Procedure. Securely attach a spring scale in a position directly 
over a test tank. Suspend a weighted wire basket from the scale in such 
a manner that the basket can be weighed while completely submerged in 
water. Proceed as follows:
    (i) Weigh the empty basket under water.
    (ii) Place the sample inside the basket and submerge it so that the 
top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water. 
Allow the samples to remain submerged for 24 hours.
    (iii) After 24 hours submergence period, weigh the wire basket with 
the sample inside while both are still under water.
    (iv) The buoyancy is computed as paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section 
minus (c)(2)(iii) of this section. The resulting value is divided by the 
volume of the polyvinyl chloride foam expressed in cubic feet. The final 
result is in lbs./cu. ft.
    (d) Volume loss on heat aging--(1) Specimen. Test specimens shall 
consist of pieces 4 x 4 x the thickness of the 
material furnished. Where the foam is an object of molded shape, the 
largest single piece so molded shall be used for this test.
    (2) Procedure. Volume before and after the heat aging test shall be 
determined by measuring the volume of water displaced by the material. 
The specimens shall be placed in an oven maintained at 140[deg] 2 [deg]F., for a period of one week. At the end of that 
period the specimens shall be removed from the oven and allowed to 
recover in the open for 5 hours at 70[deg] 2 
[deg]F. before the measurement of final volume is made. The test shall 
be run in triplicate, the results averaged and the percentage of volume 
loss calculated.
    (e) Compression deflection. Compression deflection shall be 
determined in accordance with method 12151 of Federal Standard 601, 
except that the deflection shall be maintained at 25 percent with 
automatic or manual control, and the load observed and recorded 60 
seconds after the 25 percent deflection is reached.
    (f) Compression set--(1) Specimens. The specimens shall have 
parallel top and bottom surfaces which shall be at right angles to the 
side surfaces. The specimen may be cylindrical or rectangular. The 
minimum dimension across the top shall be at least 1.0 times the 
thickness and the top a minimum of 1 square inch in area, and a maximum 
of 16 square inches in area.
    (2) Apparatus. The apparatus shall consist of a compression device 
with two parallel plates, between which the test specimen shall be 
compressed by means of four studs and nuts. The plates may be steel, 
aluminum or any rigid smooth metal of sufficient thickness to withstand 
the required compression stresses without bending. The surfaces against 
which the test specimens are held shall be smooth and shall be 
thoroughly cleaned and wiped dry before each test. Metal shims inserted 
between the plates shall be used to limit the compression of the 
specimen.
    (3) Procedure. Thickness, before and after the compression set test 
shall be measured as specified in paragraph (h)(1) of this section. The 
test specimens shall be compressed 25% of the original thickness for 22 
hours. At the end of that period, the test specimens shall be removed 
from the set apparatus and allowed to rest for 24 hours before 
measurement of final thickness is made. The compression set shall be 
calculated by means of the following formula:

Compression set (percent) = [(ho - hi) / 
(ho - hs)] x 100 (1)

where:


[[Page 399]]


ho = the original thickness.
hi = the thickness 24 hours after removal from apparatus.
hs = the test compression thickness.

    (g) Fire retardance--(1) Types A and C foams. The test specimens 
shall be \1/4\ inch in thickness, 1 inch in width and approximately 6 
inches in length. The specimens shall be clamped at one end in a 
position such that the long dimension forms a 45[deg] angle with the 
horizontal and with the widths in a vertical position. A Bunsen burner 
with a 1 inch yellow flame shall be applied to the lower or free end of 
the specimen for 15 seconds. The burner shall then be removed and the 
time that the specimen continues to burn after removal of the burner 
shall be recorded as burning time. The length of char shall also be 
recorded. The test shall be performed in a location free from drafts. 
The average results of three determinations shall be reported. A plain 
wax candle equivalent to those meeting Federal Specification C-C 91 may 
be substituted for the Bunsen burner.
    (2) Type B foam. The test specimens shall be \1/2\ inch in 
thickness, 2 inches in width and approximately 6 inches in length. The 
specimens shall be tested in accordance with American Society for 
Testing Materials Designation D-1692T specification standard.
    (h) Tensile strength and the ultimate elongation--(1) Specimens. The 
test specimens shall be dumbbell shaped, conforming in shape to die I of 
method 4111 of Standard FED-STD-601. The thickness of the specimen shall 
be \1/4\ inch. Two specimens shall be taken from the center of the 
sample piece and two from one side, keeping the skin surface intact. The 
thickness shall be measured to the nearest 0.001 inch by a suitable 
measurement device such as a vernier caliper with a sliding vernier to 
read 0.001 inch. Care shall be taken not to compress or distort the 
specimen when measuring. The specimens taken from the center will be 
skinless; the others will have skin on one side. One-inch bench marks 
shall be placed midway on the constricted portion of the tensile 
specimen.
    (2) Procedure. (i) The tensile strength of the specimens shall be 
determined in a standard tensile testing machine with a rate of 
separation of jaws set at 2 inches per minute. The bench marks shall be 
followed with a suitable pair of dividers until the specimen ruptures. A 
minimum of 4 specimens shall be tested and if any specimen breaks at the 
clamp or any specimen exhibits any obvious defects, the results obtained 
therewith shall be discarded. A new similar specimen shall then be 
prepared and tested. The tensile strength shall be calculated by 
dividing the breaking load (to the nearest 0.1 pound) by the original 
area of the cross section of the specimen in square inches and the 
result shall be expressed in pounds per square inch. The percent 
ultimate elongation shall be calculated as follows:

D1 - D / D x 100 (2)

where:

D = distance between knife edges of bench marker.
D1 = distance between bench marks at moment of rupture to the 
          nearest \1/32\ inch.

    (3) Averaging determinations. The tensile strength in pounds per 
square inch and percent ultimate elongation of four determinations shall 
be averaged for each sample.
    (i) Water absorption--(1) Specimens. Test specimens shall be 
4 x 4 square and approximately 1 in 
thickness. The specimen may have the natural skin on the top and bottom 
surfaces.
    (2) Procedure. The specimens shall be weighed and submerged in water 
under a 10-foot head of water (equal to 4.35 psi) at room temperature 
(65[deg]-95 [deg]F.) for 48 hours. The specimens shall then be placed in 
a stream of air for the minimum time required to remove visible water 
from the surface, and reweighed. The results shall be calculated in 
terms of pounds of water gain per square foot of total exposed surface.
    (j) Flexibility--(1) The size of the specimen shall be approximately 
1[foot] x 8[foot] with a thickness of \1/4\[foot] \1/16\. The test specimens and equipment 
shall be conditioned for at least 4 hours at 0 [deg]F. 2 [deg]F., and bent 180[deg] around a \1/2\ 
diameter steel mandrel within 5 seconds at the test temperature. Care 
shall be taken to avoid warming the test specimens, particularly at or 
near the bend point, in performing the test.

[[Page 400]]

    (k) Oil resistance--(1) Specimens. The test specimens shall be a 
disk approximately 1 in diameter and 1 
(approximately) in thickness.
    (2) Procedure. The specimen shall be immersed in fuel oil conforming 
to Navy special grade of Specification MIL-F-859 for 70 hours. The 
specimen shall then be removed, dipped in alcohol and blotted with 
filter paper. The specimen shall then be compared to an untreated 
specimen of similar size for apparent softness and visible swelling.
    (l) Odor. The odor of unicellular polyvinyl chloride foam shall be 
determined by sniffing.

[CGFR 65-37, 30 FR 11593, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 65-64, 31 
FR 563, Jan. 18, 1966; USCG-2014-0688, 79 FR 58286, Sept. 29, 2014]



Sec.  164.015-5  Procedure for acceptance.

    (a) Unicellular plastic foam is not subject to formal approval, but 
will be accepted by the Coast Guard on the basis of this subpart for use 
in the manufacture of lifesaving equipment utilizing it.
    (b) Upon receipt of an application requesting acceptance, the 
Commander of the Coast Guard District will detail a marine inspector to 
the factory to observe the production facilities and manufacturing 
methods and to select from foam already manufactured sufficient sample 
material for testing for compliance with the requirements of this 
specification. A copy of the marine inspector's report, together with 
the sample material and one copy of an independent laboratory test 
report will be forwarded to the Commandant and if satisfactory notice of 
acceptance will be given to the manufacturer.
    (c) Acceptance of unicellular plastic foam prior to being 
incorporated into finished products, or during the course of 
manufacture, shall in no case be construed as a guarantee of the 
acceptance of the finished products.
    (d) The manufacturer of the foam shall provide the manufacturer of 
the lifesaving equipment with an affidavit certifying that the foam 
conforms to all of the requirements of this subpart.



    Subpart 164.018_Retroreflective Material for Lifesaving Equipment

    Source: CGD 76-028, 44 FR 38786, July 2, 1979, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.018-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes design requirements, approval tests, and 
procedures for approving retroreflective material used on lifesaving 
equipment.



Sec.  164.018-3  Classification.

    The following types of retroreflective material are approved under 
this specification:
    (a) Type I--Material used on flexible surfaces and rigid surfaces, 
except rigid surfaces that are continuously exposed.
    (b) Type II--Weather resistant material used on continuously exposed 
rigid surfaces.



Sec.  164.018-5  Specifications and standards incorporated by reference.

    (a) The following federal and military specifications and standards 
are incorporated by reference into this subpart:
    (1) Federal Specification L-P-375 C (April 23, 1970), entitled 
``Plastic Film, Flexible, Vinyl Chloride'', as amended by Amendment 2 of 
December 2, 1976.
    (2) Federal Specification L-S-300 B (July 12, 1974), entitled 
``Sheeting and Tape, Reflective: Nonexposed Lens, Adhesive Backing.''
    (3) Federal Specification CCC-C-426 D (August 12, 1970), entitled 
``Cloth, Drill, Cotton.''
    (4) Federal Specification CCC-C-443 E (December 2, 1974), entitled 
``Cloth, Duck, Cotton (Single and Plied Filling Yarns, Flat).''
    (5) Federal Test Method Standard 141a (September 1, 1965), entitled 
``Paint, Varnish, Lacquer and Related Materials; Methods of Inspection, 
Sampling and Testing.'' (Method 6141 ``Washability of Paints'', and 
Method 6142 ``Scrub Resistance'' as amended May 1, 1974).
    (6) Federal Test Method Standard 370 (March 1, 1977), entitled 
``Instrumental Photometric Measurements of Retroreflective Materials and 
Retroreflective Devices.''
    (7) Military Specification MIL-C-17415 E (April 16, 1964), entitled 
``Cloth,

[[Page 401]]

Coated, and Webbing, Inflatable Boat and Miscellaneous Use'', as amended 
by Amendment 5 of April 26, 1976.
    (8) Military Specification MIL-R-21607 D (August 5, 1976), entitled 
``Resins, Polyester, Low Pressure Laminating, Fire-retardant.''
    (9) Military Specification MIL-C-43006 E (March 24, 1978), entitled 
``Cloth and Strip Laminated, Vinyl Nylon High Strength, Flexible.''
    (b) The Federal standards may be obtained from the General Services 
Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS 
Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202; 
telephone 703-605-5400. The Military Specifications may be obtained from 
the Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents 
Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-
5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.'' These materials are 
also on file in the Federal Register library.
    (c) Approval to incorporate by reference the materials listed in 
this section was obtained from the Director of the Federal Register on 
June 14, 1979.
    (d) When changes are made to a specification or standard 
incorporated by reference into this subpart, the effective date for its 
use will be the effective date set by the issuing authority unless 
otherwise determined by the Coast Guard.

[CGD 76-028, 44 FR 38786, July 2, 1979, as amended by USCG-2013-0671, 78 
FR 60162, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  164.018-7  Approval procedures.

    (a) An application for approval of retroreflective material must be 
sent to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety 
Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue 
SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.
    (b) Each application for approval must contain--(1) The name and 
address of the applicant;
    (2) Two copies of plans or specifications of the material;
    (3) A detailed description of the quality control procedures used in 
manufacturing the material; and
    (4) A test report containing observations and results of approval 
testing conducted.
    (c) The Commandant advises the applicant whether the retroreflective 
material is approved. If the material is approved, an approval 
certificate is sent to the applicant.

[CGD 76-028, 44 FR 38786, July 2, 1979, as amended by CGD 82-063b, 48 FR 
4783, Feb. 3, 1983; CGD 88-070, 53 FR 34537, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95-072, 
60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 1996; 
USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49238, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 
60162, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  164.018-9  Design requirements.

    (a) Type I retroreflective material must be capable of being 
attached to lifesaving equipment either by sewing it to the equipment or 
by means of an adhesive. Type II material must be capable of being 
attached to lifesaving equipment either by mechanical fasteners or by an 
adhesive.
    (b) The following information must be stated on retroreflective 
material or on the package in which it is supplied to a user:
    (1) Each surface to which the retroreflective material is designed 
to be attached.
    (2) The instructions for attaching the material to each surface 
described in paragraph (b)(1) of this section.
    (c) When retroreflective material designed for use with an adhesive 
is tested in accordance with the ``adhesion'' test method listed in 
Sec.  164.018-11, the material must not peel for a distance of more than 
5 cm (2 in.).
    (d) When dry material is tested in accordance with the ``reflective 
intensity'' test method listed in Sec.  164.018-11, the reflective 
intensity of the material must be equal to or greater than the values 
for reflective intensity listed in Table 164.018-9.
    (e) When wet material is tested in accordance with the ``reflective 
intensity during rainfall'' test method listed in Sec.  164.018-11, the 
reflective intensity of the material must be at least 90 percent of the 
values listed in Table 164.018-9.
    (f) The reflective intensity of material after testing in accordance 
with the ``resistance to accelerated weathering'' test method listed in 
Sec.  164.018-11

[[Page 402]]

must be at least 50 percent of the values listed in Table 164.018-9.
    (g) After testing in accordance with the ``fungus resistance'' test 
method listed in Sec.  164.018-11, retroreflective material must not 
support fungus growth, and the reflective intensity of the material must 
be equal to or greater than the values for reflective intensity listed 
in Table 164.018-9.
    (h) The reflective intensity of materials after testing in 
accordance with the ``resistance to water immersion'' test method 
described in Sec.  164.018-11, must be equal to or greater than the 
values listed in Table 164.018-9, except that retroreflectivity is not 
required in the area extending outward 5 mm (0.2 inches) from each side 
of the cuts made in the material.
    (i) The reflective intensity of material after testing in accordance 
with the ``abrasion resistance'' test method described in Sec.  164.018-
11(b)(2), must be at least 50 percent of the values listed in Table 
164.018-9
    (j) After retroreflective material is tested in accordance with the 
``soil resistance and cleanability'' test method described in Sec.  
164.018-11(b)(3) the material must not have any visible damage or 
permanent soiling.
    (k) Except as provided in paragraphs (c) through (j) of this 
section, retroreflective material when tested in accordance with the 
test methods listed in Sec.  164.018-11 must meet the requirements 
prescribed for those test methods in Federal Specification L-S-300.

                  Table 164.018-9--Reflective Intensity
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Reflective
Divergence angle \1\ (Observation   Incidence angle     intensity \1\
            angle) \2\               \1\ (Entrance   (Specific intensity
                                      angle) \2\      per unit area) \2\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
0.2[deg].........................           -4[deg]                150
.2[deg]..........................         + 30[deg]                 75
.2[deg]..........................         + 45[deg]                 50
.5...............................           -4[deg]                 57
.5...............................         + 30[deg]                 33
.5...............................         + 45[deg]                 25
2.0[deg].........................           -4[deg]                  2.5
2.0[deg].........................         + 30[deg]                  2.0
2.0[deg].........................         + 45[deg]                  1.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ These terms are described in Federal Specification L-S-300.
\2\ These terms are described in Federal Test Method Standard 370.



Sec.  164.018-11  Approval tests.

    (a) Retroreflective material submitted for Coast Guard approval must 
be tested in accordance with the following test methods described in 
Federal Specification L-S-300:
    (1) Test conditions.
    (2) Test panels.
    (3) Adhesion test method using a 0.79 kg (1.75 lb.) test weight, 
except that one test panel must be immersed in distilled water in a 
covered container for 16 hours before the weight is applied and the 
other test panel must be immersed in salt water (4% NaCl by weight) in a 
covered container for 16 hours before the weight is applied. (This test 
method is required only for retroreflective material that is designed 
for use with an adhesive. If a particular test panel used in testing 
results in a test failure, the retroreflective material will not be 
approved for attachment to material of the type used as the test panel. 
The retroreflective material may nevertheless be approved for use with 
other types of material depending on the results of testing with the 
other panels. See paragraph (d) of this section for a listing of tests 
panels used.)
    (4) Flexibility at standard conditions test method, except that when 
testing Type I material--
    (i) The material must be unmounted;
    (ii) A 1.5 mm (\1/16\-inch) mandrel must be used in place of the 
mandrel described in the test method; and
    (iii) After testing at standard conditions, the material must be 
placed in a chamber at a temperature of -18 [deg]C. (0 [deg]F.) for at 
least 1 hour and then retested in the chamber at that temperature.
    (5) Reflective intensity.
    (6) Resistance to accelerated weathering test method and subtest 
methods ``reflective intensity after accelerated weathering,'' 
``reflective intensity during rainfall,'' and ``adhesion after 
accelerated weathering.'' (The ``adhesion after accelerated weathering'' 
test method is required only for materials designed for use with an 
adhesive. The ``resistance to accelerated weathering'' test method must 
be performed for 250 hours, if testing Type I material, and for 1,000 
hours if testing Type II material.)
    (7) Resistance to heat, cold, and humidity.
    (8) Fungus resistance.

[[Page 403]]

    (b) Retroreflective material submitted for approval must also be 
tested as follows:
    (1) Resistance to water immersion. Two test panels are used. The 
test panels and test conditions must meet paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) 
of this section. The retroreflective material on each test panel is cut 
with a sharp knife from each corner to the corner diagonally opposite so 
that an ``X'' is formed. The cuts must be made completely through the 
material to the metal panel. One panel is immersed in distilled water in 
a covered container. The other panel is immersed in salt water (4% NaCl 
by weight) in a covered container. After 16 hours in water, the panels 
are removed from the containers, rinsed of deposits, and dried. 
Reflective intensity values at the angles listed in Table 164.018-9 must 
be measured within 2 hours after removal of the panels from the water. 
When measuring the reflective intensity values, the area within 5 mm 
(0.2 in.) of either side of the ``X'' cuts, and within 5 mm of the cut 
edges of the material, must not be counted.
    (2) Abrasion resistance. One test panel is used. The panel and test 
conditions must meet paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) of this section. The 
test apparatus must meet Federal Test Method Standard 141, Method 6142, 
except that the brush must be dry. One thousand brush strokes are 
applied to the material. The test panel is then wiped with a clean soft 
cloth. Thereafter, the reflective intensity of the area of the material 
in contact with the brush is measured at the angles listed in Table 
164.018-9.
    (3) Soil resistance and cleanability. One panel is used. The test 
panel and test conditions must meet paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) of this 
section. A soiling medium is applied to the material as described in 
Federal Test Method Standard 141, Method 6141. The soiled area is then 
covered with a laboratory watch glass or similar device. After 24 hours, 
the material is uncovered and the soil medium wiped off with a clean, 
dry, soft cloth. The material is then wetted with mineral spirits and 
wiped with a cloth soaked in mineral spirits. Thereafter, it is washed 
with a 1 percent (by weight) solution of detergent in warm water and 
rinsed and dried with a clean, dry, soft cloth.
    (c) Each measurement of reflective intensity required in paragraphs 
(a), (b)(1), and (b)(2) of this section must be made using either--
    (1) The L-S-300 procedure for measuring reflective intensity; or
    (2) The procedure for measuring specific intensity per unit area in 
Federal Test Method Standard 370, except that the test apparatus 
arrangement required in L-S-300 must be used.
    (d) If material is designed for use with an adhesive, the 
``adhesion'' test method required by paragraph (a)(3) of this section 
must be repeated using a 0.79 kg. (1.75 lb.) test weight and using each 
of the following materials as test panels in place of the aluminum test 
panels required by this test method:
    (1) Smooth panel of cured polyester laminating resin meeting MIL-R-
21607 (Types I and II material).
    (2) Cotton drill (Type I material only) meeting CCC-C-426, or cotton 
duck meeting CCC-C-443 (Type I material only).
    (3) Vinyl-nylon laminated cloth meeting MIL-C-43006 (Type I material 
only).
    (4) Vinyl film meeting L-P-375 (Type I material only).
    (5) Rubber coated cloth meeting MIL-C-17415 (Type I material only).
    (e) Each flexible material listed in paragraph (d) of this section 
when used as a test panel must be bonded to a rigid backing.
    (f) Test panel material listed in paragraph (d) of this section 
must--
    (1) Be taken from an item of Coast Guard approved lifesaving 
equipment; or
    (2) Be certified by the manufacturer of the material that it meets 
the applicable specification in paragraph (d) of this section.



