[Federal Register Volume 59, Number 9 (Thursday, January 13, 1994)]
[Unknown Section]
[Page 0]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 94-19]


[[Page Unknown]]

[Federal Register: January 13, 1994]



 

Subpart D--Drainage of Weather Decks


Sec. 178.410  Drainage of flush deck vessels.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, the 
weather deck on a flush deck vessel must be watertight and have no 
obstruction to overboard drainage.
    (b) Each flush deck vessel may have solid bulwarks in the forward 
one-third length of the vessel if:
    (1) The bulwarks do not form a well enclosed on all sides; and
    (2) The foredeck of the vessel has sufficient sheer to ensure 
drainage aft.


Sec. 178.420  Drainage of cockpit vessels.

    (a) Except as follows, the cockpit on a cockpit vessel must be 
watertight:
    (1) A cockpit may have companionways if the companionway openings 
have watertight doors, or weathertight doors and coamings which meet 
Sec. 179.360 of this subchapter.
    (2) A cockpit may have ventilation openings along its inner 
periphery if the vessel operates only on protected or partially 
protected waters.
    (b) The cockpit deck of a cockpit vessel that operates on exposed 
or partially protected waters must be at least 10 inches above the 
deepest load waterline unless the vessel complies with:
    (1) The intact stability requirements of Secs. 170.170, 170.173, 
171.050, 171.055, and 171.057 of this chapter;
    (2) The Type II subdivision requirements in Secs. 171.070, 171.072, 
and 171.073 of this chapter; and
    (3) The damage stability requirements in Sec. 171.080 of this 
chapter.
    (c) The cockpit deck of a cockpit vessel that does not operate on 
exposed or partially protected waters must be located as high above the 
deepest load waterline as practicable.
    (d) The cockpit must be self-bailing. Scuppers for the cockpit deck 
of a cockpit vessel must:
    (1) Be located to allow rapid clearing of water in all probable 
conditions of list and trim;
    (2) Have a combined drainage area of at least the area required by 
Sec. 178.450; and
    (3) If the deck is less than 10 inches above the deepest load 
waterline of the vessel, be fitted with non-return valves.


Sec. 178.430  Drainage of well deck vessels.

    (a) The weather deck on a well deck vessel must be watertight.
    (b) The area required on a well deck vessel for drainage of the 
well formed by the bulwarks must be determined as required by this 
paragraph.
    (1) If a vessel operates on exposed or partially protected waters, 
it must have at least 100 percent of the drainage area required by 
Sec. 178.450.
    (2) If a vessel operates only on protected or partially protected 
waters, it must have at least 50 percent of drainage area required by 
Sec. 178.450 if the vessel meets the following requirements for a 
vessel that operates on exposed waters:
    (i) The intact stability requirements of Secs. 170.170, 170.173, 
171.050, 171.055 and 171.057 of this chapter;
    (ii) The Type II subdivision requirements of Secs. 171.070, 
171.072, and 171.073 of this chapter; and
    (iii) The damage stability requirements of Sec. 171.080 of this 
chapter.
    (c) The freeing ports or scuppers on a well deck vessel must be 
located to allow rapid clearing of water in all probable conditions of 
list and trim.
    (d) The deck of a well deck vessel that operates on exposed or 
partially protected waters must be at least 10 inches above the deepest 
load waterline unless the vessel complies with:
    (1) The intact stability requirements of Secs. 170.170, 170.173, 
171.050, 171.055, and 171.057 of this chapter;
    (2) The Type II subdivision requirements in Secs. 171.070, 171.072, 
and 171.073 of this chapter; and
    (3) The damage stability requirements in Sec. 171.080 of this 
chapter.


Sec. 178.440  Drainage of open boats.

    The deck within the hull of an open boat must drain to the bilge. 
Overboard drainage of the deck is not permitted.


Sec. 178.450  Calculation of drainage area for cockpit and well deck 
vessels.

    The drainage area required on a vessel must be computed using the 
following formula:

Required drainage area in inch2=Volume Factor x Effective Deck 
Area where:
Volume Factor=0.1 for all vessels operating on protected waters, or
    =0.8b2/(b+f-K), but not less than 0.1, for all vessels 
operating on exposed and partially protected waters, where:
    b=average height in feet of the bulwark above the deck;
    f=height of the freeboard above the deepest waterline in feet as 
determined in accordance with Sec. 178.330(h); and K=3.0 feet for 
vessels operating on exposed waters and 2.0 feet for vessels 
operating on partially protected waters; and
Effective Deck Area=D-H
Where:
    D=total deck area of the cockpit or well deck measured in 
feet2, including the deck area of the superstructure; and
    H=any area of weathertight superstructure within the cockpit or 
well deck area which meets the requirements of Sec. 179.360 of this 
subchapter, measured in feet2 which extends vertically at least 
as high as the deck in which the cockpit is located or the top of 
the bulwark which forms the well.

Subpart E--Special Installations


Sec. 178.510  Ballast.

    (a) Any solid fixed ballast used to comply with the requirements of 
parts 170, 171, 178, and 179 of this chapter must be:
    (1) Stowed in a manner that prevents shifting of the ballast; and
    (2) Installed to the satisfaction of the cognizant OCMI.
    (b) Solid fixed ballast may not be located forward of the collision 
bulkhead unless the installation and arrangement of the ballast and the 
collision bulkhead minimizes the risk of the ballast penetrating the 
bulkhead in a collision.
    (c) Solid fixed ballast may not be removed from a vessel or 
relocated unless approved by the cognizant OCMI except that ballast may 
be temporarily moved for a vessel examination or repair if it is 
replaced to the satisfaction of the OCMI.
    (d) Water ballast, either as an active system or permanent, must be 
approved by the Commanding Officer, Marine Safety Center.

PART 179--SUBDIVISION, DAMAGE STABILITY AND WATERTIGHT INTEGRITY 
REQUIREMENT

Subpart A--General Provision

Sec.
179.115  Applicability to existing vessels.

Subpart B--Subdivision and Damage Stability Requirements

179.210  Collision bulkhead.
179.212  Watertight bulkheads for subdivision.
179.220  Location of watertight bulkheads for subdivision.
179.230  Damage stability requirements.
179.240  Foam flotation material.

Subpart C--Watertight Integrity Requirements

179.310  Collision bulkheads.
179.320  Watertight bulkheads.
179.330  Watertight doors.
179.340  Trunks.
179.350  Openings in the side of a vessel below the bulkhead or 
weather deck.
179.360  Watertight integrity.

    Authority: 43 U.S.C. 1333; 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 3703; E.O. 
12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p.277; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--General Provisions


Sec. 179.115  Applicability to existing vessels.

    An existing vessel must comply with the subdivision, damage 
stability, and watertight integrity regulations which were applicable 
to the vessel on [date of the day before the effective date of the 
final rule] or, as an alternative, the vessel may comply with the 
regulations in this part.

Subpart B--Subdivision and Damage Stability Requirements


Sec. 179.210  Collision bulkhead.

    (a) A vessel of more than 65 feet in length must have a collision 
bulkhead.
    (b) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length must have a 
collision bulkhead if it:
    (1) Carries more than 49 passengers;
    (2) Operates on exposed waters; or
    (3) Is of more than 40 feet in length and operates on partially 
protected waters.
    (c) A double-ended ferry required to have a collision bulkhead must 
have a collision bulkhead at each end of the vessel.


Sec. 179.212  Watertight bulkheads for subdivision.

    (a) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length, carrying more than 
49 passengers, must comply with Sec. 179.220, except that, if designed 
to comply with the intact stability requirements of Secs. 170.170, 
170.173, 171.050 and 171.055 of this chapter, the vessel must comply 
with the Type II subdivision requirements of Secs. 171.070 through 
171.073 of this chapter.
    (b) A vessel of more than 65 feet in length must comply with the 
Type II subdivision requirements of Secs. 171.070 through 171.073 of 
this chapter.
    (c) A vessel that carries more than 12 passengers on an 
international voyage must meet the Type II subdivision requirements of 
Secs. 171.070 through 171.073 of this chapter.


Sec. 179.220  Location of watertight bulkheads for subdivision.

    (a) The maximum distance between adjacent main transverse 
watertight bulkheads on a vessel, required by Sec. 179.212(a) to comply 
with this section, must not be more than the smaller of the following:
    (1) One third of the length of the bulkhead deck; or
    (2) The distance given by the following equation:


l=((F)(f)(L))/D
Where:

l=the maximum length of the bulkhead deck in feet between adjacent 
main transverse watertight bulkheads;
f=the effective freeboard in feet calculated for each pair of 
adjacent bulkheads in accordance with paragraph (b) of this section;
L=vessel length in feet;
F=the floodable length factor from Table 179.220.
D=the depth in feet, measured amidships at a point one-quarter of 
the maximum beam out from the centerline, from the inside of the 
bottom planking or plating to the level of the top of the bulkhead 
deck at side as shown in Figure 179.220(a).

            Table 179.220--Table of Floodable Length Factors            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          (d/L) x 100                               F   
------------------------------------------------------------------------
0-15..........................................................      0.33
20............................................................      0.34
25............................................................      0.36
30............................................................      0.38
35............................................................      0.43
40............................................................      0.48
45............................................................      0.54
50............................................................      0.61
55............................................................      0.63
60............................................................      0.58
65............................................................      0.53
70............................................................      0.48
75............................................................      0.44
80............................................................      0.40
85............................................................      0.37
90-100........................................................      0.34
------------------------------------------------------------------------


    (1) Where:

d=distance in feet from the midpoint of the compartment to the 
forwardmost point on the bulkhead deck excluding sheer.
L=vessel length in feet measured over the bulkhead deck.
    (2) Intermediate values of floodable length factor may be 
obtained by interpolation.
BILLING CODE 4910-14-P

TP13JA94.006


BILLING CODE 4910-14-C
    (b) The effective freeboard for each compartment is calculated by 
the following equation: f=(a+b)/2
Where:

f=the effective freeboard in feet.
a=the freeboard in feet measured:

    (1) At the forward main transverse watertight bulkhead; and
    (2) From the deepest waterline to:
    (i) The top of the bulkhead deck on a flush deck vessel; or
    (ii) If a vessel has a stepped bulkhead deck, the line shown in 
Figure 179.220(b); or
    (iii) If a vessel has an opening port light below the bulkhead 
deck, the line shown in Figure 179.220(c).

b=the freeboard in feet measured:

    (1) At the aft main transverse watertight bulkhead; and
    (2) From the deepest waterline to:
    (i) The top of the bulkhead deck on a flush deck vessel; or
    (ii) If a vessel has a stepped bulkhead deck, the line shown in 
Figure 179.220(b)(1); or
    (iii) If a vessel has an opening port light below the bulkhead 
deck, the line shown in Figure 179.220(b)(2).

BILLING CODE 4910-14-P

Figure 179.220(b)(1)

TP13JA94.007

Figure 179.220 (b)(2)

TP13JA94.008


BILLING CODE 4910-14-C


Sec. 179.230  Damage stability requirements.

    A vessel which, in accordance with Sec. 179.212(b), must meet the 
requirements of Secs. 171.070 through 171.073 of this chapter for Type 
II subdivision must meet the damage stability requirements of 
Sec. 171.080 of this chapter.


Sec. 179.240  Foam flotation material.

    (a) Foam may only be installed as flotation material on a vessel of 
not more than 65 feet in length, when approved by the cognizant OCMI.
    (b) If foam is installed as flotation material on a vessel, the 
owner shall ensure that the following tests are conducted and 
requirements are met, to the satisfaction of the cognizant OCMI:
    (1) All foam must comply with MIL-P-21929B, including the 
requirements for fire resistance;
    (2) Foam may be installed only in void spaces that are free of 
ignition sources, unless the foam complies with the requirements of 33 
CFR 183.114;
    (3) Foam may be installed adjacent to fuel tanks only if the 
boundary between the tank and the space has doubled continuous fillet 
welds;
    (4) The structure enclosing the foam must be strong enough to 
accommodate the buoyancy of the foam;
    (5) Piping and cables must not pass through foamed spaces unless 
they are within piping and cable ways accessible from both ends;
    (6) Blocked foam must:
    (i) Be used in each area that may be exposed to water; and
    (ii) Have a protective cover, approved by the cognizant OCMI, to 
protect it from damage;
    (7) A water submergence test must be conducted on the foam for a 
period of at least 7 days to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the 
cognizant OCMI that the foam has adequate strength to withstand a 
hydrostatic head equivalent to that which would be imposed if the 
vessel were submerged to its bulkhead deck;
    (8) The effective buoyancy of the foam must be determined at the 
end of the submergence test required by paragraph (b)(7) of this 
section. The effective buoyancy or 55 pounds per cubic foot, whichever 
is less, must be used in determining the location of watertight 
bulkheads for subdivision required by Sec. 179.212; and
    (9) The owner or operator must obtain sample foam specimens during 
installation of the foam and determine the density of the installed 
foam.

Subpart C--Watertight Integrity Requirements


Sec. 179.310  Collision bulkheads.

    (a) Each collision bulkhead required by Sec. 179.210, must be 
constructed in accordance with Sec. 179.320, except that a collision 
bulkhead:
    (1) Must extend to the weather deck or to one deck above the 
bulkhead deck, whichever is lower, for service on oceans or coastwise 
routes, and
    (2) Must not be fitted with any type of penetration or opening 
except penetrations may be made if they are located as high and as far 
inboard as practicable and they have a means to make them watertight.
    (b) The forward collision bulkhead required to be on a vessel by 
Sec. 179.210 must be:
    (1) Located at least 5 percent but not more than 15 percent of the 
LBP aft of the forward perpendicular, or for vessels with bulbous bows 
extending forward of the forward perpendicular and contributing more 
than 2 percent of the underwater volume of the vessel, located at least 
5 percent but not more than 15 percent of the LBP aft of the mid-length 
of such extension; and
    (2) Installed in a single plane, with no recess or step, up to the 
bulkhead deck;
    (c) The after collision bulkhead on a double-ended ferry of more 
than 65 feet in length must be:
    (1) At least 5 percent but not more than 15 percent of the LBP 
forward of the after perpendicular; and
    (2) Installed in a single plane, with no recess or step, at least 
up to the bulkhead deck.


Sec. 179.320  Watertight bulkheads.

    (a) Each watertight bulkhead must be of sufficient strength to be 
capable of remaining watertight with a head of water to the top of the 
bulkhead.
    (b) Each watertight bulkhead must extend to the bulkhead deck and 
be installed in one plane without steps or recesses insofar as is 
reasonable and practicable. Any steps or recesses permitted must comply 
with the applicable subdivision requirements in this subchapter.
    (c) The number of penetrations in a watertight bulkhead must be 
minimized. A penetration in a watertight bulkhead must be as high and 
as far inboard in the bulkhead as practicable, and made watertight.
    (d) Sluice valves are not permitted in watertight bulkheads.


Sec. 179.330  Watertight doors.

    (a) Except as permitted in paragraph (b) of this section, hinged 
watertight doors are not permitted in bulkheads required by 
Secs. 179.210 or 179.212 unless the vessel will not proceed more than 
20 nautical miles (37 kilometers) from shore and:
    (1) The door separates a machinery space from an accommodation 
space and, in the judgment of the cognizant OCMI, the door will be kept 
closed except when a person is passing through the door; or
    (2) The Commandant determines that, due to the arrangements of the 
vessel, the door will be kept closed except when a person is passing 
through the door.
    (b) Watertight doors are permitted in any bulkhead, except the 
collision bulkhead, on a vessel that operates only in the offshore oil 
industry.
    (c) A hinged watertight bulkhead door must be fitted with a quick 
action closing device operable from both sides of the door and 
indicator lights at the operating station showing whether the door is 
open or closed.
    (d) Sliding watertight doors must meet the requirements of part 
170, subpart H of this chapter.
    (e) No more than one watertight door may be fitted in a watertight 
bulkhead, and it must be located as high and as far inboard as 
practicable.


Sec. 179.340  Trunks.

    Where a trunk, i.e., an enclosed passageway through a deck or 
bulkhead, is installed, it must comply with the requirements of 
Sec. 179.360(a)(1) and with the requirements of Sec. 171.113 of this 
chapter.


Sec. 179.350  Openings in the side of a vessel below the bulkhead or 
weather deck.

    (a) On a vessel operating on exposed or partially protected waters, 
an opening port light is not permitted below the weather deck unless 
the sill of the port light is at least 30 inches above the deepest load 
waterline.
    (b) A port light must have an inside, hinged dead cover regardless 
of whether the port light is or is not capable of being opened.
    (c) Except for engine exhausts, each inlet or discharge pipe that 
penetrates the hull below a line drawn parallel to and at least 6 
inches above the deepest load waterline must have means to prevent 
water from entering the vessel if the pipe fractures or otherwise 
fails.
    (d) A positive action valve or cock that is located as close as 
possible to the hull is an acceptable means for complying with 
paragraph (c) of this section.
    (e) If an inlet or discharge pipe is inaccessible, the means for 
complying with paragraph (c) of this section must be a shutoff valve 
that is:
    (1) Operable from the weather deck or any other accessible location 
above the bulkhead deck; and
    (2) Labeled at the operating point for identity and direction of 
closing.
    (f) Any connecting device or valve in a hull penetration must not 
be cast iron.
    (g) Each plug cock in an inlet or discharge pipe must have a means, 
other than a cotter pin, to prevent its loosening or removal from the 
body.


Sec. 179.360  Watertight integrity.

    (a) A hatch exposed to the weather must be watertight, except that 
the following hatches may be weathertight:
    (1) A hatch on a watertight trunk that extends at least 12 inches 
above the weather deck;
    (2) A hatch in a cabin top; and
    (3) A hatch on a vessel that operates only on protected waters.
    (b) A hatch cover must: (1) Have securing devices; and
    (2) Be attached to the hatch frame or coaming by hinges, captive 
chains, or other devices of substantial strength to prevent its loss.
    (c) A hatch cover that provides access to accommodation spaces must 
be operable from either side.
    (d) A weathertight door must be provided for each opening located 
in a deck house or companionway. Permanent watertight coamings must be 
provided as follows:
    (1) On a vessel on an exposed or partially protected route, a 
watertight coaming with a height of at least 6 inches must be provided 
under each weathertight door in a cockpit or a well, or on the main 
deck of a flush deck vessel.
    (2) On a vessel on a protected route, a watertight coaming with a 
height of at least 3 inches must be provided under each weathertight 
door in a cockpit or a well.
    (3) The height of the watertight coaming for a hinged watertight 
door need only be sufficient to accommodate the door.

PART 180--LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT AND ARRANGEMENTS

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec.
180.10  Applicability to vessels on an international voyage.
180.15  Applicability to existing vessels.
180.25  Additional requirements.

Subpart B--Emergency Communications

180.64  Emergency Position Indicating Radiobeacons (EPIRB).
180.68  Distress flares and smoke signals.

Subpart C--Life Buoys and Lifejackets

180.70  Ring life buoys.
180.71  Lifejackets.
180.72  Personal flotation devices carried in addition to 
lifejackets.
180.75  Lifejackets lights.
180.78  Stowage of lifejackets.

Subpart D--Survival Craft Arrangements and Equipment

180.130  Stowage of survival craft.
180.137  Stowage of life floats and buoyant apparatus.
180.150  Survival craft embarkation arrangements.
180.175  Survival craft equipment.

Subpart E--Number and Type of Survival Craft

180.200  Survival craft--general.
180.202  Survival craft--vessels operating on oceans routes.
180.204  Survival craft--vessels operating on coastwise routes.
180.206  Survival craft--vessels operating on Great Lakes routes.
180.207  Survival craft--vessels operating on lakes, bays, and 
sounds routes.
180.208  Survival craft--vessels operating on rivers routes.
180.210  Rescue boats.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2104, 3306; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 
1980 Comp., p.277; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--General Provisions


Sec. 180.10  Applicability to vessels on an international voyage.

    A vessel on an international voyage must meet the requirements in 
subchapter H of this chapter for passenger vessels in the same service, 
instead of the requirements of this part.


Sec. 180.15  Applicability to existing vessels.

    An existing vessel must comply with the requirements of this part 
except as otherwise specified by this section.
    (a) Before [date 5 years after effective date] or 10 years after 
the vessel's keel was laid or the vessel was at a similar stage of 
construction, whichever is later, an existing vessel may comply with 
the requirements in effect for the vessel prior to [effective date] for 
the number and type of survival craft, stowage arrangements, and 
launching appliances for survival craft.
    (b) On or before [date 5 years after effective date] or 10 years 
after the vessel's keel was laid or the vessel was at a similar stage 
of construction, whichever is later, an existing vessel must:
    (1) Be equipped with the number of survival craft required for its 
route under Secs. 180.202, 180.204, 180.206, 180.207, or 180.208, as 
applicable; and
    (2) Comply with the stowage and launching appliance requirements 
for survival craft in Secs. 180.130 through 180.150, inclusive.
    (c) An existing vessel which meets the following requirements may 
be equipped with life floats of an aggregate capacity which will 
accommodate the total number of persons permitted on board, in lieu of 
meeting the requirements for the use of inflatable buoyant apparatus in 
Secs. 180.202(c), 180.204(a)(1), and 180.206(a).
    (1) The vessel is constructed of a material other than wood;
    (2) The vessel is of not more than 65 feet in length and carries 
not more than 49 passengers;
    (3) The vessel is certificated to operate on oceans, coastwise, or 
Great Lakes routes;
    (4) The vessel must meet the standards for collision bulkheads in 
Sec. 179.310 of this subchapter; and
    (5) The vessel must meet the standards for one-compartment 
subdivision in Secs. 179.220 and 179.320 of this subchapter, at least 
in way of the engine room and lazarette.
    (d) Each inflatable liferaft, inflatable buoyant apparatus, life 
float, and buoyant apparatus on the vessel on [effective date], may be 
used to meet the requirements of this part for these survival craft as 
long as the survival craft is continued in use on the vessel, and is in 
good and serviceable condition.
    (e) When any lifesaving equipment on a vessel is replaced or a 
vessel undergoes repairs, alterations, or modifications of a major 
character involving replacement of, or any addition to, the existing 
lifesaving equipment, each new piece of lifesaving equipment must meet 
this part.
    (f) A combination flare and smoke distress signal approved under 
Sec. 160.023 of this chapter may be used on an existing vessel until 
the expiration date of the distress signal but no later than [3 years 
after effective date] as one of the distress signals required by 
Sec. 180.68.
    (g) Until January 1, 1996, a Coast Guard approved 121.5/243 MHz 
Class A EPIRB may be used to meet the requirement for an EPIRB under 
Sec. 180.64, if the EPIRB:
    (1) Is operable;
    (2) Is installed to automatically float-free and activate;
    (3) Was manufactured on or after October 1, 1988; and
    (4) Was installed on the vessel on or before [date 45 days after 
effective date]
    (h) Until January 1, 1995, an FCC Type Accepted VHF-FM Class C 
EPIRB may be used to meet the requirement for an EPIRB on a vessel 
operating on a Great Lakes route under Sec. 180.64, if the EPIRB:
    (1) Is operable; and
    (2) Was installed on the vessel on or before [date 45 days after 
effective date].
    (i) Until January 1, 1994, an existing vessel on a coastwise route 
operating not more than 20 nautical miles from a harbor of safe refuge, 
need not comply with Sec. 180.64.
    (j) An existing vessel need not comply with Sec. 180.78(a)(4).
    (k) An existing vessel must comply with Sec. 180.210 or may comply 
with the regulations for rescue boats that were in effect for the 
vessel prior to [effective date of regulations].


Sec. 180.25  Additional requirements.

    (a) Each item of lifesaving equipment carried on board a vessel but 
not required under this part, must be approved by the Commandant.
    (b) The cognizant OCMI may require a vessel to carry specialized or 
additional lifesaving equipment if:
    (1) The OCMI determines the conditions of the voyage render the 
requirements of this part inadequate; or
    (2) The vessel is operated in Arctic, Antarctic, or other severe 
conditions not covered under this part.

Subpart B--Emergency Communications


Sec. 180.64  Emergency Position Indicating Radiobeacons (EPIRB).

    Each vessel which operates on the high seas, or which operates 
beyond three miles from the coastline of the Great Lakes, must have on 
board a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Type Accepted Category 
1, 406 MHz Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB), 
installed to automatically float free and activate.


Sec. 180.68  Distress flares and smoke signals.

    (a) Oceans, coastwise, and Great Lakes routes. A vessel on an 
oceans, coastwise, or Great Lakes route must carry:
    (1) Six hand red flare distress signals approved under subpart 
160.021 of this chapter; and
    (2) Six hand orange smoke distress signals approved under subpart 
160.037 of this chapter.
    (b) Lakes, bays, and sounds, and rivers routes. A vessel on a 
lakes, bays, and sounds, or rivers route must carry:
    (1) Three hand red flare distress signals approved under subpart 
160.021 of this chapter; and
    (2) Three hand orange smoke distress signals approved under subpart 
160.037 of this chapter.
    (c) Substitutions: (1) A rocket parachute flare approved under 
subpart 160.036 of this chapter may be substituted for any of the hand 
red flare distress signals required under paragraph (a) or (b) of this 
section.
    (2) One of the following may be substituted for any of the hand 
orange smoke distress signals required under paragraph (a) or (b) of 
this section:
    (i) A rocket parachute flare approved under subpart 160.036 of this 
chapter.
    (ii) A hand red flare distress signal approved under subpart 
160.021 of this chapter.
    (iii) A floating orange smoke distress signal approved under 
subpart 160.022 of this chapter.
    (d) Exemption for vessels on short runs. A vessel operating on 
short runs limited to approximately 30 minutes away from the dock is 
not required to carry distress flares and smoke signals under this 
section.
    (e) Stowage. Each flare carried to meet this section must be stowed 
in one of the following:
    (1) A portable watertight container complying with Sec. 160.021-6 
of this chapter, carried at the operating station; or
    (2) A pyrotechnic locker secured above the freeboard deck, away 
from heat, in the vicinity of the operating station. An acceptable 
pyrotechnic locker is described in ASTM F--[reserved for name of 
standard under development by ASTM].

Subpart C--Life Buoys and Lifejackets


Sec. 180.70  Ring life buoys.

    (a) A vessel must have one or more ring life buoys as follows:
    (1) A vessel of not more than 26 feet in length must carry a 
minimum of one life buoy of not less than 20 inches in diameter;
    (2) A vessel of more than 26 feet in length, but not more than 65 
feet, must carry a minimum of one life buoy of not less than 24 inches 
in diameter; and
    (3) A vessel of more than 65 feet in length must carry a minimum of 
three life buoys of not less than 24 inches in diameter.
    (b) Each ring life buoy on a vessel must:
    (1) Be approved under subpart 160.050 of this chapter;
    (2) Be readily accessible;
    (3) Be stowed in a way that it can be rapidly cast loose;
    (4) Not be permanently secured in any way; and
    (5) If on a vessel on an oceans or coastwise route, be orange in 
color.
    (c) At least one ring life buoy must be fitted with a lifeline. If 
more than one ring life buoy is carried, at least one must not have a 
lifeline attached. Each lifeline on a ring life buoy must:
    (1) Be buoyant;
    (2) Be of at least 60 feet in length;
    (3) Be non-kinking;
    (4) Have a diameter of at least \5/16\ of an inch;
    (5) Have a breaking strength of at least 1,124 pounds; and
    (6) Be of a dark color if synthetic, or of a type certified to be 
resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light.
    (d) A vessel must carry one floating waterlight, unless it is 
limited to daytime operation, in which case no floating waterlight is 
required.
    (1) Each floating waterlight must be approved under subpart 161.010 
of this chapter.
    (2) Each ring life buoy with a floating waterlight must have a 
lanyard of at least 3 feet in length, but not more than 6 feet, 
securing the waterlight around the body of the ring life buoy.
    (3) Each floating waterlight installed after [date one year after 
effective date] on a vessel carrying only one ring life buoy, must be 
attached to the lanyard with a corrosion-resistant clip. The clip must 
have a strength of at least 50 pounds, and allow the waterlight to be 
quickly disconnected from the ring life buoy.


