[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 98 (Monday, May 20, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 25272-25339]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-11777]




[[Page 25271]]


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Part II





Department of Transportation





_______________________________________________________________________



Coast Guard



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46 CFR Part 30 et al.



Lifesaving Equipment; Interim Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 98 / Monday, May 20, 1996 / Rules and 
Regulations  

[[Page 25272]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Coast Guard

46 CFR Parts 30, 31, 32, 33, 35, 70, 71, 75, 77, 78, 90, 91, 94, 
96, 97, 107, 108, 109, 125, 133, 167, 168, 188, 189, 192, 195, 196, 
and 199

[CGD 84-069]
RIN 2115-AB72


Lifesaving Equipment

Agency: Coast Guard, DOT.

Action: Interim rule with request for comments.

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

Summary: As part of the President's Regulatory Review Initiative to 
remove or revise unnecessary government regulations, this interim rule 
removes numerous obsolete sections from the Code of Federal Regulations 
and eliminates duplication of other provisions by consolidating the 
lifesaving requirements for most U.S. inspected vessels into the new 
subchapter W. This rule revises the lifesaving equipment regulations 
for U.S. inspected vessels. It implements the provisions of Chapter III 
of the Safety of Life at Sea Convention 1974, as amended, and revises 
lifesaving regulations for Great Lakes vessels and certain vessels in 
domestic trade which are not covered by the Safety of Life at Sea 
Convention. The rule also replaces many prescriptive regulations with 
performance-based alternatives. The Coast Guard is requesting public 
comment on this interim rule because it has been more than 5 years 
since publication of the notice of proposed rulemaking.

Effective Dates: This interim rule is effective on October 1, 1996. 
Comments on this interim rule must be received on or before July 31, 
1996. The Director of the Federal Register approves the incorporation 
by reference of certain publications listed in the regulations as of 
October 1, 1996.

Addresses: Comments may be mailed to the Executive Secretary, Marine 
Safety Council (G-LRA/3406) [CGD 84-069], U.S. Coast Guard 
Headquarters, 2100 Second Street SW., Washington, DC 20593-0001, or may 
be delivered to room 3406 at the same address between 8 a.m. and 3 
p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The telephone 
number is (202) 267-1477. Comments on collection-of-information 
requirements must be mailed also to the Office of Information and 
Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget, 725 17th Street 
NW., Washington, DC 20503, ATTN: Desk Officer, U.S. Coast Guard.
    The Executive Secretary maintains the public docket for this 
rulemaking. Comments will become part of this docket and will be 
available for inspection or copying at room 3406, U.S. Coast Guard 
Headquarters, between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, except 
Federal holidays.
    A copy of the material listed in ``Incorporation by Reference'' of 
this rule is available for inspection at room 1404, U.S. Coast Guard 
Headquarters. Unless otherwise indicated, documents referred to in this 
preamble are available for inspection or copying at the office of the 
Executive Secretary.
    The revised Chapter III of the Safety of Life at Sea Convention 
(SOLAS) is published by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) 
in ``SOLAS, Consolidated Edition, 1992'' (IMO publication IMO-11OE). 
The International Maritime Organization also publishes the 
``Recommendation on Testing of Life-saving Appliances, Resolution 
A.689(17)'' and the other IMO documents incorporated by reference in 
this rule. The International Maritime Organization publications and 
documents referred to in this rule are available from the International 
Maritime Organization, Publications Section, 4 Albert Embankment, 
London SE1 7SR, England.
    In addition, IMO publications are available from the following U.S. 
sources:
    Baker-Lyman & Co., Inc., P.O. Box 838, 3220 South I-10 Service 
Road, West, Metairie, LA 70004, telephone (504) 831-3685 or (800) 535-
6956.
    Baker-Lyman & Co., Inc., 8876 Gulf Freeway, Suite 110, Houston, TX 
77017, telephone (713) 943-7032.
    Labelmaster, 5724 North Pulaski Road, Chicago, IL 60646-6797, 
telephone (312) 478-0900.
    McCurnin Nautical Charts Co., 2318 North Woodlawn Avenue, Metairie, 
LA 70001, telephone (504) 888-4500.
    Marine Education Textbooks, 124 North Van Avenue, Houma, LA 70363-
5895, telephone (504) 879-3866.
    Maryland Nautical Sales, Inc., 1400 East Clement Street, Baltimore, 
MD 21230, telephone (410) 752-4268.
    Nautical Charts Supply, Inc., 90 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10013, 
telephone (212) 925-8849.
    New York Nautical Instrument & Service Corp., 140 West Broadway, 
New York, NY 10013, telephone (212) 962-4522.
    Safe Navigation, Inc., 820 Long Beach Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 
90813, telephone (310) 590-8744.
    UNZ & Co., 190 Baldwin Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306, telephone 
(201) 795-5400.
    Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circulars (NVIC) and the Coast 
Guard's Marine Safety Manual are available by subscription from the 
Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, telephone (202) 783-
3238. Previously issued NVICs may be purchased from the U.S. Coast 
Guard National Maritime Center (Attn: NVIC), 4200 Wilson Boulevard, 
Suite 510, Arlington, VA 22203-1804, telephone (703) 235-1605.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Robert Markle, Chief, Lifesaving 
and Fire Safety Standards Division (G-MSE-4), U.S. Coast Guard 
Headquarters, 2100 Second Street, SW., Washington, DC 20593-0001, 
telephone (202) 267-1444, fax (202) 267-1069. Normal office hours are 
between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Request for Comments

    The Coast Guard encourages interested persons to participate in 
this rulemaking by submitting written data, views, or arguments. 
Persons submitting comments should include their names and addresses, 
identify this rulemaking [CGD 84-069] and the specific section of this 
interim rule to which each comment applies, and give the reason for 
each comment. Please submit two copies of all comments and attachments 
in an unbound format, no larger than 8\1/2\ by 11 inches, suitable for 
copying and electronic filing. Persons wanting acknowledgment of 
receipt of comments should enclose stamped, self-addressed postcards or 
envelopes.
    The Coast Guard will consider all comments received during the 
comment period. It may change this interim rule based on the comments.
    The Coast Guard plans no additional public hearings. Persons may 
request a public hearing by writing to the Marine Safety Council at the 
address under ADDRESSES. The request should include the reasons why a 
hearing would be beneficial. If it determines that another opportunity 
for oral presentations will aid this rulemaking, the Coast Guard will 
hold another public hearing at a time and place announced by a later 
notice in the Federal Register.