Sec.  164.018-13  Production inspections.

    The Coast Guard does not inspect retroreflective material approved

[[Page 404]]

under this subpart on a regular schedule. However, the Commandant may 
select samples and conduct tests and examinations whenever necessary to 
determine whether retroreflective material is being manufactured in 
compliance with the requirements of this subpart.



          Subpart 164.019_Personal Flotation Device Components

    Source: CGD 84-068, 58 FR 29494, May 20, 1993, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.019-1  Scope.

    (a) This subpart contains general requirements for standard personal 
flotation device (PFD) components, procedures for acceptance of non-
standard PFD components, and production quality control requirements for 
all PFD components, used in the construction of PFDs approved under part 
160 of this subchapter.
    (b) Other subparts of this part contain specific requirements 
applicable to particular PFD components used in the construction of 
Coast Guard-approved PFDs.
    (c) Part 160 of this chapter contains specific requirements and 
limitations concerning the use of PFD components in the construction of 
particular Coast Guard-approved PFDs.



Sec.  164.019-3  Definitions.

    Acceptance means certification by the Coast Guard that a component 
is suitable for use in the manufacture of Coast Guard-approved PFDs.
    Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety 
Division, Office of Engineering and Design Standards, U.S. Coast Guard. 
Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety 
Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue 
SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392.
    Component manufacturer means either a component manufacturer or 
supplier seeking acceptance of a component, or a component manufacturer 
or supplier who has obtained acceptance of a component.
    Inspector means a Coast Guard marine inspector, authorized 
representative of the Coast Guard, or a recognized laboratory 
representative.
    Non-standard component means a PFD component which is equivalent in 
performance to a standard component.
    PFD Type means the performance type designation as indicated in 33 
CFR part 175 and this subchapter.
    Standard component means a PFD component which complies in all 
respects with the material, construction, and performance requirements 
of a subpart of this part or part 160 of this chapter.
    Use Code means an alphanumeric code assigned by the Commandant (CG-
ENG-4) to a PFD component to designate the PFD Type(s) in which it may 
be used. Assigned Use Codes are listed in table 164.019-3.

                             Table 164.019-3
------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Use code                   PFD type acceptable for use
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1................................  I, II, and III.
2................................  II and III.
3................................  III.
4B...............................  IV (all Ring Buoys).
4BC..............................  IV (Buoyant Cushions).
4RB..............................  IV (Recreational Ring Buoys only).
5................................  Wearable Type V (intended use must be
                                    specified).
5H...............................  V (Hybrid).
5R...............................  V (Recreational Style).
5SB..............................  V (Sailboard vests).
5WV..............................  V (Work vests).
6................................  Special, limited, or restricted use.
Suffix A.........................  Adult only.
Suffix C.........................  Child only.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[CGD 84-068, 58 FR 29494, May 20, 1993, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 FR 
50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG-
2006-25697; 71 FR 55747, Sept. 25, 2006; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49238, 
Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-2013-0671, 78 FR 60162, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  164.019-4  Component requirements.

    (a) PFDs may be constructed only with Coast Guard-accepted PFD 
components meeting the requirements of this subchapter.
    (b) PFD components may be used in the construction of PFDs only in 
accordance with their Use Codes.



Sec.  164.019-5  Standard components; acceptance criteria and procedures.

    (a) General. Standard components used in the construction of PFDs 
must meet the applicable requirements of

[[Page 405]]

this part or part 160 and the documentation requirements of this 
section.
    (b) Use Codes. Each standard component is assigned a Use Code as 
indicated in table 164.019-3. Additional Use Codes may be assigned by 
the Commandant.
    (c) Method and documentation of acceptance. Except as provided in 
paragraph (d) of this section, the following requirements pertaining to 
the shipment of standard components must be met in order for the 
standard components to be considered Coast Guard-accepted standard 
components:
    (1) Each shipment of standard components must be accompanied by an 
affidavit complying with Sec.  164.019-11.
    (2) A sample affidavit, or a copy of the affidavit, provided with 
the first shipment of standard components to a PFD manufacturer, must be 
provided to the Commandant.
    (3) A revised sample affidavit, or a copy of the revised affidavit, 
must be provided to the Coast Guard any time the information on the 
affidavit accompanying a shipment of standard components materially 
changes.
    (d) Exception. Affidavits are not required to be provided for 
standard components that are under the quality control oversight program 
of a recognized laboratory meeting the requirements of Sec.  164.019-17.
    (e) Suspension or termination of acceptance. The procedures in 
Sec. Sec.  2.75-40 and 2.75-50 of this chapter for suspension and 
termination of approvals also apply to Coast Guard acceptances of PFD 
components.



Sec.  164.019-7  Non-standard components; acceptance criteria and procedures.

    (a) General. Non-standard components may be used in the construction 
of PFDs only if they have been accepted by the Coast Guard in accordance 
with the requirements of this section.
    (b) Use Codes. Each non-standard component is assigned a Use Code as 
indicated in table 164.019-3. Additional Use Codes may be assigned by 
the Commandant.
    (c) Request for acceptance. The component manufacturer or the 
recognized laboratory that performs the acceptance testing required by 
the applicable subpart of this part or part 160 of this chapter must 
submit, in writing, to the Commandant, a request for acceptance of any 
non-standard component. The request must include the information, 
supporting documentation, and samples required by this section.
    (1) The request must include a statement of the intended use of the 
component by the PFD manufacturer, and the Use Code(s) for which 
acceptance is requested. Intended uses must be for one or more of the 
following--
    (i) Outer Envelope Fabric (exterior fabrics on wearable PFDs);
    (ii) Cover Fabric (for throwable PFDs);
    (iii) Inner Envelope Fabric;
    (iv) Closure (including zippers) or Adjustment Hardware;
    (v) Body Strap;
    (vi) Grab Strap (applies to buoyant cushions only);
    (vii) Tie Tape;
    (viii) Reinforcing Tape;
    (ix) Thread:
    (x) Flotation Foam; or
    (xi) Other (specify).
    (2) The request must include a statement identifying the component 
in detail and including the unique style, part, or model number, the 
identification data required by the applicable subpart of this part, and 
any other manufacturer's identifying data. No two components which 
differ in any way, e.g., size, material composition, construction, may 
utilize the same identification number.
    (3) The report of a recognized laboratory's test data in accordance 
with the ``acceptance tests'' required by the applicable subpart of this 
part or part 160 must be submitted with the request. Each report must 
include the name of the laboratory and a description of the test 
equipment and test methods used, and must be signed and dated by an 
authorized laboratory official.
    (4) A sample of each component that is being considered must be 
submitted with the request. Where the lightest and darkest colors are 
being tested, samples of both colors must be submitted. A one linear 
yard sample is required in the case of textiles.
    (5) The request must include a list of all materials used in the 
construction of the particular component. The list

[[Page 406]]

must contain specific identification and quantity of all materials used.
    (6) For hardware and other mechanical components, the request must 
include scaled drawings showing details and dimensions of the mechanism.
    (7) A statement of dimensional and performance tolerances, as 
appropriate, that will be maintained in production must be submitted 
with request.
    (8) The request must include a description of the quality control 
procedures that will be in effect during production.
    (9) The request must include a detailed description of the 
recognized laboratory's procedures for oversight of the manufacturer's 
program of production quality control, including a description of the 
laboratory's certification marking(s).
    (10) The request must include any appropriate installation or use 
guidelines for the component.
    (d) Documentation of acceptance. When an acceptance is granted, the 
Commandant provides written notice to the applicant.
    (e) Alternate requirements. A component that does not meet the 
requirements of this subchapter is eligible for acceptance if it--
    (1) Meets other requirements prescribed by the Commandant in lieu of 
or in addition to the requirements of this subpart; and
    (2) Provides at least the same degree of safety as provided by a 
component that does comply with this subpart.
    (f) Additional tests and documentation. The Commandant may prescribe 
additional tests or request additional documentation, if necessary, to 
determine the acceptability or suitability of a particular product.
    (g) Suspension or termination of acceptance. The producers in 
Sec. Sec.  2.75-40 and 2.75-50 of this chapter for suspension and 
termination of approvals also apply to Coast Guard acceptances of PFD 
components.

[CGD 84-068, 58 FR 29494, May 20, 1993; 58 FR 32416, June 9, 1993]



Sec.  164.019-9  Procedure for acceptance of revisions of design,
process, or materials.

    (a) The manufacturer shall not change the design, material, 
manufacturing process, or construction of a non-standard component 
unless it has been previously approved by the Commandant, in accordance 
with paragraph (b) of this section.
    (b) The manufacturer or the recognized laboratory that performs the 
acceptance testing required by the applicable subpart of this part or 
part 160 of this chapter shall submit requests for acceptance of 
revisions in design, material, manufacturing process, or construction of 
a non-standard component in writing and describe the revision in detail 
similar to the original request for acceptance.



Sec.  164.019-11  Certification (affidavits).

    General. Affidavits required by Sec.  164.019-5(c) must be 
notarized, and certify that a component complies in all respects with 
the material and construction requirements of a subpart of this part or 
part 160 of this chapter. Each affidavit must contain the following 
information:
    (a) Name and address of company.
    (b) Name and title of signing company official.
    (c) Description of the component by use of the unique style, part, 
or model number and other applicable distinctive characteristics such as 
weight, size, denier, treatments or coatings, etc.
    (d) Production data (to include lot, batch number, and quantity 
shipped) in sufficient detail to enable the manufacturer or purchaser to 
trace a shipment of components back to the lots of raw materials used in 
its manufacture.
    (e) The intended use of the component, from the list in Sec.  
164.019-7(c)(1).
    (f) The PFD Type(s) for which the component is a standard component, 
as determined by--
    (1) The standard material component requirements of part 160 of this 
chapter with which the component complies; or
    (2) The Use Code(s) of the component.
    (g) A statement indicating the specific provision(s) of this 
subchapter with which the component complies.

[[Page 407]]

    (h) A copy of the records of all required production tests performed 
on the component lots that are covered by the affidavit.



Sec.  164.019-13  Production quality control requirements.

    (a) General. Each component manufacturer shall establish procedures 
for maintaining quality control of the materials used in production, 
manufacturing operations, and the finished product.
    (b) Recognized laboratory oversight. Each manufacturer of non-
standard components shall supplement its procedures for assuring 
production quality control with a program of oversight by a recognized 
laboratory, as described in the oversight procedures submitted to the 
Coast Guard in accordance with Sec.  164.019-7(c)(9). The laboratory's 
oversight program must be performed at the place of manufacture unless 
alternate procedures have been accepted by the Commandant.
    (c) Production tests and inspections. Production tests and 
inspections must be conducted in accordance with this section and 
subpart 159.007 of this chapter.
    (d) Responsibilities; component manufacturers. Each component 
manufacturer shall--
    (1) Perform all production tests and inspections required by the 
applicable subpart of this part;
    (2) Adhere to the accepted quality control procedures for the 
component as submitted to the Coast Guard in accordance with Sec.  
164.019-7(c)(8); and
    (3) Establish a continuing program of employee training and a 
program for maintaining production and test equipment.
    (e) Responsibilities; recognized laboratories. The same recognized 
laboratory that performed the acceptance testing shall, at least 
quarterly, or more frequently if required by the applicable subpart of 
this part or by the oversight procedures submitted in accordance with 
Sec.  164.019-7(c)(9)--
    (1) Audit the component manufacturer's records required by Sec.  
164.019-15;
    (2) Perform, or supervise the performance of, the tests required by 
this section, the applicable subpart of this part, and the accepted 
quality control and oversight procedures; and
    (3) Verify, during each inspection, compliance by the manufacturer 
with the manufacturer's established quality control program and provide 
a summary report of any noncompliance to the Commandant at least 
annually.
    (f) Component lots--(1) Lot numbers. The manufacturer shall assign a 
lot number to each group of components manufactured. A new lot must be 
started whenever any change is made in materials, design, or production 
method, and whenever any substantial discontinuity in the manufacturing 
process (such as a change in shift) occurs. Changes in lots of incoming 
materials must be treated as changes in materials. Lots must be numbered 
serially. The lot number assigned, in combination with the unique 
product name or identification, must enable the component manufacturer 
(or supplier), by referring to the records required by this subpart, to 
determine the source(s) of all raw materials used in that lot.
    (2) Lot size. The maximum lot size for any particular component must 
be as defined in the applicable subpart of this part.
    (g) Samples. (1) Procedures for selection of test samples, and 
required sample sizes, must be in accordance with the applicable subpart 
of this part.
    (2) The inspector shall select different samples than were tested by 
the manufacturer.
    (h) Detailed product examination--(1) General. In addition to the 
tests and inspections required by the applicable subpart of this part, 
the manufacturer or the inspector shall examine each sample component to 
determine that--
    (i) The construction, markings, and workmanship conform to the 
information submitted in the request for acceptance; and
    (ii) The component is not otherwise defective.
    (2) Inspection responsibility. The manufacturer shall ensure that 
the inspection required by paragraph (h)(1) of this section is performed 
by a manufacturer's representative familiar with the performance 
requirements for the component, and all of the production quality 
control requirements. The manufacturer's representative must not be

[[Page 408]]

responsible for meeting production schedules, or be subject to 
supervision by someone responsible for meeting production schedules.
    (i) [Reserved]
    (j) Accept/reject criteria. (1) A component lot passes production 
testing and is therefore accepted if each sample tested passes each 
test.
    (2) A lot having a production test failure may be accepted if it 
meets the following additional test requirements.
    (i) When the basis of acceptability is an average result, a second 
sampling with an identical number of samples is taken. The results of 
this second sampling must be averaged with the initial results. If the 
average result passes the test, then the lot may be accepted.
    (ii) When the basis of acceptability is individual sample results, a 
second sampling is taken. The size of the second sampling must be as 
specified in the subpart of this part which covers the component. If 
each sample in this sampling passes the test, the lot may be accepted.
    (3) A rejected lot of components may be resubmitted for testing, 
examination, or inspection if--
    (i) The manufacturer first removes each component having the same 
type of defect or;
    (ii) After obtaining authorization from the Commandant or the 
recognized laboratory, the manufacturer reworks the lot to correct the 
defect.
    (4) A rejected lot or rejected component may not be sold or offered 
for sale with the representation that it meets the requirements of this 
subpart or is accepted by the Coast Guard, and may not be used in the 
construction of Coast Guard-approved PFDs.
    (k) Facilities and equipment--(1) General. The manufacturer shall 
provide the test equipment and facilities for performing production 
tests, examinations, and inspections described in the applicable subpart 
of this part and in the quality control and oversight procedures 
submitted in accordance with Sec.  164.019-7(c) (8) and (9).
    (2) Calibration. The manufacturer shall have the calibration of all 
test equipment checked at least every 6 months by a weights and measures 
agency or by the equipment manufacturer, distributor, or dealer.
    (3) Facilities for inspector's use. The manufacturer shall provide a 
suitable place and the necessary apparatus for the inspector to use in 
conducting or supervising tests. For the detailed product examination, 
the manufacturer shall provide a suitable working environment and a 
smooth-top table for the inspector's use.
    (4) Access to facilities. The manufacturer shall permit the 
inspector to have access to any place in the factory where work is being 
done on PFD components or where components are stored. The inspector may 
take samples of parts or materials entering into production or completed 
components, for further examinations, inspections, or tests.
    (l) [Reserved]
    (m) Alternate procedures for standard components. In lieu of the 
quality control procedures specified in this section, manufacturers of 
standard components may follow the quality control procedures in a 
Federal or military specification with which the component is required 
to comply by this subchapter, or equivalent procedures accepted by the 
Commandant.
    (n) Additional tests. The Commandant may prescribe additional 
production tests and inspections to maintain quality control. A 
representative of the Commandant may conduct inspections for compliance 
with the requirements of this subpart.

[CGD 84-068, 58 FR 29494, May 20, 1993; 58 FR 32416, June 9, 1993]



Sec.  164.019-15  Component manufacturer records.

    (a) Each component manufacturer shall retain records as required by 
Sec.  159.007-13 of this chapter.
    (b) The records required by paragraph (a) of this section must 
include the following information:
    (1) For each test, the serial number of the test instrument used if 
there is more than one available.
    (2) For each test and inspection, the identification of the samples 
used, the lot number, the unique component identification, and the 
quantity of the component in the lot.
    (3) The cause for rejection, any corrective action taken, and the 
final disposition of each lot rejected.

[[Page 409]]

    (c) Manufacturers utilizing procedures and apparatus meeting the 
requirements of the applicable subpart of this part or the independent 
laboratory's accepted follow-up inspection procedures are not required 
to include the description of procedures or photographs or apparatus 
required by Sec.  159.007-13 of this chapter in the manufacturers' 
records.
    (d) In addition to the records required by paragraphs (a) and (b) of 
this section, each component manufacturer shall retain the following:
    (1) Records for all materials used in production, including name and 
address of the supplier, date of purchase and receipt, and lot number.
    (2) A copy of this subpart, and other subparts applicable to the 
component manufactured.
    (3) Each document incorporated by reference in the applicable 
subpart(s) of this part.
    (4) A copy of the accepted component specifications and identifying 
data.
    (5) Records of calibration of all test equipment, including the 
identity of the agency performing the calibration, date of calibration, 
and results.
    (e) Manufacturers shall retain the records required by paragraph 
(d)(1) of this section for at least 60 months.
    (f) Upon request, manufacturers shall make available to the 
inspector or to the Commandant records of tests conducted by the 
manufacturer and records of materials entering into construction, 
including affidavits by suppliers certifying that applicable 
requirements are met.



Sec.  164.019-17  Recognized laboratory.

    (a) General. A laboratory may be designated as a recognized 
laboratory under this subpart if it is--
    (1) Accepted by the Coast Guard as an independent laboratory under 
subpart 159.010 of this subchapter; and
    (2) Established in the inspection of factory production, listing, 
and labeling, by having an existing program and standards for 
evaluation, listing, and marking components, that are acceptable to the 
Commandant.
    (b) Designated recognized laboratories. A current listing of 
recognized laboratories is available from the Commandant upon request.