Sec. 180.71  Lifejackets.

    (a) An adult lifejacket must be provided for each person permitted 
on board a vessel.
    (b) In addition, a number of child size lifejackets equal to at 
least 10% of the number of the persons permitted on board must be 
provided, or such greater number as necessary to provide a lifejacket 
for each person being carried that is smaller than the lower size limit 
of the adult lifejackets provided to meet this section. However, child 
size lifejackets are not required if the vessel's Certificate of 
Inspection is endorsed for the carriage of adults only.
    (c) Each lifejacket must be approved under either subpart 160.002, 
subpart 160.005, or subpart 160.055 of this chapter.


Sec. 180.72  Personal flotation devices carried in addition to 
lifejackets.

    (a) Equipment carried under this section is not acceptable in lieu 
of any portion of the required number of approved lifejackets and must 
not be substituted for the approved lifejackets required to be worn 
during drills and emergencies.
    (b) Wearable marine buoyant devices which include ``ski vests'', 
``boating vests'', and ``fishing vests'', approved under subpart 
160.064 of this chapter, may be carried as additional equipment.
    (c) Buoyant work vests approved under subpart 160.053 of this 
chapter may be carried as additional equipment for use of persons 
working near or over the water.
    (d) Commercial hybrid personal flotation devices (PFD) approved 
under subpart 160.077 of this chapter may be carried as additional 
equipment for use of persons working near or over the water. Each 
commercial hybrid PFD must be:
    (1) Used, stowed, and maintained in accordance with the procedures 
set out in the manual required for these devices under Sec. 160.077-29 
of this chapter and any limitation(s) marked on them; and
    (2) Of the same or similar design and have the same method of 
operation as each other hybrid PFD carried on board.


Sec. 180.75  Lifejacket lights.

    (a) Each lifejacket carried on a vessel on an oceans, coastwise, or 
Great Lakes route, must have a lifejacket light approved under subpart 
161.012 of this chapter. Each lifejacket light must be securely 
attached to the front shoulder area of the lifejacket.
    (b) Notwithstanding the requirements of paragraph (a) of this 
section, lifejacket lights are not required for lifejackets on:
    (1) Ferries; and
    (2) Vessels with Certificates of Inspection endorsed only for 
routes that do not extend more than 20 miles from a harbor of safe 
refuge.


Sec. 180.78  Stowage of lifejackets.

    (a) General. Unless otherwise stated in this section, lifejackets 
must be stored in convenient places distributed throughout 
accommodation spaces.
    (1) Each stowage container for lifejackets must not be capable of 
being locked. If practicable, the container must be designed to allow 
the lifejackets to float free.
    (2) Each lifejacket kept in a stowage container must be readily 
available.
    (3) Each lifejacket stowed overhead must be supported in a manner 
which allows quick release for distribution.
    (4) If lifejackets are stowed more than 7 feet above the deck, a 
means for quick release must be provided and must be capable of 
operation by a person standing on the deck.
    (5) Each child size lifejacket must be stowed in a location which 
is appropriately marked and separated from adult lifejackets so the 
child size lifejackets are not mistaken for adult lifejackets.
    (b) Additional personal flotation devices. The stowage locations of 
the personal flotation devices carried in addition to lifejackets under 
Sec. 180.72, must be separate from the lifejackets, and such as not to 
be easily confused with that of the lifejackets.

Subpart D--Survival Craft Arrangements and Equipment


Sec. 180.130  Stowage of survival craft.

    (a) Each survival craft must be:
    (1) Secured to the vessel by a painter with a float-free link 
permanently attached to the vessel except that a float-free link is not 
required if the vessel operates only on waters not as deep as the 
length of the painter;
    (2) Stowed so that when the vessel sinks the survival craft floats 
free and, if inflatable, inflates automatically;
    (3) Stowed in a position which is readily accessible to crew 
members for launching, or else provided with a remotely operated device 
which releases the survival craft into launching position or into the 
water;
    (4) Stowed in a way that permits manual release from its securing 
arrangements;
    (5) Ready for immediate use so that two crew members can carry out 
preparations for embarkation and launching in less than 5 minutes;
    (6) Provided with means to prevent shifting;
    (7) Stowed in a way that neither the survival craft nor its stowage 
arrangements will interfere with the embarkation and operation of any 
other survival craft at any other launching station;
    (8) Stowed in a way that any protective covers will not interfere 
with launching and embarkation.
    (9) Fully equipped as required under this part; and
    (10) Stowed, as far as practicable, in a position sheltered from 
breaking seas and protected from damage by fire and explosion.
    (b) A hydrostatic release unit used in a float-free arrangement 
must be approved under subpart 160.062 of this chapter.
    (c) A mechanical, manually operated device to assist in launching a 
survival craft must be provided if:
    (1) The survival craft weighs more than 200 pounds; and
    (2) The survival craft requires lifting to be launched.


Sec. 180.137  Stowage of life floats and buoyant apparatus.

    (a) In addition to meeting Sec. 180.130, each life float and 
buoyant apparatus must be stowed as required under this section.
    (b) The float-free link required by Sec. 180.130(a)(1) must be:
    (1) Certified to meet subpart 160.073 of this chapter;
    (2) Of proper strength for the size of the life float or buoyant 
apparatus as indicated on its identification tag; and
    (3) Secured to the painter at one end and to the vessel on the 
other end.
    (c) The means used to attach the float-free link to the vessel 
must:
    (1) Have a breaking strength of at least the breaking strength of 
the painter;
    (2) If synthetic, be of a dark color or of a type certified to be 
resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light; and
    (3) If metal, be corrosion resistant.
    (d) If the life float or buoyant apparatus does not have a painter 
attachment fitting, a means for attaching the painter must be provided 
by a wire or line which:
    (1) Encircles the body of the device;
    (2) Will not slip off;
    (3) Has a breaking strength which is at least the strength of the 
painter; and
    (4) If synthetic, is of a dark color or is of a type certified to 
be resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light.
    (e) If the vessel carries more than one life float or buoyant 
apparatus in a group with each group secured by a single painter:
    (1) The combined weight of each group of life floats and buoyant 
apparatus must not exceed 400 pounds;
    (2) Each group of life floats and buoyant apparatus is considered a 
single survival craft for the purposes of Sec. 180.130(c);
    (3) Each life float and buoyant apparatus must be individually 
attached to the painter by a line meeting Secs. 180.175(e)(3)(ii), 
(iii), and (iv) and long enough that each life float or buoyant 
apparatus can float without contacting any other life float or buoyant 
apparatus in the group; and
    (4) The strength of the float-free link under paragraph (b)(2) of 
this section and the strength of the painter under 
Sec. 180.175(e)(3)(ii) must be determined by the combined capacity of 
the group of life floats and buoyant apparatus.
    (f) Life floats and buoyant apparatus must not be stowed in tiers 
more than four feet high. When stowed in tiers, the separate units must 
be kept apart by spacers.


Sec. 180.150  Survival craft embarkation arrangements.

    (a) A launching appliance which complies with the installation and 
arrangement requirements for launching appliances in subchapter H of 
this chapter must be provided for each inflatable liferaft and 
inflatable buoyant apparatus when either:
    (1) The embarkation station for the survival craft is on a deck 
more than 15 feet above the waterline; or
    (2) The inflatable liferaft and inflatable buoyant apparatus is 
boarded prior to being placed in the water.
    (b) An embarkation ladder, approved under subpart 160.017 of this 
chapter, must be at each embarkation station if the distance from the 
deck on which an embarkation station is located to the vessel's 
lightest operating waterline is more than 10 feet.


Sec. 180.175  Survival craft equipment.

    (a) General. Each item of survival craft equipment must be of good 
quality, and efficient for the purpose it is intended to serve. Unless 
otherwise stated in this section, each item of equipment carried, 
whether required under this section or not, must be secured by 
lashings, stored in lockers, compartments, brackets, or have equivalent 
mounting or storage arrangements which do not:
    (1) Reduce survival craft capacity;
    (2) Reduce space available to the occupants;
    (3) Interfere with launching, recovery, or rescue operations; or
    (4) Adversely affect seaworthiness of the survival craft.
    (b) Inflatable liferafts. Each inflatable liferaft must have one of 
the following equipment packs as shown by the markings on its 
container:
    (1) Limited Service;
    (2) SOLAS B Pack;
    (3) SOLAS A Pack; or
    (4) Ocean Service.
    (c) Life floats. Each life float must be fitted with a lifeline, 
pendants, two paddles, a painter, and a light.
    (d) Buoyant apparatus. Each buoyant apparatus must be fitted with a 
lifeline, pendants, a painter, and a light.
    (e) Equipment specifications for life floats and buoyant apparatus. 
The equipment required for lifefloats and buoyant apparatus must meet 
the following specifications:
    (1) Lifeline and pendants. The lifeline and pendants must be as 
furnished by the manufacturer with the approved life float or buoyant 
apparatus. Replacement lifelines and pendants must meet the 
requirements in subpart 160.010 of this chapter.
    (2) Paddle. Each paddle must be of at least 4 feet in length and 
buoyant.
    (3) Painter. The painter must:
    (i) Be of at least 100 feet in length, but not less than 3 times 
the distance between the deck where the life float or buoyant apparatus 
it serves is stowed and the lowest load waterline of the vessel;
    (ii) Have a breaking strength of at least 1500 pounds, except that 
if the capacity of the life float or buoyant apparatus is 50 persons or 
more, the breaking strength must be at least 3000 pounds;
    (iii) Be of a dark color if synthetic, or of a type certified to be 
resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light; and
    (iv) Be stowed in such a way that it runs out freely when the life 
float or buoyant apparatus floats away from a sinking vessel.
    (4) Light. The light must be a floating waterlight approved under 
subpart 161.010 of this chapter. The floating waterlight must be 
attached around the body of the life float or buoyant apparatus by a 
12-thread manila, or equivalent, lanyard of at least 18 feet in length.
    (f) Other survival craft. If survival craft other than inflatable 
liferafts, life floats, inflatable buoyant apparatus, and buoyant 
apparatus are carried on the vessel, such as lifeboats or rigid 
liferafts, they must be installed, arranged, and equipped as required 
under subchapter H (Passenger Vessels) of this chapter for passenger 
vessels on the same route.

Subpart E--Number and Type of Survival Craft


Sec. 180.200  Survival craft--general.

    (a) Each survival craft required on a vessel by this part must meet 
one of the following:
    (1) For an inflatable liferaft--subpart 160.051 of this chapter, 
with the applicable equipment pack, as determined by the cognizant 
OCMI. Each inflatable liferaft required on a vessel by this part must 
have a capacity of 6 persons or more. Inflatable liferafts may be 
substituted for inflatable buoyant apparatus or life floats required 
under this section;
    (2) For a life float--subpart 160.027 of this chapter. Buoyant 
apparatus may be used to meet requirements for life floats if the 
buoyant apparatus was installed on board the vessel on or before 
[effective date of final rule], and if the buoyant apparatus remains in 
good and serviceable condition;
    (3) For an inflatable buoyant apparatus--subpart 160.010 of this 
chapter. Inflatable buoyant apparatus may be substituted for life 
floats required under this section.
    (b) If the vessel carries a small boat or boats, the capacity of 
these boats may be counted toward the buoyant apparatus or life float 
capacity required by this part. Such boats must meet the requirements 
for safe loading and flotation in 33 CFR part 183, and must meet the 
stowage, launching, and equipment requirements in this part for the 
survival craft they replace.
    (c) A summary of survival craft requirements is provided in Table 
180.200(c). The citations identify the sections of this part which 
contain the specific requirements.

                            TABLE 180.200(C)                            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Route                     Survival craft requirements         
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oceans, more than 50       100% ILR--Sec. 180.202(a)                    
 miles offshore.                                                        
Oceans, 20-50 miles        (a) wood--100% IBA--Sec. 180.202(b)          
 offshore.                 (b) nonwood--same as Coastwise (a) & (b)--   
                            Sec. 180.202(c)                             
Coastwise................  (a) cold water\1\                            
                           (i) w/subdivision--100% LF\2\--Sec.          
                            180.204(a)(2)                               
                           (ii) existing nonwood vessels,    
                            65',  49 passengers, w/collision 
                            bkhd and simplified subdivision in way of   
                            Eng. Rm. & lazarette--100% LF\2\--Sec.      
                            180.15(c)                                   
                           (iii) w/o subdivision--100% IBA--Sec.        
                            180.204(a)(1)                               
                           (iv) within one mile of shore                
                           (A) w/subdivision--50% LF\2\--Sec.           
                            180.204(c)(2)                               
                           (B) w/o subdivision--100% LF\2\--Sec.        
                            180.204(c)(1)                               
                           (b) warm water\3\                            
                           (i) 100% LF\2\--Sec. 180.204(b)              
                           (ii) within one mile of shore--NONE--Sec.    
                            180.204(d)                                  
Great Lakes..............  (a) same as Coastwise (a) & (b)--Sec.        
                            180.206(a)                                  
                           (b) within one mile of shore--NONE--Sec.     
                            180.206(b)                                  
Lakes, Bays, & Sounds....  (a) cold water\4\                            
                           (i) w/subdivision--50% LF\2\--Sec.           
                            180.207(a)(2)                               
                           (ii) w/o subdivision--100% LF\2\--Sec.       
                            180.207(a)(1)                               
                           (iii) within 1 mile of shore--NONE--Sec.     
                            180.207(c)                                  
                           (b) warm water--NONE--Sec. 180.207(b)        
Rivers...................  (a) cold water\5\                            
                           (i) w/subdivision--NONE--Sec. 180.208(a)(2)  
                           (ii) w/o subdivision--50% LF\2\--Sec.        
                            180.208(a)(1)                               
                           (iii) within one mile of shore--NONE--Sec.   
                            180.208(c)                                  
                           (b) warm water--NONE--Sec. 180.208(b)        
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Abbreviations used:                                                     
ILR = inflatable liferaft.                                              
IBA = inflatable Buoyant Apparatus.                                     
LF = Life Float.                                                        
                                                                        
\1\Cold water means the cognizant OCMI has determined the prevailing    
  temperature of the water is  15  deg.C (59  deg.F).        
\2\Any buoyant apparatus in use on an existing vessel on [insert        
  effective date of the final rule] may be used to meet the requirements
  for LF as long as the buoyant apparatus is in good and serviceable    
  condition--Sec. 180.15(d).                                            
\3\Warm water means the cognizant OCMI has determined the prevailing    
  temperature of the water is > 15  deg.C (59  deg.F).                  
\4\Shallow water exception--Sec. 180.207(d).                            
\5\Shallow water exception--Sec. 180.208(d).                            

Sec. 180.202  Survival craft--vessels operating on oceans routes.

    (a) Each vessel certificated to operate on an oceans route more 
than 50 nautical miles offshore must be provided with inflatable 
liferafts of an aggregate capacity which will accommodate at least the 
total number of persons permitted on board.
    (b) Each vessel constructed of wood and certificated to operate on 
an oceans route not more than 50 nautical miles offshore must be 
provided with inflatable buoyant apparatus of an aggregate capacity 
which will accommodate at least the total number of persons permitted 
on board.
    (c) Each vessel constructed of a material other than wood and 
certificated to operate on an oceans route not more than 50 nautical 
miles offshore must be provided with the survival craft required by 
Secs. 180.204 (a) or (b), as applicable.


Sec. 180.204  Survival craft--vessels operating on coastwise routes.

    (a) Except as allowed by paragraph (c) of this section, each vessel 
certificated to operate on a coastwise route in an area and time of 
year where the prevailing water temperature, as determined by the 
cognizant OCMI, is 15 deg.C (59 deg.F) or less must either:
    (1) Be provided with inflatable buoyant apparatus of an aggregate 
capacity which will accommodate at least the total number of persons 
permitted on board; or
    (2) Meet either the standards for collision bulkheads in 
Secs. 179.310 or 171.085 of this chapter and the standards for 
subdivision in Secs. 179.220 and 179.320 of this subchapter or the 
standards for subdivision and damaged stability in Secs. 171.070 
through 171.073 and 171.080 of this chapter, as appropriate, and be 
provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity which will 
accommodate at least the total number of persons permitted on board.
    (b) Except as allowed by paragraph (d) of this section, each vessel 
certificated to operate on a coastwise route in an area and time of 
year where the prevailing water temperature, as determined by the 
cognizant OCMI, is above 15 deg.C (59 deg.F) must be provided with life 
floats of an aggregate capacity which will accommodate at least the 
total number of persons permitted on board.
    (c) Each vessel certificated to operate on a coastwise route within 
one mile of land in an area and time of year where the prevailing water 
temperature, as determined by the cognizant OCMI, is 15 deg.C 
(59 deg.F) or less must either:
    (1) Be provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity which 
will accommodate at least the total number of persons permitted on 
board; or
    (2) Meet either the standards for collision bulkheads in 
Secs. 179.310 or 171.085 of this chapter and the standards for 
subdivision in Secs. 179.220 and 179.320 of this subchapter or the 
standards for subdivision and damaged stability in Secs. 171.070 
through 171.073 and 171.080 of this chapter, as appropriate, and be 
provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity which will 
accommodate at least 50% of the total number of persons permitted on 
board.
    (d) Each vessel certificated to operate on a coastwise route within 
one mile of land in an area and time of year where the prevailing water 
temperature, as determined by the cognizant OCMI, is above 15 deg.C 
(59 deg.F) is not required to carry survival craft.


Sec. 180.206  Survival craft--vessels operating on Great Lakes routes.

    (a) Except as allowed by paragraph (b) of this section, each vessel 
certificated to operate on a Great Lakes route must be provided with 
the survival craft required by Secs. 180.204 (a) or (b), as 
appropriate.
    (b) Each vessel certificated to operate on a Great Lakes route 
within one mile of land is not required to carry survival craft.


Sec. 180.207  Survival craft--vessels operating on lakes, bays, and 
sounds routes.

    (a) Except as allowed by paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, 
each vessel certificated to operate on a lakes, bays and sounds route 
in an area and time of year where the prevailing water temperature, as 
determined by the cognizant OCMI, is 15 deg.C (59 deg.F) or less must 
either:
    (1) Be provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity which 
will accommodate at least the total number of persons permitted on 
board; or
    (2) Meet either the standards for collision bulkheads in 
Secs. 179.310 or 171.085 of this chapter and the standards for 
subdivision in Secs. 179.220 and 179.320 of this subchapter or the 
standards for subdivision and damaged stability in Secs. 171.070 
through 171.073 and 171.080 of this chapter, as appropriate, and be 
provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity which will 
accommodate at least 50% of the total number of persons permitted on 
board.
    (b) A vessel certificated to operate on a lakes, bays and sounds 
route in an area and time of year where the prevailing water 
temperature, as determined by the cognizant OCMI, is above 15 deg.C 
(59 deg.F) is not required to carry survival craft.
    (c) A vessel certificated to operate on a lakes, bays and sounds 
route within one mile of land is not required to carry survival craft.
    (d) For a vessel certificated to operate on a lakes, bays and 
sounds route in shallow water where the vessel cannot sink deep enough 
to submerge the topmost passenger deck or where survivors can wade 
ashore, the cognizant OCMI may waive a requirement for life floats, if 
the OCMI determines that it is safe to do so, taking into consideration 
the vessel's scope of operation, hazards of the route, and availability 
of assistance.


Sec. 180.208  Survival craft--vessels operating on rivers routes.

    (a) Except as allowed by paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, 
each vessel certificated to operate on a rivers route in an area and 
time of year where the prevailing water temperature, as determined by 
the cognizant OCMI, is 15 deg.C (59 deg.F) or less is either:
    (1) Be provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity which 
will accommodate at least 50% of the total number of persons permitted 
on board; or
    (2) Meet either the standards for collision bulkheads in 
Secs. 179.310 or 171.085 of this chapter and the standards for 
subdivision in Secs. 179.220 and 179.320 of this subchapter or the 
standards for subdivision and damaged stability in Secs. 171.070 
through 171.073 and 171.080 of this chapter, as appropriate, and not be 
required to carry survival craft.
    (b) A vessel certificated to operate on a rivers route in an area 
and time of year where the prevailing water temperature, as determined 
by the cognizant OCMI, is above 15 deg.C (59 deg.F) is not required to 
carry survival craft.
    (c) A vessel certificated to operate on a rivers route within one 
mile of land is not required to carry survival craft.
    (d) For a vessel certificated to operate on a rivers route in 
shallow water where the vessel cannot sink deep enough to submerge the 
topmost passenger deck or where survivors can wade ashore, the 
cognizant OCMI may waive a requirement for life floats, if the OCMI 
determines that it is safe to do so, taking into consideration the 
vessel's scope of operation, hazards of the route, and availability of 
assistance.


Sec. 180.210  Rescue boats.

    (a) A vessel of more than 65 feet in length must carry at least one 
rescue boat unless the cognizant OCMI determines that:
    (1) The vessel is sufficiently maneuverable, arranged, and equipped 
to allow the crew to recover a helpless person from the water;
    (2) Recovery of a helpless person can be observed from the 
operating station; and
    (3) The vessel does not regularly engage in operations that 
restrict its maneuverability.
    (b) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length is not required to 
carry a rescue boat unless:
    (1) The vessel carries passengers on an open or partially enclosed 
deck; and
    (2) The cognizant OCMI determines that the vessel is designed, 
arranged, or involved in operations so that the vessel itself cannot 
serve as an adequate rescue craft.
    (c) On a vessel of more than 65 feet in length, a required rescue 
boat and its installation must meet the requirements in subchapter H 
(Passenger Vessels) of this chapter for a rescue boat on a passenger 
vessel having the same route. On a vessel of not more than 65 feet in 
length, a required rescue boat must be acceptable to the cognizant 
OCMI.

PART 181--FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec.
181.115  Applicability to existing vessels.
181.120  Equipment installed but not required.

Subpart B--Reserved

Subpart C--Fire Main System

181.300  Fire pumps.
181.310  Fire main and hydrants.
181.320  Fire hoses and nozzles.

Subpart D--Fixed Fire Extinguishing and Detecting Systems

181.400  Where required.
181.410  Fixed gas fire extinguishing systems.
181.420  Pre-engineered fixed gas fire extinguishing systems.
181.425  Galley hood fire extinguishing systems.
181.450  Independent modular smoke detecting units.

Subpart E--Portable Fire Extinguishers

181.500  Required number, type, and location.
181.520  Installation and location.

Subpart F--Additional Equipment

181.600  Fire axe.
181.610  Fire bucket.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 
Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--General Provisions


Sec. 181.115  Applicability to existing vessels.

    (a) Except as otherwise required by paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of 
this section, an existing vessel must comply with the fire protection 
equipment regulations applicable to the vessel on [date of day before 
effective date of regulations] or, as an alternative, the vessel may 
comply with the regulations in this part.
    (b) An existing vessel with a hull, or a machinery space boundary 
bulkhead or deck, composed of wood or fiber reinforced plastic, or 
sheathed on the interior in fiber reinforced plastic, must comply with 
the requirements of Sec. 181.400 on or before [date 3 years after 
effective date of regulations].
    (c) New installations of fire protection equipment on an existing 
vessel, which are completed to the satisfaction of the cognizant OCMI 
on or after] effective date of regulations], must comply with the 
regulations of this part. Replacement of existing equipment installed 
on the vessel prior to [effective date of regulations need not comply 
with the regulations] in this part.


Sec. 181.120  Equipment installed but not required.

    Fire extinguishing and detecting equipment installed on a vessel in 
excess of the requirements of Secs. 181.400 and 181.500 must be 
designed, constructed, installed and maintained in accordance with a 
recognized industry standard acceptable to the Commandant.

Subpart B--Reserved

Subpart C--Fire Main System


Sec. 181.300  Fire pumps.

    (a) A self priming, power driven fire pump must be installed on 
each vessel:
    (1) Of not more than 65 feet in length which is a ferry vessel;
    (2) Of not more than 65 feet in length which carries more than 49 
passengers; or
    (3) Of more than 65 feet in length.
    (b) On a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying more 
than 49 passengers, and on a vessel of more than 65 feet in length, the 
minimum capacity of the fire pump must be 50 gallons per minute at a 
pressure of not less than 60 pounds per square inch at the pump outlet. 
The pump outlet must be fitted with a pressure gauge.
    (c) On a ferry vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying 
not more than 49 passengers, the minimum capacity of the fire pump must 
be 10 gallons per minute. The fire pump must be capable of projecting a 
hose stream from the highest hydrant, through the hose and nozzle 
required by Sec. 181.320, a distance of 25 feet.
    (d) A fire pump may be driven by a propulsion engine. A fire pump 
must be permanently connected to the fire main and may be connected to 
the bilge system to meet the requirements of Sec. 182.520 of this 
subchapter.
    (e) A fire pump must be capable of both remote operation from the 
operating station and local, manual operation at the pump.


Sec. 181.310  Fire main and hydrants.

    (a) A vessel which has a power driven fire pump must have a 
sufficient number of fire hydrants to reach any part of the vessel 
using a single length of fire hose.
    (b) Piping, valves, and fittings in a fire main system must comply 
with part 182, subpart G of this subchapter.


Sec. 181.320  Fire hoses and nozzles.

    (a) A fire hose with a nozzle must be attached to each fire hydrant 
at all times. For fire stations located on open decks or cargo decks, 
where no protection is provided, hoses may be temporarily removed 
during heavy weather or cargo handling operations, respectively. Hoses 
so removed must be stored in nearby accessible locations.
    (b) On a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying more 
than 49 passengers, and on a vessel of more than 65 feet in length, 
each hose must:
    (1) Be lined commercial fire hose that conforms to UL 19 or hose 
that is listed and labeled by an independent laboratory recognized by 
the Commandant as being equivalent in performance;
    (2) Be 50 feet in length and 1\1/2\ inches in diameter; and
    (3) Have fittings of brass or other suitable corrosion-resistant 
material which comply with NFPA 1963.
    (c) Each fire hose on a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length 
carrying not more than 49 passengers must:
    (1) Comply with paragraphs (b)(1) and (b)(3) of this section or be 
garden type hose of not less than \5/8\ inch nominal inside diameter;
    (2) Be of one piece not less than 25 feet and not more than 50 feet 
in length; and
    (3) If of the garden type, be of a good commercial grade 
constructed of an inner rubber tube, plies of braided fabric 
reinforcement, and an outer cover of rubber or equivalent material, and 
of sufficient strength to withstand the maximum pressure which can be 
produced by the fire pump. All fittings on the hose must be of suitable 
corrosion-resistant material.
    (d) Each nozzle must be of corrosion-resistant material and be 
capable of being changed between a solid stream and a spray pattern. A 
nozzle on a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying more 
than 49 passengers, and on a vessel of more than 65 feet in length, 
must be of an approved type.

Subpart D--Fixed Fire Extinguishing and Detecting Systems


Sec. 181.400  Where required.