Regulatory History

    The Coast Guard published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking 
(ANPRM) in the Federal Register on December 31, 1984 (49 FR 50745). 
That notice described the major changes under consideration and invited 
comments on the project.

[[Page 25273]]

    The Coast Guard published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) 
for this rulemaking in the Federal Register on April 21, 1989 (54 FR 
16196), and invited comments on its proposals. Fifty-six letters were 
submitted to the public docket from vessel operators, industry 
associations, drilling companies, equipment manufacturers, interested 
individuals, Coast Guard offices, and the National Transportation 
Safety Board (NTSB). The comments generally supported the regulatory 
proposals in concept, but many suggested changes to particular 
provisions in the proposed rule. These comments are addressed in the 
``Discussion of Comments and Changes'' section of this preamble.
    A public hearing was held to receive comments on the proposed 
rules, particularly the provisions affecting passenger ferries. The 
hearing was announced in a Federal Register notice on October 5, 1989 
(54 FR 41124), and the hearing was held in Seattle, Washington, on 
October 17, 1989. Fifty-nine persons attended the hearing and 18 
persons presented oral comments during the hearing. Comments received 
at the hearing are also discussed in the ``Discussion of Comments and 
Changes'' section of this preamble.
    On November 16, 1995, the Coast Guard published an interim rule 
with a request for comments that revised the regulations for offshore 
supply vessels (OSV) including liftboats [CGD 82-004 and CGD 86-074] 
(60 FR 57630). That rule created a new subchapter L containing a 
complete set of regulations applicable to new OSVs. The rule added and 
reserved 46 CFR part 133 for OSV lifesaving requirements, which are now 
added to subchapter L by this rule.
    This interim rule does not affect small passenger vessels inspected 
under subchapter T in 46 CFR chapter I. Lifesaving equipment 
regulations for small passenger vessels were published in an interim 
rule on January 10, 1996 (61 FR 865), as part of a comprehensive 
project to revise subchapter T and establish a new subchapter K 
covering larger small passenger vessels with higher carriage capacities 
[CGD85-080].
    This rule is being published as an interim rule and the Coast Guard 
is seeking comments on it, because publication of the NPRM occurred 
more than 5 years ago. If warranted by the comments, the Coast Guard 
may revise these regulations before their effective date.
    This project is part of the President's Regulatory Review 
Initiative to remove or revise unnecessary government regulations. This 
project removes numerous obsolete sections from the Code of Federal 
Regulations (CFR) and eliminates others by consolidating the lifesaving 
requirements for most U.S. inspected vessels into the new subchapter W. 
Subchapter W also replaces many prescriptive regulations with 
performance-based alternatives.

Review of NPRM

    On June 17, 1983, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) 
Maritime Safety Committee approved the 1983 Amendments to SOLAS, 
including a new Chapter III (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements). 
The new SOLAS requirements came into force on July 1, 1986, for the 
United States and all other contracting governments. The Safety of Life 
at Sea Convention applies to ships on international voyages, except--
    (1) Ships of war and troopships;
    (2) Cargo ships (including tankers) under 500 tons gross tonnage;
    (3) Ships not propelled by mechanical means;
    (4) Wooden ships of primitive build;
    (5) Pleasure yachts not engaged in trade; and
    (6) Fishing vessels.
    In addition to the changes necessary to conform lifesaving 
requirements to SOLAS, the Coast Guard has made a number of other 
revisions to the lifesaving system regulations for inspected vessels in 
domestic services in response to problems identified through 
investigations into casualties that had occurred over a 25-year period. 
The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1984 also directed improvements in 
the lifesaving systems on passenger ferries.
    The Coast Guard considered many provisions of the regulations 
existing at the start of this rulemaking to be obsolete. Some 
regulatory provisions dated back to the 1940s. The NPRM, therefore, 
proposed a new subchapter W in 46 CFR chapter I, which would contain 
requirements for the number and type of lifesaving appliances and 
arrangements on tank vessels, cargo vessels, passenger vessels over 100 
tons gross tonnage, oceanographic vessels, nautical school vessels, 
OSVs, and mobile offshore drilling units (MODU). The structure of the 
proposed subchapter W closely paralleled SOLAS, Chapter III, even 
though its provisions applied to vessels in domestic services as well 
as to those subject to SOLAS. The Coast Guard also proposed to remove 
the lifesaving provisions in the various individual vessel subchapters 
throughout 46 CFR chapter I, which would be consolidated into 
subchapter W. Only provisions related to lifesaving system inspections, 
operations, and drills were proposed to be left in the individual 
vessel subchapters.