          Subpart 164.023_Thread for Personal Flotation Devices

    Source: CGD 84-068, 58 FR 29497, May 20, 1993, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.023-1  Scope.

    This subpart contains performance requirements, acceptance tests, 
and production testing and inspection requirements for thread used in 
the construction of personal flotation devices (PFDs) approved under 
part 160 of this subchapter. Manufacturers must also comply with the 
requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter.



Sec.  164.023-3  Specifications and standards incorporated by reference.

    (a) Certain materials are incorporated by reference into this 
subpart with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register in 
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any 
edition other than the one listed in paragraph (b) of this section, 
notice of change must be published in the Federal Register and the 
material made available to the public. All approved material may be 
inspected at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), 
and at Coast Guard Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: 
Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. The 
material is also available from the sources indicated in paragraph (c) 
of this section. For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/
federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
    (b) The materials approved for incorporation by reference in this 
subpart, and the sections affected are:

Federal Standards and Test Method Standards
The following test methods in Federal Test Method Standard No. 191A, 
Textile Test Methods, July 20, 1978:
    (1) Method 4010, Length-Weight Relation; Thread; Yards Per Pound (m/
kg)--164.023-11.
    (2) Method 4100, Strength and Elongation, Breaking; and Tenacity; of 
Thread and Yarn; Single Strand--164.023-7.

[[Page 410]]

    (3) Method 5804, Weathering Resistance of Cloth; Accelerated 
Weathering Method--164.023-7.
Federal Specifications
    (4) V-T-285E--Thread, Polyester, August 21, 1986--164.023-5.
    (5) V-T-295E--Thread, Nylon, August 1, 1985--164.023-5.

Military Specifications
    (6) MIL-T-43548C--Thread, Polyester Core: Cotton-, Rayon-, or 
Polyester-Covered, September 30, 1986--164.023-5.
    (7) MIL-T-43624A--Thread, Polyester, Spun, January 22, 1982--
164.023-5.

    (c) The Federal standards may be obtained from the General Services 
Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS 
Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202; 703-
605-5400. Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization 
Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 
19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.

[CGD 84-068, 58 FR 29497, May 20, 1993, as amended by CGD 95-072, 60 FR 
50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 1996; 69 FR 
18803, Apr. 9, 2004; USCG-2009-0702, 74 FR 49238, Sept. 25, 2009; USCG-
2013-0671, 78 FR 60162, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  164.023-5  Performance; standard thread.

    (a) Use Codes 1, 2, 3, 4BC, 4RB, 5 (any). Each thread which complies 
with all of the requirements of a specification listed in table 164.023-
5(a) is assigned Use Codes 1, 2, 3, 4BC, 4RB, and 5 (any).

                                               Table 164.023-5(a)
                                      [Use codes 1, 2, 3, 4BC, 4RB, 5(any)]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Federal or military                                                                     Ticket No. or size
         specification                Material               Type                Class               range
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
V-T-285E.......................  Polyester.........  I or II              1                   E, F, FF.
V-T-295E.......................  Nylon.............  I or II              A                   E, F, FF.
MIL-T-43624A...................  Polyester.........  ...................  ..................  24 through 12.
MIL-T-43548C...................  Polyester covered   ...................  ..................  24 through 12.
                                  only.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (b) Use Code 4B. Each thread which meets the requirements of Federal 
Specifications V-T-295, Type II, Class A, number size 4, is assigned Use 
Code 4B.



Sec.  164.023-7  Performance; non-standard thread.

    (a) Use Codes 1, 2, 3, 4BC, 4RB, 5 (any). Each non-standard thread 
which meets all of the requirements of paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) 
of this section is assigned Use Codes 1, 2, 3, 4BC, 4RB, and 5 (any).
    (1) Single strand breaking strength. The thread, as received, must 
have a single strand breaking strength of not less than 25 N (5.7 lb.), 
when tested in accordance with Test Method 4100 in Federal Test Method 
Standard No. 191A using a Constant-Rate-of-Traverse (CRT) testing 
machine.
    (2) Single strand breaking strength (after weathering). After 
exposure in a sunshine carbon-arc weatherometer in accordance with Test 
Method 5804 in Federal Test Method Standard No. 191A for a period of 100 
hours, the thread must retain at least 60 percent of its single strand 
breaking strength as received, and have a breaking strength of at least 
21 N (4.7 lb.).
    (3) Loop breaking strength. The thread, as received, must have a 
loop breaking strength of not less than 45 N (10.0 lb.), when tested in 
accordance with Test Method 4100 in Federal Test Method Standard No. 
191A using a CRT testing machine, except that--
    (i) Each specimen must consist of two 35 cm (14 in.) pieces of 
thread; and
    (ii) Both ends of one piece of thread must be secured without 
twisting in one clamp of the testing machine so that the length of the 
loop formed equals one half the distance between the clamps. One end of 
the second piece must then be passed without twisting through the loop 
formed by the first, and both ends must be secured in the other clamp of 
the machine. The breaking strength must then be determined under the 
single strand test.
    (b) Use Code 4B. Each non-standard thread which meets all of the 
requirements of paragraphs (b)(1) and (b)(2) of this section is assigned 
Use Code 4B.

[[Page 411]]

    (1) Single strand breaking strength. The thread as received must 
have a single strand breaking strength of not less than 160 N (36.0 lb.) 
when tested in accordance with Test Method 4100 in Federal Test Method 
Standard No. 191A using a CRT testing machine.
    (2) Single strand breaking strength (after weathering). After 
exposure in a sunshine carbon-arc weatherometer in accordance with Test 
Method 5804 in Federal Test Method Standard No. 191A for a period of 100 
hours, the thread must retain at least 60 percent of its single strand 
breaking strength.
    (c) Prohibited threads. Cotton thread, and monofilament thread of 
any composition, will not be accepted for use in structural applications 
unless demonstrated to the Commandant to be equivalent to standard 
thread in durability in all foreseeable conditions of use and stowage.



Sec.  164.023-9  Samples submitted for acceptance.

    Application samples. A product sample submitted for acceptance as 
required by Sec.  164.019-7(c)(4) must consist of at least one unit of 
put-up of thread.



Sec.  164.023-11  Acceptance tests.

    (a) Performance testing. Manufacturers shall ensure that the 
performance tests described in Sec.  164.023-7 (a) or (b), as 
appropriate, are performed on a minimum of five samples in each of the 
lightest and darkest colors submitted for acceptance.
    (b) Identification testing. Manufacturers shall ensure that the 
following identification tests are conducted:
    (1) The average length/weight ratio of the thread in meters per 
kilogram (yards per pound) must be determined in accordance with Test 
Method 4010 in Federal Test Method Standard 191A.
    (2) The generic chemical composition of the thread must be 
determined by qualitative infrared analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, 
differential scanning calorimeter, or other equivalent means adequate to 
conclusively identify the composition of the product tested.
    (3) Elongation at break must be determined on the same samples 
tested for single strand breaking test in accordance with Sec.  164.023-
7(a)(1) or (b)(1), as appropriate.



Sec.  164.023-13  Production tests and inspections.

    (a) Manufacturer's test equipment and facilities. The manufacturer 
shall provide the following test equipment and facilities for use in 
production tests and inspections:
    (1) A Constant Rate of Traverse tensile testing machine, capable of 
initial clamp separation of ten inches and a rate of separation of 30 cm 
(12 in.) per minute.
    (2) Fletcher, Callaway, U.S. Rubber clamps, or equivalent cam-
actuated clamps to prevent slippage and twist of the samples.
    (3) An analytical balance or grain-yarn scale, accurate to within 
0.25 percent of the measured value.
    (b) Lot size. Lot size must not exceed 460,000 meters (500,000 yds.) 
or 45 kg (100 lb.) of any color.
    (c) Sample selection. Samples must be selected at random by the 
manufacturer (or inspector, as applicable) after the entire lot of 
thread has been completed.
    (d) Second sampling. A second sampling, where required, must consist 
of five times the original sample size.
    (e) Manufacturer's production tests. The component manufacturer 
shall perform the following tests on the samples indicated (each sample 
to include at least 5 specimens unless otherwise specified in the 
referenced test procedure) on each lot of thread:
    (1) Breaking strength. One sample must be tested in accordance with 
Sec.  164.023-7(a)(1) or Sec.  164.023-7(b)(1), as applicable.
    (2) Length/weight ratio. One sample must be tested in accordance 
with Sec.  164.023-11(b)(1).
    (f) Recognized laboratory production tests. Manufacturers shall 
ensure that the following tests and inspections are performed on non-
standard components by a recognized laboratory:
    (1) Composition. At least annually, one sample of each accepted 
thread must be tested in accordance with Sec.  164.023-11(b)(2).
    (2) Breaking strength. At least quarterly, one sample in each of the 
lightest and darkest colors accepted must

[[Page 412]]

be tested in accordance with Sec.  164.023-7(a)(1) or Sec.  164.023-
7(b)(1), as applicable. This test may be performed by a recognized 
laboratory, or witnessed by a recognized laboratory inspector at the 
manufacturer's plant, at the laboratory's discretion.
    (3) Elongation. At least annually, one sample of each accepted 
thread in each of the lightest and darkest colors accepted must be 
tested in accordance with Sec.  164.023-11(b)(3). This test may be 
performed by a recognized laboratory, or witnessed by a recognized 
laboratory inspector at the manufacturer's plant, at the laboratory's 
discretion.
    (g) Accept/reject criteria. Unless the alternate procedures as 
permitted by Sec.  164.019-013(m) are followed, the results of required 
production testing on a lot must meet the following criteria for the lot 
to be shipped as Coast Guard-accepted thread:
    (1) Breaking strength test results must be within 10 percent below 
and 20 percent above the acceptance testing values but not less than the 
performance minimums.
    (2) Length/weight values must be within 5 percent of the acceptance 
testing values but not less than the performance minimums.
    (3) Elongation values must be within 20 percent of the acceptance 
testing values but not less than the performance minimums.
    (4) Composition testing must indicate that the sample tested is of 
identical composition to the sample tested for acceptance or in 
accordance with the performance specification.



Sec.  164.023-15  Marking.

    (a) General. The manufacturer must ensure that each shipping label, 
and each spool or individual unit of put-up, is permanently and clearly 
marked in a color which contrasts with the color of the surface on which 
the marking is applied. Each label must be marked with--
    (1) The manufacturer's or supplier's name, trade name, or symbol;
    (2) The unique style, part, or model number of the thread;
    (3) The size of the thread;
    (4) The composition of the thread; and
    (5) The lot number of the thread.
    (b) Non-standard thread. In addition to the markings specified in 
paragraph (a) of this section, each unit of put-up of non-standard 
thread must be marked with the appropriate recognized laboratory's 
certification marking(s).



        Subpart 164.105_Deck Assemblies (A	60) For SOLAS Vessels

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48280, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.105-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of deck assemblies 
(A-60) for SOLAS vessels as required by the International Convention for 
the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).



Sec.  164.105-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.105-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.105-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Each deck assembly submitted for type approval must be tested 
for non-combustibility under Annex 1, Part 1

[[Page 413]]

and then tested for fire resistance under Annex 1, Part 3 of the FTP 
Code (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  164.105-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as a deck assembly.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.105-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



        Subpart 164.106_Primary Deck Coverings for SOLAS Vessels

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48281, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.106-1  Scope

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of primary deck 
coverings for SOLAS vessels as required by the International Convention 
for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).



Sec.  164.106-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United

[[Page 414]]

Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.106-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.106-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Each primary deck covering submitted for type approval must be 
tested in accordance with the flame spread procedures specified in Part 
6 of Annex 1 and the smoke density and toxicity criteria in Part 2 of 
Annex 1 of the FTP Code (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  164.106-
2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as a primary deck covering.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.106-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



     Subpart 164.107_Structural Insulation (A	60) for SOLAS Vessels

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48282, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.107-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of structural 
insulation (A-60) for SOLAS vessels as required by the International 
Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). Products approved 
under these requirements may be used in place of products required to be 
approved as meeting the requirements of Sec.  164.007.



Sec.  164.107-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal

[[Page 415]]

Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material 
is available for inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design 
and Engineering Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue 
SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the 
sources listed below. It is also available for inspection at the 
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on 
the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to 
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.107-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.107-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Each structural insulation (A-60) submitted for type approval 
must be tested in accordance with the non-combustibility test under 
Annex 1, Part 1 and then tested for fire resistance under Annex 1, Part 
3 of the FTP Code (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  164.107-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as a structural insulation.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.107-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.

[[Page 416]]



       Subpart 164.108_Bulkheads (B	0 and B	15) for SOLAS Vessels

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48282, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.108-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of bulkheads (B-0 
and B-15) for SOLAS vessels as required by the International Convention 
for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). Products approved under these 
requirements may be used in place of products required to be approved as 
meeting the requirements of Sec.  164.008.



Sec.  164.108-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.108-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.108-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Each bulkhead (B-0 & B-15) submitted for type approval must be 
tested in accordance with non-combustibility under Annex 1, Part 1 and 
then tested for fire resistance under Annex 1, Part 3 of the FTP Code 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  164.108-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as a bulkhead.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.108-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington,

[[Page 417]]

DC 20593-7509, or electronically submit a request to 
[email protected]. The request must indicate the name and address of 
the manufacturer, all product designations, and the address of all 
manufacturing facilities. The request must include a copy of the final 
fire test report and the production inspection procedures. From the 
information submitted, the Commandant determines whether or not the 
product is acceptable for type approval. If the product is determined to 
be acceptable, a type approval certificate valid for a 5-year period 
will be issued. If the product is not accepted, the manufacturer will be 
notified of the reasons why.



            Subpart 164.109_Non-combustible Materials (SOLAS)

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48283, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.109-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of non-combustible 
materials for use on SOLAS vessels as required by the International 
Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). Products approved 
under these requirements may be used in place of products required to be 
approved as meeting the requirements of Sec.  164.009.



Sec.  164.109-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.109-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.109-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Non-combustible materials submitted for type approval must be 
tested in accordance with Annex 1, Part 1 of the FTP Code (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  164.109-2). Five specimens must be tested and 
the test need not last longer than 30 minutes.
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as a non-combustible material.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.

[[Page 418]]



Sec.  164.109-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



       Subpart 164.110_Continuous Ceilings (B	0 and B	15) (SOLAS)

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48284, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.110-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of continuous 
ceilings (B-0 and B-15) for SOLAS vessels as required by the 
International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).



Sec.  164.110-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.110-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.110-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Continuous Ceilings (B-0 and B-15) (SOLAS) submitted for type 
approval must be tested for non-combustibility under Annex 1, Part 1, 
and then tested for fire resistance under Annex 1, Part 3, Appendix 2, 
of the FTP Code (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  164.110-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as a continuous ceiling.

[[Page 419]]

    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.110-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



    Subpart 164.111_Draperies, Curtains, and Other Suspended Textiles

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48284, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.111-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of draperies, 
curtains, and other suspended textiles as required by the International 
Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).



Sec.  164.111-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.111-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.111-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Draperies, curtains, and other suspended textiles submitted for 
type approval must be tested for qualities of resistance to the 
propagation of flame not inferior to those of wool of mass 0.8 kg/m\2\ 
under Annex 1, Part 7, of the FTP Code (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  164.111-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.

[[Page 420]]

    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as draperies, curtains and 
other suspended textiles.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.111-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



Subpart 164.112_Interior Finish (Bulkheads and Ceiling Finishes) (SOLAS)

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48285, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.112-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of interior 
finishes (bulkheads and ceiling finishes) for SOLAS vessels as required 
by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). 
Products approved under these requirements may be used in place of 
products required to be approved as meeting the requirements of Sec.  
164.012.



Sec.  164.112-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)),

[[Page 421]]

2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), IBR approved for Sec.  164.112-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.112-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Interior Finishes (Bulkheads and ceiling finishes) for SOLAS 
vessels submitted for type approval must be tested for surface 
flammability in Annex 1, Part 5, and the smoke density and toxicity 
criteria of Annex 1, Part 2, of the FTP Code (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  164.112-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as an interior finish.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.112-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



                  Subpart 164.117_Floor Finish (SOLAS)

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48286, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.117-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of floor finishes 
for SOLAS vessels as required by the International Convention for the 
Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).



Sec.  164.117-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the

[[Page 422]]

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on 
the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to 
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.117-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.117-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Floor finishes for SOLAS vessels submitted for type approval 
must be tested for surface flammability in Annex 1, Part 5, and the 
smoke density and toxicity criteria of Annex 1, Part 2, of the FTP Code 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  164.117-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as a floor finish.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.117-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



  Subpart 164.120_Fire Retardant Resins for Lifeboats and Rescue Boats

    Source: USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 63012, Oct. 11, 2011, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.120-1  Scope.

    This subpart contains performance requirements, acceptance tests, 
and

[[Page 423]]

production testing and inspection requirements for fire retardant resins 
used in the construction of lifeboats approved under 46 CFR part 160, 
subpart 160.135 and rescue boats approved under 46 CFR part 160, subpart 
160.156.



Sec.  164.120-3  Definitions.

    In this subpart, the term:
    Acceptance means certification by the Coast Guard that a component 
is suitable for use in the manufacture of Coast Guard-approved lifeboats 
and rescue boats.
    Commandant means Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire 
Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. 
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509.