    (a) The following spaces must be equipped with a Halon or carbon 
dioxide fixed gas fire extinguishing system, in compliance with 
Sec. 181.410, except as otherwise allowed by paragraph (b) of this 
section:
    (1) A space containing propulsion machinery;
    (2) A space containing an internal combustion engine of more than 
50 hp;
    (3) A space containing an oil fired boiler;
    (4) A space containing machinery powered by gasoline or other fuels 
having a flash point of 110 deg.F or lower;
    (5) A space containing a fuel tank for gasoline or any other fuel 
having a flash point of 110 deg.F or lower;
    (6) A space containing combustible cargo or ship's stores 
inaccessible during the voyage (in these types of spaces only carbon 
dioxide, and not Halon, systems will be allowed);
    (7) A paint locker; and
    (8) A storeroom containing flammable liquids (including liquors of 
80 proof or higher).
    (b) Alternative system types and exceptions to the requirements of 
paragraph (a) of this section are:
    (1) A fixed gas fire extinguishing system, which is capable of 
automatic discharge upon heat detection, may only be installed in a 
normally unoccupied space with a gross volume of not more than 6000 
cubic feet;
    (2) A pre-engineered fixed gas fire extinguishing system must be in 
compliance with Sec. 181.420 and may only be installed in a normally 
unoccupied machinery space, a paint locker, or a storeroom containing 
flammable liquids (including liquors of 80 proof or higher), with a 
gross volume of not more than 2000 cubic feet;
    (3) A B-II portable fire extinguisher installed outside the space 
may be substituted for a fixed gas fire extinguishing system in a 
storeroom containing flammable liquids (including liquors of 80 proof 
or higher) or a paint locker, with a volume of not more that 200 cubic 
feet; and
    (4) A space which is so open to the atmosphere that a fixed gas 
fire extinguishing system would be ineffective, as determined by the 
cognizant OCMI, is not required to have a fixed gas fire extinguishing 
system.
    (c) The following spaces must be equipped with a fire detecting 
system of an approved type which is installed in accordance with 
Sec. 76.27 of this chapter, except when a fixed gas fire extinguishing 
system which is capable of automatic discharge upon heat detection is 
installed or when the space is manned:
    (1) A space containing propulsion machinery;
    (2) A space containing an internal combustion engine of more than 
50 hp;
    (3) A space containing an oil fired boiler;
    (4) A space containing machinery powered by gasoline or any other 
fuels having a flash point of 110  deg.F or lower; and
    (5) A space containing a fuel tank for gasoline or any other fuel 
having a flash point of 110  deg.F or lower.
    (d) All grills, broilers, and deep fat fryers must be fitted with a 
grease extraction hood in compliance with Sec. 181.425.
    (e) Each overnight accommodation space on a vessel with overnight 
accommodations for passengers must be fitted with an independent 
modular smoke detecting and alarm unit in compliance with Sec. 181.450.
    (f) An enclosed vehicle space must be fitted with an automatic 
sprinkler system which meets the requirements of Sec. 76.25 of this 
chapter; and
    (1) A smoke actuated fire detecting system of an approved type 
which is installed in accordance with Sec. 76.27 of this chapter; or
    (2) A smoke detecting system of an approved type which is installed 
in accordance with Sec. 76.33 of this chapter.
    (g) A partially enclosed vehicle space must be fitted with a manual 
sprinkler system which meets the requirements of Sec. 76.23 of this 
chapter.


Sec. 181.410  Fixed gas fire extinguishing systems.

    (a) General.
    (1) A fixed gas fire extinguishing system aboard a vessel must be 
approved by the Commandant, and be custom engineered to meet the 
requirements of this section unless the system meets the requirements 
of Sec. 181.420.
    (2) System components must be listed and labeled by an independent 
laboratory. A component from a different system, even if from the same 
manufacturer, must not be used unless included in the approval of the 
installed system.
    (3) System design and installation must be in accordance with the 
Marine Design, Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manual approved 
for the system by the Commandant.
    (4) A fixed gas fire extinguishing system may protect more than one 
space. The quantity of extinguishing agent must be at least sufficient 
for the space requiring the greatest quantity as determined by the 
requirements of paragraphs (f)(4) and (g)(2) of this section.
    (b) Controls.
    (1) Controls and valves for operation of a fixed gas fire 
extinguishing system must be:
    (i) Located outside the space protected by the system; and
    (ii) Not located in a space that might be inaccessible in the event 
of fire in the space protected by the system.
    (2) Except as provided in paragraph (c)(2) of this section, release 
of an extinguishing agent into a space must require two distinct 
operations.
    (3) A system must have local manual controls at the storage 
cylinders capable of releasing the extinguishing agent. In addition, a 
normally manned space must have remote controls for releasing the 
extinguishing agent at the primary exit from the space.
    (4) Remote controls must be located in a breakglass enclosure to 
preclude accidental discharge.
    (5) Valves and controls must be of an approved type and protected 
from damage or accidental activation. A pull cable used to activate the 
system controls must be enclosed in conduit.
    (6) A system protecting more than one space must have a manifold 
with a normally closed stop valve for each space protected.
    (7) A gas actuated valve or device must be capable of manual 
override at the valve or device.
    (8) A system, which has more than one storage cylinder for the 
extinguishing agent and which relies on pilot cylinders to activate the 
primary storage cylinders, must have at least two pilot cylinders. 
Local manual controls, in compliance with paragraph (b)(3) of this 
section, must be provided to operate the pilot cylinders but are not 
required for the primary storage cylinders.
    (9) A system protecting a manned space must be fitted with an 
approved time delay and alarm arranged to require the alarm to sound 
for at least 20 seconds or the time necessary to escape from the space, 
whichever is greater, before the agent is released into the space. 
Alarms must be conspicuously and centrally located. The alarm must be 
powered by the extinguishing agent.
    (10) A device must be provided to automatically shut down power 
ventilation serving the protected space and engines which draw intake 
air from the protected space prior to release of the extinguishing 
agent into the space.
    (11) Controls and storage cylinders must not be in a locked space 
unless the key is in a breakglass type box conspicuously located 
adjacent to the space.
    (c) Storage space.
    (1) Except as provided in paragraph (c)(2) of this section, a 
storage cylinder for a fixed gas extinguishing system must be:
    (i) Located outside the space protected by the system; and
    (ii) Not located in a space that might be inaccessible in the event 
of a fire in the space protected by the system.
    (2) A normally unoccupied space of less than 6000 cubic feet may 
have the storage cylinders located within the space protected. When the 
storage cylinders are located in the space:
    (i) The system must be capable of automatic operation by a heat 
actuator within the space; and
    (ii) Have manual controls in compliance with paragraph (b) of this 
section except for paragraphs (b)(2) and (b)(3).
    (3) A space containing a storage cylinder must be maintained at a 
temperature within the range from -20  deg.F (-30  deg.C) to 130  deg.F 
(55  deg.C) or at another temperature as listed by the independent 
laboratory and stated in the manufacturer's approved manual.
    (4) A storage cylinder must be securely fastened, supported, and 
protected against damage.
    (5) A storage cylinder must be accessible and capable of easy 
removal for recharging and inspection. Provisions must be available for 
weighing each storage cylinder in place.
    (6) Where subject to moisture, a storage cylinder must be installed 
to provide a space of at least 2 inches between the deck and the bottom 
of the storage cylinder.
    (7) A Halon 1301 storage cylinder must be stowed in an upright 
position unless otherwise listed by the independent laboratory. A 
carbon dioxide cylinder may be inclined not more than 30 deg. from the 
vertical, unless fitted with flexible or bent siphon tubes, in which 
case they may be inclined not more than 80 deg. from the vertical.
    (8) Where a check valve is not fitted on an independent storage 
cylinder discharge, a plug or cap must be provided for closing the 
outlet resulting from storage cylinder removal.
    (9) Each storage cylinder must meet the requirements of Sec. 147.60 
of this chapter.
    (10) A storage cylinder space must have doors which open outwards 
or be fitted with kickout panels installed in each door.
    (d) Piping.
    (1) A pipe, valve, or fitting of ferrous material must be protected 
inside and outside against corrosion unless otherwise approved by the 
Commandant. Aluminum or other low melting material must not be used for 
a component of a fixed gas fire extinguishing system except as 
specifically approved by the Commandant.
    (2) A distribution line must extend at least 2 inches beyond the 
last orifice and be closed with a cap or plug.
    (3) Piping, valves, and fittings must be securely supported, and 
where necessary, protected against damage.
    (4) Drains and dirt traps must be fitted where necessary to prevent 
the accumulation of dirt or moisture and located in accessible 
locations.
    (5) Piping must be used for no other purpose except that it may be 
incorporated with the fire detecting system.
    (6) Piping passing through accommodation spaces must not be fitted 
with drains or other openings within such spaces.
    (7) Installation test requirements for carbon dioxide systems. The 
distribution piping of a carbon dioxide fixed gas extinguishing system 
must be tested as required by this paragraph, upon completion of the 
piping installation, using only carbon dioxide, compressed air, or 
nitrogen gas.
    (i) Piping between a storage cylinder and a stop valve in the 
manifold must be subjected to a pressure of 1,000 psi, except as 
permitted in paragraph (d)(7)(iii) of this section. Without additional 
gas being introduced to the system, the pressure drop must not exceed 
300 psi after two minutes.
    (ii) A distribution line to a space protected by the system must be 
subjected to a test similar to that described in paragraph (d)(7)(i) of 
this section except the pressure used must be 600 psi. For the purpose 
of this test, the distribution piping must be capped within the space 
protected at the first joint between the nozzles and the storage 
cylinders.
    (iii) A small independent system protecting a space such as a paint 
locker may be tested by blowing out the piping with air at a pressure 
of not less than 100 psi instead of the tests prescribed in the 
paragraphs (d)(7)(i) and (d)(7)(ii) of this section.
    (8) Installation test requirements for Halon 1301 systems. The 
distribution piping of a Halon 1301 fixed gas extinguishing system must 
be tested, as required by this paragraph (d), upon completion of the 
piping installation, using only carbon dioxide, compressed air, or 
nitrogen.
    (i) When pressurizing the piping, pressure must be increased in 
small increments. Each joint must be subjected to a soap bubble leak 
test, and all joints must be leak free.
    (ii) Piping between the storage cylinders and the manifold stop 
valve must be subjected to a leak test conducted at the maximum 
allowable working pressure at 130  deg.F (55  deg.C). Without 
additional gas being added to the system, there must be no loss of 
pressure over a two minute period after thermal equilibrium is reached.
    (iii) Distribution piping between the manifold stop valve and the 
first nozzle in the system must be capped and pneumatically tested for 
a period of 10 minutes at 150 psig. At the end of 10 minutes, the 
pressure drop must not exceed 10% of the test pressure.
    (e) Pressure relief. When required by the cognizant OCMI, spaces 
which are protected by a fixed gas fire extinguishing system and which 
are relatively air tight, such as refrigeration spaces, paint lockers, 
etc., must be provided with suitable means for relieving excessive 
pressure within the space when the agent is released.
    (f) Specific requirements for carbon dioxide systems. A custom 
engineered fixed gas fire extinguishing system, which uses carbon 
dioxide as the extinguishing agent, must meet the requirements of this 
paragraph.
    (1) Piping, valves, and fittings must have a bursting pressure of 
not less than 6,000 psi. Piping, in nominal sizes of not more than \3/
4\ inch, must be at least Schedule 40 (standard weight), and in nominal 
sizes of over \3/4\ inch, must be at least Schedule 80 (extra heavy).
    (2) A pressure relief valve or equivalent set to relieve at between 
2,400 and 2,800 psi must be installed in the distribution manifold to 
protect the piping from overpressurization.
    (3) Nozzles must be approved by the Commandant.
    (4) When installed in a machinery space, paint locker, a space 
containing flammable liquid stores, or a space with a fuel tank, a 
fixed carbon dioxide system must meet the following requirements.
    (i) The quantity of carbon dioxide (in pounds) that the system must 
be capable of providing to a space must not be less than the gross 
volume of the space divided by the appropriate factor given in Table 
181.410(f)(4)(i). If fuel can drain from a space being protected to an 
adjacent space or if the spaces are not entirely separate, the volume 
of both spaces must be used to determine the quantity of carbon dioxide 
to be provided. The carbon dioxide must be arranged to discharge into 
both such spaces simultaneously. 

                         Table 181.410(f)(4)(i)                         
                 [Gross volume of space in cubic feet]                  
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Factor                          Over      Not over 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
15..............................................  ..........         500
16..............................................         500       1,600
18..............................................       1,600       4,500
20..............................................       4,500      50,000
22..............................................      50,000  ..........
------------------------------------------------------------------------


    (ii) The minimum size of a branch line to a space must be as noted 
in Table 181.410(f)(4)(ii). 

                          Table 181(f)(4)(ii)                           
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       Maximum          
                                             Minimum  quantity   Minimum
                                             nominal     of      nominal
    Maximum quantity of carbon dioxide        pipe     carbon     pipe  
             required (pounds)                size     dioxide    size  
                                            (inches)  required  (inches)
                                                      (pounds)          
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100.......................................    \1/2\      2,500      2.5 
225.......................................    \3/4\      4,450        3 
300.......................................        1      7,100      3.5 
600.......................................     1.25     10,450        4 
1,000.....................................      1.5     15,500      4.5 
2,450.....................................        2   ........  ........
------------------------------------------------------------------------


    (iii) Distribution piping within a space must be proportioned from 
the distribution line to give proper supply to the outlets without 
throttling.
    (iv) The number, type, and location of discharge outlets must 
provide uniform distribution of carbon dioxide throughout a space.
    (v) The area of each discharge outlet must not exceed 85 percent 
nor be less than 35 percent of the nominal cylinder outlet area or the 
area of the supply pipe, whichever is smaller. The nominal cylinder 
outlet area (in square inches) is determined by multiplying the factor 
0.0022 by the total capacity (in pounds) of all carbon dioxide 
cylinders in the system, except in no case must the outlet area be of 
less than 0.110 square inch.
    (vi) The discharge of at least 85 percent of the required amount of 
carbon dioxide must be completed within two minutes.
    (5) When installed in an enclosed ventilation system for rotating 
electrical propulsion equipment a fixed carbon dioxide system must meet 
the following requirements.
    (i) The quantity of carbon dioxide (in pounds) must be sufficient 
for initial and delayed discharges as required by this paragraph. The 
initial discharge must be equal to the gross volume of the system 
divided by 10 for ventilation systems having a volume of less than 
2,000 cubic feet, or divided by 12 for ventilation systems having a 
volume of at least 2,000 cubic feet. In addition, there must be 
sufficient carbon dioxide available to permit delayed discharges to 
maintain at least a 25 percent concentration until the equipment can be 
stopped. If the initial discharge achieves this concentration until the 
equipment is stopped, a delayed discharge is not required.
    (ii) The piping sizes for the initial discharge must be in 
accordance with Table 181.410(f)(4)(ii) and the discharge of the 
required amount must be completed within two minutes.
    (iii) Piping for the delayed discharge must not be less than \1/2\ 
inch nominal pipe size, may be incorporated with the initial discharge 
piping, and need not meet specific requirement for discharge rate.
    (6) When installed in a cargo space a fixed carbon dioxide system 
must meet the following requirements.
    (i) The number of pounds of carbon dioxide required for each space 
in cubic feet must be equal to the gross volume of the space in cubic 
feet divided by 30;
    (ii) System piping must be of at least \3/4\ inch.
    (iii) No specific discharge rate is required.
    (g) Specific requirements for Halon 1301 systems.
    (1) A custom engineered fixed gas fire extinguishing system, which 
uses Halon 1301, must comply with the applicable sections of UL 
Standard 1058 and the requirements of this paragraph (g).
    (2) The Halon 1301 quantity and discharge requirements of UL 1058 
apply, with the exception that the Halon 1301 design concentration must 
be 6 percent at the lowest ambient temperature expected in the space. 
If the lowest temperature is not known, a temperature of 0  deg.F must 
be assumed.
    (3) Each storage cylinder in a system must have the same pressure 
and volume.
    (4) Computer programs used in designing systems must have been 
approved by an independent laboratory.


Sec. 181.420  Pre-engineered fixed gas fire extinguishing systems.

    (a) A pre-engineered fixed gas fire extinguishing system must:
    (1) Be approved by the Commandant;
    (2) Be capable of manual actuation from outside the space in 
addition to automatic actuation by a heat detector; and
    (3) Automatically shut down all power ventilation systems and all 
engines that draw intake air from within the protected space.
    (b) A vessel on which a pre-engineered fixed gas system is 
installed must have the following equipment at the operating station:
    (1) A light to indicate discharge;
    (2) An audible alarm which sounds upon discharge; and
    (3) A means to reset devices used to automatically shut down 
ventilation systems and engines as required by paragraph (a)(3) of this 
section.
    (c) Only one pre-engineered fixed gas system is allowed to be 
installed in each space protected by such a system.


Sec. 181.425  Galley hood fire extinguishing systems.

    (a) A grease extraction hood required by Sec. 181.400 must meet UL 
710.
    (b) A grease extraction hood must be equipped with a dry or wet 
chemical fire extinguishing system meeting the applicable sections of 
NFPA 17 or 17A, and must be listed by an independent laboratory 
recognized by the Commandant.


Sec. 181.450  Independent modular smoke detecting units.

    An independent modular smoke detecting unit must:
    (a) Meet UL Standard 217 and be listed as a ``Single Station Smoke 
Detector--Also suitable for use in Recreational Vehicles'';
    (b) Contain an independent power source; and
    (c) Alarm on low power.

Subpart E--Portable Fire Extinguishers


Sec. 181.500  Required number, type, and location.

    (a) Each portable fire extinguisher on a vessel must be of an 
approved type. The minimum number of portable fire extinguishers 
required on a vessel must be acceptable to the cognizant OCMI, but must 
be not less than the minimum number required by Table 181.500(a) and 
other provisions of this section. 

                                               Table.--181.500(a)                                               
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      Minimum number                                                            
          Space protected                required            CG Class             Medium          Minimum size  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating station.................  1                   B-I, C-I            Halon.............  2.5 lb.         
                                                                            CO2...............  4 lb.           
                                                                            Dry chemical......  2 lb.           
Machinery space...................  1                   B-II, C-II located  Halon.............  10 lb.          
                                                         just outside exit                                      
                                                                            CO2...............  15 lb.          
                                                                            Dry chemical......  10 lb.          
Open vehicle deck.................  1 for each 10       B-II                Foam..............  2.5 gal         
                                     vehicles                                                                   
                                                                            Halon.............  10 lb.          
                                                                            CO2...............  15 lb.          
                                                                            Dry chemical......  10 lb.          
Accomodation space................  1 for each 2,500    A-II                Foam..............  2.5 gal.        
                                     square feet or                                                             
                                     fraction thereof                                                           
                                                                            Dry chemical......  5 lb.           
Galley, pantry, concession stand..  1                   A-II, B-II          Foam..............  2.5 gal.        
                                                                            Dry chemical......  10 lb.          
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    (b) A vehicle deck without a fixed sprinkler system and exposed to 
weather must have one B-II portable fire extinguisher for every five 
vehicles, located near an entrance to the space.
    (c) The cognizant OCMI may permit the use of a larger portable fire 
extinguisher, or a semiportable fire extinguisher, in lieu of those 
required by this section.
    (d) The frame or support of each B-V fire extinguisher permitted by 
paragraph (c) of this section must be welded or otherwise permanently 
attached to a bulkhead or deck.


Sec. 181.520  Installation and location.

    Portable fire extinguishers must be located so that they are 
clearly visible and readily accessible from the space being protected. 
The installation and location must be to the satisfaction of the 
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection.

Subpart F--Additional Equipment


Sec. 181.600  Fire axe.

    A vessel of more than 65 feet in length must have at least one fire 
axe located in or adjacent to the primary operating station.


Sec. 181.610  Fire bucket.

    A vessel must have at least three 2\1/2\ gallon buckets, with an 
attached lanyard satisfactory to the cognizant OCMI, placed so as to be 
easily available during an emergency. The words ``FIRE BUCKET'' must be 
stenciled in a contrasting color on each bucket.

PART 182--MACHINERY INSTALLATION

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec.
182.100  Intent.
182.115  Applicability to existing vessels.
182.130  Alternative standards.

Subpart B--Propulsion Machinery

182.200  General.
182.220  Installations.

Subpart C--Auxiliary Machinery

182.300  General.
182.310  Installations.
182.320  Hot water heaters.
182.330  Pressure vessels.

Subpart D--Specific Machinery Requirements

182.400  Applicability.
182.405  Fuel restrictions.
182.410  General requirements.
182.415  Carburetors.
182.420  Engine cooling.
182.422  Keel and grid cooler installations.
182.425  Engine exhaust cooling.
182.430  Engine exhaust pipe installation.
182.435  Integral fuel tanks.
182.440  Independent fuel tanks.
182.445  Fill and sounding pipes for fuel tanks.
182.450  Vent pipes for fuel tanks.
182.455  Fuel piping.
182.458  Portable fuel systems.
182.460  Ventilation of spaces containing machinery powered by, or 
fuel tanks for, gasoline.
182.465  Ventilation of spaces containing diesel machinery.
182.470  Ventilation of spaces containing diesel fuel tanks.
182.480  Flammable vapor detection systems.

Subpart E--Bilge and Ballast Systems

182.500  General.
182.510  Bilge piping system.
182.520  Bilge pumps.
182.530  Bilge level alarms.
182.540  Ballast systems.

Subpart F--Steering Systems

182.600  General.
182.610  Main steering gear.
182.620  Auxiliary means of steering.

Subpart G--Piping Systems

182.700  General.
182.710  Piping for vital systems.
182.715  Piping subject to more than 150 psi in non-vital systems.
182.720  Nonmetallic piping materials.
182.730  Nonferrous metallic piping materials.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 
Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--General Provisions


Sec. 182.100  Intent.

    This part contains requirements for the design, construction, 
installation, and operation of propulsion and auxiliary machinery, 
piping and pressure systems, steering apparatus, and associated safety 
systems. Machinery and equipment installed on each vessel must be 
suitable for the vessel and its operation and for the purpose intended. 
All machinery and equipment must be installed and maintained in such a 
manner as to afford adequate protection from causing fire, explosion, 
machinery failure, and personnel injury.


Sec. 182.115  Applicability to existing vessels.

    (a) Except as otherwise required by paragraphs (b) and (c) of this 
section, an existing vessel must comply with the regulations on 
machinery, bilge and ballast system equipment, steering apparatus, and 
piping systems or components which were applicable to the vessel on 
[date of day before effective date of regulations] or, as an 
alternative, the vessel may comply with the regulations in this part.
    (b) New installations of machinery, bilge and ballast system 
equipment, steering equipment, and piping systems or components on an 
existing vessel, which are completed to the satisfaction of the 
cognizant OCMI on or after [effective date of regulations], must comply 
with the regulations of this part. Replacement of existing equipment 
installed on the vessel prior to [effective date of regulations] need 
not comply with the regulations in this part.
    (c) An existing vessel equipped with machinery powered by gasoline 
or other fuels having a flash point of 110  deg.F or lower must comply 
with the requirements of Sec. 182.410(c) on or before [date 3 years 
after effective date of regulations].


Sec. 182.130  Alternative standards.

    (a) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying not more 
than 12 passengers propelled by gasoline or diesel internal combustion 
engines, other than a dynamically supported craft, may comply with the 
requirements listed in paragraph (b) of this section instead of 
complying with the requirements of this part.
    (b) The alternative standards for vessels identified in paragraph 
(a) of this section are:
    (1) Auxiliary boilers, hot water heaters, and all unfired pressure 
vessels must comply with subpart C of this part;
    (2) Gasoline engines must comply with Sec. 182.415;
    (3) Bilge systems must comply with Sec. 182.500;
    (4) Steering systems must comply with subpart F of this part; and
    (5) The following American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) Projects 
and regulations in 33 CFR subchapter S (Boating Safety), where 
applicable:
    (i) H-2--``Ventilation of Boats Using Gasoline,'' or 33 CFR part 
183, subpart K, ``Ventilation'';
    (ii) H-22--``DC Electric Bilge Pumps Operating Under 50 Volts'';
    (iii) H-24--``Gasoline Fuel Systems'', or 33 CFR part 183, subpart 
J--``Fuel System'';
    (iv) H-25--``Portable Fuel Systems for Flammable Liquids'';
    (v) H-32--``Ventilation of Boats Using Diesel Fuel'';
    (vi) H-33--``Diesel Fuel Systems'';
    (vii) P-1--``Installation of Exhaust Systems for Propulsion and 
Auxiliary Engines''; and
    (viii) P-4--``Marine Inboard Engines''.

Subpart B--Propulsion Machinery


Sec. 182.200  General.

    (a) Propulsion machinery must be suitable in type and design for 
propulsion requirements of the hull in which it is installed and 
capable of operating at constant marine load under such requirements 
without exceeding its designed limitations.
    (b) All engines must have at least two means for stopping the 
engine(s) under any operating conditions. The fuel oil shutoff required 
at the engine by Sec. 182.455(b)(4) will satisfy one means of stopping 
the engine.


Sec. 182.220  Installations.

    (a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, propulsion 
machinery installations must comply with the provisions of this part.
    (b) The requirements for machinery and boilers for steam and 
electrically propelled vessels are contained in applicable regulations 
in subchapter F (Marine Engineering) and subchapter J (Electrical 
Engineering) of this chapter.
    (c) Propulsion machinery of an unusual type for small passenger 
vessels must be given separate consideration and must be subject to 
such requirements as determined necessary by the Officer in Charge, 
Marine Inspection. These unusual types of propulsion machinery include:
    (1) Gas turbine machinery installations;
    (2) Air screws;
    (3) Hydraulic jets; and
    (4) Machinery installations using propulsion and lift devices.

Subpart C--Auxiliary Machinery


Sec. 182.300  General.

    Auxiliary machinery must be suitable in type and design for the 
purpose intended.


Sec. 182.310  Installations.

    (a) Auxiliary machinery of the internal combustion piston type must 
comply with the provisions of this part.
    (b) Auxiliary machinery of the steam or gas turbine type will be 
given separate consideration and must meet the applicable requirements 
of subchapter F (Marine Engineering) of this chapter as determined 
necessary by the cognizant OCMI.
    (c) Auxiliary boilers and heating boilers and their associated 
piping and fittings will be given separate consideration and must meet 
the applicable requirements of subchapter F (Marine Engineering) of 
this chapter as determined necessary by the cognizant OCMI, except that 
heating boilers must be tested or examined every three years.


Sec. 182.320  Hot water heaters.

    (a) A hot water heater must meet the requirements of parts 52 and 
63 of this chapter if rated at more than 100 psig (689 kPa) or 
250 deg.F (121 deg.C).
    (b) A hot water heater must meet the requirements of parts 53 and 
63 of this chapter if rated at not more than 100 psig (689 kPa) and 
250 deg.F (121 deg.C), except that an electric hot water heater is also 
acceptable if it:
    (1) Has a capacity of not more than 120 gallons (454 liters);
    (2) Has a heat input of not more than 58.6 kilowatts (200,000 Btu 
per hour);
    (3) Is listed by Underwriters' Laboratories under UL Standard 174 
or 1453; and
    (4) Is protected by a pressure-temperature relief device.


Sec. 182.330  Pressure vessels.

    All unfired pressure vessels must be installed to the satisfaction 
of the cognizant OCMI. The design, construction, and original testing 
of such unfired pressure vessels must meet the applicable requirements 
of subchapter F (Marine Engineering) of this chapter.

Subpart D--Specific Machinery Requirements


Sec. 182.400  Applicability.

    (a) This subpart applies to all propulsion and auxiliary machinery 
installations of the internal combustion piston type.
    (b) Requirements of this subpart that are only applicable to 
engines which use gasoline or other fuels having a flashpoint of 
110 deg.F or lower are specifically designated in each section.
    (c) Requirements of this subpart that are only applicable to 
engines which use diesel fuel or other fuels having a flashpoint of 
more than 110 deg.F are specifically designated in each section.
    (d) Where no specific gasoline, diesel, or other fuel designation 
exists, the requirements of this subpart are applicable to all types of 
fuels and machinery.


Sec. 182.405  Fuel restrictions.

    The use of alternative fuels, other than diesel fuel or gasoline, 
as fuel for an internal combustion engine will be reviewed on a case by 
case basis by Commandant.


Sec. 182.410  General requirements.

    (a) Starting motors, generators, and any spark producing device 
must be mounted as high above the bilges as practicable. Electrical 
equipment in spaces, compartments, or enclosures that contain machinery 
powered by, or fuel tanks for, gasoline or other fuels having a 
flashpoint of 110 deg.F or lower must be explosion-proof, intrinsically 
safe, or ignition protected for use in a gasoline atmosphere as 
required by Sec. 183.530 of this subchapter.
    (b) Gauges to indicate engine RPM, cooling water discharge 
temperature, and lubricating oil pressure must be provided for all 
propulsion engines installed in the vessel. The gauges must be readily 
visible at the operating station.
    (c) An enclosed space containing machinery powered by gasoline or 
other fuels having a flash point of 110 deg.F or lower must be equipped 
with a flammable vapor detection device in compliance with 
Sec. 182.480.
    (d) In systems and applications where flexible hoses are permitted 
to be clamped:
    (1) Double hose clamping is required where practicable;
    (2) The clamps must be of a corrosion resistant metallic material;
    (3) The clamps must not depend on spring tension for their holding 
power; and
    (4) Two clamps must be used on each end of the hose, or one hose 
clamp can be used if the pipe ends are expanded or beaded to provide a 
positive stop against hose slippage.
    (e) An overspeed trip and or shutdown device must be installed on 
all diesel engine installations designed to produce 300 or more 
horsepower under ideal conditions, as follows:
    (1) For main propulsion engines, meet section 34.11.6 of the ABS 
``Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.''
    (2) For generator prime movers, meet section 35.21.2 of the ABS 
``Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.''