Overview of Interim Rule

    This interim rule revises vessel lifesaving equipment carriage 
regulations in 46 CFR chapter I, for tank vessels, cargo and 
miscellaneous vessels, MODUs, passenger vessels, nautical school 
vessels, OSVs, and oceanographic research vessels. Revisions are 
included in 46 CFR chapter I, subchapter I-A for MODUs and subchapter L 
for OSVs. The remaining provisions are consolidated in a new subchapter 
W of 46 CFR chapter I. Subchapter W replaces most of the lifesaving 
equipment regulations currently individually prescribed in separate 
subchapters applicable to tank vessels, cargo and miscellaneous 
vessels, passenger vessels, nautical school vessels, and oceanographic 
research vessels.
    The NPRM proposed to remove the lifesaving requirements from 46 CFR 
chapter I, subchapter I-A for MODUs, and publish them in the new 
subchapter W. As a result of the offshore industry's comments and a 
recommendation by the Coast Guard's National Offshore Industry Advisory 
Committee, however, the revised lifesaving regulations for MODUs will 
remain in subchapter I-A. For the same reason, the lifesaving 
regulations for OSVs, including liftboats, are being placed in 
subchapter L rather than subchapter W.

Relationship to SOLAS and Recent SOLAS Revisions

    The Coast Guard has compared the regulations in this interim rule 
to the international standards in SOLAS and has determined that this 
rule does not unnecessarily establish requirements in excess of 
international standards. This rule removes some requirements that were 
proposed in the NPRM that exceeded the requirements in SOLAS.
    Since the 1983 SOLAS Amendments were adopted, a number of other 
amendments to Chapter III of SOLAS have been adopted. The Coast Guard, 
anticipating some of these changes, proposed them in the NPRM and they 
are included in this interim rule. Other changes to SOLAS clarify or 
create alternative ways of meeting SOLAS requirements. These changes 
are also included in this interim rule. New SOLAS requirements that 
were not proposed in the NPRM or that do not offer alternatives are not 
part of this interim rule. All of these provisions are discussed in the 
``Discussion of Comments and Changes'' section of this preamble.

Organization of Subchapter W

    Subparts A, B, C, and D of subchapter W are based on Chapter III of 
SOLAS.

[[Page 25274]]

Section numbers in subparts A, B, C, and D of subchapter W are 
generally related to the regulation numbers in Chapter III of SOLAS, 
but paragraph designations are not related to the numbering in Chapter 
III of SOLAS. To find the corresponding SOLAS, Chapter III regulation 
for subparts A, B, C, and D of subchapter W, beginning with 
Sec. 199.10, divide the section number following the decimal point by 
10. Subparts E and F of subchapter W set out the requirements for 
vessels that are not subject to SOLAS and provide for exceptions and 
alternatives to the SOLAS requirements.

Discussion of Comments and Changes

Comments

    The Coast Guard received 74 comments on the NPRM that consisted of 
both letters to the docket and remarks at the public hearing. The 
following paragraphs contain and analysis of comments received and an 
explanation of any changes if any, made in the rules.
    Numerous comments noted editorial problems in the NPRM. The Coast 
Guard has incorporated these comments where appropriate, but the 
changes are not discussed in detail in this preamble. Some other 
comments addressed subjects beyond the scope of the revisions proposed 
in the NPRM. These comments are also not discussed in detail. Comments 
that generally supported the NPRM, or that disagreed with the NPRM but 
failed to provide reasoning for the disagreement, are also not 
addressed in this preamble.
    Two comments stated that the full impact of the NPRM could not be 
accurately assessed until: (a) the effects of the International Tonnage 
Convention (ITC) on U.S. law are determined; (b) subchapter L (OSVs) is 
published; (c) proposed subchapter T revisions are known; and (d) 
sections of subchapter W that apply to boats regulated under 
subchapters L and T are known. The impact of this rule is discussed 
more fully in the Regulatory Impact Analysis to this rule and the 
``Regulatory Evaluation'' section of this preamble.
    The ITC applies to all vessels on international voyages over 24 
meters (79 feet) in length that were built after July 18, 1994. Vessels 
built on or before July 18, 1994, on international voyages may continue 
to use their domestic tonnage to determine their tonnage-based 
requirements for the life of the vessel, unless major alterations are 
made to the vessel.
    The lifesaving requirements applying to OSVs, which were proposed 
in the NPRM to be part of subchapter W, are now being published as part 
of subchapter L. An interim rule promulgating subchapter L, which 
applies only to OSVs, including liftboats was published on November 16, 