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 63012, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60162, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  164.120-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that 
specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish notice of change 
in the Federal Register and the material must be available to the 
public. All approved material is available for inspection at Coast Guard 
Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire 
Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. 
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509. You may also inspect this 
material at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For 
information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-
6030 or go to http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html. You may obtain copies of 
the material from the sources specified in the following paragraphs.
    (b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr 
Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA, 19428-2959.
    (1) ASTM D 543-06, Standard Practices for Evaluating the Resistance 
of Plastics to Chemical Reagents, (approved April 1, 2006), IBR approved 
for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ASTM D 543'').
    (2) ASTM D 570-98 (Reapproved 2005), Standard Test Method for Water 
Absorption of Plastics, (approved November 1, 2005), IBR approved for 
Sec.  164.120-7 (``ASTM D 570'').
    (3) ASTM D 638-08, Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of 
Plastics, (approved April 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 
(``ASTM D 638'').
    (4) ASTM D 695-08, Standard Test Method for Compressive Properties 
of Rigid Plastics, (approved August 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  
164.120-7 (``ASTM D 695'').
    (5) ASTM D 790-07e1, Standard Test Methods for Flexural Properties 
of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating 
Materials, (approved September 1, 2007), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-
7 (``ASTM D 790'').
    (6) ASTM D 792-08, Standard Test Methods for Density and Specific 
Gravity (Relative Density) of Plastics by Displacement, (approved June 
15, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ASTM D 792'').
    (7) ASTM D 1045-08, Standard Test Methods of Sampling and Testing 
Plasticizers used in Plastics, (approved August 1, 2008), IBR approved 
for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ASTM D 1045'').
    (8) ASTM D 1824-95 (Reapproved 2002), Standard Test Method for 
Apparent Viscosity of Plastisols and Organosols at Low Shear Rates, 
(approved March 15, 1995), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ASTM D 
1824'').
    (9) ASTM D 2471-99, Standard Test Method for Gel Time and Peak 
Exothermic Temperature of Reacting Thermosetting Resins, (approved 
November 10, 1999), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ASTM D 2471'').
    (10) ASTM D 2583-07, Standard Test Method for Indentation Hardness 
of Rigid Plastics by Means of a Barcol Impressor, (approved March 1, 
2007), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ASTM D 2583'').
    (11) ASTM D 2584-08, Standard Test Method of Ignition Loss for Cured 
Reinforced Resins, (approved May 1, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  
164.120-7 (``ASTM D 2584'').
    (12) ASTM G 154-06, Standard Practice for Operating Fluorescent 
Light Apparatus for UV Exposure of Nonmetallic Materials, (approved June 
5,

[[Page 424]]

2006), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ASTM G 154-06'').
    (c) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 
4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 
7611, http://www.imo.org/.
    (1) MSC Circular 1006, Guidelines On Fire Test Procedures For 
Acceptance Of Fire-Retardant Materials For The Construction Of 
Lifeboats, (approved June 18, 2001), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 
(``IMO MSC Circ. 1006'').
    (2) [Reserved]
    (d) International Organization for Standardization (ISO): ISO 
Central Secretariat [ISO Copyright Office], Case Postale 56, CH-1211 
Geneve 20, Switzerland.
    (1) ISO 62:2008(E), Plastics--Determination of water absorption, 
Third Edition (February 15, 2008), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 
(``ISO 62'').
    (2) ISO 175:1999(E), Plastics--Methods of test for the determination 
of the effects of immersion in liquid chemicals, Second Edition (May 1, 
1999), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ISO 175'').
    (3) ISO 14125:1998(E), Fibre-reinforced plastic composites--
Determination of flexural properties, First Edition (March 1, 1998), IBR 
approved for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ISO 14125'').
    (4) ISO 527-1:1993(E), Plastics--Determination of tensile 
properties, Part 1: General Principles, First Edition (June 15, 1993), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ISO 527'').
    (5) ISO 604:2002(E), Plastics--Determination of compressive 
properties, Third Edition (March 1, 2002), IBR approved for Sec.  
164.120-7 (``ISO 604'').
    (6) ISO 1172:1996(E), Textile-glass-reinforced plastics--Prepregs, 
moulding compounds and laminates--Determination of the textile-glass and 
mineral-filler content--Calcination methods, Second Edition (December 
15, 1996), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ISO 1172'').
    (7) ISO 1183-1:2004(E), Plastics--Methods for determining the 
density of non-cellular plastics--Part 1: Immersion method, liquid 
pyknometer method and titration method, First Edition (February 1, 
2004), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ISO 1183'').
    (8) ISO 1675-1985(E), Plastics--Liquid resins--Determination of 
density by the pyknometer method, Second Edition (August 15, 1985), IBR 
approved for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ISO 1675'').
    (9) ISO 2039-2:1987(E), Plastics--Determination of hardness--Part 2: 
Rockwell hardness, Second Edition (July 15, 1987), IBR approved for 
Sec.  164.120-7 (``ISO 2039-2'').
    (10) ISO 2114:2000(E), Plastics (polyester resins) and paints and 
varnishes (binders)--Determination of partial acid value and total acid 
value, Third Edition (August 1, 2000), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 
(``ISO 2114'').
    (11) ISO 2535:2001(E), Plastics--Unsaturated-polyester resins--
Measurement of gel time at ambient temperature, Third Edition (July 15, 
2001), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ISO 2535'').
    (12) ISO 2555:1989(E), Plastics--Resins in the liquid state or as 
emulsions or dispersions--Determination of apparent viscosity by the 
Brookfield test method, Second Edition (February 1, 1989, Corrected and 
reprinted February 1, 1990), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 (``ISO 
2555'').
    (e) Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents 
Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-
5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
    (1) MIL-R-7575C, Military Specification, Resin, Polyester, Low-
Pressure Laminating, (June 29, 1966), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 
(``MIL-R-7575C'').
    (2) MIL-R-21607E(SH), Military Specification, Resins, Polyester, Low 
Pressure Laminating, Fire-Retardant, (May 25, 1990), IBR approved for 
Sec.  164.120-7 (``MIL-R-21607E(SH)'').
    (3) MIL-R-24719(SH), Military Specification, Resins, Vinyl Ester, 
Low Pressure Laminating, (May 4, 1989), IBR approved for Sec.  164.120-7 
(``MIL-R-24719(SH)'').

[USCG-2010-0048, 76 FR 63012, Oct. 11, 2011, as amended by USCG-2013-
0671, 78 FR 60162, Sept. 30, 2013]



Sec.  164.120-7  Acceptance criteria.

    (a) The laminating resin must pass the inspections and tests 
specified in this section. The inspections and tests required by this 
section, including weathering of samples, are the responsibility of the 
manufacturer and must be performed by an independent laboratory.

[[Page 425]]

    (1) Polyester resins. (i) The resin must meet the specifications of 
Grade A, Class O resin of MIL-R-7575C (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  164.120-5 of this subpart) and meet the specifications conforming 
to Grade A (standard flame resistance) of MIL-R-21607E(SH) (incorporated 
by reference, see Sec.  164.120-5 of this subpart).
    (ii) MIL-R-21607E(SH) Grade B resins will be given consideration 
upon request.
    (2) Vinyl ester resins. The resin must meet the specifications of 
Grade B (fire retardant) resin of MIL-R-24719(SH) (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  164.120-5 of this subpart) and must be tested and 
meet the requirements of weathering and post-weathering mechanical 
testing as shown in Table 164.120-7 of this section. Samples for the 
weathering must be prepared in accordance with MIL-R-7575C paragraph 
4.3.1.1.
    (3) All other resins. Each resin formulation submitted for Coast 
Guard approval, other than those addressed in paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) 
of this section, must be tested and meet the requirements of Table 
164.120-7 of this section.
    (b) [Reserved]

Table 164.120-7--Alternative Test Method Standards for Laminating Resins
 for Use in Lifeboats, Rescue Boats, and Other Lifesaving Equipment \1\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                Property                           Test methods
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  (c) Material Identification Tests \2\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) Uncatalyzed Liquid Resin:
    (i) Specific gravity...............  ISO 1675 or ASTM D 1045.
    (ii) Viscosity.....................  ISO 2555 or ASTM D 1824.
    (iii) Acid number..................  ISO 2114 or ASTM D 1045.
(2) Catalyzed Resin:
    (i) Max gel time...................  ISO 2535 or ASTM D 2471.
    (ii) Peak exotherm.................  ASTM D 2471.
(3) Cured Unfilled Resin:
    (i) Barcol hardness................  ISO 2039-2 or ASTM D 2583.
    (ii) Specific gravity/density......  ISO 1183 or ASTM D 792.


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Property                      Test method                        Requirements \3\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              (d) Lengthwise Mechanical & Physical Properties of Glass Cloth Base Plastic Laminate
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           (Lengthwise direction of test specimens is parallel to the warp direction of glass fabric.)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) Tested Under Standard Conditions:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    (i) Ultimate strength, flatwise..  ISO 14125 or ASTM D 790  345 MPa (50,000 lb/in\2\).
    (ii) Initial modulus of            ISO 14125 or ASTM D 790  18,616 MPa (2.7 x 10E6 lb/in\2\).
     elasticity, flatwise.
    (iii) Ultimate tensile strength..  ISO 527 or ASTM D 638..  278 MPa (40,000 lb/in\2\).
    (iv) Ultimate compressive          ISO 604 or ASTM D 695..  241 MPa (35,000 ln/in\2\).
     strength, edgewise.
    (v) Fire retardant...............  MSC Circ. 1006.........  Pass.
    (vi) Water absorption, 24-hour     ISO 62 or ASTM D 570...  0.5% max change in weight.
     immersion.
    (vii) Barcol hardness............  ISO 2039-2 or ASTM D     55.
                                        2583.
    (viii) Specific gravity/density..  ISO 1183 or ASTM D 792.  \(2)\.
    (ix) Resin content, percentage...  ISO 1172 or ASTM D 2584  \(2)\.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2) Tested Under Wet Conditions (Specimens must be immersed for 2 hours in boiling distilled water as per ASTM D
 570 paragraph 7.5. The specimens must then be cooled in water at 23 [deg]C and tested wet at standard
 conditions immediately after removal from the water.):
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    (i) Ultimate strength, flatwise..  ISO 14125 or ASTM D 790  310 MPa (45,000 lb/in\2\).
    (ii) Initial modulus of            ISO 14125 or ASTM D 790  17,237 MPa (2.5 x 10E6 lb/in\2\).
     elasticity, flatwise.
    (iii) Ultimate tensile strength..  ISO 527 or ASTM D 638..  278 MPa (40,000 lb/in\2\).
    (iv) Ultimate compressive          ISO 604 or ASTM D 695..  241 MPa (35,000 ln/in\2\).
     strength, edgewise.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(3) Tested Under Elevated Temperature Conditions (Specimens must be exposed to 70 [deg]C for 1 hour and tested
 at that temperature.):
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    (i) Ultimate strength, flatwise..  ISO 14125 or ASTM D 790  276 MPa (40,000 lb/in\2\).

[[Page 426]]

 
    (ii) Initial modulus of            ISO 14125 or ASTM D 790  15,858 MPa (2.3 x 10E6 lb/in\2\).
     elasticity, flatwise.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(4) Tested After Exposure to Liquid Chemicals (Standard test chemical reagents.)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    (i) Change in mass & dimensions..  ISO 175 or ASTM D 543..  0.1% max.
    (ii) Ultimate strength...........  ISO 14125 or ASTM D 790  \(2)\.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(5) Tested After Weathering (Specimens must be weathered by either: 1 year per MIL-R-7575C or 500-hour exposure
 per ASTM G154 Table X2.1 Cycle 1 or 3.):
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    (i) Ultimate strength, flatwise..  ISO 14125 or ASTM D 790  310 MPa (45,000 lb/in\2\).
    (ii) Initial modulus of            ISO 14125 or ASTM D 790  17,237 MPa (2.5 x 10E6 lb/in\2\).
     elasticity, flatwise.
    (iii) Fire retardant.............  MSC Circ. 1006.........  Pass.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Each standard in this table is incorporated by reference, see Sec.   164.120-5 of this subpart.
\2\ There are no requirements for these properties, but the values must be determined and reported. Calculations
  for ultimate flexural strength after immersion in chemical fluids must be based on the dimensions of the
  specimens before immersion.
\3\ The specimens must show no cracking, crazing, softening, delamination, or any other visible deterioration
  after conditioning exposure or immersions.



Sec.  164.120-9  Procedure for acceptance.

    (a) Fire retardant resin is not subject to formal approval, but will 
be accepted by the Coast Guard on the basis of this subpart for use in 
the manufacture of lifesaving equipment. Coast Guard acceptance of fire 
retardant resin for use in the manufacture of lifesaving equipment does 
not guarantee Coast Guard acceptance of the manufactured lifesaving 
equipment.
    (b) Resin manufacturer requirements. The resin manufacturer must 
submit the test report, material data sheet, including instructions for 
use, and quality control procedures in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-9.
    (c) Independent laboratory requirements. The independent laboratory 
must perform each inspection and test required by Sec.  164.120-7 of 
this subpart, and prepare a report in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-11 
and submit the report to the Commandant for acceptance.



Sec.  164.120-11  Production quality control requirements.

    The resin manufacturer must institute a quality control procedure to 
ensure that all Coast Guard-accepted resin is produced to the same 
standard, and in the same manner as the tested resin accepted by the 
Commandant. The manufacturer's quality control personnel must not work 
directly under the department or person responsible for either 
production or sales.



Sec.  164.120-13  Marking, labeling, and instructions for use.

    (a) Marking and labeling. Each container for the resin must be 
permanently marked with at least the following information--
    (1) Manufacturer's name or trademark, batch number, date of 
manufacture, and date of expiration;
    (2) Chemical type of the resin;
    (3) Maximum usable storage life of the resin (uncatalyzed and 
catalyzed) and recommended storage conditions;
    (4) Maximum allowable shelf life at various temperatures of 
impregnated fabric before curing; and
    (5) Precautionary markings.
    (b) Instructions for use must be included with each shipment of 
approved material and must include--
    (1) Recommended mixing and impregnating procedures, including 
recommended types, percentages, and manner of utilization of catalysts, 
retardants, and fillers, as applicable;
    (2) Range of time, temperature, and pressure cycles recommended to 
effect the cure for laminates; and
    (3) Precautionary information on usage, storage, and handling.



Sec.  164.120-15  Procedure for acceptance of material change.

    (a) Each change in material from the resin accepted under Sec.  
164.120-9 of this subpart must be accepted by the Commandant before 
being used in any production lifeboat or rescue boat. The manufacturer 
must submit any such

[[Page 427]]

change following the procedures set forth in Sec.  164.120-9 of this 
subpart, but documentation on items that are unchanged from the resin 
accepted under Sec.  164.120-9 of this subpart need not be resubmitted.
    (b) Determinations of equivalence of materials will be made by the 
Commandant only.



                       Subpart 164.136_Fire Doors

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48286, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.136-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of fire doors as 
required by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea 
(SOLAS). Products approved under these requirements may be used where 
fire doors of the same class are required in domestic vessels.



Sec.  164.136-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.136-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.136-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Fire doors submitted for type approval must be tested for non-
combustibility under Annex 1, Part 5, and then tested for fire 
resistance under Annex 1, Part 3 of the FTP Code (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  164.136-2). Adhesives used in the construction of 
fire doors need not be non-combustible, but they must be tested for low 
flame spread characteristics under Annex 1, Part 5 of the FTP Code and 
should be included in the approved door's follow-up program.
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as a fire door.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.136-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4)

[[Page 428]]

describing the product and its intended uses. The Commandant will 
evaluate this information and notify the manufacturer of the product's 
suitability for testing. The manufacturer should then contract directly 
with an accepted independent laboratory to perform the required tests 
and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



                         Subpart 164.137_Windows

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48287, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.137-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of windows as 
required by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea 
(SOLAS).



Sec.  164.137-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.137-3(a).
    (2) Resolution A.754(18), Recommendation on Fire Resistance Tests 
for ``A'', ``B'' and ``F'' Class Divisions, adopted 4 November 1993 
(``IMO Resolution A.754(18)''), IBR approved for Sec.  164.137-3(a).



Sec.  164.137-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Windows submitted for type approval must be tested for fire 
resistance under Annex 1, Part 3 of the FTP Code (incorporated by 
reference, see Sec.  164.137-2). Windows must also meet the thermal 
radiation test supplement to fire resistance, as outlined in Appendix 1 
of Part 3 of the FTP Code, and the hose stream test of paragraph 5 of 
Appendix A.1 of IMO Resolution A.754(18) (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  164.137-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been

[[Page 429]]

made to the product that may adversely affect its fire performance as a 
window.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.137-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



             Subpart 164.138_Fire Stops (Penetration Seals)

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48288, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.138-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of fire stops 
(penetration seals) as required by the International Convention for the 
Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).



Sec.  164.138-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.138-3(a).
    (2) Resolution A.754(18), Recommendation on Fire Resistance Tests 
for ``A'', ``B'' and ``F'' Class Divisions, adopted 4 November 1993 
(``IMO Resolution A. 754(18)''), IBR approved for Sec.  164.138-3(a).



Sec.  164.138-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Fire stops (penetration seals) submitted for type approval must 
be tested for fire resistance under Annex 1, Part 3 of the FTP Code 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  164.138-2). Such devices must also 
be tested in accordance with Appendices A.III and A.IV of IMO

[[Page 430]]

Resolution A.754(18) (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  164.138-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as a fire stop.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.138-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



                         Subpart 164.139	Dampers

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48289, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.139-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of fire dampers as 
required by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea 
(SOLAS).



Sec.  164.139-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for the Application of Fire 
Test Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)),

[[Page 431]]

2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), IBR approved for Sec.  164.139-3(a).
    (2) Resolution A.754(18), Recommendation on Fire Resistance Tests 
for ``A'', ``B'' and ``F'' Class Divisions, adopted 4 November 1993 
(``IMO Resolution A.754(18)''), IBR approved for Sec.  164.139-3(a).



Sec.  164.139-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Automatic fire dampers that are installed in A-class divisions 
that are submitted for type approval must be tested for fire resistance 
under Annex 1, Part 3 of the FTP Code (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  164.139-2). Such devices must also be tested in accordance with 
Appendix A-II of IMO Resolution A.754(18) (incorporated by reference, 
see Sec.  164.139-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances and other related 
factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as a fire damper.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
shall furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.139-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



                      Subpart 164.141_Plastic Pipes

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48289, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.141-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of plastic piping 
systems. Plastic piping systems include the pipe, fittings, system 
joints, method of joining, and any internal or external liners, 
coverings, and coatings required to comply with the performance criteria 
of this subpart.



Sec.  164.141-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal

[[Page 432]]

Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material 
is available for inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design 
and Engineering Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue 
SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the 
sources listed below. It is also available for inspection at the 
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on 
the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to 
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.141-3(c).
    (2) Resolution A.653(16), Recommendation on Improved Fire Test 
Procedures for Surface Flammability of Bulkhead, Ceiling and Deck Finish 
Materials, adopted on 19 October 1989 (``IMO Resolution A.653(16)''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.141-3(a).
    (3) Resolution A.753(18), Guidelines for the Application of Plastic 
Pipe on Ships, adopted on 4 November 1993 (``IMO ResolutionA.753(18)''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.141-3(a) and (b).
    (4) Resolution MSC.313(88), Amendments to the Guidelines for the 
Application of Plastic Pipes on Ships, (``IMO Resolution MSC.313(88)''), 
adopted 26 November 2010, IBR approved for Sec.  164.141-3(a) and (b).



Sec.  164.141-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) All plastic piping submitted for approval must meet the flame 
spread requirements of IMO Resolution A.653(16) as modified for pipes by 
IMO Resolution A.753(18) and IMO Resolution MSC.313(88) (all 
incorporated by reference, see Sec.  164.141-2) except that:
    (1) The test specimens need not be wrapped in aluminum foil; and
    (2) Testing need not be conducted on every pipe size. Testing may be 
conducted on piping sizes with the maximum and minimum wall thickness 
intended to be approved. This will qualify all piping sizes within the 
tested range.
    (b) In order to receive approval for fire endurance, pipe must be 
tested as indicated in IMO Resolution A.753(18) and IMO Resolution 
MSC.313(88). When satisfying the requirements for L1 or L2 service, the 
pipe will be approved for use in lesser service grades. The approval of 
piping systems of sizes different than those tested will be allowed as 
provided for in Table 164.141(a) of this subpart.