Sec. 182.415  Carburetors.

    (a) All carburetors except the downdraft type must be equipped with 
integral or externally fitted drip collectors of adequate capacity and 
arranged so as to permit ready removal of fuel leakage. Externally 
fitted drip collectors, must be covered with flame screens. Drip 
collectors, where practicable, should automatically drain back to 
engine air intakes.
    (b) All gasoline engines installed in a vessel, except outboard 
engines, must be equipped with an acceptable means of backfire flame 
control. Installation of backfire flame arresters bearing basic 
Approval Numbers 162.015 or 162.041 or engine air and fuel induction 
systems bearing basic Approval Numbers 162.042 or 162.043 may be 
continued in use as long as they are serviceable and in good condition. 
New installations or replacements must meet the applicable requirements 
of this section.
    (c) The following are acceptable means of backfire flame control 
for gasoline engines:
    (1) A backfire flame arrester complying with SAE J-1928 or UL 1111 
and marked accordingly. The flame arrester must be suitably secured to 
the air intake with a flametight connection.
    (2) An engine air and fuel induction system which provides adequate 
protection from propagation of backfire flame to the atmosphere 
equivalent to that provided by an acceptable backfire flame arrester. A 
gasoline engine utilizing an air and fuel induction system, and 
operated without an approved backfire flame arrester, must either 
include a reed valve assembly or be installed in accordance with SAE J-
1928.
    (3) An arrangement of the carburetor or engine air induction system 
that will disperse any flames caused by engine backfire. The flames 
must be dispersed to the atmosphere outside the vessel in such a manner 
that the flames will not endanger the vessel, persons on board, or 
nearby vessels and structures. Flame dispersion may be achieved by 
attachments to the carburetor or location of the engine air induction 
system. All attachments must be of metallic construction with 
flametight connections and firmly secured to withstand vibration, 
shock, and engine backfire. Such installations do not require formal 
approval and labeling but must comply with this subpart.
    (4) An engine air induction system on a vessel with an integrated 
engine-vessel design must be approved, marked, and tested under 
Sec. 162.043 of this chapter.


Sec. 182.420  Engine cooling.

    (a) Except as otherwise provided in paragraphs (b), (c), (d), and 
(e) of this section, all engines must be water cooled and meet the 
requirements of this paragraph.
    (1) The engine head, block, and exhaust manifold must be water-
jacketed and cooled by water from a pump which operates whenever the 
engine is operating.
    (2) A suitable hull strainer must be installed in the circulating 
raw water intake line of an engine cooling water system.
    (3) A closed fresh water system may be used to cool the engine.
    (b) An engine water cooling system on a vessel of not more than 65 
feet in length carrying not more than 12 passengers, may comply with 
the requirements of ABYC Project P-4, ``Marine Inboard Engines,'' 
instead of the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section.
    (c) On a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying not 
more than 12 passengers, a propulsion gasoline engine may be air cooled 
when in compliance with the requirements of ABYC Project P-4, ``Marine 
Inboard Engines.''
    (d) An auxiliary gasoline engine may be air cooled when:
    (1) It has a self-contained fuel system and it is installed on an 
open deck; or
    (2) On a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying not 
more than 12 passengers, it is in compliance with the requirements of 
ABYC P-4, ``Marine Inboard Engines.''
    (e) A propulsion or auxiliary diesel engine may be air cooled or 
employ an air cooled jacket water radiator when:
    (1) Installed on an open deck and sufficient ventilation for 
machinery cooling is available;
    (2) Installed in an enclosed or partially enclosed space for which 
ventilation for machinery cooling is provided, which complies with the 
requirement of Sec. 119.465(b), and other necessary safeguards are 
taken so as not to endanger the vessel; or
    (3) Installed on a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length 
carrying not more than 12 passengers, in compliance with the 
requirements of ABYC Project P-4, ``Marine Inboard Engines.''


Sec. 182.422  Keel and grid cooler installations.

    (a) A keel or grid cooler installation used for engine cooling must 
be designed to prevent flooding.
    (b) A shutoff valve must be located where the cooler piping 
penetrates the shell, as near the shell as practicable, except where 
the penetration is forward of the collision bulkhead.
    (c) The thickness of the inlet and discharge connections, outboard 
of the shutoff valves required by paragraph (b) of this section, must 
be at least Schedule 80.
    (d) Short lengths of approved nonmetallic flexible hose, fixed by 
hose clamps, may be used at machinery connections for a keel cooler 
installation.


Sec. 182.425  Engine exhaust cooling.

    (a) Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph, all engine 
exhaust pipes must be water cooled.
    (1) Vertical dry exhaust pipes are permissible if installed in 
compliance with Secs. 177.405(b) and 177.970 of this subchapter.
    (2) Horizontal dry exhaust pipes are permitted only if:
    (i) They do not pass through living or berthing spaces;
    (ii) They terminate above the deepest load waterline;
    (iii) They are so arranged as to prevent entry of cold water from 
rough or boarding seas;
    (iv) They are constructed of corrosion resisting material at the 
hull penetration; and
    (v) They are installed in compliance with Secs. 177.405(b) and 
177.970 of this subchapter.
    (b) The exhaust pipe cooling water system must comply with the 
requirements of this paragraph.
    (1) Water for cooling the exhaust pipe must be obtained from the 
engine cooling water system or a separate engine driven pump.
    (2) Water for cooling the exhaust pipe, other than a vertical 
exhaust, must be injected into the exhaust system as near to the engine 
manifold as practicable. The water must pass through the entire length 
of the exhaust pipe.
    (3) The part of the exhaust system between the point of cooling 
water injection and the engine manifold must be water-jacketed or 
effectively insulated and protected in compliance with Secs. 177.405(b) 
and 177.970 of this subchapter.
    (4) Vertical exhaust pipes must be water-jacketed or suitably 
insulated between the engine manifold and the spark arrester required 
by Sec. 182.430(g).
    (5) When the exhaust cooling water system is separate from the 
engine cooling water system, a suitable warning device, visual or 
audible, must be installed at the operating station to indicate any 
reduction in normal water flow in the exhaust cooling system.
    (6) A suitable hull strainer must be installed in the circulating 
raw water intake line for the exhaust cooling system.
    (c) Engine exhaust cooling systems built in accordance with the 
requirements of ABYC Project P-1, ``Installation of Exhaust Systems for 
Propulsion and Auxiliary Machinery,'' will be considered as meeting the 
requirements of this section.


Sec. 182.430  Engine exhaust pipe installation.

    (a) The design of all exhaust systems must ensure minimum risk of 
injury to personnel. Protection must be provided in compliance with 
Sec. 177.970 of this subchapter at such locations where persons or 
equipment might come in contact with an exhaust pipe.
    (b) Exhaust gas must not leak from the piping or any connections. 
The piping must be properly supported by noncombustible hangers or 
blocks.
    (c) The exhaust piping must be so arranged as to prevent backflow 
of water from reaching engine exhaust ports under normal conditions.
    (d) An exhaust pipe discharge located less than 3 inches above the 
deepest load waterline must be fitted with means to prevent the ingress 
of water.
    (e) Pipes used for wet exhaust lines must be schedule 80 or 
corrosion-resistant material and adequately protected from mechanical 
damage.
    (f) Where flexibility is necessary, a section of flexible metallic 
hose may be used. Nonmetallic hose may be used for wet exhaust systems 
provided it is especially adapted to resist the action of oil, acid, 
and heat, has a wall thickness sufficient to prevent collapsing or 
panting, and is double clamped.
    (g) Where an exhaust pipe passes through a watertight bulkhead, the 
watertight integrity of the bulkhead must be maintained. Noncombustible 
packing must be used in bulkhead penetration glands for dry exhaust 
systems. A wet exhaust pipe may be welded to a steel bulkhead in way of 
a penetration and a fiberglass wet exhaust pipe may be fiberglassed to 
a fiberglass reinforced plastic bulkhead if suitable arrangements are 
provided to relieve the stresses resulting from the expansion of the 
exhaust piping.
    (h) A dry exhaust pipe must:
    (1) If it passes through a combustible bulkhead or partition, be 
kept clear of and suitably insulated or shielded from combustible 
material.
    (2) Be provided with noncombustible hangers and blocks for support.
    (i) An exhaust pipe discharge terminating in a transom must be 
located as far outboard as practicable so that exhaust gases cannot re-
enter the vessel.
    (j) Arrangements must be made to provide access to allow complete 
inspection of the exhaust piping throughout its length.
    (k) An exhaust installation subject to pressures in excess of 15 
pounds per square inch gauge or having exhaust pipes passing through 
living or working spaces must meet the material requirements of part 56 
of subchapter F (Marine Engineering) of this chapter.
    (l) Engine exhaust installations built in accordance with the 
requirements of ABYC Project P-1, ``Installations of Exhaust Systems 
for Propulsion and Auxiliary Machinery,'' will be considered as meeting 
the requirements of this section.


Sec. 182.435  Integral fuel tanks.

    (a) Gasoline fuel tanks must be independent of the hull.
    (b) Diesel fuel tanks may not be built integral with the hull of a 
vessel unless the hull is made of:
    (1) Steel;
    (2) Aluminum; or
    (3) Fiber reinforced plastic when:
    (i) Sandwich construction is not used; or
    (ii) Sandwich construction is used with only a core material of 
closed cell polyvinyl chloride.
    (c) During the initial inspection for certification of a vessel, 
integral fuel tanks must withstand a hydrostatic pressure test of 5 
pounds per square inch, or the maximum pressure head to which they may 
be subjected in service, whichever is greater. A standpipe of 11\1/2\ 
feet in height attached to the tank may be filled with water to 
accomplish the 5 pounds per square inch test.


Sec. 182.440  Independent fuel tanks.

    (a) Materials and construction. Independent fuel tanks must be 
designed and constructed of materials in compliance with the 
requirements of this paragraph.
    (1) The material used and the minimum thickness allowed must be as 
indicated in table 182.440(a)(1), except that other materials which 
provide equivalent safety may be approved for use under paragraph 
(a)(3) of this section. Tanks having a capacity of more than 150 
gallons must be designed to withstand the maximum head to which they 
may be subjected in service, but in no case may the thickness be less 
than that specified in table 182.440(a)(1).

                                              Table--182.440(a)(1)                                              
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       Thickness in inches & gage number\1\ vs. tank capacities 
                                                                                  for                           
                          ASTM specification (latest -----------------------------------------------------------
        Material                   edition)                                More than 80 and                     
                                                        1 to 80 gallon     not more than 150  Over 150\2\ gallon
                                                             tanks           gallon tanks            tanks      
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nickel-copper..........  B127, hot rolled sheet or    0.037 (USSG 20)\3\  0.050 (USSG 18)...  0.107 (USSG 12)   
                          plate.                                                                                
Copper-nickel\4\.......  B122, UNS alloy C71500.....  0.045 (AWG 17)....  0.057 (AWG 15)....  0.128 (AWG 8)     
Copper\4\..............  B152, UNS alloy C11000.....  0.057 (AWG 15)....  0.081 (AWG 12)....  0.182 (AWG 5)     
Copper-silicon\4\......  B97, alloys A, B, and C....  0.051 (AWG 16)....  0.064 (AWG 14)....  0.144 (AWG 7)     
Steel or iron\5\,\6\...  ...........................  0.0747 (MSG 14)...  0.1046 (MSG 12)...  0.1793 (MSG 7)    
Aluminum\7\............  B209, alloy 5052, 5083,      0.250 (USSG 3)....  0.250 (USSG 3)....  0.250 (USSG 3)    
                          5086.                                                                                 
Fiber reinforced         ...........................  As required\8\....  As required\8\....  As required\8\    
 plastic.                                                                                                       
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\The gage numbers used in this table may be found in many standard engineering reference books. The letters   
  ``USSG'' stand for ``U.S. Standard Gage,'' which was established by the Act of March 3, 1892 (15 U.S.C. 206), 
  for sheet and plate iron and steel. The letters ``AWG'' stand for ``American Wire Gage'' (or Brown and Sharpe 
  Gage) for noferrous sheet thicknesses. The letters ``MSG'' stand for ``Manufacturers' Standard Gage'' for     
  sheet steel thickness.                                                                                        
\2\Tanks over 400 gallons shall be designed with a factor of safety of four on the ultimate strength of the     
  material used with a design head of not less than 4 feet of liquid above the top of the tank.                 
\3\Nickel-copper not less than 0.031 inch (USSG 22) may be used for tanks up to 30-gallon capacity.             
\4\Acceptable only for gasoline service.                                                                        
\5\Gasoline fuel tanks constructed of iron or steel, which are less than \3/16\ inch thick, shall be galvanized 
  inside and outside by the hot dip process. Tanks intended for use with diesel oil shall not be internally     
  galvanized.                                                                                                   
\6\Stainless steel tanks are not included in this category.                                                     
\7\Anodic to most common metals. Avoid dissimilar metal contact with tank body.                                 
\8\The requirements of Sec. 182.440(a)(2) apply.                                                                


    (2) Fiber reinforced plastic may be used for diesel fuel tanks 
under the following provisions:
    (i) The materials must be fire retardant. Flammability of the 
material must be determined by the standard test methods ASTM D635 and 
ASTM D2863. The results of the tests must show that the average extent 
of burning is less than 0.394 inches (10mm), the average time of 
burning is less than 50 seconds, and the limiting oxygen index is 
greater than 21.
    (ii) Tanks must meet UL Standard 1102. Testing may be accomplished 
by an independent laboratory or by the fabricator to the satisfaction 
of the OCMI.
    (iii) Tanks must be designed to withstand the maximum head to which 
they may be subjected to in service.
    (iv) Installation of nozzles, flanges or other fittings for pipe 
connections to the tanks must be acceptable to the cognizant OCMI.
    (v) Baffle plates, if installed, must be of the same material and 
not less than the minimum thickness of the tank walls. Limber holes at 
the bottom and air holes at the top of all baffles must be provided. 
Baffle plates must be installed at the time the tests required by UL 
Standard 1102 are conducted.
    (3) Materials other than those listed in Table 182.440(a)(1) must 
be approved by the Commandant. An independent tank using material 
approved by the Commandant under this paragraph must meet the testing 
requirements of UL Standard 1102. Testing may be accomplished by an 
independent laboratory or by the fabricator to the satisfaction of the 
OCMI.
    (4) Tanks with flanged-up top edges which may trap and hold 
moisture are prohibited.
    (5) Openings for fill pipes, vent pipes, and machinery fuel supply 
pipes, and openings for fuel level gauges, where used, must be on the 
topmost surfaces of tanks. Tanks may not have any openings in bottoms, 
sides, or ends, except for:
    (i) An opening fitted with a threaded plug or cap installed for 
tank cleaning purposes; and
    (ii) In a diesel fuel tank, openings for supply piping and tubular 
gauge glasses.
    (6) All tank joints must be welded or brazed. Lap joints may not be 
used.
    (7) Nozzles, flanges, or other fittings for pipe connections to a 
metal tank must be welded or brazed to the tank. Tank openings in way 
of pipe connections must be properly reinforced where necessary. Where 
fuel level gauges are used on a metal tank, the flanges to which gauge 
fittings are attached must be welded or brazed to the tank. No tubular 
gauge glasses may be fitted to gasoline fuel tanks. Tubular gauge 
glasses, if fitted to diesel fuel tanks, must be of heat resistant 
materials, adequately protected from mechanical damage, and provided at 
the tank connections with devices which will automatically close in the 
event of rupture of the gauge or gauge lines.
    (8) A metal tank exceeding 30 inches in any horizontal dimension 
must:
    (i) Be fitted with vertical baffle plates, which meet paragraph 
(a)(9) of this section, at intervals not exceeding 30 inches to provide 
strength and to control the excessive surge of fuel; or
    (ii) The owner shall submit calculations to the cognizant OCMI 
demonstrating the structural adequacy of the tank in a fully loaded 
static condition and in a worst case dynamic (sloshing) condition.
    (9) Baffle plates, where required in metal tanks, must be of the 
same material and not less than the minimum thickness required in the 
tank walls and must be connected to the tank walls by welding or 
brazing. Limber holes at the bottom and air holes at the top of all 
baffles must be provided.
    (10) Iron or steel diesel fuel tanks must not be galvanized on the 
interior. Galvanizing, paint, or other suitable coating must be used to 
protect the outside of iron and steel diesel fuel tanks and the inside 
and outside of iron and steel gasoline fuel tanks.
    (b) Location and installation. Independent fuel tanks must be 
located and installed in compliance with the requirements of this 
paragraph.
    (1) Fuel tanks must be located in, or as close as practicable to, 
machinery spaces.
    (2) Fuel tanks and fittings must be so installed as to permit 
examination, testing, or removal for cleaning with minimum disturbance 
to the hull structure.
    (3) Fuel tanks must be adequately supported and braced to prevent 
movement. The supports and braces must be insulated from contact with 
the tank surfaces with a nonabrasive and nonabsorbent material.
    (4) All fuel tanks must be electrically bonded to a common ground.
    (c) Tests. Independent fuel tanks must be tested in compliance with 
the requirements of this part prior to being used to carry fuel.
    (1) Prior to installation, tanks vented to the atmosphere must be 
hydrostatically tested to, and must withstand, a pressure of 5 pounds 
per square inch or 1\1/2\ times the maximum pressure head to which they 
may be subjected in service, whichever is greater. A standpipe of 11\1/
2\ feet in height attached to the tank may be filled with water to 
accomplish the 5 pounds per square inch test. Permanent deformation of 
the tank will not be cause for rejection unless accompanied by leakage.
    (2) After installation of the fuel tank on a vessel, the complete 
installation must be tested in the presence of a marine inspector to a 
head not less than that to which the tank may be subjected in service. 
Fuel may be used as the testing medium.
    (3) All tanks not vented to the atmosphere must be constructed and 
tested in accordance with Sec. 182.330.
    (d) Alternative procedures. A vessel of not more than 65 feet in 
length carrying not more than 12 passengers, with independent gasoline 
fuel tanks built in accordance with ABYC Project H-24 or 33 CFR part 
183, subpart J, or with independent diesel fuel tanks built in 
accordance with ABYC Project H-33, will be considered as meeting the 
requirements of this section. However, tanks must not be fabricated 
from any material not listed in table 182.440(a)(1) without approval by 
the Commandant under paragraph (a)(3) of this section.


Sec. 182.445  Fill and sounding pipes for fuel tanks.

    (a) Fill pipes for fuel tanks must be not less than 1\1/2\ inches 
nominal pipe size.
    (b) There must be a means of accurately determining the amount of 
fuel in each fuel tank either by sounding, through a separate sounding 
pipe or a fill pipe, or by an installed marine type fuel gauge.
    (c) Where sounding pipes are used, their openings must be at least 
as high as the opening of the fill pipe and they must be kept closed at 
all times except during sounding.
    (d) Fill pipes and sounding pipes must be so arranged that overflow 
of liquid or vapor cannot escape to the inside of the vessel.
    (e) Fill pipes and sounding pipes must run as directly as possible, 
preferably in a straight line, from the deck connection to the top of 
the tank. Such pipes must terminate on the weather deck and must be 
fitted with shutoff valves, watertight deck plates, or screw caps, 
suitably marked for identification. Gasoline fill pipes and sounding 
pipes must extend to within one half of their diameter from the bottom 
of the tank. Diesel fill pipes and sounding pipes may terminate at the 
top of the tank.
    (f) A vessel of not more than 65 feet carrying not more than 12 
passengers, with a gasoline fuel system built in accordance with ABYC 
Project H-24 or 33 CFR part 183, subpart J, or with a diesel fuel 
system built in accordance with ABYC Project H-33 will be considered as 
meeting the requirements of this section.
    (g) Where a flexible fill pipe section is necessary, suitable 
flexible tubing or hose having high resistance to salt water, petroleum 
oils, heat and vibration, may be used. Such hose must overlap metallic 
pipe ends at least 1\1/2\ times the pipe diameter and must be secured 
at each end by clamps. The flexible section must be accessible and as 
near the upper end of the fill pipe as practicable. When the flexible 
section is a nonconductor of electricity, the metallic sections of the 
fill pipe separated thereby must be joined by a conductor for 
protection against generation of a static charge when filling with 
fuel.


Sec. 182.450  Vent pipes for fuel tanks.

    (a) Each unpressurized fuel tank must be fitted with a vent pipe 
connected to the highest point of the tank.
    (b) The net cross sectional area of the vent pipe for a gasoline 
fuel tank must not be less than that of \3/4\ inch O.D. tubing (0.035 
inch wall thickness, 20 gauge), except that, where the tank is filled 
under pressure, the net cross sectional area of the vent pipe must be 
not less than that of the fill pipe.
    (c) The minimum net cross sectional area of the vent pipe for 
diesel fuel tanks must be as follows:
    (1) Not less than the cross sectional area of \5/8\ inch O.D. 
tubing (0.035-inch wall thickness, 20 gauge), if the fill pipe 
terminates at the top of the tank;
    (2) Not less than the cross sectional area of \3/4\ inch O.D. 
tubing (0.035-inch wall thickness, 20 gauge), if the fill pipe extends 
into the tank; and
    (3) Not less than the cross sectional area of the fill pipe if the 
tank is filled under pressure.
    (d) The discharge ends of fuel tank vent pipes must terminate on 
the hull exterior as high above the waterline as practicable and remote 
from any hull openings, or they must terminate in U-bends as high above 
the weather deck as practicable and as far as practicable from openings 
into any enclosed spaces. Vent pipes terminating on the hull exterior 
must be installed or equipped to prevent the accidental contamination 
of the fuel by water under normal operating conditions.
    (e) The discharge ends of fuel tank vent pipes must be fitted with 
removable flame screens or flame arresters. The flame screens must 
consist of a single screen of corrosion resistant wire of at least 
30 x 30 mesh. The flame screens or flame arresters must be of such size 
and design as to prevent reduction in the net cross sectional area of 
the vent pipe and permit cleaning or renewal of the flame screens or 
arrester elements.
    (f) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying not more 
than 12 passengers, with fuel gasoline tank vents built in accordance 
with ABYC Project H-24, or 33 CFR part 183, subpart J, or with diesel 
fuel tank vents built in accordance with ABYC Project H-33, will be 
considered as meeting the requirements of this section.
    (g) Where a flexible vent pipe section is necessary, suitable 
flexible tubing or hose having high resistance to salt water, petroleum 
oils, heat and vibration, may be used. Such hose must overlap metallic 
pipe ends at least 1\1/2\ times the pipe diameter and must be secured 
at each end by clamps. The flexible section must be accessible and as 
near the upper end of the vent pipe as practicable.


Sec. 182.455  Fuel piping.

    (a) Materials and workmanship. The materials and construction of 
fuel lines, including pipe, tube, and hose, must comply with the 
requirements of this paragraph.
    (1) Fuel lines must be annealed tubing of copper, nickel-copper, or 
copper-nickel having a minimum wall thickness of 0.035 inch except 
that:
    (i) Diesel fuel piping of other materials, such as seamless steel 
pipe or tubing, which provide equivalent safety may be used;
    (ii) Diesel fuel piping of aluminum is acceptable on aluminum hull 
vessels provided it is installed outside the machinery space and is a 
minimum of Schedule 80 wall thickness; and
    (iii) When used, flexible hose must meet the requirements of 
Sec. 182.720(e).
    (2) Tubing connections and fittings must be of nonferrous drawn or 
forged metal of the flared type except that flareless fittings of the 
non-bite type may be used when the tubing system is of nickel-copper or 
copper-nickel. When making tube connections, the tubing must be cut 
square and flared by suitable tools. Tube ends must be annealed before 
flaring.
    (3) Cocks are prohibited except for the solid bottom type with 
tapered plugs and union bonnets.
    (4) Valves for gasoline fuel lines must be of a suitable nonferrous 
type.
    (b) Installation. The installation of fuel lines, including pipe, 
tube, and hose, must comply with the requirements of this paragraph.
    (1) Gasoline fuel lines must be connected at the top of the fuel 
tank and run at or above the level of the tank top to a point as close 
to the engine connection as practicable, except that lines below the 
level of the tank top are permitted if equipped with anti-siphon 
protection.
    (2) Diesel fuel lines may be connected to the fuel tank at or near 
the bottom of the tank.
    (3) Fuel lines must be accessible, protected from mechanical 
injury, and effectively secured against excessive movement and 
vibration by the use of soft nonferrous metal straps which have no 
sharp edges and are insulated to protect against corrosion. Where 
passing through bulkheads, fuel lines must be protected by close 
fitting ferrules or stuffing boxes. All fuel lines and fittings must be 
accessible for inspection.
    (4) Shutoff valves, installed so as to close against the fuel flow, 
must be fitted in the fuel supply lines, one at the tank connection and 
one at the engine end of the fuel line to stop fuel flow when servicing 
accessories. The shutoff valve at the tank must be manually operable 
from outside the compartment in which the valve is located, preferably 
from an accessible position on the weather deck. If the shutoff valve 
at the tank is located inside the Engine Room, it must be located so 
that the operator does not have to reach more than 12'' into the Engine 
Room and the valve must be shielded from flames by the same material 
the hull is constructed of, or some noncombustible material. Electric 
solenoid valves must not be used, unless used in addition to the manual 
valve.
    (5) A loop of copper tubing or a short length of flexible hose must 
be installed in the fuel supply line at or near the engines. The 
flexible hose must meet the requirements of Sec. 182.720(e).
    (6) A suitable metal marine type strainer, meeting the requirements 
of the engine manufacturer, must be fitted in the fuel supply line in 
the engine compartment. Strainers must be leak free. Strainers must be 
of the type opening on top for cleaning screens. A drip pan fitted with 
flame screen must be installed under gasoline strainers. Fuel filter 
and strainer bowls must be highly resistant to shattering due to 
mechanical impact and resistant to failure due to thermal shock. Fuel 
filters fitted with bowls of other than steel construction must be 
approved by the Commandant and be protected from mechanical damage. 
Approval of bowls of other than steel construction will specify if a 
flame shield is required.
    (7) All accessories installed in the fuel line must be 
independently supported.
    (8) Outlets in gasoline fuel lines which would permit drawing fuel 
below deck, for any purpose, are prohibited.
    (9) Valves for removing water or impurities from diesel fuel in 
water traps or strainers are permitted. These valves must be provided 
with caps or plugs to prevent fuel leakage.
    (c) Alternative procedures. A vessel of not more than 65 feet 
carrying not more than 12 passengers, with machinery powered by 
gasoline and a fuel system built in accordance with ABYC Project H-24 
or 33 CFR part 183, subpart J, or with machinery powered by diesel fuel 
and a fuel system built in accordance with ABYC Project H-33, will be 
considered as meeting the requirements of this section.


Sec. 182.458  Portable fuel systems.

    (a) Portable fuel systems, including portable tanks and related 
fuel lines and accessories, are prohibited except where used for 
outboard motor installations.
    (b) The design, construction and stowage of portable tanks and 
related fuel lines and accessories must meet the requirements of ABYC 
Project H-25, ``Portable Fuel Systems for Flammable Liquids.''


Sec. 182.460  Ventilation of spaces containing machinery powered by, or 
fuel tanks for, gasoline.