1995 (60 FR 57630). This should eliminate any confusion concerning what 
lifesaving requirements apply to OSVs. Vessels must be less than 500 
tons gross tonnage to be inspected as OSVs under subchapter L. Any 
vessel in the offshore service business which is 500 tons gross tonnage 
or over, would have to meet the applicable lifesaving requirements of 
subchapter W.
    The interim rule for small passenger vessels regulated under 
subchapter T and K was published on January 10, 1996 (61 FR 865). The 
Coast Guard invites comments on the impact of this rule as it relates 
to the provisions of the ITC and subchapters L, T, and K.
    Several comments objected to the SOLAS lifesaving rules under 
subchapter W being applied to all vessels, regardless of their type or 
service. This rule does not apply SOLAS rules to all vessels. Section 
199.10(b) excludes non-self-propelled vessels from the lifesaving 
equipment regulations if these vessels do not have accommodation or 
work spaces on board. For other vessels, the SOLAS, Chapter III 
regulations provide the basis for the structure of subchapter W. Many 
of the SOLAS requirements apply broadly to lifesaving system 
installations on all vessels. Subparts A, B, C, and D of subchapter W 
set out the requirements for vessels on international voyages that are 
subject to SOLAS and are based on SOLAS, Chapter III. Subparts E and F 
of subchapter W set out the requirements for vessels that are not 
subject to SOLAS and provide for exceptions and alternatives to the 
SOLAS requirements. The Coast Guard has deleted provisions proposed in 
the NPRM that were in excess of SOLAS unless there is good cause for 
their retention. Most of the deleted provisions were Coast Guard 
interpretations of SOLAS requirements that do not need to be included 
in these regulations, or were additional requirements with marginal 
safety benefits. The Coast Guard has also decided to consolidate all of 
the regulations related to SOLAS, Chapter III in subchapter W. The NPRM 
had proposed locating only the lifesaving equipment and arrangement 
regulations in subchapter W. The regulations pertaining to onboard 
inspection of lifesaving equipment proposed in the NPRM were to be 
included in the inspections part in each of subchapters D, H, I, and U. 
Similarly, requirements for drills and for marking of lifesaving 
equipment were also proposed to be placed in the operations part of 
each of these subchapters. The organization of this interim rule 
eliminates needless duplication of these regulations in different parts 
of the CFR.
    The Coast Guard intends that SOLAS and other international 
instruments be the basis for safety requirements on U.S. vessels. To 
this end, Sec. 199.03(b) states that any vessel carrying a valid 
Passenger Ship Safety Certificate supplemented by a Record of 
Equipment, or a valid Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate 
supplemented by a Record of Equipment, is considered to have met the 
requirements of subchapter W if the vessel also complies with several 
specific additional requirements listed. This will make compliance with 
Coast Guard regulations easier for designers and operators who use 
SOLAS as a basis for designing and equipping a vessel. A similar 
provision is included in Sec. 108.503 for MODUs built to the IMO MODU 
Code. None of the items on the list are major cost items.
    Several comments indicated a need for flexibility in the rules, 
with one comment suggesting that the Officer in Charge, Marine 
Inspection (OCMI), should be able to exercise discretion in determining 
lifesaving equipment requirements. The Coast Guard agrees with the 
comment, and has included rules that provide for certain exceptions and 
equivalents to be authorized by the Commandant (G-MSE), for exemptions 
to be granted by the Coast Guard District Commander, and for 
alternatives that may be accepted by the OCMI. See Secs. 199.09, 
199.20(d), and 199.40(e).
    Several comments suggested that ``SOLAS approved'' equipment should 
be accepted by the Coast Guard. There is no internationally recognized 
``SOLAS approved'' equipment in the sense implied by the comment. Under 
SOLAS, each national maritime safety authority approves or accepts 
equipment meeting SOLAS requirements for its own vessels. The degree of 
enforcement of the SOLAS requirements varies widely. The Coast Guard 
approves equipment that meets the SOLAS requirements and must be used 
on U.S. registered vessels. However, Coast Guard-approved equipment may 
not always be readily available, for example, in foreign ports. Under 
the provisions of Sec. 199.40(e), the OCMI has sufficient authority to 
accept foreign-approved equipment on a case-by-case basis, when 
warranted.
    A number of comments addressed specific test and inspection 
procedures proposed in the NPRM. Some comments proposed deletion of 
certain details while others proposed more testing and