                   Table 164.141(a)--Approval of Piping Systems of Sizes Different Than Tested
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Size * tested, inches               Minimum size * approved         Maximum size * approved, inches
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0 to <=2................................  Size Tested....................  Size Tested.
2 to <=6.....................  Size Tested....................  <=6.
6 to <=12....................  Size Tested....................  <=12.
12 to <=24...................  Size Tested....................  <=24.
24 to <=36...................  Size Tested....................  <=36.
36 to <=48...................  Size Tested....................  <=48.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Nominal outside diameter

    (c) To be approved for smoke and toxicity requirements, piping 
systems must meet the requirements of Annex 1, Part 2 of the FTP Code 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  164.141-2) with the following 
modifications:
    (1) Plastic piping meeting paragraph 2.2 of Annex 2 of the FTP Code 
as having very low flame spread when tested to Part 5 are deemed to meet 
the smoke and toxicity requirements without testing to Part 2.
    (2) Testing need only be conducted on piping sizes with the maximum 
and minimum wall thicknesses intended to be approved.
    (3) The test sample should be fabricated by cutting pipes lengthwise

[[Page 433]]

into individual sections and then assembling the sections into a test 
sample as representative as possible of a flat surface. All cuts should 
be made normal to the pipe wall.
    (4) The number of sections that must be assembled together to form a 
square test sample with sides measuring 3 inches, should be that which 
corresponds to the nearest integral number of sections which will result 
in a test sample with an equivalent linearized surface width between 3 
and 3 \1/2\ inches. The surface width is defined as the measured sum of 
the outer circumference of the assembled pipe sections normal to the 
lengthwise sections.
    (5) The test samples should be mounted on calcium silicate board and 
held in place by the edges of the test frame and, if necessary, by wire. 
There should be no gaps between individual sections and the samples 
should be constructed so that the edges of two adjacent sections 
coincide with the centerline of the test holder.
    (6) The space between the concave unexposed surface of the test 
sample and the surface of the calcium silicate backing should be left 
void.
    (7) The void space between the top of the exposed test surface and 
the bottom edge of the sample holder frame should be filled with a high 
temperature insulating wool where the pipe extends under the frame.
    (8) When the pipes are to include fireproofing or coatings, the 
composite structure consisting of the segmented pipe wall and 
fireproofing shall be tested and the thickness of the fireproofing 
should be the minimum thickness specified for the intended usage.
    (9) Test samples should be oriented in the apparatus such that the 
pilot burner flame will be normal to the lengthwise piping sections.
    (d) Where required to be approved, piping systems must comply with 
the non-metallic materials requirements in 46 CFR 56.60-25(a)(1).
    (e) All testing and inspections required by this subpart, except as 
allowed by paragraph (b) of this section, must be performed by an 
independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under subpart 159.010 
of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories accepted as meeting 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online at http://
psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (f) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (g) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as plastic piping.
    (h) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (i) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.141-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request

[[Page 434]]

must include a copy of the final fire test report and the production 
inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the Commandant 
determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type approval. 
If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



                   Subpart 164.142_Bedding Components

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48291, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.142-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of bedding 
components as required by the International Convention for the Safety of 
Life at Sea (SOLAS).



Sec.  164.142-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.142-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.142-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Bedding components that are submitted for type approval must be 
tested for qualities of resistance to the ignition and propagation of 
flame of Annex 1, Part 9 of the FTP Code (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  164.142-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as a bedding component.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.142-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted

[[Page 435]]

independent laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



                  Subpart 164.144_Upholstered Furniture

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48291, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.144-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of upholstered 
furniture as required by the International Convention for the Safety of 
Life at Sea (SOLAS).



Sec.  164.144-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.144-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.144-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Upholstered furniture that is submitted for type approval must 
be tested for qualities of resistance to the ignition and propagation of 
flame of Annex 1, Part 8 of the FTP Code (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  164.144-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as upholstered furniture.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation,

[[Page 436]]

date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast Guard type approval 
number.



Sec.  164.144-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



            Subpart 164.146_Fire Door Control System (SOLAS)

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48292, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.146-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of fire door 
control systems as required by the International Convention for the 
Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).



Sec.  164.146-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.146-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.146-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) A fire door control system that is submitted for type approval 
must be tested in accordance with Annex 1, Part 4 of the FTP Code 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  164.146-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been

[[Page 437]]

made to the product that may adversely affect its fire performance as a 
fire door control system.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.146-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



      Subpart 164.201_Fire-resisting Materials for High-speed Craft

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48293, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.201-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of fire-resisting 
materials for high-speed craft as required by the International Code of 
Safety for High Speed Craft (HSC Code).



Sec.  164.201-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.201-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]



Sec.  164.201-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Fire-resisting materials for high-speed craft that is submitted 
for type approval must be tested in accordance with Annex 1, Part 10 of 
the FTP Code (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  164.201-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as

[[Page 438]]

meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online at http://
psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as a fire resisting material 
for high speed craft.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire-testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.201-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.



      Subpart 164.207_Fire-resisting Divisions for High-speed Craft

    Source: USCG-2012-0196, 81 FR 48293, July 22, 2016, unless otherwise 
noted.



Sec.  164.207-1  Scope.

    This subpart prescribes requirements for approval of fire-resisting 
divisions for high-speed craft as required by the International Code of 
Safety for High-Speed Craft (HSC Code).



Sec.  164.207-2  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering 
Standards (CG-ENG), 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, 
Washington, DC 20593-7509, and is available from the sources listed 
below. It is also available for inspection at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of 
this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to http://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
    (b) International Maritime Organization (IMO) Publishing, 4 Albert 
Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, +44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://
www.imo.org.
    (1) 2010 FTP Code, International Code for Application of Fire Test 
Procedures, 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)), 2012 Edition (``FTP Code''), 
IBR approved for Sec.  164.207-3(a).
    (2) [Reserved]

[[Page 439]]



Sec.  164.207-3  Testing, marking, and inspection requirements.

    (a) Fire-resisting divisions for high-speed craft that are submitted 
for type approval must be tested in accordance with Annex 1, Part 11 of 
the FTP Code (incorporated by reference, see Sec.  164.207-2).
    (b) All testing and inspections required by this subpart must be 
performed by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under 
subpart 159.010 of this chapter. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted as meeting subpart 159.010 of this chapter is available online 
at http://psix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/Default.aspx.
    (c) The independent laboratory must perform an initial factory 
inspection to select the test specimens and establish the materials of 
construction, chemical make-up, dimensions, tolerances, and other 
related factors needed to confirm product consistency during follow-up 
production inspections.
    (d) Production inspections must be performed by the independent 
laboratory in accordance with subpart 159.007 of this chapter at least 
annually to confirm that no changes have been made to the product that 
may adversely affect its fire performance as a fire resisting division 
for high speed craft.
    (e) The independent laboratory must prepare production inspection 
procedures and a report of the results of the fire-testing program, and 
must furnish the manufacturer with three copies of each upon completion 
of the required testing.
    (f) Materials approved under this subpart must be shipped in 
packaging that is clearly marked with the name of the manufacturer, 
product designation, date of manufacture, batch or lot number, and Coast 
Guard type approval number.



Sec.  164.207-4  Approval procedures.

    (a) Manufacturers that desire type approval should submit a written 
notice to the Commandant (CG-ENG-4) describing the product and its 
intended uses. The Commandant will evaluate this information and notify 
the manufacturer of the product's suitability for testing. The 
manufacturer should then contract directly with an accepted independent 
laboratory to perform the required tests and inspections.
    (b) Upon completion of the required testing and inspections, the 
manufacturer must submit either a written request for type approval to 
the Commandant (CG-ENG-4), United States Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther 
King Jr. Avenue SE., Stop 7509, Washington, DC 20593-7509, or 
electronically submit a request to [email protected]. The request 
must indicate the name and address of the manufacturer, all product 
designations, and the address of all manufacturing facilities. The 
request must include a copy of the final fire test report and the 
production inspection procedures. From the information submitted, the 
Commandant determines whether or not the product is acceptable for type 
approval. If the product is determined to be acceptable, a type approval 
certificate valid for a 5-year period will be issued. If the product is 
not accepted, the manufacturer will be notified of the reasons why.

                           PART 165 [RESERVED]

[[Page 441]]



                              FINDING AIDS




  --------------------------------------------------------------------

  A list of CFR titles, subtitles, chapters, subchapters and parts and 
an alphabetical list of agencies publishing in the CFR are included in 
the CFR Index and Finding Aids volume to the Code of Federal Regulations 
which is published separately and revised annually.

  Table of CFR Titles and Chapters
  Alphabetical List of Agencies Appearing in the CFR
  List of CFR Sections Affected

[[Page 443]]



                    Table of CFR Titles and Chapters




                     (Revised as of October 1, 2023)

                      Title 1--General Provisions

         I  Administrative Committee of the Federal Register 
                (Parts 1--49)
        II  Office of the Federal Register (Parts 50--299)
       III  Administrative Conference of the United States (Parts 
                300--399)
        IV  Miscellaneous Agencies (Parts 400--599)
        VI  National Capital Planning Commission (Parts 600--699)

                    Title 2--Grants and Agreements

            Subtitle A--Office of Management and Budget Guidance 
                for Grants and Agreements
         I  Office of Management and Budget Governmentwide 
                Guidance for Grants and Agreements (Parts 2--199)
        II  Office of Management and Budget Guidance (Parts 200--
                299)
            Subtitle B--Federal Agency Regulations for Grants and 
                Agreements
       III  Department of Health and Human Services (Parts 300--
                399)
        IV  Department of Agriculture (Parts 400--499)
        VI  Department of State (Parts 600--699)
       VII  Agency for International Development (Parts 700--799)
      VIII  Department of Veterans Affairs (Parts 800--899)
        IX  Department of Energy (Parts 900--999)
         X  Department of the Treasury (Parts 1000--1099)
        XI  Department of Defense (Parts 1100--1199)
       XII  Department of Transportation (Parts 1200--1299)
      XIII  Department of Commerce (Parts 1300--1399)
       XIV  Department of the Interior (Parts 1400--1499)
        XV  Environmental Protection Agency (Parts 1500--1599)
     XVIII  National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Parts 
                1800--1899)
        XX  United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (Parts 
                2000--2099)
      XXII  Corporation for National and Community Service (Parts 
                2200--2299)
     XXIII  Social Security Administration (Parts 2300--2399)
      XXIV  Department of Housing and Urban Development (Parts 
                2400--2499)
       XXV  National Science Foundation (Parts 2500--2599)
      XXVI  National Archives and Records Administration (Parts 
                2600--2699)

[[Page 444]]

     XXVII  Small Business Administration (Parts 2700--2799)
    XXVIII  Department of Justice (Parts 2800--2899)
      XXIX  Department of Labor (Parts 2900--2999)
       XXX  Department of Homeland Security (Parts 3000--3099)
      XXXI  Institute of Museum and Library Services (Parts 3100--
                3199)
     XXXII  National Endowment for the Arts (Parts 3200--3299)
    XXXIII  National Endowment for the Humanities (Parts 3300--
                3399)
     XXXIV  Department of Education (Parts 3400--3499)
      XXXV  Export-Import Bank of the United States (Parts 3500--
                3599)
     XXXVI  Office of National Drug Control Policy, Executive 
                Office of the President (Parts 3600--3699)
    XXXVII  Peace Corps (Parts 3700--3799)
     LVIII  Election Assistance Commission (Parts 5800--5899)
       LIX  Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council (Parts 5900--
                5999)
        LX  Federal Communications Commission (Parts 6000--6099)

                        Title 3--The President

         I  Executive Office of the President (Parts 100--199)

                           Title 4--Accounts

         I  Government Accountability Office (Parts 1--199)

                   Title 5--Administrative Personnel

         I  Office of Personnel Management (Parts 1--1199)
        II  Merit Systems Protection Board (Parts 1200--1299)
       III  Office of Management and Budget (Parts 1300--1399)
        IV  Office of Personnel Management and Office of the 
                Director of National Intelligence (Parts 1400--
                1499)
         V  The International Organizations Employees Loyalty 
                Board (Parts 1500--1599)
        VI  Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (Parts 
                1600--1699)
      VIII  Office of Special Counsel (Parts 1800--1899)
        IX  Appalachian Regional Commission (Parts 1900--1999)
        XI  Armed Forces Retirement Home (Parts 2100--2199)
       XIV  Federal Labor Relations Authority, General Counsel of 
                the Federal Labor Relations Authority and Federal 
                Service Impasses Panel (Parts 2400--2499)
       XVI  Office of Government Ethics (Parts 2600--2699)
       XXI  Department of the Treasury (Parts 3100--3199)
      XXII  Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (Parts 3200--
                3299)
     XXIII  Department of Energy (Parts 3300--3399)
      XXIV  Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (Parts 3400--
                3499)
       XXV  Department of the Interior (Parts 3500--3599)

[[Page 445]]

      XXVI  Department of Defense (Parts 3600--3699)
    XXVIII  Department of Justice (Parts 3800--3899)
      XXIX  Federal Communications Commission (Parts 3900--3999)
       XXX  Farm Credit System Insurance Corporation (Parts 4000--
                4099)
      XXXI  Farm Credit Administration (Parts 4100--4199)
    XXXIII  U.S. International Development Finance Corporation 
                (Parts 4300--4399)
     XXXIV  Securities and Exchange Commission (Parts 4400--4499)
      XXXV  Office of Personnel Management (Parts 4500--4599)
     XXXVI  Department of Homeland Security (Parts 4600--4699)
    XXXVII  Federal Election Commission (Parts 4700--4799)
        XL  Interstate Commerce Commission (Parts 5000--5099)
       XLI  Commodity Futures Trading Commission (Parts 5100--
                5199)
      XLII  Department of Labor (Parts 5200--5299)
     XLIII  National Science Foundation (Parts 5300--5399)
       XLV  Department of Health and Human Services (Parts 5500--
                5599)
      XLVI  Postal Rate Commission (Parts 5600--5699)
     XLVII  Federal Trade Commission (Parts 5700--5799)
    XLVIII  Nuclear Regulatory Commission (Parts 5800--5899)
      XLIX  Federal Labor Relations Authority (Parts 5900--5999)
         L  Department of Transportation (Parts 6000--6099)
       LII  Export-Import Bank of the United States (Parts 6200--
                6299)
      LIII  Department of Education (Parts 6300--6399)
       LIV  Environmental Protection Agency (Parts 6400--6499)
        LV  National Endowment for the Arts (Parts 6500--6599)
       LVI  National Endowment for the Humanities (Parts 6600--
                6699)
      LVII  General Services Administration (Parts 6700--6799)
     LVIII  Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System 
                (Parts 6800--6899)
       LIX  National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Parts 
                6900--6999)
        LX  United States Postal Service (Parts 7000--7099)
       LXI  National Labor Relations Board (Parts 7100--7199)
      LXII  Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (Parts 7200--
                7299)
     LXIII  Inter-American Foundation (Parts 7300--7399)
      LXIV  Merit Systems Protection Board (Parts 7400--7499)
       LXV  Department of Housing and Urban Development (Parts 
                7500--7599)
      LXVI  National Archives and Records Administration (Parts 
                7600--7699)
     LXVII  Institute of Museum and Library Services (Parts 7700--
                7799)
    LXVIII  Commission on Civil Rights (Parts 7800--7899)
      LXIX  Tennessee Valley Authority (Parts 7900--7999)
       LXX  Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency for the 
                District of Columbia (Parts 8000--8099)
      LXXI  Consumer Product Safety Commission (Parts 8100--8199)

[[Page 446]]

    LXXIII  Department of Agriculture (Parts 8300--8399)
     LXXIV  Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission 
                (Parts 8400--8499)
     LXXVI  Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (Parts 
                8600--8699)
    LXXVII  Office of Management and Budget (Parts 8700--8799)
      LXXX  Federal Housing Finance Agency (Parts 9000--9099)
   LXXXIII  Special Inspector General for Afghanistan 
                Reconstruction (Parts 9300--9399)
    LXXXIV  Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection (Parts 9400--
                9499)
    LXXXVI  National Credit Union Administration (Parts 9600--
                9699)
     XCVII  Department of Homeland Security Human Resources 
                Management System (Department of Homeland 
                Security--Office of Personnel Management) (Parts 
                9700--9799)
    XCVIII  Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and 
                Efficiency (Parts 9800--9899)
      XCIX  Military Compensation and Retirement Modernization 
                Commission (Parts 9900--9999)
         C  National Council on Disability (Parts 10000--10049)
        CI  National Mediation Board (Parts 10100--10199)
       CII  U.S. Office of Special Counsel (Parts 10200--10299)
       CIV  Office of the Intellectual Property Enforcement 
                Coordinator (Part 10400--10499)

                      Title 6--Domestic Security

         I  Department of Homeland Security, Office of the 
                Secretary (Parts 1--199)
         X  Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (Parts 
                1000--1099)

                         Title 7--Agriculture

            Subtitle A--Office of the Secretary of Agriculture 
                (Parts 0--26)
            Subtitle B--Regulations of the Department of 
                Agriculture
         I  Agricultural Marketing Service (Standards, 
                Inspections, Marketing Practices), Department of 
                Agriculture (Parts 27--209)
        II  Food and Nutrition Service, Department of Agriculture 
                (Parts 210--299)
       III  Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Department 
                of Agriculture (Parts 300--399)
        IV  Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, Department of 
                Agriculture (Parts 400--499)
         V  Agricultural Research Service, Department of 
                Agriculture (Parts 500--599)
        VI  Natural Resources Conservation Service, Department of 
                Agriculture (Parts 600--699)
       VII  Farm Service Agency, Department of Agriculture (Parts 
                700--799)

[[Page 447]]

      VIII  Agricultural Marketing Service (Federal Grain 
                Inspection Service, Fair Trade Practices Program), 
                Department of Agriculture (Parts 800--899)
        IX  Agricultural Marketing Service (Marketing Agreements 
                and Orders; Fruits, Vegetables, Nuts), Department 
                of Agriculture (Parts 900--999)
         X  Agricultural Marketing Service (Marketing Agreements 
                and Orders; Milk), Department of Agriculture 
                (Parts 1000--1199)
        XI  Agricultural Marketing Service (Marketing Agreements 
                and Orders; Miscellaneous Commodities), Department 
                of Agriculture (Parts 1200--1299)
       XIV  Commodity Credit Corporation, Department of 
                Agriculture (Parts 1400--1499)
        XV  Foreign Agricultural Service, Department of 
                Agriculture (Parts 1500--1599)
       XVI  [Reserved]
      XVII  Rural Utilities Service, Department of Agriculture 
                (Parts 1700--1799)
     XVIII  Rural Housing Service, Rural Business-Cooperative 
                Service, Rural Utilities Service, and Farm Service 
                Agency, Department of Agriculture (Parts 1800--
                2099)
        XX  [Reserved]
       XXV  Office of Advocacy and Outreach, Department of 
                Agriculture (Parts 2500--2599)
      XXVI  Office of Inspector General, Department of Agriculture 
                (Parts 2600--2699)
     XXVII  Office of Information Resources Management, Department 
                of Agriculture (Parts 2700--2799)
    XXVIII  Office of Operations, Department of Agriculture (Parts 
                2800--2899)
      XXIX  Office of Energy Policy and New Uses, Department of 
                Agriculture (Parts 2900--2999)
       XXX  Office of the Chief Financial Officer, Department of 
                Agriculture (Parts 3000--3099)
      XXXI  Office of Environmental Quality, Department of 
                Agriculture (Parts 3100--3199)
     XXXII  Office of Procurement and Property Management, 
                Department of Agriculture (Parts 3200--3299)
    XXXIII  Office of Transportation, Department of Agriculture 
                (Parts 3300--3399)
     XXXIV  National Institute of Food and Agriculture (Parts 
                3400--3499)
      XXXV  Rural Housing Service, Department of Agriculture 
                (Parts 3500--3599)
     XXXVI  National Agricultural Statistics Service, Department 
                of Agriculture (Parts 3600--3699)
    XXXVII  Economic Research Service, Department of Agriculture 
                (Parts 3700--3799)
   XXXVIII  World Agricultural Outlook Board, Department of 
                Agriculture (Parts 3800--3899)
       XLI  [Reserved]

[[Page 448]]