    (a) A space containing machinery powered by, or fuel tanks for, 
gasoline must have a ventilation system which complies with this 
section and consists of:
    (1) For an enclosed space:
    (i) At least two natural ventilation supply ducts located at one 
end of the space and which extend to the lowest part of the space or to 
the bilge on each side of the space; and
    (ii) A mechanical exhaust system consisting of at least two 
ventilation exhaust ducts located at the end of the space opposite from 
where the supply ducts are fitted, which extend to the lowest part or 
the bilge of the space on each side of the space, and which are led to 
one or more powered exhaust blowers; and
    (2) For a partially enclosed space, at least one ventilation duct 
installed in the forward part of the space and one ventilation duct 
installed in the after part of the space, or as otherwise required by 
the cognizant OCMI. Ducts for partially enclosed spaces must have cowls 
or scoops as required by paragraph (i) of this section.
    (b) A mechanical exhaust system required by paragraph (a)(1)(ii) of 
this section must be such as to assure the air changes as noted in 
Table 182.460(b) depending upon the size of the space. 

                           Table.--182.460(b)                           
------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Size of space in cubic feet                                
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Over................................................  Not over   Minutes
                                                                 per air
                                                                  change
0...................................................       500         2
500.................................................     1,000         3
1,000...............................................     1,500         4
1,500...............................................  ........         5
------------------------------------------------------------------------


    (c) An exhaust blower motor may not be installed in a duct, and if 
mounted in any space required to be ventilated by this section, must be 
located as high above the bilge as practicable. Blower blades must be 
nonsparking with reference to their housings.
    (d) Where a fixed gas fire extinguishing system is installed in a 
space, all powered exhaust blowers for the space must automatically 
shut down upon release of the extinguishing agent.
    (e) Exhaust blower switches must be located outside of any space 
required to be ventilated by this section, and must be of the type 
interlocked with the starting switch and the ignition switch so that 
the blowers are started before the engine starter motor circuit or the 
engine ignition is energized. A red warning sign at the switch must 
state that the blowers must be operated prior to starting the engines 
for the time sufficient to insure at least one complete change of air 
in the space served.
    (f) The area of the ventilation ducts must be sufficient to limit 
the air velocity to a maximum of 2,000 feet per minute. A duct may be 
of any shape, provided that in no case will one cross sectional 
dimension exceed twice the other.
    (g) A duct must be so installed that ordinary collection of water 
in the bilge will not block vapor flow.
    (h) A duct must be of rigid permanent construction, which does not 
allow any appreciable vapor flow except through normal openings, and 
made of the same material as the hull or of noncombustible material. 
The duct must lead as directly as possible from its intake opening to 
its terminus and be securely fastened and supported.
    (i) A supply duct must be provided at its intake opening with a 
cowl or scoop having a free area not less than twice the required duct 
area. When the cowl or scoop is screened, the mouth area must be 
increased to compensate for the area of the screen wire. A cowl or 
scoop must be kept open at all times except when the weather is such as 
to endanger the vessel if the openings are not temporarily closed.
    (j) Dampers may not be fitted in a supply duct.
    (k) A duct opening may not be located where the natural flow of air 
is unduly obstructed, adjacent to possible sources of vapor ignition, 
or where exhaust air may be taken into a supply duct.
    (l) Provision must be made for closing all supply duct cowls or 
scoops and exhaust duct discharge openings for a space protected by a 
fixed gas extinguishing system. All closure devices must be readily 
available and mounted in the vicinity of the vent.
    (m) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying not more 
than 12 passengers, with ventilation installations in accordance with 
ABYC Project H-2, ``Ventilation of Boats Using Gasoline,'' or 33 CFR 
part 183, subpart K, ``Ventilation,'' will be considered as meeting the 
requirements of this section.


Sec. 182.465  Ventilation of spaces containing diesel machinery.

    (a) A space containing diesel machinery must be fitted with 
adequate means such as dripproof ventilators, ducts, or louvers, to 
provide sufficient air for proper operation of main engines and 
auxiliary engines.
    (b) Air-cooled propulsion and auxiliary diesel engines installed 
below deck, as permitted by Sec. 182.420, must be fitted with air 
supply ducts or piping from the weather deck. The ducts or piping must 
be so arranged and supported to be capable of safely sustaining 
stresses induced by weight and engine vibration and to minimize 
transfer of vibration to the supporting structure. Prior to 
installation of ventilation system for such engines, plans or sketches 
showing machinery arrangement including air supplies, exhaust stack, 
method of attachment of ventilation ducts to the engine, location of 
spark arresting mufflers and capacity of ventilation blowers must be 
submitted to the cognizant OCMI for approval.
    (c) A space containing diesel machinery must be fitted with at 
least two ducts to furnish natural or powered supply and exhaust 
ventilation. One duct must extend to a point near the bottom of the 
space, and be so installed that the ordinary collection of water in the 
bilge will not block air flow in the duct. Where powered ventilation is 
installed, the duct extending near the bottom of the space must be the 
exhaust. The total inlet area and the total outlet area of each 
ventilation duct may not be less than one square inch for each foot of 
beam of the vessel. These minimum areas must be increased as necessary 
when the ducts are considered as part of the air supply to the engines.
    (d) A duct must be of rigid permanent construction, which does not 
allow any appreciable vapor flow except through normal openings, and 
made of the same material as the hull or of noncombustible material. 
The duct must lead as directly as possible from its intake opening to 
its terminus and be securely fastened and supported.
    (e) A supply duct must be provided with a cowl or scoop having a 
free area not less than twice the required duct area. When the cowl or 
scoop is screened, the mouth area must be increased to compensate for 
the area of the screen wire. A cowl or scoop must be kept open at all 
times except when the weather is such as to endanger the vessel if the 
openings are not temporarily closed.
    (f) Dampers may not be fitted in a supply duct.
    (g) A duct opening may not be located where the natural flow of air 
is unduly obstructed, adjacent to possible sources of vapor ignition, 
or where exhaust air may be taken into a supply duct.
    (h) Provision must be made for closing all supply duct cowls or 
scoops and exhaust duct discharge openings for a space protected by a 
fixed gas extinguishing system. All closure devices must be readily 
available and mounted in the vicinity of the vent.
    (i) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying not more 
than 12 passengers, with ventilation installations in accordance with 
ABYC Project H-32, ``Ventilation of Boats Using Diesel Fuel,'' will be 
considered as meeting the requirements of this section.


Sec. 182.470  Ventilation of spaces containing diesel fuel tanks.

    (a) Unless provided with ventilation which complies with 
Sec. 182.465, a space containing a diesel fuel tank and no machinery 
must meet the requirements of this paragraph.
    (1) A space of 500 cubic feet or more in volume must have a 
gooseneck vent of not less than 2\1/2\ inches in diameter.
    (2) A space of less than 500 cubic feet in volume must have a 
gooseneck vent of not less than 1\1/2\ inches in diameter.
    (b) Vent openings may not be located adjacent to possible sources 
of vapor ignition.
    (c) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying not more 
than 12 passengers, with ventilation installations in accordance with 
ABYC Project H-32, ``Ventilation of Boats Using Diesel Fuel,'' will be 
considered as meeting the requirements of this section.


Sec. 182.480  Flammable vapor detection systems.

    (a) A flammable vapor detection system must meet UL Standard 1110 
and be approved by an independent laboratory.
    (b) Procedures for checking the proper operation of a flammable 
vapor detection system must be posted at the primary operating station. 
The system must be self-monitoring and include a ground fault 
indication alarm.
    (c) A flammable vapor detection system must be operational for 30 
seconds prior to engine startup and continue sensing the entire time 
the engine is running.
    (d) A flammable vapor detection system must provide a visual and 
audible alarm at the operating station.
    (e) A sensor must be located above the expected bilge water level 
in the following locations:
    (1) The lowest part of a machinery space;
    (2) The lowest part of a space containing a fuel tank when separate 
from the machinery space; and
    (3) Any other location when required by the cognizant Officer in 
Charge, Marine Inspection.
    (f) A flammable vapor detection system must be installed so as to 
permit calibration in a vapor free atmosphere.
    (g) Electrical connections, wiring, and components for a flammable 
vapor detection system must comply with part 183 of this subchapter.
    (h) An operation and maintenance manual for the flammable vapor 
detection system must be kept onboard.

Subpart E--Bilge and Ballast Systems


Sec. 182.500  General.

    (a) A vessel must be provided with a satisfactory arrangement for 
draining any watertight compartment, other than small buoyancy 
compartments, under all practicable conditions. Sluice valves are not 
permitted in watertight bulkheads.
    (b) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying not more 
than 12 passengers may meet the requirements of American Boat and Yacht 
Council Project H-22 in lieu of the requirements of this subpart, 
provided that each watertight compartment, other than small buoyancy 
compartments and the compartment forward of the collision bulkhead, is 
provided with a means for dewatering.
    (c) Special consideration may be given to vessels, such as 
dynamically supported craft, that have a high degree of subdivision and 
utilize numerous small buoyancy compartments. Where the probability of 
flooding of the space is limited to external hull damage, compartment 
drainage may be omitted provided it can be shown by stability 
calculations, submitted to the cognizant OCMI, that the safety of the 
vessel will not be impaired.


Sec. 182.510  Bilge piping system.

    (a) A vessel of at least 26 feet in length must be provided with 
individual bilge lines and bilge suctions for each watertight 
compartment, except that the space forward of the collision bulkhead 
need not be fitted with a bilge suction line when the arrangement of 
the vessel is such that ordinary leakage may be removed from this 
compartment by the use of a hand portable bilge pump or other 
equipment, and such equipment is provided.
    (b) A bilge pipe in a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length 
must be not less than 1 inch nominal pipe size. A bilge pipe in a 
vessel of more than 65 feet in length must be not less than 1\1/2\ 
inches nominal pipe size. A bilge suction must be fitted with a 
suitable strainer having an open area not less than three times the 
area of the bilge pipe.
    (c) Except when individual pumps are provided for separate spaces, 
individual bilge suction lines must be led to a central control point 
or manifold and provided with a stop valve at the control point or 
manifold and a check valve at some accessible point in the bilge line. 
A stop-check valve located at a control point or manifold will meet the 
requirements for both a stop valve and a check valve.
    (d) A bilge pipe piercing the collision bulkhead must be fitted 
with a screw-down valve located on the forward side of the collision 
bulkhead and operable from the weather deck, or, if it is readily 
accessible under service conditions, a screw-down valve without a reach 
rod may be fitted to the bilge line on the after side of the collision 
bulkhead.


Sec. 182.520  Bilge pumps.

    (a) A vessel must be provided with bilge pumps in accordance with 
Table 182.520(a). A second power pump is an acceptable alternative to a 
hand pump if it is supplied by a source of power independent of the 
first power bilge pump. Individual power pumps used for separate spaces 
are to be controlled from a central control point and must have a light 
or other visual means at the control point to indicate operation. 

                           Table.--182.520(a)                           
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                        Minimum capacity
    Number of                            Bilge pumps      required per  
   passengers      Length of vessel       required       pump (gal. per 
                                                            minutes)    
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Any number.......  More than 65 feet  2 fixed power     50 GPM.         
                                       pumps.                           
More than 49       Not more than 65   1 fixed power     25 GPM (power); 
 passengers and     feet.              pump and 1        10 GPM (hand). 
 all ferry                             portable hand                    
 vessels.                              pump.                            
Not more than 49   26 feet up to 65   1 fixed power     10 GPM (fixed   
 passengers         feet.              pump and 1        power); 10 GPM 
 (other than                           portable hand     (fixed hand); 5
 ferry vessels).                       pump, or 1        GPM (portable  
                                       fixed hand pump   hand).         
                                       and 1 portable                   
                                       hand pump.                       
.................  Less than 26 feet  1 portable hand   5 GPM.          
                                       pump.                            
------------------------------------------------------------------------


    (b) A portable hand bilge pump must be:
    (1) Capable of pumping water, but not necessarily simultaneously, 
from all watertight compartments; and
    (2) Provided with suitable suction and discharge hoses capable of 
reaching the bilges of each watertight compartment.
    (c) Each fixed power bilge pump must be self priming. It may be 
driven off the main engine or other source of power. It must be 
permanently connected to the bilge manifold and may also be connected 
to the fire main. If of sufficient capacity, a power bilge pump may 
also serve as a fire pump.
    (d) Where two fixed power bilge pumps are installed, they must be 
driven by different sources of power. If one pump is driven off the 
main engine in a single propulsion engine installation, the other must 
be independently driven. In a twin propulsion engine installation, each 
pump may be driven off a different propulsion engine.
    (e) A submersible electric bilge pump may be used as a power bilge 
pump required by Table 182.520(a) only on a vessel of not more than 65 
feet in length carrying not more than 49 passengers, other than a 
ferry, provided that:
    (1) The pump is listed by Underwriters Laboratories Inc. or another 
independent laboratory;
    (2) The pump is used to dewater not more than one watertight 
compartment;
    (3) The pump is permanently mounted;
    (4) The pump is equipped with a strainer which can be readily 
inspected and cleaned without removal;
    (5) The pump discharge line is suitably supported; if flexible hose 
is used, the hose does not penetrate any required watertight bulkheads;
    (6) The opening in the hull for the pump discharge is placed as 
high above the waterline as possible; and
    (7) A positive shutoff valve is installed at the hull penetration.
    (8) The capacity of the electrical system, including wiring, and 
size and number of batteries, is designed to allow all bilge pumps to 
be operated simultaneously.
    (f) A flexible tube or hose may be used instead of fixed pipe for 
the discharge line of a submersible electric bilge pump provided the 
hose or tube does not penetrate any required watertight bulkheads and 
is:
    (1) Of good quality and of substantial construction, suitable for 
the intended use; and
    (2) Highly resistant to salt water, petroleum oil, heat, and 
vibration.
    (g) If a fixed hand pump is used to comply with Table 182.520(a), 
it must be permanently connected to the bilge system.
    (h) On a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length, a power driven 
fire pump required by Sec. 181.300 of this subchapter may serve as a 
fixed power bilge pump required by this subpart, provided it has the 
minimum flow rate required by Table 182.520(a).
    (i) On a vessel of more than 65 feet in length, a power driven fire 
pump required by Sec. 181.300 of this subchapter may serve as one of 
the two fixed power bilge pumps required by this subpart, provided:
    (1) The bilge and fire pump systems are interconnected;
    (2) The dedicated bilge pump is capable of pumping the bilges at 
the same time the fire/bilge pump charges the firemain; and
    (3) Stop valves and check valves are installed in the piping to 
isolate the systems during simultaneous operation and prevent possible 
flooding through the bilge system.
    (j) A catamaran vessel must be equipped with bilge pumps for each 
hull, as if each hull is a separate vessel, in accordance with Table 
182.520(a), except where:
    (1) One dedicated pump is located in each hull;
    (2) Each dedicated pump is driven by an independent source of 
power; and
    (3) The bilge system is permanently cross connected between hulls.


Sec. 182.530  Bilge level alarms.

    (a) On a vessel of at least 26 feet in length, a visual and audible 
alarm must be provided at the operating station to indicate high bilge 
level in all normally unattended machinery spaces located below the 
deepest load waterline.
    (b) A visual indicator must be provided at the operating station to 
indicate when any automatic bilge pump is operating.


Sec. 182.540  Ballast systems.

    (a) Ballast piping must not be installed in any compartment 
integral with the hull of a wooden vessel. Where the carriage of liquid 
ballast in such a vessel is necessary, suitable ballast tanks, 
structurally independent of the hull, must be provided.
    (b) Solid and water ballast must comply with the requirements of 
part 178 of this subchapter.

Subpart F--Steering Systems


Sec. 182.600  General.

    A self-propelled vessel must comply with the provisions of this 
subpart.


Sec. 182.610  Main steering gear.

    (a) A vessel must be provided with a main steering gear that is:
    (1) Of adequate strength and capable of steering the vessel at all 
service speeds;
    (2) Designed to operate at maximum astern speed without being 
damaged or jammed; and
    (3) Capable of moving the rudder from 35 degrees on one side to 30 
degrees on the other side in not more than 28 seconds with the vessel 
moving ahead at maximum service speed.
    (b) Control of the main steering gear, including control of any 
necessary associated devices (motor, pump, valve, etc.), must be 
provided from the operating station.
    (c) The main steering gear must be designed so that transfer from 
the main steering gear or control to the auxiliary means of steering 
required by Sec. 182.620 can be achieved rapidly. Any tools or 
equipment necessary to make the transfer must be readily available.
    (d) The operating station must be arranged to permit the person 
steering to have the best possible all around vision.
    (e) Strong and effective rudder stops must be provided to prevent 
jamming and damage to the rudder and its fittings. These stops may be 
structural or internal to the main steering gear.
    (f) In addition to meeting the requirements of paragraphs (a) thru 
(e) of this section, a vessel with a power driven main steering gear 
must be provided with the following:
    (1) A visual means, located at the operating station, to indicate 
operation of the power units;
    (2) Instructions for transfer procedures from the main steering 
gear or control to the auxiliary means of steering required by 
Sec. 182.620, posted at the location where the transfer is carried out;
    (3) A disconnect switch located in the steering compartment, and 
instantaneous short circuit protection for electrical power and control 
circuits sized and located in accordance with Secs. 111.93-11 (d) and 
(e) of this chapter. Overload protection is prohibited;
    (4) An independent rudder angle indicator at the operating station;
    (5) An arrangement that automatically resumes operation, without 
reset, when power is restored after a power failure;
    (6) A manual means to center and steady the rudder(s) in an 
emergency;
    (7) A limit switch to stop the steering gear before it reaches the 
rudder stops required by paragraph (e) of this section.


Sec. 182.620  Auxiliary means of steering.

    (a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, a vessel 
must be provided with an auxiliary means of steering that is:
    (1) Of adequate strength;
    (2) Capable of moving the rudder from 15 degrees on one side to 15 
degrees on the other side in not more than 60 seconds with the vessel 
at one-half its maximum service speed ahead, or 7 knots, whichever is 
greater; and
    (3) Controlled from a location that permits safe maneuvering of the 
vessel and does not expose the person operating the auxiliary means of 
steering to personnel hazards during normal or heavy weather operation.
    (b) A suitable hand tiller may be acceptable as the auxiliary means 
of steering where satisfactory to the Officer in Charge, Marine 
Inspection.
    (c) An auxiliary means of steering need not be provided if:
    (1) The main steering gear and its controls are provided in 
duplicate;
    (2) Multiple screw propulsion, with independent pilothouse control 
for each screw, is provided, and the vessel is capable of being steered 
using pilothouse control;
    (3) No regular rudder is fitted and steering action is obtained by 
a change of setting of the propelling unit; or
    (4) Where a rudder and hand tiller are the main steering gear.

Subpart G--Piping Systems


Sec. 182.700  General.

    Materials used in piping systems must meet the requirements of this 
subpart and be otherwise acceptable to the Officer in Charge, Marine 
Inspection.


Sec. 182.710  Piping for vital systems.

    (a) Vital systems are those systems which are vital to a vessel's 
survivability and safety. For the purpose of this part the following 
are vital systems:
    (1) Fuel system;
    (2) Fire main;
    (3) CO2 and Halon systems;
    (4) Bilge system;
    (5) Steering system;
    (6) Propulsion system and its necessary auxiliaries and controls;
    (7) Ship's service and emergency electrical generation system and 
its necessary auxiliaries; and
    (8) A marine engineering system identified by the cognizant OCMI as 
being crucial to the survival of the vessel or to the protection of the 
personnel on board.
    (b) For the purpose of this part, a system not identified in 
paragraph (a) of this section is a non-vital system.
    (c) Piping used in a vital system must:
    (1) Be composed of ferrous materials except when:
    (i) Nonmetallic piping materials are permitted by Sec. 182.720; or
    (ii) Nonferrous metallic piping materials are permitted by 
Sec. 182.730; and
    (2) If subject to a pressure of more than 150 psi, be designed, 
fabricated, and inspected in accordance with the principles of ANSI 
B31.1 or another industry standard acceptable to the Commandant.


Sec. 182.715  Piping subject to more than 150 psi in non-vital systems.

    Piping subject to more than 150 psi in a non-vital system must be 
designed, fabricated, and inspected in accordance with the principles 
of ANSI B31.1 or other industry standard acceptable to the Commandant.


Sec. 182.720  Nonmetallic piping materials.

    (a) Rigid nonmetallic materials (plastic) may be used only in non-
vital systems and in accordance with paragraphs (c) and (d) of this 
section.
    (b) Flexible nonmetallic materials (hose) may be used in vital and 
non-vital systems where permitted by paragraph (e) of this section.
    (c) Nonmetallic piping must not be used in gasoline or diesel fuel 
systems. Flexible nonmetallic materials (hose) may be used where 
permitted by paragraph (e) of this section.
    (d) Where rigid nonmetallic material (plastic) is permitted for use 
in piping systems by this section, the following restrictions apply:
    (1) Penetrations of required watertight decks and bulkheads by any 
rigid plastic pipe are prohibited unless the following requirements are 
met:
    (i) Each penetration must be accomplished using an acceptable 
metallic through deck or through bulkhead fitting which is welded or 
otherwise attached to the bulkhead or deck by an accepted method; and
    (ii) One or more metallic shutoff valves must be installed adjacent 
to the fitting in one of the following ways:
    (A) Only one metallic shutoff valve must be installed if it is 
operable from above the bulkhead deck;
    (B) If two metallic shutoff valves are installed, one on either 
side of the bulkhead, they need not be operable from above the bulkhead 
deck provided immediate access to both is possible; or
    (C) Where both plastic and metallic materials are used in piping 
which penetrates a bulkhead, and the two materials exist entirely on 
opposite sides of the bulkhead, a metallic shutoff valve must be 
installed at the bulkhead in the metallic part of the system, with the 
valve being capable of operation from above the bulkhead deck, or 
locally if immediate access is possible;
    (2) Protection from mechanical damage must be specifically 
considered and all protective covering or shields must be installed to 
the satisfaction of the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection;
    (3) Through hull fittings and shutoff valves must be metallic. In 
the case of nonmetallic hulls, materials which will afford an equal 
degree of safety and heat resistivity as that afforded by the hull may 
be approved; and
    (4) The material specification must show that the rigid nonmetallic 
material possesses characteristics adequate for its intended service 
and environment and must be approved for use by the Officer in Charge, 
Marine Inspection.
    (e) Where flexible nonmetallic hose is permitted for use in piping 
systems by this section, it must meet SAE Standard J1942 or be 
specifically approved by the Commandant. The following restrictions 
apply.
    (1) Flexible nonmetallic hose must be complete with factory-
assembled end fittings requiring no further adjustment of the fittings 
on the hose, or field attachable type fittings may be used. Hose end 
fittings must comply with SAE J-1475. Field attachable fittings must be 
installed following the manufacturer's recommended practice. If special 
equipment is required, such as crimping machines, it must be of the 
type and design specified by the manufacturer. If field attachable type 
fittings are used, each hose assembly must be individually 
hydrostatically tested to twice the rated pressure stamped thereon;
    (2) Flexible nonmetallic hose may be used in non-vital water and 
pneumatic systems, subject to the limitations of paragraph (d)(1) 
through (d)(4) of this section. Unreinforced hoses are limited to a 
maximum service pressure of 50 psi, reinforced hoses are limited to a 
maximum service pressure of 150 psi; and
    (3) Flexible nonmetallic hose may be used in lube oil, fuel oil and 
fluid power systems, subject to the following requirements:
    (i) Flexible hose may only be used at a pressure not to exceed the 
manufacturer's rating and must have a high resistance to saltwater, 
petroleum oils, and vibration;
    (ii) Flexible hose runs must be visible, easily accessible, and 
must not penetrate watertight bulkheads;
    (iii) Flexible hose must be fabricated with an inner tube and a 
cover of synthetic rubber or other suitable material reinforced with 
wire braid;
    (iv) Flexible hose used for alcohol-gasoline blend fuels must meet 
the permeability requirements specified in 33 CFR part 183, subpart J; 
and
    (v) Flexible hose installed in lengths of not more than 30 inches 
for the purpose of flexibility only, and subject to pressures of not 
more than 5 pounds per square inch, may meet the following 
requirements:
    (A) Suitable compression type connection fittings may be accepted;
    (B) Flexible hose designed for use with hose clamps may be 
installed with two clamps, at both ends of the hose, which:
    (1) Do not rely on the spring tension of the clamp for compressive 
force; and
    (2) Are installed beyond the bead or flare or over the serrations 
of the mating spud, pipe, or hose fitting; and
    (C) USCG Type A1, A2, B1, or B2 flexible hose may be accepted in 
accordance with 33 CFR part 183, subpart J.


Sec. 182.730  Nonferrous metallic piping materials.

    (a) Nonferrous metallic piping materials are acceptable for use in 
the following:
    (1) Non-vital systems;
    (2) Aluminum fuel piping, if of a minimum of schedule 80 wall 
thickness on an aluminum hulled vessel and located outside the 
machinery space;
    (3) Aluminum bilge, ballast, and firemain piping on an aluminum 
hulled vessel;
    (4) If acceptable to the cognizant OCMI, nonferrous metallic piping 
with a melting temperature above 1700 deg.F may be used in vital 
systems that are deemed to be galvanically compatible; and
    (5) Other uses specifically accepted by the cognizant OCMI.
    (b) Where nonferrous metallic material is permitted for use in 
piping systems by this subpart, the restrictions in this paragraph 
apply:
    (1) Provisions must be made to protect piping systems using 
aluminum alloys in high risk fire areas due to the low melting point of 
aluminum alloys;
    (2) Provisions must be made to prevent or mitigate the effect of 
galvanic corrosion due to the relative solution potentials of copper, 
aluminum, and alloys of copper and aluminum, which are used in 
conjunction with each other, steel, or other metals and their alloys;
    (3) A suitable thread compound must be used in making up threaded 
joints in aluminum pipe to prevent seizing. Pipe in the annealed temper 
must not be threaded;
    (4) The use of aluminum alloys with a copper content exceeding 0.6 
percent is prohibited; and
    (5) The use of cast aluminum alloys in hydraulic fluid power 
systems must be in accordance with the requirements of Sec. 58.30-15(f) 
of this chapter.

PART 183--ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec.
183.100  Intent.
183.115  Applicability to existing vessels.
183.130  Alternative standards.

Subpart B--General Requirements

183.200  General design, installation, and maintenance requirements.
183.210  Protection from wet and corrosive environments.
183.220  General safety provisions.

Subpart C--Power Sources and Distribution Systems

183.310  Power sources.
183.320  Generators and motors.
183.322  Multiple generators.
183.324  Dual voltage generators.
183.330  Distribution panels and switchboards.
183.340  Cable and wiring requirements.
183.350  Batteries--general.
183.352  Battery categories.
183.354  Battery installations.
183.360  Semiconductor rectifier systems.
183.370  System and equipment grounding.
183.380  Overcurrent protection.
183.390  Shore power.
183.392  Radiotelephone installations.

Subpart D--Lighting Systems

183.410  Lighting fixtures.
183.420  Navigation lights.
183.430  Portable lights.
183.432  Emergency lighting.

Subpart E--Miscellaneous Systems and Requirements

183.520  Lifeboat winches.
183.530  Hazardous areas.
183.540  Elevators.
183.550  General alarm systems.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 
1980 Comp., p.277; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--General Provisions


Sec. 183.100  Intent.

    This part contains requirements for the design, construction, 
installation, and operation of electrical equipment and systems 
including power sources, lighting, motors, miscellaneous equipment, and 
safety systems.


Sec. 183.115  Applicability to existing vessels.

    (a) Except as otherwise required by paragraphs (b) and (c) of this 
section, an existing vessel must comply with the regulations on 
electrical installations, equipment, and material which were applicable 
to the vessel on [date of the day before the effective date of the 
final rule] or, as an alternative, the vessel may comply with the 
regulations in this part.
    (b) An existing vessel must comply with the requirements of 
Secs. 183.420 and 183.430.
    (c) New installations of electrical equipment and material, and the 
repair or replacement of wire and cable, on an existing vessel, which 
are completed to the satisfaction of the cognizant OCMI on or after 
[effective date of the final rule], must comply with this part. 
Replacement of existing equipment, not including wire or cable, 
installed on the vessel prior to [effective date of the final rule] 
need not comply with the regulations in this part.