[[Page 25275]]

inspection. In response to the comments, the testing and inspection 
requirements in this rule are significantly simplified compared to 
those proposed in the NPRM. This rule establishes test objectives and 
performance standards rather than detailed complex requirements for the 
conduct of the tests. This simplifies the sections on these inspections 
and tests, and makes them consistent with the level of detail presented 
in the regulations on other initial and subsequent inspections for 
vessel certification. This will allow flexibility in the test 
procedures. These tests and inspection requirements appear in 
Sec. 199.45.

Specific Provisions

    One comment suggested that the ring lifebuoys arranged for quick 
release from the navigation bridge be required to fall clear of the 
vessel under all circumstances. The Coast Guard agrees with the comment 
and now requires that the ring lifebuoy fall directly into the water 
without striking the vessel. See Secs. 199.70(a)(v) and 108.590(a)(iv).
    Section 199.620(d)(2) has been added to allow a new type of 
lifejacket that has been approved since publication of the NPRM on 
domestic services. These extended-size lifejackets are approved for 
adults as well as some larger children. If an operator uses these 
lifejackets, the number of child-size lifejackets carried to meet the 
requirements in Sec. 199.70(b)(1)(i) may be reduced. To take the 
reduction in child-size lifejackets, extended-size lifejackets that 
have the same lower size limit must be substituted for all of the 
required adult lifejackets. The number of child-size lifejackets 
required depends on the lower size limit of the extended-size 
lifejackets and is calculated using one of the formulas given in 
Sec. 199.620(d)(2). The vessel operator still has the responsibility 
under Sec. 199.70(b)(1)(i) to make sure that the vessel has a 
lifejacket of suitable size for each person on board.
    One comment suggested the deletion of proposed Sec. 199.72(c), 
which contained special requirements for additional lifejackets on 
Great Lakes vessels that have forward berthing or working spaces widely 
separated from messing or recreational spaces aft. The comment 
indicated that, with some minor revisions, the provisions for 
additional lifejackets in proposed Sec. 199.72(a)(1)(ii) would be 
sufficient to require the necessary lifejackets in these spaces. The 
Coast Guard agrees and has revised Sec. 199.70(b)(2)(iii) to address 
the stowage of these additional lifejackets.
    The NTSB urged the Coast Guard to require lifejackets for all 
passengers to be located at muster stations on passenger ships in 
addition to those lifejackets required to be stowed in passenger 
cabins. The NTSB had previously recommended that lifejackets and 
immersion suits be stowed outside of passenger and crew berthing rooms 
and closer to, or at, emergency stations. The Coast Guard does not 
agree that lifejackets should always be stowed at muster stations. 
However, Secs. 199.70(b)(2)(v) and 199.212(b) are based on current 
SOLAS requirements and, taken together, will ensure that sufficient 
lifejackets for passengers are available at, or near, the muster 
stations on passenger ships.
    Proposed Secs. 199.78(a) (3) and (4) on stowage details for 
lifejackets have been removed from this rule. Also removed are the 
details on whistles and how to secure them to lifejackets, which were 
in proposed Sec. 199.76 of the NPRM. Detailed requirements on the 
assignment of immersion suits to passenger vessel crewmembers in 
proposed Secs. 199.214 (a) and (b) have also been removed. There are no 
similar requirements in SOLAS, and in accordance with the policy 
previously discussed, the Coast Guard has decided not to impose these 
additional requirements because of their marginal safety benefits.
    The Coast Guard has deleted a proposed requirement for at least one 
certificated person to be assigned to a lifeboat for every 20 
passengers. The proposed requirement in the NPRM was consistent with 
regulations effective at the time, but is in excess of the current 
SOLAS requirement. The Coast Guard has decided not to impose this 
additional requirement on U.S. vessels. See Sec. 199.100(c).
    Several comments opposed the proposed requirement in 
Sec. 199.110(d) of the NPRM for all survival craft embarkation stations 
to be located where it is not necessary to climb up more than three 
steps or stairs. One comment stated that the requirement was not clear 
because of the various deck levels, stairways, and ladders that are 
involved in the design of a ship. The Coast Guard has deleted this 
section in this rule. There is no similar requirement in SOLAS and, in 
accordance with the policy previously discussed, the Coast Guard has 
decided not to impose this additional requirement because of its 
marginal safety value.
    One comment stated that the proposed requirement for rotation-
resistant wire rope in Sec. 199.153(b) of the NPRM (Sec. 199.153 (a) in 
this rule) should only apply to installations in which single point 
boat connections are used. The Coast Guard disagrees. Wire ropes that 
twist easily can lead to tangles at the winch or to tangles in 
multiple-part falls after a boat has been launched. Rotation-resistant 
wire rope is a SOLAS requirement for all launching appliances using 
falls and it is an appropriate requirement for launching appliances 
even on vessels not subject to SOLAS.
    In response to the request to allow for flexibility in compliance 
expressed by some comments, the descriptions of some of the items of 
equipment in Sec. 199.175(b) have been simplified by eliminating 
unnecessary detail. Coast Guard Navigation and Vessel Inspection 
Circular (NVIC) 2-92 contains detailed recommendations for survival 
craft equipment and describes options and inspection criteria that can 
not be easily or appropriately covered in the regulations.
    One comment suggested that the Coast Guard should amend the 
requirement that at least one drill be held at night every 3 months by 
removing the master's discretion to determine that a night drill would 
be unsafe. The comment further stated that it should be possible to 
safely hold at least one drill at night in a 3-month period. Another 
comment suggested removing the restriction on conducting abandon-ship 
drills and fire drills immediately after each other. The Coast Guard 
has decided to delete both requirements from Sec. 199.180 because they 
are not in SOLAS, Chapter III. Scheduling of required drills is left to 
the master's discretion.
    One comment noted the difficulty and expense in obtaining 
replacement rockets for rocket-propelled line-throwing appliances. 
Modern line-throwing appliances of this type are self-contained units, 
which include the rocket, service line, and the firing mechanism. This 
arrangement makes them much easier to use. If the rocket is fired 
during a drill, the complete unit must be replaced or else it must be 
partially disassembled so that the rocket may be replaced. In the 
latter case, if the unit is not reassembled properly, it could misfire 
in an actual emergency. For these reasons, the Coast Guard has changed 
the line-throwing appliance drill regulations in Secs. 199.180(e) and 
109.213(e) to allow actual firing of a line-throwing appliance to be at 
the discretion of the master. The rockets have a 4-year expiration date 
and the Coast Guard anticipates that actual firings will be conducted 
using rockets near their expiration dates.

[[Page 25276]]