      XLII  Rural Business-Cooperative Service and Rural Utilities 
                Service, Department of Agriculture (Parts 4200--
                4299)
         L  Rural Business-Cooperative Service, and Rural 
                Utilities Service, Department of Agriculture 
                (Parts 5000--5099)

                    Title 8--Aliens and Nationality

         I  Department of Homeland Security (Parts 1--499)
         V  Executive Office for Immigration Review, Department of 
                Justice (Parts 1000--1399)

                 Title 9--Animals and Animal Products

         I  Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Department 
                of Agriculture (Parts 1--199)
        II  Agricultural Marketing Service (Fair Trade Practices 
                Program), Department of Agriculture (Parts 200--
                299)
       III  Food Safety and Inspection Service, Department of 
                Agriculture (Parts 300--599)

                           Title 10--Energy

         I  Nuclear Regulatory Commission (Parts 0--199)
        II  Department of Energy (Parts 200--699)
       III  Department of Energy (Parts 700--999)
         X  Department of Energy (General Provisions) (Parts 
                1000--1099)
      XIII  Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board (Parts 1300--
                1399)
      XVII  Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board (Parts 1700--
                1799)
     XVIII  Northeast Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste 
                Commission (Parts 1800--1899)

                      Title 11--Federal Elections

         I  Federal Election Commission (Parts 1--9099)
        II  Election Assistance Commission (Parts 9400--9499)

                      Title 12--Banks and Banking

         I  Comptroller of the Currency, Department of the 
                Treasury (Parts 1--199)
        II  Federal Reserve System (Parts 200--299)
       III  Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (Parts 300--399)
        IV  Export-Import Bank of the United States (Parts 400--
                499)
         V  [Reserved]
        VI  Farm Credit Administration (Parts 600--699)
       VII  National Credit Union Administration (Parts 700--799)
      VIII  Federal Financing Bank (Parts 800--899)
        IX  (Parts 900--999) [Reserved]

[[Page 449]]

         X  Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (Parts 1000--
                1099)
        XI  Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council 
                (Parts 1100--1199)
       XII  Federal Housing Finance Agency (Parts 1200--1299)
      XIII  Financial Stability Oversight Council (Parts 1300--
                1399)
       XIV  Farm Credit System Insurance Corporation (Parts 1400--
                1499)
        XV  Department of the Treasury (Parts 1500--1599)
       XVI  Office of Financial Research, Department of the 
                Treasury (Parts 1600--1699)
      XVII  Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight, 
                Department of Housing and Urban Development (Parts 
                1700--1799)
     XVIII  Community Development Financial Institutions Fund, 
                Department of the Treasury (Parts 1800--1899)

               Title 13--Business Credit and Assistance

         I  Small Business Administration (Parts 1--199)
       III  Economic Development Administration, Department of 
                Commerce (Parts 300--399)
        IV  Emergency Steel Guarantee Loan Board (Parts 400--499)
         V  Emergency Oil and Gas Guaranteed Loan Board (Parts 
                500--599)

                    Title 14--Aeronautics and Space

         I  Federal Aviation Administration, Department of 
                Transportation (Parts 1--199)
        II  Office of the Secretary, Department of Transportation 
                (Aviation Proceedings) (Parts 200--399)
       III  Commercial Space Transportation, Federal Aviation 
                Administration, Department of Transportation 
                (Parts 400--1199)
         V  National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Parts 
                1200--1299)
        VI  Air Transportation System Stabilization (Parts 1300--
                1399)

                 Title 15--Commerce and Foreign Trade

            Subtitle A--Office of the Secretary of Commerce (Parts 
                0--29)
            Subtitle B--Regulations Relating to Commerce and 
                Foreign Trade
         I  Bureau of the Census, Department of Commerce (Parts 
                30--199)
        II  National Institute of Standards and Technology, 
                Department of Commerce (Parts 200--299)
       III  International Trade Administration, Department of 
                Commerce (Parts 300--399)
        IV  Foreign-Trade Zones Board, Department of Commerce 
                (Parts 400--499)
       VII  Bureau of Industry and Security, Department of 
                Commerce (Parts 700--799)

[[Page 450]]

      VIII  Bureau of Economic Analysis, Department of Commerce 
                (Parts 800--899)
        IX  National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 
                Department of Commerce (Parts 900--999)
        XI  National Technical Information Service, Department of 
                Commerce (Parts 1100--1199)
      XIII  East-West Foreign Trade Board (Parts 1300--1399)
       XIV  Minority Business Development Agency (Parts 1400--
                1499)
        XV  Office of the Under-Secretary for Economic Affairs, 
                Department of Commerce (Parts 1500--1599)
            Subtitle C--Regulations Relating to Foreign Trade 
                Agreements
        XX  Office of the United States Trade Representative 
                (Parts 2000--2099)
            Subtitle D--Regulations Relating to Telecommunications 
                and Information
     XXIII  National Telecommunications and Information 
                Administration, Department of Commerce (Parts 
                2300--2399) [Reserved]

                    Title 16--Commercial Practices

         I  Federal Trade Commission (Parts 0--999)
        II  Consumer Product Safety Commission (Parts 1000--1799)

             Title 17--Commodity and Securities Exchanges

         I  Commodity Futures Trading Commission (Parts 1--199)
        II  Securities and Exchange Commission (Parts 200--399)
        IV  Department of the Treasury (Parts 400--499)

          Title 18--Conservation of Power and Water Resources

         I  Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Department of 
                Energy (Parts 1--399)
       III  Delaware River Basin Commission (Parts 400--499)
        VI  Water Resources Council (Parts 700--799)
      VIII  Susquehanna River Basin Commission (Parts 800--899)
      XIII  Tennessee Valley Authority (Parts 1300--1399)

                       Title 19--Customs Duties

         I  U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of 
                Homeland Security; Department of the Treasury 
                (Parts 0--199)
        II  United States International Trade Commission (Parts 
                200--299)
       III  International Trade Administration, Department of 
                Commerce (Parts 300--399)
        IV  U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Department 
                of Homeland Security (Parts 400--599) [Reserved]

[[Page 451]]

                     Title 20--Employees' Benefits

         I  Office of Workers' Compensation Programs, Department 
                of Labor (Parts 1--199)
        II  Railroad Retirement Board (Parts 200--399)
       III  Social Security Administration (Parts 400--499)
        IV  Employees' Compensation Appeals Board, Department of 
                Labor (Parts 500--599)
         V  Employment and Training Administration, Department of 
                Labor (Parts 600--699)
        VI  Office of Workers' Compensation Programs, Department 
                of Labor (Parts 700--799)
       VII  Benefits Review Board, Department of Labor (Parts 
                800--899)
      VIII  Joint Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries (Parts 
                900--999)
        IX  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Veterans' 
                Employment and Training Service, Department of 
                Labor (Parts 1000--1099)

                       Title 21--Food and Drugs

         I  Food and Drug Administration, Department of Health and 
                Human Services (Parts 1--1299)
        II  Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Justice 
                (Parts 1300--1399)
       III  Office of National Drug Control Policy (Parts 1400--
                1499)

                      Title 22--Foreign Relations

         I  Department of State (Parts 1--199)
        II  Agency for International Development (Parts 200--299)
       III  Peace Corps (Parts 300--399)
        IV  International Joint Commission, United States and 
                Canada (Parts 400--499)
         V  United States Agency for Global Media (Parts 500--599)
       VII  U.S. International Development Finance Corporation 
                (Parts 700--799)
        IX  Foreign Service Grievance Board (Parts 900--999)
         X  Inter-American Foundation (Parts 1000--1099)
        XI  International Boundary and Water Commission, United 
                States and Mexico, United States Section (Parts 
                1100--1199)
       XII  United States International Development Cooperation 
                Agency (Parts 1200--1299)
      XIII  Millennium Challenge Corporation (Parts 1300--1399)
       XIV  Foreign Service Labor Relations Board; Federal Labor 
                Relations Authority; General Counsel of the 
                Federal Labor Relations Authority; and the Foreign 
                Service Impasse Disputes Panel (Parts 1400--1499)
        XV  African Development Foundation (Parts 1500--1599)
       XVI  Japan-United States Friendship Commission (Parts 
                1600--1699)
      XVII  United States Institute of Peace (Parts 1700--1799)

[[Page 452]]

                          Title 23--Highways

         I  Federal Highway Administration, Department of 
                Transportation (Parts 1--999)
        II  National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and 
                Federal Highway Administration, Department of 
                Transportation (Parts 1200--1299)
       III  National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 
                Department of Transportation (Parts 1300--1399)

                Title 24--Housing and Urban Development

            Subtitle A--Office of the Secretary, Department of 
                Housing and Urban Development (Parts 0--99)
            Subtitle B--Regulations Relating to Housing and Urban 
                Development
         I  Office of Assistant Secretary for Equal Opportunity, 
                Department of Housing and Urban Development (Parts 
                100--199)
        II  Office of Assistant Secretary for Housing-Federal 
                Housing Commissioner, Department of Housing and 
                Urban Development (Parts 200--299)
       III  Government National Mortgage Association, Department 
                of Housing and Urban Development (Parts 300--399)
        IV  Office of Housing and Office of Multifamily Housing 
                Assistance Restructuring, Department of Housing 
                and Urban Development (Parts 400--499)
         V  Office of Assistant Secretary for Community Planning 
                and Development, Department of Housing and Urban 
                Development (Parts 500--599)
        VI  Office of Assistant Secretary for Community Planning 
                and Development, Department of Housing and Urban 
                Development (Parts 600--699) [Reserved]
       VII  Office of the Secretary, Department of Housing and 
                Urban Development (Housing Assistance Programs and 
                Public and Indian Housing Programs) (Parts 700--
                799)
      VIII  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Housing--Federal 
                Housing Commissioner, Department of Housing and 
                Urban Development (Section 8 Housing Assistance 
                Programs, Section 202 Direct Loan Program, Section 
                202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program and 
                Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons With 
                Disabilities Program) (Parts 800--899)
        IX  Office of Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian 
                Housing, Department of Housing and Urban 
                Development (Parts 900--1699)
         X  Office of Assistant Secretary for Housing--Federal 
                Housing Commissioner, Department of Housing and 
                Urban Development (Interstate Land Sales 
                Registration Program) (Parts 1700--1799) 
                [Reserved]
       XII  Office of Inspector General, Department of Housing and 
                Urban Development (Parts 2000--2099)
        XV  Emergency Mortgage Insurance and Loan Programs, 
                Department of Housing and Urban Development (Parts 
                2700--2799) [Reserved]

[[Page 453]]

        XX  Office of Assistant Secretary for Housing--Federal 
                Housing Commissioner, Department of Housing and 
                Urban Development (Parts 3200--3899)
      XXIV  Board of Directors of the HOPE for Homeowners Program 
                (Parts 4000--4099) [Reserved]
       XXV  Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation (Parts 4100--
                4199)

                           Title 25--Indians

         I  Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of the Interior 
                (Parts 1--299)
        II  Indian Arts and Crafts Board, Department of the 
                Interior (Parts 300--399)
       III  National Indian Gaming Commission, Department of the 
                Interior (Parts 500--599)
        IV  Office of Navajo and Hopi Indian Relocation (Parts 
                700--899)
         V  Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of the Interior, 
                and Indian Health Service, Department of Health 
                and Human Services (Part 900--999)
        VI  Office of the Assistant Secretary, Indian Affairs, 
                Department of the Interior (Parts 1000--1199)
       VII  Office of the Special Trustee for American Indians, 
                Department of the Interior (Parts 1200--1299)

                      Title 26--Internal Revenue

         I  Internal Revenue Service, Department of the Treasury 
                (Parts 1--End)

           Title 27--Alcohol, Tobacco Products and Firearms

         I  Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, Department 
                of the Treasury (Parts 1--399)
        II  Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, 
                Department of Justice (Parts 400--799)

                   Title 28--Judicial Administration

         I  Department of Justice (Parts 0--299)
       III  Federal Prison Industries, Inc., Department of Justice 
                (Parts 300--399)
         V  Bureau of Prisons, Department of Justice (Parts 500--
                599)
        VI  Offices of Independent Counsel, Department of Justice 
                (Parts 600--699)
       VII  Office of Independent Counsel (Parts 700--799)
      VIII  Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency for the 
                District of Columbia (Parts 800--899)
        IX  National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact Council 
                (Parts 900--999)

[[Page 454]]

        XI  Department of Justice and Department of State (Parts 
                1100--1199)

                            Title 29--Labor

            Subtitle A--Office of the Secretary of Labor (Parts 
                0--99)
            Subtitle B--Regulations Relating to Labor
         I  National Labor Relations Board (Parts 100--199)
        II  Office of Labor-Management Standards, Department of 
                Labor (Parts 200--299)
       III  National Railroad Adjustment Board (Parts 300--399)
        IV  Office of Labor-Management Standards, Department of 
                Labor (Parts 400--499)
         V  Wage and Hour Division, Department of Labor (Parts 
                500--899)
        IX  Construction Industry Collective Bargaining Commission 
                (Parts 900--999)
         X  National Mediation Board (Parts 1200--1299)
       XII  Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (Parts 
                1400--1499)
       XIV  Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (Parts 1600--
                1699)
      XVII  Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 
                Department of Labor (Parts 1900--1999)
        XX  Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission 
                (Parts 2200--2499)
       XXV  Employee Benefits Security Administration, Department 
                of Labor (Parts 2500--2599)
     XXVII  Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission 
                (Parts 2700--2799)
        XL  Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (Parts 4000--
                4999)

                      Title 30--Mineral Resources

         I  Mine Safety and Health Administration, Department of 
                Labor (Parts 1--199)
        II  Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, 
                Department of the Interior (Parts 200--299)
        IV  Geological Survey, Department of the Interior (Parts 
                400--499)
         V  Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Department of the 
                Interior (Parts 500--599)
       VII  Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, 
                Department of the Interior (Parts 700--999)
       XII  Office of Natural Resources Revenue, Department of the 
                Interior (Parts 1200--1299)

                 Title 31--Money and Finance: Treasury

            Subtitle A--Office of the Secretary of the Treasury 
                (Parts 0--50)
            Subtitle B--Regulations Relating to Money and Finance

[[Page 455]]

         I  Monetary Offices, Department of the Treasury (Parts 
                51--199)
        II  Fiscal Service, Department of the Treasury (Parts 
                200--399)
        IV  Secret Service, Department of the Treasury (Parts 
                400--499)
         V  Office of Foreign Assets Control, Department of the 
                Treasury (Parts 500--599)
        VI  Bureau of Engraving and Printing, Department of the 
                Treasury (Parts 600--699)
       VII  Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, Department of 
                the Treasury (Parts 700--799)
      VIII  Office of Investment Security, Department of the 
                Treasury (Parts 800--899)
        IX  Federal Claims Collection Standards (Department of the 
                Treasury--Department of Justice) (Parts 900--999)
         X  Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, Department of 
                the Treasury (Parts 1000--1099)

                      Title 32--National Defense

            Subtitle A--Department of Defense
         I  Office of the Secretary of Defense (Parts 1--399)
         V  Department of the Army (Parts 400--699)
        VI  Department of the Navy (Parts 700--799)
       VII  Department of the Air Force (Parts 800--1099)
            Subtitle B--Other Regulations Relating to National 
                Defense
       XII  Department of Defense, Defense Logistics Agency (Parts 
                1200--1299)
       XVI  Selective Service System (Parts 1600--1699)
      XVII  Office of the Director of National Intelligence (Parts 
                1700--1799)
     XVIII  National Counterintelligence Center (Parts 1800--1899)
       XIX  Central Intelligence Agency (Parts 1900--1999)
        XX  Information Security Oversight Office, National 
                Archives and Records Administration (Parts 2000--
                2099)
       XXI  National Security Council (Parts 2100--2199)
      XXIV  Office of Science and Technology Policy (Parts 2400--
                2499)
     XXVII  Office for Micronesian Status Negotiations (Parts 
                2700--2799)
    XXVIII  Office of the Vice President of the United States 
                (Parts 2800--2899)

               Title 33--Navigation and Navigable Waters

         I  Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security (Parts 
                1--199)
        II  Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, Department 
                of Defense (Parts 200--399)
        IV  Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development 
                Corporation, Department of Transportation (Parts 
                400--499)

[[Page 456]]

                          Title 34--Education

            Subtitle A--Office of the Secretary, Department of 
                Education (Parts 1--99)
            Subtitle B--Regulations of the Offices of the 
                Department of Education
         I  Office for Civil Rights, Department of Education 
                (Parts 100--199)
        II  Office of Elementary and Secondary Education, 
                Department of Education (Parts 200--299)
       III  Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative 
                Services, Department of Education (Parts 300--399)
        IV  Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education, 
                Department of Education (Parts 400--499)
         V  Office of Bilingual Education and Minority Languages 
                Affairs, Department of Education (Parts 500--599) 
                [Reserved]
        VI  Office of Postsecondary Education, Department of 
                Education (Parts 600--699)
       VII  Office of Educational Research and Improvement, 
                Department of Education (Parts 700--799) 
                [Reserved]
            Subtitle C--Regulations Relating to Education
        XI  [Reserved]
       XII  National Council on Disability (Parts 1200--1299)

                          Title 35 [Reserved]

             Title 36--Parks, Forests, and Public Property

         I  National Park Service, Department of the Interior 
                (Parts 1--199)
        II  Forest Service, Department of Agriculture (Parts 200--
                299)
       III  Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army (Parts 
                300--399)
        IV  American Battle Monuments Commission (Parts 400--499)
         V  Smithsonian Institution (Parts 500--599)
        VI  [Reserved]
       VII  Library of Congress (Parts 700--799)
      VIII  Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (Parts 800--
                899)
        IX  Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation (Parts 
                900--999)
         X  Presidio Trust (Parts 1000--1099)
        XI  Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance 
                Board (Parts 1100--1199)
       XII  National Archives and Records Administration (Parts 
                1200--1299)
        XV  Oklahoma City National Memorial Trust (Parts 1500--
                1599)
       XVI  Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National 
                Environmental Policy Foundation (Parts 1600--1699)

             Title 37--Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights

         I  United States Patent and Trademark Office, Department 
                of Commerce (Parts 1--199)
        II  U.S. Copyright Office, Library of Congress (Parts 
                200--299)

[[Page 457]]

       III  Copyright Royalty Board, Library of Congress (Parts 
                300--399)
        IV  National Institute of Standards and Technology, 
                Department of Commerce (Parts 400--599)

           Title 38--Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief

         I  Department of Veterans Affairs (Parts 0--199)
        II  Armed Forces Retirement Home (Parts 200--299)

                       Title 39--Postal Service

         I  United States Postal Service (Parts 1--999)
       III  Postal Regulatory Commission (Parts 3000--3099)

                  Title 40--Protection of Environment

         I  Environmental Protection Agency (Parts 1--1099)
        IV  Environmental Protection Agency and Department of 
                Justice (Parts 1400--1499)
         V  Council on Environmental Quality (Parts 1500--1599)
        VI  Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (Parts 
                1600--1699)
       VII  Environmental Protection Agency and Department of 
                Defense; Uniform National Discharge Standards for 
                Vessels of the Armed Forces (Parts 1700--1799)
      VIII  Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council (Parts 1800--
                1899)
        IX  Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council (Part 
                1900)