Sec. 183.130  Alternative standards.

    (a) A vessel, other than a dynamically supported craft, of not more 
than 65 feet in length carrying not more than 12 passengers, may comply 
with the following requirements instead of complying with the 
requirements of this part in their entirety:
    (1) Sec. 183.420; and
    (2) The following ABYC Projects where applicable:
    (i) E-8;
    (ii) E-9; and
    (iii) A-16.
    (b) A vessel with an electrical installation operating at less than 
50 volts may meet the requirements in 33 CFR 183.430 instead of those 
in Sec. 183.340 of this subchapter.

Subpart B--General Requirements


Sec. 183.200  General design, installation, and maintenance 
requirements.

    Electrical equipment on a vessel must be installed and maintained 
to:
    (a) Provide services necessary for safety under normal and 
emergency conditions;
    (b) Protect passengers, crew, other persons, and the vessel from 
electrical hazards, including fire, caused by or originating in 
electrical equipment, and electrical shock;
    (c) Minimize accidental personnel contact with energized parts; and
    (d) Prevent electrical ignition of flammable vapors.


Sec. 183.210  Protection from wet and corrosive environments.

    (a) Electrical equipment used in the following locations must be 
dripproof:
    (1) A machinery space;
    (2) A location normally exposed to splashing, water washdown, or 
other wet conditions within a galley, a laundry, or a public washroom 
or toilet room that has a bath or shower; or
    (3) Another space with a similar moisture level.
    (b) Electrical equipment exposed to the weather must be watertight.
    (c) Electrical equipment exposed to corrosive environments must be 
of suitable construction and corrosion-resistant.


Sec. 183.220  General safety provisions.

    (a) Electrical equipment and installations must be suitable for the 
roll, pitch, and vibration of the vessel underway.
    (b) All equipment, including switches, fuses, lampholders, etc., 
must be suitable for the voltage and current utilized.
    (c) Receptacle outlets of the type providing a grounded pole or a 
specific direct current polarity must be of a configuration that will 
not permit improper connection.
    (d) All electrical equipment and circuits must be clearly marked 
and identified.
    (e) Any cabinet, panel, box, or other enclosure containing more 
than one source of power must be fitted with a sign warning persons of 
this condition and identifying the circuits to be disconnected.

Subpart C--Power Sources and Distribution Systems


Sec. 183.310  Power sources.

    (a)(1) Each vessel that relies on electricity to power the 
following loads must have at least two sources of electricity for each 
load:
    (i) The vital systems listed in Sec. 182.710 of this subchapter.
    (ii) Interior lighting except for decorative lights.
    (iii) Communication systems including a public address system 
required under Sec. 184.610 of this subchapter.
    (iv) Navigation equipment and lights.
    (2) A vessel with batteries of adequate capacity to supply the 
loads specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, and a generator or 
alternator driven by a propulsion engine, complies with the requirement 
in paragraph (a)(1) of this section.
    (b) Where a ship service generator driven by a propulsion engine is 
used as a source of electrical power, a vessel speed change, throttle 
movement or change in direction of the propeller shaft rotation must 
not interrupt power to any of the loads specified in paragraph (a)(1) 
of this section.


Sec. 183.320  Generators and motors.

    (a) Each generator and motor must be:
    (1) In a location that is accessible, adequately ventilated, and as 
dry as practicable; and
    (2) Mounted above the bilges to avoid damage by splash and to avoid 
contact with low lying vapors.
    (b) Each generator and motor must be designed for an ambient 
temperature of 50 deg.C (122 deg.F) except that:
    (1) If the ambient temperature in the space where a generator or 
motor will be located will not exceed 40 deg.C under normal operating 
conditions, the generator or motor may be designed for an ambient 
temperature of 40 deg.C; and
    (2) A generator or motor designed for 40 deg.C may be used in 
50 deg.C ambient locations provided the generator or motor is derated 
to 80 percent of the full load rating, and the rating or setting of the 
overcurrent devices is reduced accordingly.
    (c) A voltmeter and an ammeter, which can be used for measuring 
voltage and current of a generator that is in operation, must be 
provided for a generator rated at 50 volts or more. For each 
alternating current generator, a means for measuring frequency must 
also be provided. Additional control equipment and measuring 
instruments must be provided, if needed, to ensure satisfactory 
operation of each generator.
    (d) Each generator must have a nameplate attached to it containing 
the information required by Article 445 of the NEC (NFPA 70), and for a 
generator derated in accordance with paragraph (b)(2) of this section, 
the derated capacity.
    (e) Each motor must have a nameplate attached to it containing the 
information required by Article 430 of the NEC (NFPA 70), and for a 
motor derated in accordance with paragraph (b)(2) of this section, the 
derated capacity.


Sec. 183.322  Multiple generators.

    When a vessel is equipped with two or more generators to supply 
ship's service power, the following requirements must be met:
    (a) Each generator must have an independent prime mover; and
    (b) The generator circuit breakers must be interlocked to prevent 
the generators from being simultaneously connected to the switchboard, 
except for the circuit breakers of a generator operated in parallel 
with another generator when the installation meets Secs. 111.05-13, 
111.12-11(f), 111.30-19(a), and 111.30-25(d) of this chapter.


Sec. 183.324  Dual voltage generators.

    When a dual voltage generator is installed on a vessel:
    (a) The neutral of a dual voltage system must be solidly grounded 
at the switchboard's neutral bus and be accessible for checking the 
insulation resistance of the generator to ground before the generator 
is connected to the bus; and
    (b) Ground detection must be provided that:
    (1) For an alternating current system, meets Sec. 111.05-27 of this 
chapter; and
    (2) For a direct current system, meets Sec. 111.05-29 of this 
chapter.


Sec. 183.330  Distribution panels and switchboards.

    (a) Each distribution panel and switchboard must be in as dry a 
location as practicable, accessible, adequately ventilated, and 
protected from falling debris and dripping or splashing water.
    (b) Each distribution panel or switchboard must be totally enclosed 
and of the dead front type.
    (c) Each switchboard must be fitted with a dripshield.
    (d) Distribution panels and switchboards which are accessible from 
the rear must be constructed to prevent a person from accidentally 
contacting energized parts.
    (e) Working space must be provided around all main distribution 
panels and switchboards of at least 24 inches in front of the 
switchboard, and behind the switchboard at least 18 inches from the 
nearest bulkhead, stiffener, or frame, or have no rear access.
    (f) Nonconducting mats or grating must be provided on the deck in 
front of each switchboard and, if accessible from the rear, on the deck 
in the rear of the switchboard.
    (g) All uninsulated current carrying parts must be mounted on 
noncombustible, nonabsorbent, high dielectric insulating material.
    (h) Equipment mounted on a hinged door of an enclosure must be 
constructed or shielded so that a person will not accidentally contact 
energized parts of the door mounted equipment when the door is open and 
the circuit energized.
    (i) In the design of a control, interlock, or indicator circuit, 
all practicable steps must be taken to eliminate all but one source of 
potential in an enclosure. If the control functions make it 
impracticable to energize the control, interlock or indicator circuit 
from the load side of a motor and control disconnect device, each 
conductor of such a circuit, except those vital circuits identified in 
Sec. 182.710 of this subchapter, must be disconnected from all sources 
of potential by a disconnect device actuated by the opening of the 
controller door. The disconnect device and its connections, including 
each terminal block for terminating the vessel's wiring, must not have 
any electrically unshielded or uninsulated surfaces.
    (j) Switchboards and distribution panels must be adequately sized 
for the expected loads.


Sec. 183.340  Cable and wiring requirements.

    (a) If individual wires, rather than cable, are used in systems 
greater than 50 volts, the wire must be run in a protective enclosure. 
The protective enclosure must have drain holes to prevent the build up 
of condensation.
    (b) All cable and wire must:
    (1) Have stranded copper conductors with sufficient current 
carrying capacity for the circuit in which they are used;
    (2) Be installed in a manner to avoid or reduce interference with 
radio reception and compass indication;
    (3) Be protected from the weather;
    (4) Be installed with metal supports spaced not more than 24 inches 
apart, and in such a manner as to avoid chafing and other damage. The 
use of plastic tie wraps must be limited to bundling or retention of 
multiple cable installations, and not used as a means of support, 
except that on vessels of not more than 65 feet in length, 
installations in accordance with paragraph 14.h of ABYC E-8 and 
paragraph 15.h of ABYC E-9 are acceptable as meeting the requirements 
of this section;
    (5) Not be installed with sharp bends;
    (6) Be protected by metal coverings or other suitable means if in 
areas subject to mechanical abuse;
    (7) Be suitable for low temperature and high humidity if installed 
in refrigerated compartments;
    (8) Not be located in a tank unless the cable provides power to 
equipment in the tank; and
    (9) Have sheathing or wire insulation compatible with the fluid in 
a tank when installed as allowed by paragraph (b)(8) of this section.
    (c) Conductors in power and lighting circuits must be No. 14 AWG or 
larger. Conductors in control and indicator circuits must be No. 22 AWG 
or larger.
    (d) Cable and wire for power and lighting circuits must:
    (1) Meet Section 310-13 of the NEC (NFPA 70), except that asbestos 
insulated cable and dry location cables can not be used;
    (2) Be listed by Underwriters Laboratories Inc. as UL Boat or UL 
Marine cable; or
    (3) Meet Sec. 111.60-1 of this chapter.
    (e) Cable or wire serving vital systems listed in Sec. 182.710 of 
this subchapter or emergency loads must be routed as far as practicable 
from high risk fire areas such as galleys, laundries, and machinery 
spaces.
    (f) Cable or wire serving duplicated equipment must be separated so 
that a casualty that affects one cable does not affect the other.
    (g) Each connection to a conductor or terminal part of a conductor 
that is larger than No. 10 AWG must be made within an enclosure and 
have:
    (1) A pressure type connector on each conductor;
    (2) A solder lug on each conductor;
    (3) A splice made with a pressure type connector to a flexible lead 
or conductor; or
    (4) A splice that is soldered, brazed, or welded to a flexible lead 
or conductor.
    (h) Each connection to a conductor or a terminal part of a 
conductor that is No. 10 AWG or smaller must be made within an 
enclosure and:
    (1) Meet paragraph (g) of this section; or
    (2) Have clamps or screws with terminal plates that have turned 
lugs or other suitable means to capture the terminal.
    (i) A connector or lug of the set screw type must not be used with 
a stranded conductor smaller than No. 14 AWG except if there is a 
nonrotating follower that travels with the set screw and makes pressure 
contact with the conductor.
    (j) Each pressure type wire connector and lug must meet UL 486A. 
The use of wire nuts is prohibited.
    (k) Each terminal block must have 6-32 terminal screws or larger.
    (l) Wire connectors utilized in conjunction with screw type 
terminal blocks must be of the captive type such as the ring or the 
flanged spade type.
    (m) A cable must not be spliced in:
    (1) A hazardous location; or
    (2) In another location except:
    (i) A cable installed in a subassembly may be spliced to a cable 
installed in another subassembly;
    (ii) For a vessel receiving alterations, a cable may be spliced to 
extend a circuit;
    (iii) A cable having a large size or exceptional length may be 
spliced to facilitate its installation; and
    (iv) A cable may be spliced to replace a damaged section of the 
cable if, before replacing the damaged section, the insulation 
resistance of the remainder of the cable is measured, and it is 
determined that the condition of the insulation is unimpaired.
    (n) All material in a cable splice must be chemically compatible 
with all other material in the splice and with the materials in the 
cable.
    (o) Ampacities for conductors must meet Section 310-15 of the NEC 
(NFPA 70) or IEEE Standard 45, as appropriate.
    (p) Conductors must be sized so that the voltage drop at the load 
terminals does not exceed 10 percent. Table 183.340(p) indicates the 
size of conductor required for corresponding lengths and steady state 
(stable) values to obtain not more than this voltage drop at the load 
terminals of a two conductor circuit.

                                                 Table 183.340(p).--Conductor Sizes for Amperes--Lengths                                                
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                  Length of conductor in feet from source of current to most distant fixture            
          Total current on circuit, amperes           --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                         10       15       20       25       30       35       40       45       50       55        60  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                             12 volts, 2-wire--10 percent drop wire sizes (A.W.G.)                      
                                                                                                                                                        
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5....................................................       14       14       14       14       14       14       14       14       12       12       12
10...................................................       14       14       14       12       12       12       10       10       10       10        8
15...................................................       14       14       12       10       10       10        8        8        8        8        8
20...................................................       12       12       10       10        8        8        8        8        6        6        6
25...................................................       10       10       10        8        8        8        6        6        6        6        4
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Other values can be computed by means of the following formula:

TP13JA94.009

Where:

cm=Circular-mil area of conductor.
K=10.75 (a constant representing the mil-foot resistance of copper).
I=Load current, in amperes.
L=Length of conductor from center of distribution, in feet.
E=Voltage drop at load, in volts.

    (q) If used, each armored cable metallic covering must:
    (1) Be electrically continuous; and
    (2) Be grounded at each end of the run to:
    (i) The metallic hull; or
    (ii) The common ground plate on nonmetallic vessels; and
    (3) Have final sub-circuits grounded at the supply end only.
    (r) A portable or temporary electric cord or cable must be 
constructed and used in compliance with the requirements of 
Sec. 111.60-13 of this chapter for a flexible electric cord or cable.


Sec. 183.350  Batteries--general.

    (a) Where provisions are made for charging batteries, there must be 
natural or induced ventilation sufficient to dissipate the gases 
generated.
    (b) Each battery must be located as high above the bilge as 
practicable, secured to protect against shifting with the roll and 
pitch of the vessel, and free from exposure to water splash or spray.
    (c) Batteries must be accessible for maintenance and removal.
    (d) Connections must be made to battery terminals with permanent 
type connectors. Spring clips or other temporary type clamps are 
prohibited.
    (e) Batteries must be mounted in trays lined with, or constructed 
of, a material which is resistant to damage by the electrolyte.
    (f) Battery chargers must have an ammeter connected in the charging 
circuit.
    (g) If the batteries are not adjacent to a distribution panel or 
switchboard which distributes power to the lighting, motor, and 
appliance circuits, the battery lead must have a fuse in series as 
close as practicable to the battery.
    (h) Batteries used for engine starting are to be located as close 
as possible to the engine or engines served.


Sec. 183.352  Battery categories.

    This section applies to batteries installed to meet the 
requirements of Sec. 183.310 for secondary sources of power to vital 
loads, or sources of power to final emergency loads.
    (a) Large. A large battery installation is one connected to a 
battery charger having an output of more than 2 kw, computed from the 
highest possible charging current and the rated voltage of the battery 
installation.
    (b) Small. A small battery installation is one connected to a 
battery charger having an output of 2 kw or less, computed from the 
highest possible charging current and the rated voltage of the battery 
installation.


Sec. 183.354  Battery installations.

    (a) Large batteries. Each large battery installation must be 
located in a locker, room or enclosed box solely dedicated to the 
storage of batteries. Ventilation must be provided in accordance with 
Sec. 111.15-10 of this chapter. Electrical equipment located within the 
battery enclosure must be approved by an independent laboratory for 
Class I, Division 1, Group B hazardous locations and meet part 111, 
subpart 111.105 of this chapter.
    (b) Small batteries. Each small battery installation must be 
located in a well ventilated space and protected from falling objects. 
A small battery installation must not be in a closet, storeroom, or 
similar space.


Sec. 183.360  Semiconductor rectifier systems.

    (a) Each semiconductor rectifier system must have an adequate heat 
removal system that prevents overheating.
    (b) Where a semiconductor rectifier system is used in a propulsion 
system or in other vital systems it must:
    (1) Have a current limiting circuit;
    (2) Have external overcurrent protection; and
    (3) Meet sections 35.84.2 and 35.84.4 of the ABS ``Rules for 
Building and Classing Steel Vessels.''


Sec. 183.370  System and equipment grounding.

    (a) All metallic enclosures and frames of electrical equipment must 
be permanently grounded to the hull on a metallic vessel. On a 
nonmetallic vessel the enclosures and frames of electrical equipment 
must be bonded together to a common ground by a normally non-current 
carrying conductor. Metallic cases of instruments and secondary 
windings of instrument transformers must be grounded.
    (b) If a grounded distribution system is provided, there must be 
only one connection to ground, regardless of the number of power 
sources. This ground connection must be at the switchboard or at the 
common ground plate, which must be accessible.
    (c) Each propulsion, power, lighting, or distribution system having 
a neutral bus or conductor must have the neutral grounded.
    (d) The neutral of each grounded generation and distribution system 
must be grounded at the generator switchboard and have the ground 
connection accessible for checking insulation resistance of the 
generator to ground before the generator is connected to the bus, 
except the neutral of an emergency power generation system must be 
grounded with:
    (1) No direct ground connection at the emergency switchboard;
    (2) The neutral bus permanently connected to the neutral bus on the 
main switchboard; and
    (3) No switch, circuit breaker, or fuse in the neutral conductor of 
the bus-tie feeder connecting the emergency switchboard to the main 
switchboard.
    (e) On a nonmetallic vessel where a ground plate is provided for 
radio equipment, it must be connected to the common ground.
    (f) On a metallic vessel a grounded alternating current system must 
be grounded to the hull. On a nonmetallic vessel the neutral must be 
connected to the common ground, except that aluminum grounding 
conductors must not be used.
    (g) Equipment grounding conductors must be sized in accordance with 
Section 250-95 of the NEC (NFPA 70).
    (h) Each insulated grounding conductor of a cable must be 
identified by one of the following means:
    (1) A green braid or green insulation;
    (2) Stripping the insulation from the entire exposed length of the 
grounding conductor; or
    (3) Marking the exposed insulation of the grounding conductor with 
green tape or green adhesive labels.
    (i) A vessel's hull must not carry current as a conductor except 
for the following systems:
    (1) Impressed current cathodic protection systems; or
    (2) Battery systems for engine starting.
    (j) Cable armor must not be used to ground electrical equipment or 
systems.
    (k) Receptacle outlets and attachment plugs for portable lamps, 
tools, and similar apparatus operating at 100 volts or more, must have 
a grounding pole and a grounding conductor in the portable cord.
    (l) Each nonmetallic mast and top mast must have a lightning ground 
conductor.


Sec. 183.380  Overcurrent protection.

    (a) Overcurrent protection must be provided for each ungrounded 
conductor for the purpose of opening the electric circuit if the 
current reaches a value that causes an excessive or dangerous 
temperature in the conductor or conductor insulation.
    (b) A conductor of a control, interlock, or indicator circuit, such 
as a conductor for an instrument, pilot light, ground detector light, 
or potential transformer, must be protected by an overcurrent device.
    (c) Each generator must be protected by an overcurrent device set 
at a value not exceeding 115 per cent of the generator full load 
rating.
    (d) All circuits other than steering system circuits must be 
protected against both overload and short circuit.
    (e) Each steering gear feeder circuit must be protected by a 
circuit breaker that meets the requirements of paragraphs (a) and (b) 
of Sec. 111.93-11 of this chapter.
    (f) Each lighting branch circuit must be protected against 
overcurrent either by fuses or circuit breakers rated at not more than 
30 amperes.
    (g) Conductors must be protected in accordance with their current 
carrying capacities. If the allowable current carrying capacity does 
not correspond to a standard device size, the next larger overcurrent 
device may be used provided it does not exceed 150 per cent of the 
conductor current carrying capacity.
    (h) Overcurrent devices capable of carrying the starting current of 
the motor must be installed to protect motors, motor conductors, and 
control apparatus against:
    (1) Overcurrent due to short circuits or ground faults; and
    (2) Overload due to motor running overcurrent, in accordance with 
Sec. 111.70-1 of this chapter. A protective device integral with the 
motor, which is responsive to both motor current and temperature, may 
be used.
    (i) An emergency switch must be provided in the normally ungrounded 
main supply conductor from a battery. The switch must be accessible and 
located as close to the battery as practicable.
    (j) The grounded conductor of a circuit must not be disconnected by 
a switch or circuit breaker, unless the ungrounded conductors are 
simultaneously disconnected.
    (k) Disconnect means must be provided on the supply side of and 
adjacent to all fuses for the purpose of de-energizing the fuses for 
inspection and maintenance purposes.
    (l) If the disconnect means is not within sight of the equipment 
that the circuit supplies, means must be provided for locking the 
disconnect device in the open position.
    (m) Fuses must be of the cartridge type only and be listed by 
Underwriters Laboratories or another independent laboratory recognized 
by the Commandant.
    (n) Each circuit breaker must meet UL 489 and be of the manually 
reset type designed for:
    (1) Inverse time delay;
    (2) Instantaneous short circuit protection; and
    (3) Switching duty if the breaker is used as a switch.
    (o) Each circuit breaker must indicate whether it is in the open or 
closed position.


Sec. 183.390  Shore power.

    A vessel with an electrical system operating at more than 50 volts, 
which is provided with a means to connect to shore power, must meet the 
following:
    (a) A shore power connection box or receptacle must be permanently 
installed at a convenient location;
    (b) A cable connecting the shore power connection box or receptacle 
to the switchboard or main distribution panel must be permanently 
installed;
    (c) A circuit breaker must be provided at the switchboard or main 
distribution panel for the shore power connection; and
    (d) The circuit breaker, required by paragraph (c) of this section, 
must be interlocked with the vessel's power sources so that shore power 
and the vessel's power sources may not be operated simultaneously.


Sec. 183.392  Radiotelephone installations.

    A separate circuit, with overcurrent protection at the main 
distribution panel, must be provided for each radiotelephone 
installation.

Subpart D--Lighting Systems


Sec. 183.410  Lighting fixtures.

    (a) Each lighting fixture globe, lens, or diffuser must have a 
guard or be made of high strength material, except in an accommodation 
space, radio room, galley, or similar space where it is not subject to 
damage.
    (b) A lighting fixture may not be used as a connection box for a 
circuit other than the branch circuit supplying the fixture.
    (c) A lighting fixture must be installed as follows:
    (1) Each fixture must comply with Sec. 183.200.
    (2) Each lighting fixture and lampholder must be fixed. A fixture 
must not be supported by the screw shell of a lampholder.
    (3) Each pendant type lighting fixture must be suspended by and 
supplied through a threaded, rigid conduit stem.
    (4) Each table lamp, desk lamp, floor lamp, or similar equipment 
must be secured in place so that it cannot be displaced by the roll or 
pitch of the vessel.
    (d) A exterior lighting fixture in an electrical system operating 
at more than 50 volts must comply with the requirements of UL 595. A 
lighting fixture in an accommodation space, radio room, galley or 
similar interior space may comply with UL 57, 1570, 1571, 1572, 1573, 
or 1574.


Sec. 183.420  Navigation lights.

    All vessels must have navigation lights that are in compliance with 
the applicable sections of the International and Inland Navigation 
Rules, except that a vessel of more than 65 feet in length must also 
have navigation lights that meet UL 1104.


Sec. 183.430  Portable lights.

    Each vessel must be equipped with at least two portable battery 
lights. One of these lights must be located at the operating station 
and the other at the access to the propulsion machinery space.


Sec. 183.432   Emergency lighting.

    (a) Each vessel must have adequate emergency lighting fitted along 
the line of escape to the main deck from all passenger and crew 
accommodation spaces located below the main deck.
    (b) The emergency lighting required by paragraph (a) of this 
section must automatically actuate upon failure of the main lighting 
system. If a vessel is not equipped with a single source of power for 
emergency lighting, it must have individual battery powered lights 
which:
    (1) Are automatically actuated upon loss of normal power;
    (2) Are not readily portable;
    (3) Are connected to an automatic battery charger; and
    (4) Have sufficient capacity for a minimum of 6 hours of continuous 
operation.

Subpart E--Miscellaneous Systems and Requirements


Sec. 183.520  Lifeboat winches.

    Each electric power operated lifeboat winch must meet part 111, 
subpart 111.95 and part 160, subpart 160.015 of this chapter.


Sec. 183.530  Hazardous areas.

    (a) Electrical equipment in spaces containing machinery powered by, 
or fuel tanks for, gasoline or other fuels having a flashpoint of 
110 deg.F or lower must be explosion-proof or ignition-protected, or be 
part of an intrinsically safe system.
    (b) Electrical equipment in lockers used to store paint, oil, 
turpentine, or other flammable liquids must be explosion-proof or be 
part of an intrinsically safe system.
    (c) Explosion-proof equipment and intrinsically safe systems must 
meet the requirements of part 111, subpart 111.105 of this chapter.


Sec. 183.540  Elevators.

    Each electric power, control, and interlock circuit of an elevator 
on a vessel must meet the requirements of ANSI A17.1.


Sec. 183.550  General alarm systems.

    All vessels with overnight accommodations must be equipped with a 
general alarm system. The public address system required by 
Sec. 184.610 of this subchapter may be used to sound the general alarm 
signal.

PART 184--VESSEL CONTROL AND MISCELLANEOUS SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec.
184.100  General requirement.
184.115  Applicability to existing vessels.

Subpart B--Cooking and Heating

184.200  General.
184.202  Restrictions.
184.210  Heating equipment.
184.220  Cooking equipment.
184.240  Gas systems.

Subpart C--Mooring and Towing Equipment

184.300  Ground tackle and mooring lines.

Subpart D--Navigation Equipment

184.402  Compasses.
184.404  Radars.
184.410  Electronic position fixing devices.
184.420  Charts and nautical publications.

Subpart E--Radio

184.502  Requirements of the Federal Communications Commission.
184.506  Emergency broadcast placard.

Subpart F--Control and Internal Communication Systems

184.602  Internal communication systems.
184.610  Public address systems.
184.620  Propulsion engine control systems.

Subpart G--Miscellaneous

184.702  Oil pollution prevention equipment and procedures.
184.704  Marine sanitation devices.
184.710  First aid kits.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 
1980 Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--General Provisions


Sec. 184.100  General requirement.

    (a) Vessel control systems and other miscellaneous systems and 
equipment required by this part must be suitable for the purposes 
intended.
    (b) The cognizant OCMI may require navigation, control, or 
communication equipment, in excess of the equipment specifically 
required by this part, on a vessel which is of a novel design, operates 
at high speeds in restricted or high traffic areas, operates in a 
dynamically supported mode, or operates on extended routes or in remote 
locations.


Sec. 184.115  Applicability to existing vessels.

    (a) An existing vessel need not comply with Secs. 184.402(c), 
184.404, 184.410, and 184.602 unless the cognizant OCMI specifically 
requires compliance due to the route or service of the vessel.
    (b) An existing vessel need not comply with the requirements of 
Sec. 184.610 until [date 5 years after effective date of the final 
rule], or 10 years after its keel was laid or the vessel was at a 
similar stage of construction, whichever is later.
    (c) An existing vessel need not comply with the requirements of 
Sec. 184.710 until [date 1 year after effective date of the final 
rule].

Subpart B--Cooking and Heating


Sec. 184.200  General.

    Cooking and heating equipment must be suitable for marine use. 
Equipment designed and installed in accordance with ABYC A-3 and A-7, 
or with NFPA 302 complies with this requirement, except as restricted 
by Sec. 184.202.


Sec. 184.202  Restrictions.

    (a) The use of gasoline for cooking, heating, or lighting is 
prohibited on all vessels.
    (b) Fireplaces or other heating and cooking equipment with open 
flames are prohibited from being used on all vessels.
    (c) Vessels permitted to use liquefied and non-liquefied gases as 
cooking fuels by 46 CFR part 147 must meet the requirements of 
Sec. 184.240. The use of these fuels for cooking, heating, and lighting 
on ferry vessels is prohibited by 46 CFR part 147.


Sec. 184.210  Heating equipment.

    (a) Each heater must be so constructed and installed as to prevent 
the hanging from it of items such as towels and clothing.
    (b) Each electric space heater must be provided with a thermal 
cutout to prevent overheating.
    (c) Each heater element of an electric space heater must be of an 
enclosed type, and the element case or jacket must be made of a 
corrosion resistant material.


Sec. 184.220  Cooking equipment.