    Several comments suggested that existing cargo and tank vessels in 
ocean, coastwise, and Great Lakes services should not have to comply 
with the proposed requirement to retrofit totally enclosed lifeboats 
and gravity davits, noting that SOLAS does not have such a requirement. 
Five comments stated that enclosed lifeboats and gravity davits were 
unjustified and costly to U.S. operators on the Great Lakes, causing a 
competitive disadvantage with Canadian and tug/barge operators who do 
not have to meet retrofit regulations. One comment suggested that 
davit-launched inflatable liferafts should be used for the retrofit 
aboard Great Lakes vessels instead of lifeboats. In 1994, the United 
States proposed to an IMO subcommittee that totally enclosed lifeboats 
and gravity davits be required on SOLAS ships by January 1, 2006. While 
there was support for the proposal, the requirement was not adopted. 
Therefore, the Coast Guard has removed the requirement for retrofitting 
of totally enclosed lifeboats and gravity davits as proposed in the 
NPRM.
    Some comments objected to the proposed Coast Guard regulations 
requiring ring lifebuoys that exceeded the number required under SOLAS 
on certain larger cargo vessels. The Coast Guard agrees and has reduced 
the number of ring lifebuoys required for passenger ships in ocean and 
short international voyage service in Sec. 199.271 to the numbers 
required by SOLAS.
    Several comments were concerned about the proposed requirement in 
Sec. 199.157(a) that lifeboats be capable of being launched with the 
vessel making headway of at least 5 knots. Some believed that this 
would be a dangerous drill requirement. This is not a drill requirement 
but rather, is a performance-based design requirement. Others were 
concerned that this was a new requirement with which it would be 
difficult to comply. In fact, it is possible to meet this requirement 
with on-load release devices and painter arrangements that have been 
used on U.S. vessels for over 40 years. It is a feature needed not only 
on ships, but on MODUs as well. Although MODUs are usually at a fixed 
location, they may need to launch survival craft in a current. This 
requirement is included in the MODU regulations at Sec. 108.555(a). For 
vessels regulated under subchapter W, Sec. 199.280(c) follows SOLAS by 
limiting the requirement to cargo vessels over 20,000 tons gross 
tonnage.
    The NPRM proposed a prohibition on aluminum lifeboats and davits on 
tank vessels and MODUs. The proposal was based on experiences in which 
aluminum boats were destroyed in transitory deck fires and were 
subsequently not available when the ship had to be abandoned. One 
comment suggested that an aluminum lifeboat should be permitted if it 
is protected at its stowage location by a water spray, noting that this 
was being permitted by marine safety administrations in other 
countries. The Coast Guard agrees with the comment and this rule, 
therefore, permits aluminum lifeboats and davits on tank vessels and 
MODUs when a water spray system is provided. See Secs. 199.290(b) and 
108.515(d).
    A number of comments were received regarding the radio lifesaving 
equipment requirements proposed in the NPRM. Since the NPRM was 
published, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) published a 
final rule implementing the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System 
(GMDSS) on U.S. vessels (57 FR 9063, March 16, 1992). The GMDSS is an 
automated, worldwide, ship-to-shore, distress alerting system that 
relies on satellite and advanced terrestrial communications systems. 
The FCC rules cover most vessels that the Coast Guard inspects for 
ocean and coastwise service. Among other requirements, the FCC rules 
include two-way VHF radiotelephone apparatus, satellite emergency 
position indicating radiobeacons (EPIRB), and survival craft radar 
transponders (SART). The FCC rules do not, however, require radio 
lifesaving equipment for all vessels that were covered by the 
requirements proposed in the NPRM. Therefore, this rule includes EPIRB 
requirements in Sec. 199.510 for vessels operating on the Great Lakes 
as well as for cargo vessels and OSVs less than 300 tons gross tonnage 
in ocean and coastwise service. Under Sec. 199.610(m), these vessels 
have until February 1, 1999, to comply with the satellite EPIRB 
requirement. This is the date established by SOLAS for full worldwide 
implementation of GMDSS.
    One comment stated that corrosion of wire rope falls was not as 
significant a problem on vessels operating on the Great Lakes as on 
vessels operating in salt water services and therefore, the requirement 
to change the falls at intervals of not more than 5 years was 
excessive. The Coast Guard agrees and has excluded vessels operating in 
fresh water services from compliance with the requirement. See 
Sec. 199.610(a)(4).
    The NPRM proposed that survival craft not be required for vessels 
in Great Lakes service, and in lakes, bays, and sounds service that 
operate within 3 miles of shore where the water is less than 1 meter 
(3.3 feet) deep. This shallow water exemption has been revised to be 
consistent with that in subchapters T and K for small passenger 
vessels. Survival craft will not be required on vessels in Great Lakes 
service; lakes, bays, and sounds service; or river service if the 
vessel operates within 3 miles of shore in areas where the vessel 
cannot sink deep enough to submerge the topmost deck or where the OCMI 
determines that survivors can wade ashore. See table 199.630(a) in 
conjunction with Sec. 199.630(h) and table 199.640(a) in conjunction 
with Sec. 199.640(f).
    One comment suggested that lifeboats for dry cargo vessels be 
required to be equipped with self-contained air support systems due to 
the large amounts of flammable liquids and poisons carried as packaged 
cargo and ship's stores. Although the Coast Guard agrees that toxic 
atmospheres and fire on the water are a possible problem in some 
casualties involving dry cargo ships, this does not justify the 
suggested requirement, which would exceed the SOLAS requirements.

Passenger Vessels Not on International Voyages

    The NPRM proposed that passenger vessels on unlimited ocean routes 
be required to have the same lifesaving systems as required by SOLAS 
for ships on international voyages and that vessels in coastwise 
service (i.e., within 20 miles of the coastline) be required to have 
the same lifesaving systems as required by SOLAS for ships on short 
international voyages. In response to concerns raised by operators of 
vessels that operate on domestic voyages beyond 20 miles but within 50 
miles, this interim rule allows vessels in domestic services that 
operate out to 50 miles offshore to comply with the SOLAS short 
international voyage requirements. This is also consistent with an 
operational category for small passenger vessels in the interim rule 
for subchapters K and T. See table 199.620(a) in conjunction with 
Sec. 199.630(c).
    One ferry operator, objecting to the proposal for ferries to carry 
inflatable buoyant apparatus (IBA) sufficient to accommodate 110 
percent of the number of persons on board, stated that ferries should 
be given consideration for equivalence of safety requirements based on 
their design and area of operation (protected waters in proximity to 
land and quick assistance). Another comment pointed out that current 
safety measures, such as vessel traffic services, bridge-to-bridge 
communications, close proximity of other vessels, radar systems, and 
stringent personnel