          Title 41--Public Contracts and Property Management

            Subtitle A--Federal Procurement Regulations System 
                [Note]
            Subtitle B--Other Provisions Relating to Public 
                Contracts
        50  Public Contracts, Department of Labor (Parts 50-1--50-
                999)
        51  Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or 
                Severely Disabled (Parts 51-1--51-99)
        60  Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, Equal 
                Employment Opportunity, Department of Labor (Parts 
                60-1--60-999)
        61  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Veterans' 
                Employment and Training Service, Department of 
                Labor (Parts 61-1--61-999)
   62--100  [Reserved]
            Subtitle C--Federal Property Management Regulations 
                System
       101  Federal Property Management Regulations (Parts 101-1--
                101-99)
       102  Federal Management Regulation (Parts 102-1--102-299)
  103--104  (Parts 103-001--104-099) [Reserved]
       105  General Services Administration (Parts 105-1--105-999)

[[Page 458]]

       109  Department of Energy Property Management Regulations 
                (Parts 109-1--109-99)
       114  Department of the Interior (Parts 114-1--114-99)
       115  Environmental Protection Agency (Parts 115-1--115-99)
       128  Department of Justice (Parts 128-1--128-99)
  129--200  [Reserved]
            Subtitle D--Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security
       201  Federal Acquisition Security Council (Parts 201-1--
                201-99)
            Subtitle E [Reserved]
            Subtitle F--Federal Travel Regulation System
       300  General (Parts 300-1--300-99)
       301  Temporary Duty (TDY) Travel Allowances (Parts 301-1--
                301-99)
       302  Relocation Allowances (Parts 302-1--302-99)
       303  Payment of Expenses Connected with the Death of 
                Certain Employees (Part 303-1--303-99)
       304  Payment of Travel Expenses from a Non-Federal Source 
                (Parts 304-1--304-99)

                        Title 42--Public Health

         I  Public Health Service, Department of Health and Human 
                Services (Parts 1--199)
   II--III  [Reserved]
        IV  Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Department 
                of Health and Human Services (Parts 400--699)
         V  Office of Inspector General-Health Care, Department of 
                Health and Human Services (Parts 1000--1099)

                   Title 43--Public Lands: Interior

            Subtitle A--Office of the Secretary of the Interior 
                (Parts 1--199)
            Subtitle B--Regulations Relating to Public Lands
         I  Bureau of Reclamation, Department of the Interior 
                (Parts 400--999)
        II  Bureau of Land Management, Department of the Interior 
                (Parts 1000--9999)
       III  Utah Reclamation Mitigation and Conservation 
                Commission (Parts 10000--10099)

             Title 44--Emergency Management and Assistance

         I  Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of 
                Homeland Security (Parts 0--399)
        IV  Department of Commerce and Department of 
                Transportation (Parts 400--499)

[[Page 459]]

                       Title 45--Public Welfare

            Subtitle A--Department of Health and Human Services 
                (Parts 1--199)
            Subtitle B--Regulations Relating to Public Welfare
        II  Office of Family Assistance (Assistance Programs), 
                Administration for Children and Families, 
                Department of Health and Human Services (Parts 
                200--299)
       III  Office of Child Support Enforcement (Child Support 
                Enforcement Program), Administration for Children 
                and Families, Department of Health and Human 
                Services (Parts 300--399)
        IV  Office of Refugee Resettlement, Administration for 
                Children and Families, Department of Health and 
                Human Services (Parts 400--499)
         V  Foreign Claims Settlement Commission of the United 
                States, Department of Justice (Parts 500--599)
        VI  National Science Foundation (Parts 600--699)
       VII  Commission on Civil Rights (Parts 700--799)
      VIII  Office of Personnel Management (Parts 800--899)
        IX  Denali Commission (Parts 900--999)
         X  Office of Community Services, Administration for 
                Children and Families, Department of Health and 
                Human Services (Parts 1000--1099)
        XI  National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities 
                (Parts 1100--1199)
       XII  Corporation for National and Community Service (Parts 
                1200--1299)
      XIII  Administration for Children and Families, Department 
                of Health and Human Services (Parts 1300--1399)
       XVI  Legal Services Corporation (Parts 1600--1699)
      XVII  National Commission on Libraries and Information 
                Science (Parts 1700--1799)
     XVIII  Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation (Parts 1800--
                1899)
       XXI  Commission of Fine Arts (Parts 2100--2199)
     XXIII  Arctic Research Commission (Parts 2300--2399)
      XXIV  James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation (Parts 
                2400--2499)
       XXV  Corporation for National and Community Service (Parts 
                2500--2599)

                          Title 46--Shipping

         I  Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security (Parts 
                1--199)
        II  Maritime Administration, Department of Transportation 
                (Parts 200--399)
       III  Coast Guard (Great Lakes Pilotage), Department of 
                Homeland Security (Parts 400--499)
        IV  Federal Maritime Commission (Parts 500--599)

[[Page 460]]

                      Title 47--Telecommunication

         I  Federal Communications Commission (Parts 0--199)
        II  Office of Science and Technology Policy and National 
                Security Council (Parts 200--299)
       III  National Telecommunications and Information 
                Administration, Department of Commerce (Parts 
                300--399)
        IV  National Telecommunications and Information 
                Administration, Department of Commerce, and 
                National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 
                Department of Transportation (Parts 400--499)
         V  The First Responder Network Authority (Parts 500--599)

           Title 48--Federal Acquisition Regulations System

         1  Federal Acquisition Regulation (Parts 1--99)
         2  Defense Acquisition Regulations System, Department of 
                Defense (Parts 200--299)
         3  Department of Health and Human Services (Parts 300--
                399)
         4  Department of Agriculture (Parts 400--499)
         5  General Services Administration (Parts 500--599)
         6  Department of State (Parts 600--699)
         7  Agency for International Development (Parts 700--799)
         8  Department of Veterans Affairs (Parts 800--899)
         9  Department of Energy (Parts 900--999)
        10  Department of the Treasury (Parts 1000--1099)
        12  Department of Transportation (Parts 1200--1299)
        13  Department of Commerce (Parts 1300--1399)
        14  Department of the Interior (Parts 1400--1499)
        15  Environmental Protection Agency (Parts 1500--1599)
        16  Office of Personnel Management, Federal Employees 
                Health Benefits Acquisition Regulation (Parts 
                1600--1699)
        17  Office of Personnel Management (Parts 1700--1799)
        18  National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Parts 
                1800--1899)
        19  Broadcasting Board of Governors (Parts 1900--1999)
        20  Nuclear Regulatory Commission (Parts 2000--2099)
        21  Office of Personnel Management, Federal Employees 
                Group Life Insurance Federal Acquisition 
                Regulation (Parts 2100--2199)
        23  Social Security Administration (Parts 2300--2399)
        24  Department of Housing and Urban Development (Parts 
                2400--2499)
        25  National Science Foundation (Parts 2500--2599)
        28  Department of Justice (Parts 2800--2899)
        29  Department of Labor (Parts 2900--2999)
        30  Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security 
                Acquisition Regulation (HSAR) (Parts 3000--3099)
        34  Department of Education Acquisition Regulation (Parts 
                3400--3499)

[[Page 461]]

        51  Department of the Army Acquisition Regulations (Parts 
                5100--5199) [Reserved]
        52  Department of the Navy Acquisition Regulations (Parts 
                5200--5299)
        53  Department of the Air Force Federal Acquisition 
                Regulation Supplement (Parts 5300--5399) 
                [Reserved]
        54  Defense Logistics Agency, Department of Defense (Parts 
                5400--5499)
        57  African Development Foundation (Parts 5700--5799)
        61  Civilian Board of Contract Appeals, General Services 
                Administration (Parts 6100--6199)
        99  Cost Accounting Standards Board, Office of Federal 
                Procurement Policy, Office of Management and 
                Budget (Parts 9900--9999)

                       Title 49--Transportation

            Subtitle A--Office of the Secretary of Transportation 
                (Parts 1--99)
            Subtitle B--Other Regulations Relating to 
                Transportation
         I  Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety 
                Administration, Department of Transportation 
                (Parts 100--199)
        II  Federal Railroad Administration, Department of 
                Transportation (Parts 200--299)
       III  Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 
                Department of Transportation (Parts 300--399)
        IV  Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security (Parts 
                400--499)
         V  National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 
                Department of Transportation (Parts 500--599)
        VI  Federal Transit Administration, Department of 
                Transportation (Parts 600--699)
       VII  National Railroad Passenger Corporation (AMTRAK) 
                (Parts 700--799)
      VIII  National Transportation Safety Board (Parts 800--999)
         X  Surface Transportation Board (Parts 1000--1399)
        XI  Research and Innovative Technology Administration, 
                Department of Transportation (Parts 1400--1499) 
                [Reserved]
       XII  Transportation Security Administration, Department of 
                Homeland Security (Parts 1500--1699)

                   Title 50--Wildlife and Fisheries

         I  United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of 
                the Interior (Parts 1--199)
        II  National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic 
                and Atmospheric Administration, Department of 
                Commerce (Parts 200--299)
       III  International Fishing and Related Activities (Parts 
                300--399)

[[Page 462]]

        IV  Joint Regulations (United States Fish and Wildlife 
                Service, Department of the Interior and National 
                Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and 
                Atmospheric Administration, Department of 
                Commerce); Endangered Species Committee 
                Regulations (Parts 400--499)
         V  Marine Mammal Commission (Parts 500--599)
        VI  Fishery Conservation and Management, National Oceanic 
                and Atmospheric Administration, Department of 
                Commerce (Parts 600--699)

[[Page 463]]





           Alphabetical List of Agencies Appearing in the CFR




                     (Revised as of October 1, 2023)

                                                  CFR Title, Subtitle or 
                     Agency                               Chapter

Administrative Conference of the United States    1, III
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation         36, VIII
Advocacy and Outreach, Office of                  7, XXV
Afghanistan Reconstruction, Special Inspector     5, LXXXIII
     General for
African Development Foundation                    22, XV
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 57
Agency for International Development              2, VII; 22, II
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 7
Agricultural Marketing Service                    7, I, VIII, IX, X, XI; 9, 
                                                  II
Agricultural Research Service                     7, V
Agriculture, Department of                        2, IV; 5, LXXIII
  Advocacy and Outreach, Office of                7, XXV
  Agricultural Marketing Service                  7, I, VIII, IX, X, XI; 9, 
                                                  II
  Agricultural Research Service                   7, V
  Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service      7, III; 9, I
  Chief Financial Officer, Office of              7, XXX
  Commodity Credit Corporation                    7, XIV
  Economic Research Service                       7, XXXVII
  Energy Policy and New Uses, Office of           2, IX; 7, XXIX
  Environmental Quality, Office of                7, XXXI
  Farm Service Agency                             7, VII, XVIII
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 4
  Federal Crop Insurance Corporation              7, IV
  Food and Nutrition Service                      7, II
  Food Safety and Inspection Service              9, III
  Foreign Agricultural Service                    7, XV
  Forest Service                                  36, II
  Information Resources Management, Office of     7, XXVII
  Inspector General, Office of                    7, XXVI
  National Agricultural Library                   7, XLI
  National Agricultural Statistics Service        7, XXXVI
  National Institute of Food and Agriculture      7, XXXIV
  Natural Resources Conservation Service          7, VI
  Operations, Office of                           7, XXVIII
  Procurement and Property Management, Office of  7, XXXII
  Rural Business-Cooperative Service              7, XVIII, XLII
  Rural Development Administration                7, XLII
  Rural Housing Service                           7, XVIII, XXXV
  Rural Utilities Service                         7, XVII, XVIII, XLII
  Secretary of Agriculture, Office of             7, Subtitle A
  Transportation, Office of                       7, XXXIII
  World Agricultural Outlook Board                7, XXXVIII
Air Force, Department of                          32, VII
  Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement       48, 53
Air Transportation Stabilization Board            14, VI
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau          27, I
Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives,       27, II
     Bureau of
AMTRAK                                            49, VII
American Battle Monuments Commission              36, IV
American Indians, Office of the Special Trustee   25, VII
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service        7, III; 9, I
Appalachian Regional Commission                   5, IX
Architectural and Transportation Barriers         36, XI
   Compliance Board
[[Page 464]]

Arctic Research Commission                        45, XXIII
Armed Forces Retirement Home                      5, XI; 38, II
Army, Department of                               32, V
  Engineers, Corps of                             33, II; 36, III
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 51
Benefits Review Board                             20, VII
Bilingual Education and Minority Languages        34, V
     Affairs, Office of
Blind or Severely Disabled, Committee for         41, 51
     Purchase from People Who Are
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 19
Career, Technical, and Adult Education, Office    34, IV
     of
Census Bureau                                     15, I
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services          42, IV
Central Intelligence Agency                       32, XIX
Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board    40, VI
Chief Financial Officer, Office of                7, XXX
Child Support Enforcement, Office of              45, III
Children and Families, Administration for         45, II, III, IV, X, XIII
Civil Rights, Commission on                       5, LXVIII; 45, VII
Civil Rights, Office for                          34, I
Coast Guard                                       33, I; 46, I; 49, IV
Coast Guard (Great Lakes Pilotage)                46, III
Commerce, Department of                           2, XIII; 44, IV; 50, VI
  Census Bureau                                   15, I
  Economic Affairs, Office of the Under-          15, XV
       Secretary for
  Economic Analysis, Bureau of                    15, VIII
  Economic Development Administration             13, III
  Emergency Management and Assistance             44, IV
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 13
  Foreign-Trade Zones Board                       15, IV
  Industry and Security, Bureau of                15, VII
  International Trade Administration              15, III; 19, III
  National Institute of Standards and Technology  15, II; 37, IV
  National Marine Fisheries Service               50, II, IV
  National Oceanic and Atmospheric                15, IX; 50, II, III, IV, 
       Administration                             VI
  National Technical Information Service          15, XI
  National Telecommunications and Information     15, XXIII; 47, III, IV
       Administration
  National Weather Service                        15, IX
  Patent and Trademark Office, United States      37, I
  Secretary of Commerce, Office of                15, Subtitle A
Commercial Space Transportation                   14, III
Commodity Credit Corporation                      7, XIV
Commodity Futures Trading Commission              5, XLI; 17, I
Community Planning and Development, Office of     24, V, VI
     Assistant Secretary for
Community Services, Office of                     45, X
Comptroller of the Currency                       12, I
Construction Industry Collective Bargaining       29, IX
     Commission
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau              5, LXXXIV; 12, X
Consumer Product Safety Commission                5, LXXI; 16, II
Copyright Royalty Board                           37, III
Corporation for National and Community Service    2, XXII; 45, XII, XXV
Cost Accounting Standards Board                   48, 99
Council on Environmental Quality                  40, V
Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity    5, XCVIII
     and Efficiency
Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency    5, LXX; 28, VIII
     for the District of Columbia
Customs and Border Protection                     19, I
Defense, Department of                            2, XI; 5, XXVI; 32, 
                                                  Subtitle A; 40, VII
  Advanced Research Projects Agency               32, I
  Air Force Department                            32, VII
  Army Department                                 32, V; 33, II; 36, III; 
                                                  48, 51
  Defense Acquisition Regulations System          48, 2
  Defense Intelligence Agency                     32, I

[[Page 465]]

  Defense Logistics Agency                        32, I, XII; 48, 54
  Engineers, Corps of                             33, II; 36, III
  National Imagery and Mapping Agency             32, I
  Navy, Department of                             32, VI; 48, 52
  Secretary of Defense, Office of                 2, XI; 32, I
Defense Contract Audit Agency                     32, I
Defense Intelligence Agency                       32, I
Defense Logistics Agency                          32, XII; 48, 54
Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board           10, XVII
Delaware River Basin Commission                   18, III
Denali Commission                                 45, IX
Disability, National Council on                   5, C; 34, XII
District of Columbia, Court Services and          5, LXX; 28, VIII
     Offender Supervision Agency for the
Drug Enforcement Administration                   21, II
East-West Foreign Trade Board                     15, XIII
Economic Affairs, Office of the Under-Secretary   15, XV
     for
Economic Analysis, Bureau of                      15, VIII
Economic Development Administration               13, III
Economic Research Service                         7, XXXVII
Education, Department of                          2, XXXIV; 5, LIII
  Bilingual Education and Minority Languages      34, V
       Affairs, Office of
  Career, Technical, and Adult Education, Office  34, IV
       of
  Civil Rights, Office for                        34, I
  Educational Research and Improvement, Office    34, VII
       of
  Elementary and Secondary Education, Office of   34, II
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 34
  Postsecondary Education, Office of              34, VI
  Secretary of Education, Office of               34, Subtitle A
  Special Education and Rehabilitative Services,  34, III
       Office of
Educational Research and Improvement, Office of   34, VII
Election Assistance Commission                    2, LVIII; 11, II
Elementary and Secondary Education, Office of     34, II
Emergency Oil and Gas Guaranteed Loan Board       13, V
Emergency Steel Guarantee Loan Board              13, IV
Employee Benefits Security Administration         29, XXV
Employees' Compensation Appeals Board             20, IV
Employees Loyalty Board                           5, V
Employment and Training Administration            20, V
Employment Policy, National Commission for        1, IV
Employment Standards Administration               20, VI
Endangered Species Committee                      50, IV
Energy, Department of                             2, IX; 5, XXIII; 10, II, 
                                                  III, X
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 9
  Federal Energy Regulatory Commission            5, XXIV; 18, I
  Property Management Regulations                 41, 109
Energy, Office of                                 7, XXIX
Engineers, Corps of                               33, II; 36, III
Engraving and Printing, Bureau of                 31, VI
Environmental Protection Agency                   2, XV; 5, LIV; 40, I, IV, 
                                                  VII
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 15
  Property Management Regulations                 41, 115
Environmental Quality, Office of                  7, XXXI
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission           5, LXII; 29, XIV
Equal Opportunity, Office of Assistant Secretary  24, I
     for
Executive Office of the President                 3, I
  Environmental Quality, Council on               40, V
  Management and Budget, Office of                2, Subtitle A; 5, III, 
                                                  LXXVII; 14, VI; 48, 99
  National Drug Control Policy, Office of         2, XXXVI; 21, III
  National Security Council                       32, XXI; 47, II
  Presidential Documents                          3
  Science and Technology Policy, Office of        32, XXIV; 47, II
  Trade Representative, Office of the United      15, XX
     States
[[Page 466]]