    (a) Doors on a cooking appliance must be provided with heavy duty 
hinges and locking devices to prevent accidental opening in heavy seas.
    (b) A cooking appliance must be installed to prevent movement in 
heavy seas.
    (c) For a grill or similar type of cooking appliance, means must be 
provided to collect grease or fat and to prevent its spillage on wiring 
or the deck.
    (d) Grab rails must be installed on a cooking appliance when 
determined by the cognizant OCMI to be necessary for safety.
    (e) Sea rails, with suitable barriers to prevent accidental 
movement of cooking pots, must be installed on a cooking range.
    (f) Electric connections for a cooking appliance must be dripproof.


Sec. 184.240  Gas systems. [Reserved]

    [Note: The regulations in 46 CFR 184.05-1 will be redesignated 
as Sec. 184.240 when a final rule is published.]

Subpart C--Mooring and Towing Equipment


Sec. 184.300  Ground tackle and mooring lines.

    A vessel must be fitted with ground tackle and mooring lines 
necessary for the vessel to be safely anchored and moored. The ground 
tackle and mooring lines provided must be satisfactory for the size of 
the vessel, the waters on which the vessel operates, and other 
operating hazards, subject to the approval of the cognizant OCMI.

Subpart D--Navigation Equipment


Sec. 184.402  Compasses.

    (a) Except as otherwise provided in this section every vessel must 
be fitted with a suitable magnetic compass designed for marine use, to 
be mounted at the primary operating station.
    (b) The following vessels need not be fitted with a compass:
    (1) A vessel on a rivers route;
    (2) A nonself-propelled vessel; and
    (3) A vessel operating on short restricted routes on lakes, bays, 
and sounds.
    (c) Except on a vessel limited to daytime operations, the compass 
must be illuminated.


Sec. 184.404  Radars.

    (a) A vessel must be fitted with a FCC type accepted general marine 
radar system for surface navigation with a radar screen mounted at the 
primary operating station if:
    (1) The vessel is self-propelled;
    (2) The vessel has an oceans, coastwise, or Great Lakes route; and
    (3) The vessel carries more than 49 passengers.
    (b) A ferry which carries more than 49 passengers on a rivers route 
not within one mile of land must be fitted with a Federal 
Communications Type Accepted general marine radar system for surface 
navigation with a radar screen mounted at the primary operating 
station.
    (c) The radar and its installation must be suitable for the 
intended speed and route of the vessel.
    (d) A vessel operated on a short restricted route need not be 
fitted with a radar if the cognizant OCMI determines that a radar is 
not necessary due to the vessel's route and local weather conditions.


Sec. 184.410  Electronic position fixing devices.

    A vessel on an oceans route must be equipped with an electronic 
position fixing device, capable of providing accurate fixes for the 
area in which the vessel operates, to the satisfaction of the cognizant 
OCMI.


Sec. 184.420  Charts and nautical publications.

    (a) As appropriate for the intended voyage, a vessel must carry 
adequate and up-to-date:
    (1) Charts of large enough scale to make safe navigation possible;
    (2) U.S. Coast Pilot or similar publication;
    (3) Coast Guard Light List;
    (4) Tide tables published by the National Ocean Service; and
    (5) Current tables published by the National Ocean Service, or a 
river current publication issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or 
a river authority.
    (b) Extracts from the publications listed above for the areas to be 
transited may be provided instead of the complete publication.

Subpart E--Radio


Sec. 184.502  Requirements of the Federal Communications Commission.

    A vessel must comply with the applicable requirements for any radio 
and EPIRB installations, including the requirements for a station 
license and installation certificates to be issued by the Federal 
Communications Commission, as set forth in 47 CFR part 80.


Sec. 184.506  Emergency broadcast placard.

    A durable placard must be posted next to all radiotelephone 
installations with the following instructions and information, specific 
to the individual vessel, indicated on it:

Emergency Broadcast Procedures

    (1) Make sure your radiotelephone is on.
    (2) Select 156.8 mHz (channel 16 VHF) or 2182 kHz. (Channel 16 
VHF and 2182 kHz on SSB are for emergency and calling purposes 
only.)
    (3) Press microphone button and, speaking slowly--clearly--
calmly, say:

``MAYDAY--MAYDAY--MAYDAY''

for situations involving Immediate Danger to Life and Property; and

``PAN--PAN--PAN''

for urgent situations where there is No Immediate Danger to Life or 
Property.
    (4) Say: ``THIS IS (VESSEL'S NAME), (VESSEL'S NAME), (VESSEL'S 
NAME), (VESSEL'S CALL SIGN), OVER.''
    (5) Release the microphone button briefly and listen for 
acknowledgment. If no one answers, repeat steps 3 & 4.
    (6) If there is no acknowledgment, or if the Coast Guard or 
another vessel responds, say: ``MAYDAY'' or ``PAN'', (VESSEL'S 
NAME).''
    (7) DESCRIBE YOUR POSITION using latitude and longitude 
coordinates, LORAN coordinates, or range and bearing from a known 
point.
    (8) STATE THE NATURE OF THE DISTRESS.
    (9) GIVE NUMBER OF PERSONS ABOARD AND THE NATURE OF ANY 
INJURIES.
    (10) ESTIMATE THE PRESENT SEAWORTHINESS OF YOUR VESSEL.
    (11) BRIEFLY DESCRIBE YOUR VESSEL: (LENGTH, COLOR, HULL TYPE, 
TRIM, MASTS, POWER, ANY ADDITIONAL DISTINGUISHING FEATURES).
    (12) Say: ``I WILL BE LISTENING ON CHANNEL 16/2182.''
    (13) End message by saying: ``THIS IS (VESSEL'S NAME & CALL 
SIGN).''
    (14) If your situation permits, stand by the radio to await 
further communication with the Coast Guard or another vessel. If no 
answer, repeat, then try another channel.

Subpart F--Control and Internal Communication Systems


Sec. 184.602  Internal communication systems.

    (a) A vessel equipped with pilothouse control must have a fixed 
means of two-way communication from the operating station to the 
location where the means of controlling the propulsion machinery, 
required by Sec. 184.620(a), is located. Twin screw vessels with 
pilothouse control for both engines are not required to have a fixed 
communications system.
    (b) A vessel equipped with auxiliary means of steering, required by 
Sec. 182.620 of this subchapter, must have a fixed means of two-way 
communication from the operating station to the location where the 
auxiliary means of steering is controlled.
    (c) When the propulsion machinery of a vessel cannot be controlled 
from the operating station, an efficient communication system must be 
provided between the operating station and the propulsion machinery 
space.
    (d) When the locations addressed in paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) of 
this section are sufficiently close together, direct voice 
communication satisfactory to the cognizant OCMI is acceptable instead 
of the required fixed means of communications.
    (e) The OCMI may accept hand held portable radios as satisfying the 
communications system requirement of this section.


Sec. 184.610  Public address systems.

    (a) Except as noted in paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section, each 
vessel must be equipped with a public address system.
    (b) On a vessel of more than 65 feet in length, the public address 
system must be a fixed installation and be audible during normal 
operating conditions throughout the accommodation spaces and all other 
spaces normally manned by crew members.
    (c) A vessel with more than one passenger deck and a vessel with 
overnight accommodations must have the public address system operable 
from the operating station.
    (d) On a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length, a battery 
powered bullhorn may serve as the public address system if audible 
throughout the accommodation spaces of the vessel during normal 
operating conditions. The bullhorn's batteries are to be continually 
maintained at a fully charged level by use of a battery charger or 
other means acceptable to the cognizant OCMI.
    (e) On a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying not 
more than 49 passengers, a public address system is not required if a 
public announcement made from the operating station without 
amplification can be heard throughout the accommodation spaces of the 
vessel during normal operating conditions, to the satisfaction of the 
cognizant OCMI.


Sec. 184.620  Propulsion engine control systems.

    (a) A vessel must have two independent means of controlling each 
propulsion engine. Control must be provided for the engine speed, 
direction of shaft rotation, and engine shutdown.
    (1) One of the means may be the ability to readily disconnect the 
remote engine control linkage to permit local operation.
    (2) A multiple engine vessel with independent remote propulsion 
control for each engine need not have a second means of controlling 
each engine.
    (b) In addition to the requirements of paragraph (a), a vessel must 
have a reliable means for shutting down a propulsion engine, which is 
independent of the engine's speed control, located at the main 
pilothouse control station.
    (c) A propulsion engine control system, including pilothouse 
control, must be designed so that a loss of power to the control system 
does not result in an increase in shaft speed or propeller pitch.

Subpart G--Miscellaneous


Sec. 184.702  Oil pollution prevention equipment and procedures.

    A vessel must comply with the applicable design, equipment, 
personnel, procedures, and record requirements of 33 CFR parts 151, 
155, and 156.


Sec. 184.704  Marine sanitation devices.

    A vessel with installed toilet facilities must have a marine 
sanitation device which complies with 33 CFR part 159.


Sec. 184.710  First aid kits.

    A vessel must carry a first aid kit approved under part 160, 
subpart 160.041 of this chapter or a kit with equivalent contents, 
instructions, and markings. The contents must be stowed in a suitable 
container, easily visible and readily available to the crew.

PART 185--OPERATIONS

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec.
185.100  General requirement.
185.115  Applicability to existing vessels.

Subpart B--Marine Casualties and Voyage Records

185.202  Notice of casualty.
185.204  Substance of marine casualty notice.
185.206  Written report of marine casualty.
185.208  Damage to pressure vessels.
185.210  Alcohol or drug use by individuals directly involved in 
casualties.
185.212  Mandatory chemical testing following serious marine 
incidents.
185.220  Records of a voyage resulting in a marine casualty.
185.230  Report of accident to aid to navigation.
185.250  Assistance required.
185.260  Reports of potential vessel casualty.
185.280  Official logbook for foreign voyages.

Subpart C--Miscellaneous Operating Requirements

185.304  Navigation underway.
185.310  Compliance with provisions of Certificate of Inspection.
185.315  Verification of vessel compliance with applicable stability 
requirements.
185.320  Steering gear, controls, and communication system tests.
185.330  Hatches and other openings.
185.335  Loading doors.
185.340  Vessels carrying vehicles.
185.350  Fueling of vessels using fuel having a flash point of 
110 deg.F, or lower (gasoline, etc.).
185.352  Ventilation of gasoline machinery spaces.
185.356  Carriage of hazardous materials.
185.360  Use of auto pilot.
185.370  Reckless or negligent operation.

Subpart D--Crew Requirements

185.402  Licenses.
185.410  Watchmen.
185.420  Crew training.

Subpart E--Preparations for Emergencies

185.502  Crew and passenger list, and voyage plan.
185.504  Passenger count.
185.506 Passenger safety orientation.
185.508  Wearing of lifejackets.
185.510  Emergency instructions.
185.512  Emergency instruction placard format.
185.514  Station bill.
185.516  Lifejacket placards.
185.518  Inflatable survival craft placards.
185.520  Abandon ship and man overboard drills and training.
185.524  Fire fighting drills and training.
185.530  Responsibilities of licensed individuals.

Subpart F--Markings Required

185.602  Hull markings.
185.604  Lifesaving equipment markings.
185.606 Escape hatches and emergency exits.
185.608  Fuel shutoff valves.
185.610  Watertight doors and watertight hatches.
185.612  Fire protection equipment.

Subpart G--Operational Readiness, Maintenance, and Inspection of 
Lifesaving Equipment

185.700  Operational readiness.
185.702  Maintenance.
185.704  Maintenance of falls.
185.720  Weekly maintenance and inspections.
185.722  Monthly inspections.
185.724  Quarterly inspections.
185.726  Annual inspections.
185.728  Testing and servicing of Emergency Position Indicating 
Radiobeacons (EPIRBs).
185.730  Servicing of inflatable liferafts, inflatable buoyant 
apparatus, inflatable lifejackets, and inflated rescue boats.
185.740  Periodic servicing of hydrostatic release units.

Subpart H--Penalties

185.900  Penalty for violations.
185.910  Suspension and revocation.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 6101; E.O. 12234, 3 CFR, 1980 
Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--General Provisions


Sec. 185.100  General requirement.

    A vessel must be operated in accordance with applicable laws and 
regulations and in such a manner as to afford adequate precaution 
against hazards which might endanger the vessel and the persons being 
transported.


Sec. 185.115  Applicability to existing vessels.

    (a) An existing vessel need not comply with the hull marking 
requirements in Sec. 185.602(b) until completion of a vessel's first 
drydock required by Sec. 176.600 of this subchapter, which occurs after 
[effective date of the final rule].
    (b) An existing vessel need not comply with the marking 
requirements in Secs. 185.604 and 185.610, where the size and contents 
of the markings required by Secs. 185.604 and 185.610 vary from the 
size and contents of required markings on lifesaving equipment, 
watertight doors, and watertight hatches on the vessel prior to 
[effective date of the final rule], until the existing markings are no 
longer legible as determined by the cognizant OCMI.
    (c) An existing vessel need not comply with the requirements of 
Secs. 185.514, 185.516, and 185.604(j) until completion of the first 
inspection for certification which occurs after [effective date of the 
final rule].

Subpart B--Marine Casualties and Voyage Records


Sec. 185.202  Notice of casualty.

    (a) The owner, agent, master, or person in charge of a vessel 
involved in a marine casualty shall give notice as soon as possible to 
the nearest Coast Guard Marine Safety or Marine Inspection Office 
whenever the casualty involves any of the following:
    (1) An accidental grounding, or any intentional grounding which 
meets any of the other reporting criteria or creates a hazard to 
navigation, the environment, or the safety of the vessel;
    (2) Loss of main propulsion or primary steering, or any associated 
component or control system, the loss of which causes a reduction of 
the maneuvering capabilities of the vessel. Loss means that systems, 
component parts, subsystems, or control systems do not perform the 
specified or required function for any period of time.
    (3) An occurrence materially and adversely affecting the vessel's 
seaworthiness or fitness for service or route, including but not 
limited to fire, flooding, failure of or damage to fixed fire 
extinguishing systems, lifesaving equipment, auxiliary power generating 
equipment, or bilge pumping systems.
    (4) Loss of life.
    (5) Injury which requires professional medical treatment beyond 
first aid and, in the case of a person engaged or employed on board a 
vessel in commercial service, which renders the individual unfit to 
perform routine vessel duties.
    (6) An occurrence not meeting any of the above criteria but 
resulting in damage to property in excess of $25,000. Damage cost 
includes the cost of labor and material to restore the property to the 
service condition which existed prior to the casualty, but does not 
include the cost of salvage, cleaning, gas freeing, drydocking, or 
demurrage.
    (b) A vessel is excluded from the requirements of paragraphs (a)(4) 
and (a)(5) of this section with respect to the death or injury of 
shipyard or harbor workers when such accidents are not the result of 
either a vessel casualty (e.g., collision) or a vessel equipment 
casualty (e.g., cargo boom failure) and are subject to the reporting 
requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration under 
29 CFR part 1904.


Sec. 185.204  Substance of marine casualty notice.

    The notice required in Sec. 185.202 must include the name and 
official number (or the number issued in accordance with 33 CFR part 
173) of the vessel involved, the name of the vessel's owner or agent, 
the nature and circumstances of the casualty, the locality in which it 
occurred, the nature and extent of injury to persons, and the damage to 
property.


Sec. 185.206  Written report of marine casualty.

    (a) In addition to the notice required by Sec. 185.202, the owner, 
master, agent, or person in charge of the vessel shall, within five 
days, report in writing to the OCMI at the port in which the casualty 
occurred or nearest the port of first arrival. The written report 
required for vessel or personnel accidents must be made on Form CG-
2692.
    (b) If filed without delay, the Form CG-2692 may also provide the 
notice required by Sec. 185.202.


Sec. 185.208  Damage to pressure vessels.

    The owner, managing operator, or master shall report damage to a 
boiler or unfired pressure vessel, which renders further use of the 
item unsafe until repairs are made, to the OCMI at the port in which 
the casualty occurred or nearest the port of first arrival, as soon as 
practicable after the damage occurs.


Sec. 185.210  Alcohol or drug use by individuals directly involved in 
casualties.

    (a) For each marine casualty required to be reported by 
Sec. 185.202, the owner, agent, master, or person in charge of the 
vessel shall determine whether there is any evidence of alcohol or drug 
use by individuals directly involved in the casualty.
    (b) The owner, agent, master, or person in charge of the vessel 
shall include in the written report, Form CG 2692, submitted for the 
casualty information which:
    (1) Identifies those individuals for whom evidence of drug or 
alcohol use, or evidence of intoxication, has been obtained; and
    (2) Specifies the method used to obtain such evidence, such as 
personal observation of the individual, or by chemical testing of the 
individual.
    (c) An entry must be made in the Official Logbook if carried, 
pertaining to those individuals for whom evidence of intoxication is 
obtained. The individual shall be informed of this entry and the entry 
shall be witnessed by a second person.
    (d) If an individual directly involved in a casualty refuses to 
submit to, or cooperate in, the administration of a timely chemical 
test, when directed by a Coast Guard commissioned, warrant, or petty 
officer, or any other law enforcement officer authorized to obtain a 
chemical test under Federal, state, or local law, or by the owner, 
agent, master, or person in charge, this fact must be noted in the 
Official Logbook, if carried, and in the written report (Form CG 2692), 
and will be admissible as evidence in any administrative proceeding.


Sec. 185.212  Mandatory chemical testing following serious marine 
incidents.

    A marine employer whose vessel is involved in a casualty or 
incident which is, or is likely to become, a serious marine incident as 
defined in Sec. 4.03-2 of this chapter shall comply with the 
requirements of part 4, subpart 4.06 of this chapter.


Sec. 185.220  Records of a voyage resulting in a marine casualty.

    The owner, agent, master, or person in charge of any vessel 
involved in a marine casualty for which a report is required under 
Sec. 185.202 shall retain all voyage records maintained by the vessel, 
including rough and smooth deck and engine room logs, bell books, 
navigation charts, navigation work books, compass deviation cards, 
gyrocompass records, stowage plans, records of draft, aids to mariners, 
night order books, radiograms sent and received, radio logs, crew and 
passenger lists and counts, articles of shipment, official logs, and 
other material which might be of assistance in investigating and 
determining the cause of the casualty. The owner, agent, master, other 
officer, or person responsible for the custody thereof, shall make 
these records available upon request, to a duly authorized 
investigating officer, administrative law judge, officer or employee of 
the Coast Guard.


Sec. 185.230  Report of accident to aid to navigation.

    Whenever a vessel collides with a lightship, buoy, or other aid to 
navigation under the jurisdiction of the Coast Guard, or is connected 
with any such collision, the person in charge of such vessel shall 
report the accident to the nearest OCMI. No report on Form CG 2692 is 
required unless otherwise required under Sec. 185.202.


Sec. 185.250  Assistance required.

    (a) The master of a vessel involved in a collision, accident, or 
other casualty, shall render all practicable and necessary assistance 
to persons affected by the collision, accident, or casualty to the 
extent possible without serious danger to his or her own vessel or 
persons aboard. The master shall also give his or her name, address, 
and the identification of his or her vessel to any person injured and 
to the owner of any property damaged.
    (b) The master of a vessel shall render assistance to any 
individual found at sea in danger of being lost, so far as the master 
can do so without seriously endangering the master's vessel or 
individuals on board.


Sec. 185.260  Reports of potential vessel casualty.

    (a) An owner, charterer, managing operator, or agent of a vessel 
shall immediately notify either of the following Coast Guard offices if 
there is reason to believe the vessel is lost or imperiled:
    (1) The Coast Guard district rescue coordination center (RCC) 
cognizant over the area in which the vessel was last operating; or
    (2) The Coast Guard search and rescue authority nearest to where 
the vessel was last operating.
    (b) Reasons for belief that a vessel is in distress include, but 
are not limited to, lack of communication with or nonappearance of the 
vessel.
    (c) The owner, charterer, managing operator, or agent notifying the 
Coast Guard under paragraph (a) of this section, shall:
    (1) Provide the name and identification number of the vessel, a 
description of the vessel, the names or number of individuals on board, 
and other information that may be requested by the Coast Guard; and
    (2) Submit written confirmation within 24 hours to the Coast Guard 
facility to which notice was given of the possibility of the vessel 
being in distress, unless the original notice was in writing.


Sec. 185.280  Official Logbook for foreign voyages.

    (a) Every vessel on a voyage from a port in the United States to a 
foreign port except to a port in Canada, or vice versa, must have an 
Official Logbook.
    (b) The master shall make or have made in the Official Logbook the 
following entries:
    (1) Each legal conviction of a seaman of the vessel and the 
punishment inflicted;
    (2) Each offense committed by a seaman of the vessel for which it 
is intended to prosecute or to enforce under a forfeiture, together 
with statements about reading the entry and the reply made to the 
charge as required by 46 U.S.C. 11502;
    (3) Each offense for which punishment is inflicted on board and the 
punishment inflicted;
    (4) A statement of the conduct, character, and qualifications of 
each seaman of the vessel or a statement that the master declines to 
give an opinion about that conduct, character, and qualifications;
    (5) Each illness of or injury to a seaman of the vessel, the nature 
of the illness or injury, and the medical treatment;
    (6) Each death on board, with the cause of death, and if a seaman, 
the information required by 46 U.S.C. 10702:
    (i) The wages due to a seaman who dies during the voyage and the 
gross amount of all deductions to be made from the wages;
    (ii) The sale of the property of a seaman who dies during the 
voyage, including a statement of each article sold and the amount 
received for the property.
    (7) Each birth on board, with the sex of the infant and name of the 
parents;
    (8) Each marriage on board, with the names and ages of the parties;
    (9) The name of each seaman who ceases to be a crew member (except 
by death), with the place, time, manner, and the cause why the seaman 
ceased to be a crew member;
    (10) When a marine casualty occurs, a statement about the casualty 
and the circumstances under which it occurred, made immediately after 
the casualty when practicable to do so.
Subpart C--Miscellaneous Operating Requirements


Sec. 185.304  Navigation underway.

    (a) The master of a vessel underway shall ensure that:
    (1) The movement of the vessel is under the direction and control 
of the master or a licensed mate at all times;
    (2) The individual who directs and controls the movement of the 
vessel is competent to perform that duty and, when necessary, knows:
    (i) The magnetic variation of the area being transited, the 
vessel's deviation (if known), and the gyrocompass error (if the vessel 
is so equipped);
    (ii) The current velocity and direction of the area being 
transited;
    (iii) The predicted set and drift for the area being transited; and
    (iv) The tidal state for the area being transited;
    (3) If a pilot other than a member of the vessel's crew is 
employed, the pilot is informed of the draft, maneuvering 
characteristics, and peculiarities of the vessel and of any abnormal 
circumstances on the vessel that may affect its safe navigation; and
    (4) The equipment required by this part is maintained in operable 
condition.
    (b) The individual directing the movement of the vessel shall:
    (1) Ensure that an individual whom the master has determined is 
competent to steer the vessel is at the helm of the vessel at all 
times;
    (2) Set the vessel's speed with consideration for:
    (i) The prevailing visibility and weather conditions;
    (ii) The proximity of the vessel to fixed shore and marine 
structures;
    (iii) The comparative proportions of the vessel and the channel;
    (iv) The density of marine traffic;
    (v) The damage that might be caused by the vessel's wake;
    (vi) The strength and direction of the current; and
    (vii) Any local vessel speed limit;
    (3) Ensure that rudder orders are executed as given;
    (4) Ensure that engine speed and direction orders are executed as 
given;
    (5) Correctly apply magnetic variation, and deviation and 
gyrocompass errors when applicable; and
    (6) Evaluate the danger of each closing visual or each closing 
radar contact.


Sec. 185.310  Compliance with provisions of Certificate of Inspection.

    The master of a vessel shall ensure that all of the provisions of 
the Certificate of Inspection are strictly adhered to; however, the 
master may divert from the route prescribed in the Certificate of 
Inspection or take such other steps as deemed necessary and prudent to 
assist vessels in distress or for other similar emergencies.


Sec. 185.315  Verification of vessel compliance with applicable 
stability requirements.

    (a) After loading and prior to departure and at all other times 
necessary to assure the safety of the vessel, the master shall 
determine that the vessel complies with all applicable stability 
requirements in the vessel's trim and stability book, stability letter, 
Certificate of Inspection, and Load Line Certificate, as the case may 
be. The vessel may not depart until it is in compliance with these 
requirements.
    (b) When determining compliance with applicable stability 
requirements the vessel's draft, trim, and stability must be determined 
as necessary and any stability calculations made in support of the 
determination must be retained on board the vessel for the duration of 
the voyage.
    (c) If a log book is required, then the master must enter an 
attestation statement verifying that the vessel complies with the 
applicable stabilty requirements at the times specified in paragraph 
(a) of this section.


Sec. 185.320  Steering gear, controls, and communication system tests.

    The master of a vessel shall have examined and tested the steering 
gear, signaling whistle, propulsion controls, and communication systems 
of the vessel within 12 hours of getting underway for a voyage, except 
that such examination and testing need not be conducted more than once 
in any 24 hour period.


Sec. 185.330  Hatches and other openings.

    (a) Except when operating on lakes, bays, and sounds, or rivers 
routes in calm weather, all hatches and openings in the hull of a 
vessel must be kept tightly closed except when being used.
    (b) All watertight doors in subdivision bulkheads must be kept 
tightly closed during the navigation of the vessel except when being 
used for transit between compartments.


Sec. 185.335  Loading doors.

    (a) The master of a vessel fitted with loading doors shall assure 
that all loading doors are closed watertight and secured during the 
entire voyage except that:
    (1) If a door cannot be opened or closed while the vessel is at a 
dock, it may be open while the vessel approaches and draws away from 
the dock, but only as far as necessary to enable the door to be 
immediately operated.
    (2) If needed to operate the vessel, or embark and disembark 
passengers when the vessel is at anchor in protected waters, loading 
doors may be open provided that the master determines that the safety 
of the vessel is not impaired.
    (b) For the purposes of this section, ``loading doors'' include all 
weathertight ramps, bow visors, and openings used to load personnel, 
equipment, and stores, in the collision bulkhead, the side shell, and 
the boundaries of enclosed superstructures that are continuous with the 
shell of the vessel.
    (c) If a log book is required, then the master shall make the 
following entries:
    (1) The time and door location of every closing of the loading 
doors; and
    (2) Any opening of the doors in accordance with paragraph (a)(2) of 
this section setting forth the time of the opening of the doors and the 
circumstances warranting this action.


Sec. 185.340  Vessels carrying vehicles.

    (a) Automobiles or other vehicles must be stowed in such a manner 
as to permit both passengers and crew to get out and away from the 
vehicles freely in the event of fire or other disaster. The decks, 
where necessary, must be distinctly marked with painted lines to 
indicate the vehicle runways and the aisle spaces.
    (b) The master shall take any necessary precautions to see that 
automobiles or other vehicles have their motors turned off and their 
emergency brakes set when the vessel is underway, and that the motors 
are not started until the vessel is secured to the landing. In 
addition, a vehicle at each end of a line of vehicles or next to a 
loading ramp must have its wheels securely blocked, while the vessel is 
being navigated.
    (c) The master shall have appropriate ``NO SMOKING'' signs posted 
and shall take all necessary precautions to prevent smoking or carrying 
of lighted or smoldering pipes, cigars, cigarettes, or similar items in 
the deck area assigned to automobiles or other vehicles.
    (d) The master shall, prior to getting underway, ensure that 
vehicles are properly distributed consistent with the guidance in the 
vessel's stability letter and Certificate of Inspection, if applicable.


Sec. 185.350  Fueling of vessels using fuel having a flash point of 
110 deg.F or lower (such as gasoline).

    A vessel must not take on fuel having a flash point of 110 deg.F or 
lower when passengers are on board.


Sec. 185.352  Ventilation of gasoline machinery spaces.

    The mechanical exhaust for the ventilation of a gasoline machinery 
space, required by Sec. 182.460(a)(1)(ii) of this subchapter, must be 
operated prior to starting gasoline engines for the time sufficient to 
insure at least one complete change of air in the space served.