[[Page 25277]]

qualifications, make ferry operations safer than in the past. However, 
another comment supporting the survival craft proposals pointed out 
that the present regulations were originally written over 40 years ago 
and were relevant to an era when ferries were smaller, slower, carried 
fewer hazardous materials, and operated in less congested waters. 
Another comment writer did not believe the NPRM adequately justified 
the need for the proposed requirements for ferries operating in lakes, 
bays, and sounds service. Several comments pointed out that no ferry 
casualties were identified in support of the proposed rules and that 
the probability of a ferry casualty that would require abandonment was 
very low, considering all of the safety measures presently in effect. 
Cost to acquire and service inflatable buoyant apparatus, to train 
crewmembers, and to possibly provide otherwise unnecessary crewmembers 
in order to launch the inflatable buoyant apparatus and help passengers 
embark was a major issue for ferry operators. An organization of ferry 
passengers did not want to pay for inflatable buoyant apparatus either 
through higher fares or increased taxes. Other comments, acknowledging 
that ferry casualties were rare, were concerned about the high number 
of deaths and injuries that would occur in the event of a severe ferry 
accident.
    The 1984 Coast Guard Authorization Act directed improvement in the 
lifesaving equipment on passenger ferries. This Congressional direction 
followed publication of a report on ``Improving Maritime Traffic Safety 
on Puget Sound Waterways,'' prepared by the University of Washington. 
This report cited the lack of liferafts on Puget Sound, Alaska, ferries 
as a potential problem considering the numerous close encounters that 
ferries are involved in and the potential catastrophic results that 
would accompany a casualty because these ferries may carry as many as 
2,500 passengers. However, the safety record for these ferries in terms 
of lives lost is very good, with no recorded fatalities from accidents 
over the last 35 years. One of the contributors to the University of 
Washington report stated,

[e]xperience relating to very low probability, very high consequence 
accidents, like the possible sinking of a ferry with a large number 
of passengers aboard, indicates they are impossible to predict. 
Statistical models are not meaningful. Thus the admirable safety 
record of the Washington State Ferry System, in my opinion, can not 
be used as an argument to say that either no major accident will 
happen in the future, since none have occurred to date, or that one 
is likely to happen by the law of averages * * * While concentration 
on incident avoidance is prudent, some consideration of consequence 
mitigation is also warranted.

    The comment indicated that while ``liferafts'' (sic) were an 
example of such consequence mitigation, he had not necessarily 
concluded that liferafts were the proper choice of consequence 
mitigation.
    The Coast Guard's position is that all of the comments have merit. 
Even though serious casualties involving ferries and other passenger 
vessels in domestic services have been rare, because of the potential 
hazard to large numbers of people, the possibility of such casualties 
needs to be appropriately addressed. Therefore, in table 199.630(a) and 
Sec. 199.630(d), ferries and passenger vessels are required to carry a 
sufficient number of IBAs having an aggregate capacity that is 
sufficient to accommodate the total number of persons on board. Under 
certain lower-risk circumstances described in Sec. 199.630(g), 
operators can reduce the number of IBAs to provide an aggregate 
capacity sufficient to accommodate 67 percent of the persons on board. 
(IBAs are tested to a 50 percent overload condition to make sure they 
can accommodate extra people in clam water.) Recognizing that 
abandoning the vessel into IBAs introduces its own hazards and that 
vessels operating in certain areas may be able to obtain assistance in 
other ways, table 199.630(a) and Sec. 199.630(f) provide an alternative 
for ferries and other passenger vessels without overnight 
accommodations that operate in the Great Lakes service; in lakes, bays, 
and sounds service; or in river service. The alternative provides that 
vessels may have a safety assessment approved by the OCMI that 
includes, among other things, consideration of the waterway and other 
traffic in the operating area and development of a comprehensive 
shipboard safety management and contingency plan.
    Comments from operators of passenger vessels other than ferries 
also expressed concern over the expense of adding lifesaving equipment. 
They also cited the excellent safety record of these vessels in recent 
years. Nevertheless, these vessels carry large numbers of people, 
especially gaming vessels. The gaming vessel industry did not exist 
when the NPRM was published in 1989. Gaming vessels do not usually move 
passengers from one port to another, nor do they ordinarily engage in 
voyages such as sight-seeing for the enjoyment of passengers. Some 
vessels although fully capable of navigation, do not normally leave the 
dock, and other vessels operate over short distances in protected 
``moats.'' For these reasons, the Coast Guard specifically invites 
comments on lifesaving requirements that should be applicable to these 
vessels. As is the case for ferries, even one abandon-ship incident in 
which large numbers of passengers could not be accommodated in survival 
craft would be unacceptable. The Coast Guard considers the hazard to 
persons aboard gaming vessels to be similar to those presented by 
passenger ferries. They carry passengers in a high density 
configuration, do not have overnight accommodations, and typically 
operate on a fixed route and schedule in a limited geographic area. 
Therefore, the Coast Guard has applied the requirements for emergencies 
to these vessels that are similar to ferries operating on the same 
waters.

Cargo and Tank Vessels Operating on the Great Lakes

    The NPRM proposed that cargo and tank vessels in Great Lakes 
service be required to carry totally enclosed lifeboats launched by 
gravity davits with an aggregate capacity sufficient to accommodate 100 
percent of the persons on board and liferafts served by launching 
appliances also meeting the aggregate capacity requirement. The NPRM 
proposals contrast with ocean and coastwise vessels requirements to 
carry lifeboats and float-free liferafts with an aggregate capacity 
sufficient to accommodate 100 percent of persons on board. The Great 
Lakes proposal represented an upgrade over the existing regulations.
    One comment suggested that Great Lakes vessels be required to carry 
the same survival craft as vessels in ocean service. Other comments 
suggested that totally enclosed lifeboats and gravity davits would not 
enhance crew survivability aboard Great Lakes vessels and that the 
current lifesaving systems were adequate. Some comments suggested the 
use of davit-launched inflatable liferafts (presumably 100 percent each 
side) aboard Great Lakes vessels in lieu of lifeboats. Some comments on 
the NPRM noted that Great Lakes vessels are also required to carry 
immersion suits so in the event survivors have to enter cold water to 
get to a survival craft, they still have a good chance of being 
rescued. The comments noted that the Great Lakes casualty reports 
discussed in the NPRM indicated that rapid launching and hypothermia 
protection were the main needs in Great Lakes lifesaving systems rather 
than additional lifeboats.
    The Coast Guard agrees with the comments stating that rapid 
launching and hypothermia protection are the primary needs for Great 
Lakes vessels.