Export-Import Bank of the United States           2, XXXV; 5, LII; 12, IV
Family Assistance, Office of                      45, II
Farm Credit Administration                        5, XXXI; 12, VI
Farm Credit System Insurance Corporation          5, XXX; 12, XIV
Farm Service Agency                               7, VII, XVIII
Federal Acquisition Regulation                    48, 1
Federal Acquisition Security Council              41, 201
Federal Aviation Administration                   14, I
  Commercial Space Transportation                 14, III
Federal Claims Collection Standards               31, IX
Federal Communications Commission                 2, LX; 5, XXIX; 47, I
Federal Contract Compliance Programs, Office of   41, 60
Federal Crop Insurance Corporation                7, IV
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation             5, XXII; 12, III
Federal Election Commission                       5, XXXVII; 11, I
Federal Emergency Management Agency               44, I
Federal Employees Group Life Insurance Federal    48, 21
     Acquisition Regulation
Federal Employees Health Benefits Acquisition     48, 16
     Regulation
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission              5, XXIV; 18, I
Federal Financial Institutions Examination        12, XI
     Council
Federal Financing Bank                            12, VIII
Federal Highway Administration                    23, I, II
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation            1, IV
Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight Office       12, XVII
Federal Housing Finance Agency                    5, LXXX; 12, XII
Federal Labor Relations Authority                 5, XIV, XLIX; 22, XIV
Federal Law Enforcement Training Center           31, VII
Federal Management Regulation                     41, 102
Federal Maritime Commission                       46, IV
Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service        29, XII
Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission  5, LXXIV; 29, XXVII
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration       49, III
Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council   40, IX
Federal Prison Industries, Inc.                   28, III
Federal Procurement Policy Office                 48, 99
Federal Property Management Regulations           41, 101
Federal Railroad Administration                   49, II
Federal Register, Administrative Committee of     1, I
Federal Register, Office of                       1, II
Federal Reserve System                            12, II
  Board of Governors                              5, LVIII
Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board        5, VI, LXXVI
Federal Service Impasses Panel                    5, XIV
Federal Trade Commission                          5, XLVII; 16, I
Federal Transit Administration                    49, VI
Federal Travel Regulation System                  41, Subtitle F
Financial Crimes Enforcement Network              31, X
Financial Research Office                         12, XVI
Financial Stability Oversight Council             12, XIII
Fine Arts, Commission of                          45, XXI
Fiscal Service                                    31, II
Fish and Wildlife Service, United States          50, I, IV
Food and Drug Administration                      21, I
Food and Nutrition Service                        7, II
Food Safety and Inspection Service                9, III
Foreign Agricultural Service                      7, XV
Foreign Assets Control, Office of                 31, V
Foreign Claims Settlement Commission of the       45, V
     United States
Foreign Service Grievance Board                   22, IX
Foreign Service Impasse Disputes Panel            22, XIV
Foreign Service Labor Relations Board             22, XIV
Foreign-Trade Zones Board                         15, IV
Forest Service                                    36, II
General Services Administration                   5, LVII; 41, 105
  Contract Appeals, Board of                      48, 61
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 5

[[Page 467]]

  Federal Management Regulation                   41, 102
  Federal Property Management Regulations         41, 101
  Federal Travel Regulation System                41, Subtitle F
  General                                         41, 300
  Payment From a Non-Federal Source for Travel    41, 304
       Expenses
  Payment of Expenses Connected With the Death    41, 303
       of Certain Employees
  Relocation Allowances                           41, 302
  Temporary Duty (TDY) Travel Allowances          41, 301
Geological Survey                                 30, IV
Government Accountability Office                  4, I
Government Ethics, Office of                      5, XVI
Government National Mortgage Association          24, III
Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards          7, VIII; 9, II
     Administration
Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development       33, IV
     Corporation
Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council          2, LIX; 40, VIII
Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation            45, XVIII
Health and Human Services, Department of          2, III; 5, XLV; 45, 
                                                  Subtitle A
  Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services        42, IV
  Child Support Enforcement, Office of            45, III
  Children and Families, Administration for       45, II, III, IV, X, XIII
  Community Services, Office of                   45, X
  Family Assistance, Office of                    45, II
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 3
  Food and Drug Administration                    21, I
  Indian Health Service                           25, V
  Inspector General (Health Care), Office of      42, V
  Public Health Service                           42, I
  Refugee Resettlement, Office of                 45, IV
Homeland Security, Department of                  2, XXX; 5, XXXVI; 6, I; 8, 
                                                  I
  Coast Guard                                     33, I; 46, I; 49, IV
  Coast Guard (Great Lakes Pilotage)              46, III
  Customs and Border Protection                   19, I
  Federal Emergency Management Agency             44, I
  Human Resources Management and Labor Relations  5, XCVII
       Systems
  Immigration and Customs Enforcement Bureau      19, IV
  Transportation Security Administration          49, XII
HOPE for Homeowners Program, Board of Directors   24, XXIV
     of
Housing and Urban Development, Department of      2, XXIV; 5, LXV; 24, 
                                                  Subtitle B
  Community Planning and Development, Office of   24, V, VI
       Assistant Secretary for
  Equal Opportunity, Office of Assistant          24, I
       Secretary for
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 24
  Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight, Office    12, XVII
       of
  Government National Mortgage Association        24, III
  Housing--Federal Housing Commissioner, Office   24, II, VIII, X, XX
       of Assistant Secretary for
  Housing, Office of, and Multifamily Housing     24, IV
       Assistance Restructuring, Office of
  Inspector General, Office of                    24, XII
  Public and Indian Housing, Office of Assistant  24, IX
       Secretary for
  Secretary, Office of                            24, Subtitle A, VII
Housing--Federal Housing Commissioner, Office of  24, II, VIII, X, XX
     Assistant Secretary for
Housing, Office of, and Multifamily Housing       24, IV
     Assistance Restructuring, Office of
Immigration and Customs Enforcement Bureau        19, IV
Immigration Review, Executive Office for          8, V
Independent Counsel, Office of                    28, VII
Independent Counsel, Offices of                   28, VI
Indian Affairs, Bureau of                         25, I, V
Indian Affairs, Office of the Assistant           25, VI
     Secretary
Indian Arts and Crafts Board                      25, II

[[Page 468]]

Indian Health Service                             25, V
Industry and Security, Bureau of                  15, VII
Information Resources Management, Office of       7, XXVII
Information Security Oversight Office, National   32, XX
     Archives and Records Administration
Inspector General
  Agriculture Department                          7, XXVI
  Health and Human Services Department            42, V
  Housing and Urban Development Department        24, XII, XV
Institute of Peace, United States                 22, XVII
Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator,    5, CIV
     Office of
Inter-American Foundation                         5, LXIII; 22, X
Interior, Department of                           2, XIV
  American Indians, Office of the Special         25, VII
       Trustee
  Endangered Species Committee                    50, IV
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 14
  Federal Property Management Regulations System  41, 114
  Fish and Wildlife Service, United States        50, I, IV
  Geological Survey                               30, IV
  Indian Affairs, Bureau of                       25, I, V
  Indian Affairs, Office of the Assistant         25, VI
       Secretary
  Indian Arts and Crafts Board                    25, II
  Land Management, Bureau of                      43, II
  National Indian Gaming Commission               25, III
  National Park Service                           36, I
  Natural Resource Revenue, Office of             30, XII
  Ocean Energy Management, Bureau of              30, V
  Reclamation, Bureau of                          43, I
  Safety and Environmental Enforcement, Bureau    30, II
       of
  Secretary of the Interior, Office of            2, XIV; 43, Subtitle A
  Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement,     30, VII
       Office of
Internal Revenue Service                          26, I
International Boundary and Water Commission,      22, XI
     United States and Mexico, United States 
     Section
International Development, United States Agency   22, II
     for
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 7
International Development Cooperation Agency,     22, XII
     United States
International Development Finance Corporation,    5, XXXIII; 22, VII
     U.S.
International Joint Commission, United States     22, IV
     and Canada
International Organizations Employees Loyalty     5, V
     Board
International Trade Administration                15, III; 19, III
International Trade Commission, United States     19, II
Interstate Commerce Commission                    5, XL
Investment Security, Office of                    31, VIII
James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation      45, XXIV
Japan-United States Friendship Commission         22, XVI
Joint Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries       20, VIII
Justice, Department of                            2, XXVIII; 5, XXVIII; 28, 
                                                  I, XI; 40, IV
  Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives,     27, II
       Bureau of
  Drug Enforcement Administration                 21, II
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 28
  Federal Claims Collection Standards             31, IX
  Federal Prison Industries, Inc.                 28, III
  Foreign Claims Settlement Commission of the     45, V
       United States
  Immigration Review, Executive Office for        8, V
  Independent Counsel, Offices of                 28, VI
  Prisons, Bureau of                              28, V
  Property Management Regulations                 41, 128
Labor, Department of                              2, XXIX; 5, XLII
  Benefits Review Board                           20, VII
  Employee Benefits Security Administration       29, XXV
  Employees' Compensation Appeals Board           20, IV
  Employment and Training Administration          20, V
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 29

[[Page 469]]

  Federal Contract Compliance Programs, Office    41, 60
       of
  Federal Procurement Regulations System          41, 50
  Labor-Management Standards, Office of           29, II, IV
  Mine Safety and Health Administration           30, I
  Occupational Safety and Health Administration   29, XVII
  Public Contracts                                41, 50
  Secretary of Labor, Office of                   29, Subtitle A
  Veterans' Employment and Training Service,      41, 61; 20, IX
       Office of the Assistant Secretary for
  Wage and Hour Division                          29, V
  Workers' Compensation Programs, Office of       20, I, VI
Labor-Management Standards, Office of             29, II, IV
Land Management, Bureau of                        43, II
Legal Services Corporation                        45, XVI
Libraries and Information Science, National       45, XVII
     Commission on
Library of Congress                               36, VII
  Copyright Royalty Board                         37, III
  U.S. Copyright Office                           37, II
Management and Budget, Office of                  5, III, LXXVII; 14, VI; 
                                                  48, 99
Marine Mammal Commission                          50, V
Maritime Administration                           46, II
Merit Systems Protection Board                    5, II, LXIV
Micronesian Status Negotiations, Office for       32, XXVII
Military Compensation and Retirement              5, XCIX
     Modernization Commission
Millennium Challenge Corporation                  22, XIII
Mine Safety and Health Administration             30, I
Minority Business Development Agency              15, XIV
Miscellaneous Agencies                            1, IV
Monetary Offices                                  31, I
Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in     36, XVI
     National Environmental Policy Foundation
Museum and Library Services, Institute of         2, XXXI
National Aeronautics and Space Administration     2, XVIII; 5, LIX; 14, V
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 18
National Agricultural Library                     7, XLI
National Agricultural Statistics Service          7, XXXVI
National and Community Service, Corporation for   2, XXII; 45, XII, XXV
National Archives and Records Administration      2, XXVI; 5, LXVI; 36, XII
  Information Security Oversight Office           32, XX
National Capital Planning Commission              1, IV, VI
National Counterintelligence Center               32, XVIII
National Credit Union Administration              5, LXXXVI; 12, VII
National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact     28, IX
     Council
National Drug Control Policy, Office of           2, XXXVI; 21, III
National Endowment for the Arts                   2, XXXII
National Endowment for the Humanities             2, XXXIII
National Foundation on the Arts and the           45, XI
     Humanities
National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency           32, I
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration    23, II, III; 47, VI; 49, V
National Imagery and Mapping Agency               32, I
National Indian Gaming Commission                 25, III
National Institute of Food and Agriculture        7, XXXIV
National Institute of Standards and Technology    15, II; 37, IV
National Intelligence, Office of Director of      5, IV; 32, XVII
National Labor Relations Board                    5, LXI; 29, I
National Marine Fisheries Service                 50, II, IV
National Mediation Board                          5, CI; 29, X
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration   15, IX; 50, II, III, IV, 
                                                  VI
National Park Service                             36, I
National Railroad Adjustment Board                29, III
National Railroad Passenger Corporation (AMTRAK)  49, VII
National Science Foundation                       2, XXV; 5, XLIII; 45, VI
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 25
National Security Council                         32, XXI; 47, II

[[Page 470]]

National Technical Information Service            15, XI
National Telecommunications and Information       15, XXIII; 47, III, IV, V
     Administration
National Transportation Safety Board              49, VIII
Natural Resource Revenue, Office of               30, XII
Natural Resources Conservation Service            7, VI
Navajo and Hopi Indian Relocation, Office of      25, IV
Navy, Department of                               32, VI
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 52
Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation             24, XXV
Northeast Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste  10, XVIII
     Commission
Nuclear Regulatory Commission                     2, XX; 5, XLVIII; 10, I
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 20
Occupational Safety and Health Administration     29, XVII
Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission  29, XX
Ocean Energy Management, Bureau of                30, V
Oklahoma City National Memorial Trust             36, XV
Operations Office                                 7, XXVIII
Patent and Trademark Office, United States        37, I
Payment From a Non-Federal Source for Travel      41, 304
     Expenses
Payment of Expenses Connected With the Death of   41, 303
     Certain Employees
Peace Corps                                       2, XXXVII; 22, III
Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation       36, IX
Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation              29, XL
Personnel Management, Office of                   5, I, IV, XXXV; 45, VIII
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 17
  Federal Employees Group Life Insurance Federal  48, 21
       Acquisition Regulation
  Federal Employees Health Benefits Acquisition   48, 16
       Regulation
  Human Resources Management and Labor Relations  5, XCVII
       Systems, Department of Homeland Security
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety           49, I
     Administration
Postal Regulatory Commission                      5, XLVI; 39, III
Postal Service, United States                     5, LX; 39, I
Postsecondary Education, Office of                34, VI
President's Commission on White House             1, IV
     Fellowships
Presidential Documents                            3
Presidio Trust                                    36, X
Prisons, Bureau of                                28, V
Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board       6, X
Procurement and Property Management, Office of    7, XXXII
Public and Indian Housing, Office of Assistant    24, IX
     Secretary for
Public Contracts, Department of Labor             41, 50
Public Health Service                             42, I
Railroad Retirement Board                         20, II
Reclamation, Bureau of                            43, I
Refugee Resettlement, Office of                   45, IV
Relocation Allowances                             41, 302
Research and Innovative Technology                49, XI
     Administration
Rural Business-Cooperative Service                7, XVIII, XLII, L
Rural Development Administration                  7, XLII
Rural Housing Service                             7, XVIII, XXXV, L
Rural Utilities Service                           7, XVII, XVIII, XLII, L
Safety and Environmental Enforcement, Bureau of   30, II
Science and Technology Policy, Office of          32, XXIV; 47, II
Secret Service                                    31, IV
Securities and Exchange Commission                5, XXXIV; 17, II
Selective Service System                          32, XVI
Small Business Administration                     2, XXVII; 13, I
Smithsonian Institution                           36, V
Social Security Administration                    2, XXIII; 20, III; 48, 23
Soldiers' and Airmen's Home, United States        5, XI
Special Counsel, Office of                        5, VIII
Special Education and Rehabilitative Services,    34, III
     Office of
State, Department of                              2, VI; 22, I; 28, XI

[[Page 471]]

  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 6
Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement,       30, VII
     Office of
Surface Transportation Board                      49, X
Susquehanna River Basin Commission                18, VIII
Tennessee Valley Authority                        5, LXIX; 18, XIII
Trade Representative, United States, Office of    15, XX
Transportation, Department of                     2, XII; 5, L
  Commercial Space Transportation                 14, III
  Emergency Management and Assistance             44, IV
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 12
  Federal Aviation Administration                 14, I
  Federal Highway Administration                  23, I, II
  Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration     49, III
  Federal Railroad Administration                 49, II
  Federal Transit Administration                  49, VI
  Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development     33, IV
       Corporation
  Maritime Administration                         46, II
  National Highway Traffic Safety Administration  23, II, III; 47, IV; 49, V
  Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety         49, I
       Administration
  Secretary of Transportation, Office of          14, II; 49, Subtitle A
  Transportation Statistics Bureau                49, XI
Transportation, Office of                         7, XXXIII
Transportation Security Administration            49, XII
Transportation Statistics Bureau                  49, XI
Travel Allowances, Temporary Duty (TDY)           41, 301
Treasury, Department of the                       2, X; 5, XXI; 12, XV; 17, 
                                                  IV; 31, IX
  Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau        27, I
  Community Development Financial Institutions    12, XVIII
       Fund
  Comptroller of the Currency                     12, I
  Customs and Border Protection                   19, I
  Engraving and Printing, Bureau of               31, VI
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 10
  Federal Claims Collection Standards             31, IX
  Federal Law Enforcement Training Center         31, VII
  Financial Crimes Enforcement Network            31, X
  Fiscal Service                                  31, II
  Foreign Assets Control, Office of               31, V
  Internal Revenue Service                        26, I
  Investment Security, Office of                  31, VIII
  Monetary Offices                                31, I
  Secret Service                                  31, IV
  Secretary of the Treasury, Office of            31, Subtitle A
Truman, Harry S. Scholarship Foundation           45, XVIII
United States Agency for Global Media             22, V
United States and Canada, International Joint     22, IV
     Commission
United States and Mexico, International Boundary  22, XI
     and Water Commission, United States Section
U.S. Copyright Office                             37, II
U.S. Office of Special Counsel                    5, CII
Utah Reclamation Mitigation and Conservation      43, III
     Commission
Veterans Affairs, Department of                   2, VIII; 38, I
  Federal Acquisition Regulation                  48, 8
Veterans' Employment and Training Service,        41, 61; 20, IX
     Office of the Assistant Secretary for
Vice President of the United States, Office of    32, XXVIII
Wage and Hour Division                            29, V
Water Resources Council                           18, VI
Workers' Compensation Programs, Office of         20, I, VII
World Agricultural Outlook Board                  7, XXXVIII

[[Page 473]]



List of CFR Sections Affected



All changes in this volume of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) that 
were made by documents published in the Federal Register since January 
1, 2018 are enumerated in the following list. Entries indicate the 
nature of the changes effected. Page numbers refer to Federal Register 
pages. The user should consult the entries for chapters, parts and 
subparts as well as sections for revisions.
For changes to this volume of the CFR prior to this listing, consult the 
annual edition of the monthly List of CFR Sections Affected (LSA). The 
LSA is available at www.govinfo.gov. For changes to this volume of the 
CFR prior to 2001, see the ``List of CFR Sections Affected, 1949-1963, 
1964-1972, 1973-1985, and 1986-2000'' published in 11 separate volumes. 
The ``List of CFR Sections Affected 1986-2000'' is available at 
www.govinfo.gov.

                                2018	2021

                       (No regulations published)

                                  2022

46 CFR
                                                                   87 FR
                                                                    Page
Chapter I
160 Authority citation revised.....................................68304
160.010-3 (a)(12)(ii) and (e)(7)(ii) revised.......................68304
160.013-1--160.013-5 (Subpart 160.013) Removed.....................68304
160.026-1--160.026-7 (Subpart 160.026) Removed.....................68304
160.041-1--160.041-6 (Subpart 160.041) Removed.....................68304
160.043-1--106.043-6 (Subpart 160.043) Removed.....................68304
160.044-1--160.044-5 (Subpart 160.044) Removed.....................68304
160.046-1--160.046-11 (Subpart 160.046) Added......................68304
160.051-11 (b) revised.............................................68305
160.054-1--106.054-7 (Subpart 160.054) Removed.....................68305
160.061-1--106.061-5 (Subpart 160.061) Removed.....................68305
160.135-7 (b)(23) revised..........................................68305
160.151-21 (b), (h), (o), and (q) through (s) revised..............68305
160.156-7 (b)(22) revised..........................................68305

                                  2023

  (Regulations published from January 1, 2023, through October 1, 2023)

46 CFR
                                                                   88 FR
                                                                    Page
Chapter I
160 Authority citation revised.....................................10030
160.051-5 (a) revised..............................................10030
160.076-11 (a) revised.............................................10030
160.077-5 (a) revised..............................................10030
160.115-5 (a) revised..............................................10030
160.132-5 (a) revised..............................................10030
160.133-5 (a) revised..............................................10031
160.135-5 (a) revised..............................................10031
160.151-5 (a) revised..............................................10031
160.156-5 (a) revised..............................................10031
160.170-5 (a) revised..............................................10031
160.176-4 (a) revised..............................................10031
161 Authority citation revised.....................................10031
161.010-4 Amended..................................................10031
162 Authority citation revised.....................................10031
162.017-6 Amended..................................................10031
162.018-8 Amended..................................................10032
162.050-7 Amended..................................................10032
163 Authority citation revised.....................................10032


                                  [all]