Sec. 185.356  Carriage of hazardous materials.

    A vessel must not be used to transport a hazardous material, listed 
in 49 CFR 172.101, in commerce unless that material is handled and 
transported in accordance with 49 CFR parts 171 through 179.


Sec. 185.360  Use of auto pilot.

    Whenever an automatic pilot is used the master shall ensure that:
    (a) It is possible to immediately establish manual control of the 
vessel's steering;
    (b) A competent person is ready at all times to take over steering 
control; and
    (c) The changeover from automatic to manual steering and vice versa 
is made by, or under the supervision of, the master or the mate on 
watch.


Sec. 185.370  Reckless or negligent operation.

    (a) A person shall not operate a vessel subject to the provisions 
of this subchapter in a negligent manner which endangers the life, 
limb, or property of any person. Violations of this section involving 
grossly negligent operation subject the violator, in addition to any 
other penalties, to the criminal penalties prescribed in 46 U.S.C. 
2302.
    (b) The master of a vessel subject to the provisions of this 
subchapter shall not get the vessel underway, nor shall the owner, 
charterer, or managing operator of the vessel permit the master to get 
the vessel underway, when any passengers are aboard and the vessel is 
in an unseaworthy condition or weather or sea conditions make vessel 
operation unsafe.

Subpart D--Crew Requirements


Sec. 185.402  Licenses.

    Each licensed individual employed upon any vessel subject to the 
provisions of this subchapter shall have his or her license on board 
and available for examination at all times when the vessel is 
operating.


Sec. 185.410  Watchmen.

    The owner, charterer, master, or managing operator of a vessel 
carrying passengers shall have a suitable number of watchmen patrol 
throughout the vessel during the nighttime, whether or not the vessel 
is underway, to guard against, and give alarm in case of, a fire or 
other danger.


Sec. 185.420  Crew training.

    The owner, charterer, master or managing operator shall instruct 
each crew member, upon first being employed and prior to getting 
underway for the first time on a particular vessel and at least once 
every two months, as to the duties that the crew member is expected to 
perform in an emergency including, but not limited to, the emergency 
instructions listed on the emergency instruction placard required by 
Sec. 185.510 and, when applicable, the duties listed in the station 
bill required by Sec. 185.514.

Subpart E--Preparations for Emergencies


Sec. 185.502  Crew and passenger list, and voyage plan.

    (a) The owner, charterer, managing operator, or master of the 
following vessels must keep a correct list of the names of all persons 
which embark on and disembark from the vessel:
    (1) A vessel making an oceans or coastwise voyage;
    (2) A vessel making a voyage of more than 300 miles on the Great 
Lakes, except from a Canadian to a United States port; and
    (3) A vessel arriving from a foreign port except at a United States 
Great Lakes port from a Canadian Great Lakes port.
    (b) The master of a vessel required to prepare a crew and passenger 
list by paragraph (a) of this section shall also prepare a voyage plan. 
The voyage plan and the list required by paragraph (a) of this section 
must be prepared prior to departing on a voyage and deposited ashore in 
a well marked location at the vessel's normal berthing location or with 
a representative of the owner or managing operator of the vessel.


Sec. 185.504  Passenger count.

    The master of a vessel, except a vessel listed in Sec. 185.502(a), 
shall keep a correct, written count of all passengers which embark on 
and disembark from the vessel. Prior to departing on a voyage, the 
passenger count must be deposited ashore in a well marked location at 
the vessel's normal berthing location or with a representative of the 
owner or managing operator of the vessel.


Sec. 185.506  Passenger safety orientation.

    (a) Except as allowed by paragraph (b) of this section, before 
getting underway on a voyage, the master of a vessel shall ensure that 
suitable public announcements are made informing all passengers of the 
information in this section when applicable to the vessel's operations 
and arrangement:
    (1) A general explanation of emergency and evacuation procedures;
    (2) The location of emergency exits and survival craft embarkation 
areas;
    (3) The stowage location of lifejackets;
    (4) The proper method of donning and adjusting lifejackets of the 
type(s) carried on the vessel including a demonstration of the proper 
donning of a lifejacket prior to beginning an oceans or coastwise 
voyage;
    (5) The location of the instruction placards for lifejackets and 
other lifesaving devices;
    (6) That all passengers will be required to don lifejackets when 
possible hazardous conditions exist, as directed by the master;
    (7) The type and location of survival craft and ring life buoys 
carried on the vessel;
    (8) The location and contents of the ``Emergency Instructions'' 
required by Sec. 185.510; and
    (9) If the vessel is operating with reduced manning or equipment 
requirements under Sec. 176.114 of this subchapter.
    (b) On a vessel with other than an oceans or coastwise route, as an 
alternative to making an announcement which complies with paragraph (a) 
of this section, the master or other designated person may:
    (1) Make an abbreviated announcement consisting of:
    (i) A statement that passengers should follow the instructions of 
the crew in an emergency;
    (ii) The location of lifejackets; and
    (iii) That further information concerning emergency procedures 
including the donning of lifejackets, location of other emergency 
equipment, and emergency evacuation procedures are located on the card 
or pamphlet which was given to each passenger or is located near each 
seat; and
    (2) Prior to getting underway, deliver to each passenger or, on a 
vessel which does not carry vehicles and which has seats for each 
passenger, place near each seat, a card or pamphlet which has the 
information listed in paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(9) of this section.
    (c) The master of a vessel shall ensure that a passenger, who 
boards the vessel on a voyage after the initial public announcement has 
been made as required by paragraphs (a) or (b) of this section, is also 
informed of the required safety information.
    (d) On a vessel on a voyage of more than 24 hours duration, 
passengers shall be requested to don lifejackets and go to the 
appropriate embarkation station during the safety orientation. If only 
a small number of passengers embark at a port after the original muster 
has been held, these passengers shall be given the passenger safety 
orientation required by paragraphs (a) or
    (b) of this section if another muster is not held.


Sec. 185.508  Wearing of lifejackets.

    (a) The master of a vessel shall require passengers to don 
lifejackets when possible hazardous conditions exist, including, but 
not limited to:
    (1) When transiting hazardous bars and inlets;
    (2) During severe weather;
    (3) In event of flooding, fire, or other events which may possibly 
call for evacuation; and
    (4) When the vessel is being towed, except a nonself-propelled 
vessel under normal operating conditions.
    (b) When evaluating the need to require the donning of lifejackets, 
the master shall consider the size of the vessel and the location of 
the passengers on the vessel.
    (c) Any passenger or crew member shall be permitted to voluntarily 
don a lifejacket whenever he or she desires.
    (d) The master or crew shall assist each passenger in obtaining a 
lifejacket and donning it, as necessary.


Sec. 185.510  Emergency instructions.

    (a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, the master shall 
prepare and post durable emergency instruction placards in conspicuous 
places accessible and visible to the crew and passengers.
    (b) Except when in the judgment of the cognizant OCMI the operation 
of a vessel does not present one of the hazards listed, the emergency 
instruction placard must contain at least the applicable portions of 
the ``Emergency Instructions'' listed in Sec. 185.512. The emergency 
instructions must be further designed to address the particular 
equipment, arrangement, and operation of each individual vessel.
    (c) If the cognizant OCMI determines that there is no suitable 
mounting surface aboard the vessel, the emergency instructions need not 
be posted but must be carried aboard the vessel and be available to the 
crew and passengers for familiarization.


Sec. 185.512  Emergency instruction placard format.

    An emergency instruction placard containing the following 
information will satisfy the requirements of Sec. 185.510.

EMERGENCY INSTRUCTIONS

    (1) Rough weather at sea, crossing hazardous bars, or flooding.
    (i) Close all watertight and weathertight doors, hatches, and 
airports to prevent taking water aboard or further flooding in the 
vessel.
    (ii) Keep bilges dry to prevent loss of stability due to water 
in bilges. Use power driven bilge pump, hand pump, and buckets to 
dewater.
    (iii) Align fire pumps to use as bilge pump if possible.
    (iv) Check all intake and discharge lines, which penetrate the 
hull, for leakage.
    (v) Passengers must remain seated and evenly distributed.
    (vi) Passengers must don lifejackets if the going becomes very 
rough, you are about to cross a hazardous bar, or when otherwise 
instructed by the master.
    (vii) Never abandon the vessel unless actually forced to do so.
    (viii) If assistance is needed follow the procedures on the 
emergency broadcast placard posted by the radiotelephone.
    (ix) Prepare survival craft (life floats, (inflatable) rafts, 
(inflatable) buoyant apparatus, boats) for launching.
    (2) Man overboard.
    (i) Throw a ring buoy overboard as close to the person as 
possible.
    (ii) Post a lookout to keep the person overboard in sight.
    (iii) Launch rescue boat and maneuver to pick up person in the 
water, or maneuver the vessel to pick up the person in the water.
    (iv) Have crew member put on lifejacket, attach a safety line to 
him or her, and have him or her stand by to jump into the water to 
assist the person overboard if necessary.
    (v) If person is not immediately located, notify Coast Guard and 
other vessels in vicinity by radiotelephone.
    (vi) Continue search until released by Coast Guard.
    (3) Fire.
    (i) Cut off air supply to fire--close items such as hatches, 
ports, doors, ventilators, and louvers, and shut off ventilation 
system.
    (ii) Cut off electrical system supplying affected compartment if 
possible.
    (iii) If safe, immediately use portable fire extinguishers at 
base of flames for flammable liquid or grease fires or water for 
fires in ordinary combustible materials. Do not use water on 
electrical fires.
    (iv) If fire is in machinery spaces, shut off fuel supply and 
ventilation and activate fixed extinguishing system if installed.
    (v) Maneuver vessel to minimize effect of wind on fire.
    (vi) If unable to control fire, immediately notify the Coast 
Guard and other craft in the vicinity by radiotelephone.
    (vii) Move passengers away from fire, have them put on 
lifejackets, and if necessary, prepare to abandon the vessel.


Sec. 185.514  Station bill.

    (a) A station bill must be posted by the master on a vessel of more 
than 65 feet in length having a Certificate of Inspection requiring 
more than four crew members at any one time, including the master.
    (b) The station bill required by paragraph (a) of this section must 
set forth the special duties and duty station of each crew member for 
various emergencies. The duties must, as far as possible, be comparable 
with the regular work of the individual. The duties must include at 
least the following and any other duties necessary for the proper 
handling of a particular emergency:
    (1) The closing of hatches, airports, watertight doors, vents, 
scuppers, and valves for intake and discharge lines which penetrate the 
hull, the stopping of fans and ventilating systems, and the operating 
of all safety equipment;
    (2) The preparing and launching of survival craft and rescue boats;
    (3) The extinguishing of fire; and
    (4) The mustering of passengers including the following:
    (i) Warning the passengers;
    (ii) Seeing that they are dressed and have put on their 
lifejackets.
    (iii) Assembling the passengers and directing them to their 
appointed stations; and
    (iv) Keeping order in the passageways and stairways and generally 
controlling the movement of the passengers.
    (c) The station bill must be posted at the operating station and in 
a conspicuous location in each crew accommodation space.


Sec. 185.516  Lifejacket placards.

    (a) Placards containing instructions for the donning and use of the 
lifejackets aboard the vessel must be posted in conspicuous places 
which are regularly accessible and visible to the crew and passengers.
    (b) If the cognizant OCMI determines that there is no suitable 
mounting surface aboard the vessel, the lifejacket placards need not be 
posted but must be carried aboard the vessel and be available to the 
crew and passengers for familiarization.


Sec. 185.518  Inflatable survival craft placards.

    (a) Every vessel equipped with an inflatable survival craft must 
have posted in conspicuous places which are regularly accessible and 
visible to the crew and passengers, and by each inflatable survival 
craft, approved placards or other cards containing instructions for 
launching and inflating inflatable survival craft for the information 
of persons on board. The number and location of such placards for a 
particular vessel must be acceptable to the cognizant OCMI.
    (b) Under the requirement in Sec. 160.051-6(c)(1) of this chapter, 
the manufacturer of approved inflatable liferafts is required to 
provide approved placards containing such instructions with each 
liferaft. Similar placards must be used for other inflatable survival 
craft.


Sec. 185.520  Abandon ship and man overboard drills and training.

    (a) The master shall conduct sufficient drills and give sufficient 
instructions to make sure that all crew members are familiar with their 
duties during emergencies which necessitate abandoning ship or the 
recovery of persons who have fallen overboard.
    (b) Each abandon ship drill must include:
    (1) Summoning the crew to report to assigned stations and prepare 
for assigned duties;
    (2) Summoning passengers on a vessel on an overnight voyage to 
muster stations or embarkation stations and ensuring that they are made 
aware of how the order to abandon ship will be given;
    (3) Checking that passengers and crew are suitably dressed;
    (4) Checking that lifejackets are correctly donned;
    (5) Operation of any davits used for launching liferafts; and
    (6) Instruction on the automatic and manual deployment of survival 
craft.
    (c) Each abandon ship drill must, as far as practicable, be 
conducted as if there were an actual emergency.
    (d) Each rescue boat required in accordance with Sec. 180.210 of 
this subchapter must be launched with its assigned crew aboard and 
maneuvered in the water as if during an actual man overboard situation:
    (1) Once each month, if reasonable and practicable; but
    (2) At least once within a 3 month period before the vessel gets 
underway with passengers.
    (e) Onboard training in the use of davit launched liferafts must 
take place at intervals of not more than 4 months on a vessel with a 
davit launched liferaft. Whenever practicable, this must include the 
inflation and lowering of a liferaft. If a special liferaft intended 
for training purposes only is used, and is not part of the vessel's 
lifesaving equipment, the special liferaft must be conspicuously 
marked.


Sec. 185.524  Fire fighting drills and training.

    (a) The master shall conduct sufficient fire drills to make sure 
that each crew member is familiar with his or her duties in case of a 
fire.
    (b) Each fire drill must include:
    (1) Summoning passengers on a vessel on an overnight voyage to 
muster or embarkation stations;
    (2) Summoning the crew to report to assigned stations and to 
prepare for and demonstrate assigned duties; and
    (3) Instruction in the use of fire extinguishers and any other fire 
fighting equipment on board.
    (c) Each fire drill must, as far as practicable, be conducted as if 
there were an actual emergency.


Sec. 185.530  Responsibilities of licensed individuals.

    Nothing in the emergency instructions or a station bill required by 
this subpart exempts any licensed individual from the exercise of good 
judgment in an emergency situation.

Subpart F--Markings Required


Sec. 185.602  Hull markings.

    (a) This section applies to each vessel that fits into any one of 
the following categories:
    (1) A vessel of more than 65 feet (19.8 meters) in length.
    (2) A sailing vessel of more than 5 feet (19.8 meters) in length.
    (3) A vessel authorized to carry more than 160 passengers.
    (4) A vessel authorized to carry more than 12 passengers on an 
international voyage.
    (5) A vessel with more than 1 deck above the bulkhead deck exlusive 
of a pilot house.
    (b) Each vessel must be marked as required by part 67 of this 
chapter.
    (c) Each vessel which complies with the stability requirements of 
Secs. 170.170, 170.173, 171.050, 171.055, and 171.057 of this chapter, 
in accordance with Sec. 178.310 of this subchapter, must:
    (1) Have permanent draft marks at each end of the vessel; or
    (2) Have permanent loading marks placed on each side of the vessel 
forward, amidships, and aft to indicate the maximum allowable draft and 
trim.
    (d) A loading mark required by paragraph (c)(2) of this section 
must be a horizontal line of at least 8 inches in length and 1 inch in 
height, with its upper edge passing through the point of maximum draft. 
The loading mark must be painted in a contrasting color to the 
sideshell paint.
    (e) On a vessel which has a load line, the amidships marks required 
by paragraph (c)(2) of this section will be those required by the 
International Load Line Convention.
    (f) In cases where draft marks are obscured due to operational 
constaints or by protrusions, the vessel must be fitted with a reliable 
draft indicating system from which the bow and stern drafts can be 
determined.
    (g) On a vessel on which the number of passengers permitted on 
upper decks is limited by stability criteria, as indicated by the 
vessel's stability letter, the maximum number of passengers allowed on 
an upper deck must be indicated by a durable marking of at least 1 inch 
numbers and letters at the entranceway to each such deck.


Sec. 185.604  Lifesaving equipment markings.

    (a) The name of a vessel must be marked or painted in clearly 
legible letters and numbers at least 3 inches high:
    (1) On each side of the bow of each rescue boat; and
    (2) On each life float and buoyant apparatus.
    (b) Each lifejacket, immersion suit, and ring life buoy must be 
marked in clearly legible block capital letters with the vessel's name. 
The marking is not required on a lifejacket carried to meet a temporary 
need for additional lifejackets, if the lifejacket has the name of 
another vessel marked on it. For an immersion suit, the name of the 
person to whom the immersion suit is assigned is an acceptable 
alternative to the name of the vessel.
    (c) The name of the vessel must be marked or painted in clearly 
legible letters on each Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon 
(EPIRB), except on an EPIRB in an inflatable liferaft.
    (d) The number of persons capacity must be marked or painted in 
clearly legible letters on each side of the bow of each rescue boat in 
letters and numbers at least 1.5 inches high.
    (e) The number of persons capacity must be marked or painted in 
clearly legible letters on each life float and buoyant apparatus in 
letters and numbers at least 1.5 inches high. This number must:
    (1) Be the number of persons the device is equipped for; and
    (2) Not be greater than the number of persons the device is 
approved for as shown on its nameplate.
    (f) The number of persons each inflatable liferaft is permitted to 
accommodate must be marked or painted in clearly legible letters and 
numbers at least 1.5 inches high on the inflatable liferaft container.
    (g) The number and identification of the items stowed inside, and 
their sizes, must be marked in clearly legible letters and numbers on 
each container for lifejackets and immersion suits. Identification of 
the items may be in words, or the appropriate symbols in IMO Resolution 
A.603(15). Letters and numbers must be at least 2 inches high. Symbols 
must be at least 100 mm (4 inches) square.
    (h) The name of the vessel must be marked or painted in clearly 
legible letters on each oar and paddle.
    (i) Each lifejacket must be marked with Type I retroreflective 
material approved under part 164, subpart 164.018 of this chapter. The 
arrangement of the retroreflective material applied after [effective 
date of the final rule] must be as specified by IMO Resolution 
A.658(16).
    (j) Each rescue boat and ring life buoy must be marked with Type II 
retroreflective material approved under part 164, subpart 164.018 of 
this chapter. The arrangement of the retroreflective material applied 
after [insert effective date of the final rule] must be as specified by 
IMO Resolution A.658(16).


Sec. 185.606  Escape hatches and emergency exits.

    All escape hatches and other emergency exits used as means of 
escape must be marked on both sides in clearly legible letters at least 
2 inches high: ``EMERGENCY EXIT, KEEP CLEAR'', unless such markings are 
deemed unnecessary by the cognizant OCMI.


Sec. 185.608  Fuel shutoff valves.

    Remote fuel shutoff stations must be marked in clearly legible 
letters at least 1 inch high indicating purpose of the valve and 
direction of operation.


Sec. 185.610  Watertight doors and watertight hatches.

    Watertight doors and watertight hatches must be marked on both 
sides in clearly legible letters at least 1 inch high: ``WATERTIGHT 
DOOR--KEEP CLOSED'' or ``WATERTIGHT HATCH--KEEP CLOSED'', unless such 
markings are deemed unnecessary by the cognizant OCMI.


Sec. 185.612  Fire protection equipment.

    (a) Complete but simple instructions for the operation of a fixed 
gas fire extinguishing system must be located in a conspicuous place at 
or near each pull box and stop valve control and in the space where the 
extinguishing agent cylinders are stored. If the storage cylinders are 
separate from the protected space, the instructions must also include a 
schematic diagram of the system and instructions detailing alternate 
methods of releasing the extinguishing agent should the local manual 
release or stop valve controls fail to operate. Each control valve to a 
distribution line must be marked to indicate the space served.
    (b) An alarm for a fixed gas fire extinguishing system must be 
clearly and conspicuously marked ``WHEN ALARM SOUNDS--VACATE AT ONCE. 
CARBON DIOXIDE (HALON) BEING RELEASED''.
    (c) Each distribution line valve of a fixed gas fire extinguishing 
system and the fire main, must be plainly, conspicuously, and 
permanently marked indicating the space served.
    (d) An alarm for an automatic sprinkler system must be 
conspicuously marked in clearly legible letters ``SPRINKLER ALARM''.
    (e) An alarm bell for a smoke detecting system must be 
conspicuously marked in clearly legible letters ``SMOKE DETECTION 
ALARM''.
    (f) A control cabinet or space containing valves, manifolds, or 
controls for any fixed gas fire extinguishing system must be 
conspicuously marked in clearly legible letters ``CARBON DIOXIDE 
(HALON) FIRE EXTINGUISHING APPARATUS'', or as otherwise required by the 
cognizant OCMI.

Subpart G--Operational Readiness, Maintenance, and Inspection of 
Lifesaving Equipment


Sec. 185.700  Operational readiness.

    (a) Each launching appliance and each survival craft and rescue 
boat on a vessel must be in good working order and ready for immediate 
use before the vessel leaves port and at all times when the vessel is 
underway.
    (b) Each deck where survival craft or rescue boats are stowed or 
boarded must be kept clear of obstructions that would interfere with 
the boarding and launching of the survival craft or rescue boat.


Sec. 185.702  Maintenance.

    (a) The manufacturer's instructions for onboard maintenance of 
survival craft, rescue boats, and launching appliances, manufactured on 
or after [effective date of the final rule], must be onboard a vessel 
of more than 65 feet in length and readily available for a vessel of 
not more than 65 feet in length. The instructions must also be readily 
available at each inspection for certification and reinspection. The 
instructions must include the following:
    (1) Checklists for use when carrying out the inspections required 
under this subpart;
    (2) Maintenance and repair instructions;
    (3) A schedule of periodic maintenance;
    (4) A diagram of lubrication points with the recommended 
lubricants;
    (5) A list of replaceable parts;
    (6) A list of sources of spare parts; and
    (7) A log for records of inspections and maintenance.
    (b) The owner or managing operator shall make sure that maintenance 
is carried out in accordance with the instructions required under 
paragraph (a) of this section.
    (c) The cognizant OCMI may accept, instead of the instructions 
required under paragraph (a) of this section, a shipboard planned 
maintenance program that includes the items listed in that paragraph.


Sec. 185.704  Maintenance of falls.

    (a) Each fall used in a launching appliance on a vessel must be 
turned end for end at intervals of not more than 30 months.
    (b) Each fall must be renewed when necessary due to deterioration 
or at intervals of not more than 5 years, whichever is earlier.
    (c) Each fall must have a corrosion resistant tag with the 
following permanently marked on it:
    (1) The date the new fall was installed; and
    (2) If the fall has been turned end for end, the date it was 
turned.


Sec. 185.720  Weekly maintenance and inspections.

    The following tests and inspections must be carried out weekly on a 
vessel:
    (a) Each survival craft, rescue boat, and launching appliance must 
be visually inspected to ensure its readiness for use;
    (b) Each rescue boat engine must be run ahead and astern for not 
less than 3 minutes, unless the ambient temperature is below the 
minimum temperature required for starting the engine; and
    (c) Each battery for rescue boat engine starting must be brought up 
to full charge at least once each week if:
    (1) The battery is of a type that requires recharging; and
    (2) The battery is not connected to a device that keeps it 
continuously charged.


Sec. 185.722  Monthly inspections.

    Each survival craft, rescue boat, and launching appliance on a 
vessel must be inspected monthly, using the applicable checklist when 
required under Sec. 185.702, to make sure it is complete and in good 
order.


Sec. 185.724  Quarterly inspections.

    (a) Each winch control apparatus of a launching appliance on a 
vessel, including motor controllers, emergency switches, master 
switches, and limit switches, must be examined once in each 3 months.
    (b) The examination required by paragraph (a) of this section must 
include the removal of drain plugs and the opening of drain valves to 
make sure that enclosures are free of water.


Sec. 185.726  Annual inspections.

    (a) Each rescue boat must be stripped, cleaned, and thoroughly 
inspected and repaired at least once each year, including emptying and 
cleaning of each fuel tank, and refilling it with fresh fuel.
    (b) Each davit, winch, fall and other launching appliance must be 
thoroughly inspected and repaired once each year.
    (c) Each item of lifesaving equipment with an expiration date must 
be replaced during the annual inspection and repair if the expiration 
date has passed.
    (d) Each battery used in an item of lifesaving equipment, except 
inflatable survival craft equipment, must be replaced during the annual 
inspection if the expiration date of the battery has passed. The 
expiration date of the battery may be marked on the battery or the 
owner or managing operator may have a record of the expiration date 
from the manufacturer of a battery marked with a serial number.
    (e) Except for a storage battery used in a rescue boat, each 
battery without an expiration date indicated on it or for which the 
owner or managing operator does not have a record of the expiration 
date, used in an item of lifesaving equipment, must be replaced during 
the annual inspection.
    (f) The requirements in this section do not relieve the master of 
the requirement under Sec. 185.700 to keep the equipment ready for 
immediate use.


Sec. 185.728  Testing and servicing of Emergency Position Indicating 
Radiobeacons (EPIRBs).

    The master of the vessel shall ensure that:
    (a) Each EPIRB, other than an EPIRB in an inflatable liferaft, must 
be tested monthly, using the integrated test circuit and output 
indicator, to determine that it is operative; and,
    (b) The EPIRB's battery is replaced after it is used, or before the 
date required by FCC regulations in 47 CFR part 80, whichever comes 
sooner.


Sec. 185.730  Servicing of inflatable liferafts, inflatable buoyant 
apparatus, inflatable lifejackets and inflated rescue boats.

    (a) Each inflatable liferaft, inflatable buoyant apparatus, 
inflatable lifejacket, and hybrid inflatable lifejacket or work vest 
must be serviced:
    (1) Within 12 months of its initial packing; and
    (2) Within 12 months of each subsequent servicing, except when 
servicing is delayed until the next scheduled inspection of the vessel, 
provided that the delay does not exceed 5 months.
    (b) Each inflatable liferaft and inflatable buoyant apparatus must 
be serviced:
    (1) Whenever the container of the raft is damaged, or the straps or 
seal are broken; and
    (2) In accordance with the servicing procedure under part 160, 
subpart 160.051 of this chapter.
    (c) Each inflatable lifejacket must be serviced in accordance with 
the servicing procedure under part 160, subpart 160.176 of this 
chapter.
    (d) Each hybrid inflatable lifejacket or work vest must be serviced 
in accordance with the servicing procedure under part 160, subpart 
160.077 of this chapter.
    (e) Repair and maintenance of inflated rescue boats must be in 
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. All repairs must be 
made at a servicing facility approved by the Commandant, except for 
emergency repairs carried out on board the vessel.


Sec. 185.740  Periodic servicing of hydrostatic release units.

    (a) Each hydrostatic release unit, other than a disposable unit, 
must be serviced:
    (1) Within 12 months of its manufacture and within 12 months of 
each subsequent servicing, except when servicing is delayed until the 
next scheduled inspection of the vessel, provided that the delay does 
not exceed 5 months; and
    (2) In accordance with the repair and testing procedures under part 
160, subpart 160.062 of this chapter.
    (b) Each disposable hydrostatic release unit must be marked with an 
expiration date of two years after the date on which the unit is 
installed.

Subpart H--Penalties


Sec. 185.900  Penalty for violations.

    Violation of the provisions of this subchapter will subject the 
violator to the applicable penalty provisions of Subtitle II of Title 
46, United States Code.


Sec. 185.910  Suspension and revocation.

    An individual holding a license, certificate of registry, or 
merchant mariner's document who commits an act of misconduct, 
negligence, or incompetence, or who violates or fails to comply with 
this subchapter or any other law or regulation intending to promote 
marine safety, is subject to proceedings under the provisions of 46 
U.S.C. 7703 and part 5 of this chapter with respect to suspension or 
revocation of a license, certificate, or document.

    Signed: December 21, 1993.
J. W. Kime,
Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard Commandant.
[FR Doc. 94-19 Filed 1-12-94; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-14-P