[[Page 25278]]

The Coast Guard does not agree, however, that lifesaving systems need 
to be the same on the Great Lakes as for ocean and coastwise voyages. 
Therefore, the rules are retained as proposed in the NPRM. Although 
conditions on the Great Lakes can be just as severe as conditions in 
ocean waters, the fact that the Great Lakes are bounded on all sides by 
a shoreline means that a search operation for a major vessel casualty 
on the Great Lakes would probably be completed much faster than on 
ocean waters. This is especially true because the Coast Guard is also 
requiring these vessels to carry 406 MHz satellite EPIRBs.

Offshore Industry--MODUs and OSVs

    Various comments from the offshore industry, including members of 
the National Offshore Safety Advisory Committee (NOSAC), opposed the 
inclusion of MODUs and OSVs under subchapter W. The comment writers 
requested that the Coast Guard keep the regulations for these vessels 
as self-contained as possible. As discussed in the ``Overview of the 
Interim Rule'' section of this preamble, the Coast Guard has put the 
revised lifesaving regulations for OSVs into subchapter L and has 
retained the lifesaving requirements for MODUs in subchapter I-A, where 
they have been located since the original publication of subchapter I-
A. One exception is that, under Sec. 108.500(b), requirements for 
surface-type units (drillships) will be the same as those for tank 
vessels under subchapter W. Unlike other MODUs, drillships have ship-
shaped hulls and have problems similar to tank ships in the case of a 
casualty requiring abandonment of the vessel. This is consistent with 
the treatment of surface-type units under the MODU Code.

MODUs

    Consistent with the Coast Guard's policy of aligning national 
standards with international standards, the regulations for MODU 
lifesaving systems are based on the IMO MODU Code for the construction 
of new MODUs. Three comments from the offshore industry opposed 
adoption of MODU Code standards as part of the U.S. regulations. This 
opposition was focused on the requirement for additional lifeboats. 
Following the MODU Code means a requirement for 200 percent capacity in 
lifeboats on most MODUs, contrasted with the present subchapter I-A 
requirement for 100 percent lifeboats and 100 percent davit-launched 
liferafts. One comment stated that none of the investigations of recent 
MODU accidents recommended increasing the number of lifeboats and that 
requiring lifeboats in lieu of liferafts was not justified because of 
such considerations as cost, weight, and size. Other comments indicated 
that davit-launched liferafts could not be effectively used on MODUs. 
Davit-launched liferafts were originally developed for launching down 
the straight sides of conventional ships. They are very light in weight 
compared to lifeboats and are therefore subject to wind and wave action 
in the relatively unprotected position beneath a MODU in distress. 
Because liferafts are not powered, they are subject to being driven 
into and damaged by the legs and columns of the MODU once they are 
released from the falls, unless they can immediately establish a tow 
from a lifeboat or rescue boat.
    The Coast Guard agrees with the comments citing the shortcomings of 
davit-launched liferafts on MODUs and concludes that davit-launched 
liferafts should only be used on the small self-elevating units where 
there are no other options, as proposed in the NPRM. The Coast Guard 
does not agree with comments that indicate additional lifeboats on 
larger units are unnecessary. Even though there may have been no 
specific recommendations in the casualty reports to indicate the need 
for additional lifeboats, the abandonment of the OCEAN RANGER showed 
how lifeboats may be rendered unusable in a casualty and result in 
insufficient lifeboats for those on board. Another casualty to the 
Norwegian semi-submersible accommodation platform ALEXANDER L. KIELLAND 
also resulted in lost lifeboats. The Coast Guard has retained 
regulations based on the MODU Code with certain exceptions. See part 
108, subpart E of these rules.
    Several comments stated that the station bill requirements proposed 
in Sec. 199.645 of the NPRM should not apply to MODUs because this 
information was required to be included in the operating manual 
currently required under 46 CFR 109.121. The Coast Guard does not 
agree. Section 109.121(c)(22) requires the operating manual to cover 
procedures for evacuating personnel from the unit, but this does not 
replace the station bill. The station bill has been renamed muster list 
in accordance with the internationally accepted term. The muster list 
requirements are located in Sec. 108.901 of these rules and replace the 
station bill requirements currently in Secs. 109.501 and 109.505.
    One comment suggested revision of proposed Sec. 199.650(d) to 
require that all survival craft be able to be launched only with the 
unit in a normal working position or a normal floating intact transit 
condition. The purpose of the revision was to prevent problems for 
certain mat-supported self-elevating units on which the mat footprint 
extends beyond the sides of the hull. In certain transit conditions 
with the mat fully retracted, some of the survival craft might be 
launched onto the mat. The Coast Guard agrees in principle with the 
comment. The problem is addressed in Sec. 108.550(c)(2), which 
authorizes the OCMI to allow a reduction in the total number of 
survival craft when the unit is in the transit mode and the number of 
personnel on board is reduced. In such cases, sufficient survival craft 
must be available for use by the total number of personnel remaining on 
board. This should resolve the problem because although personnel on 
board are normally reduced in transit, they must still be provided with 
a way to evacuate.
    One comment suggested that proposed Sec. 199.650(e)(3), which 
stated ``the location and orientation of each lifeboat [on a MODU] must 
take into consideration the in-water operating capabilities of the 
lifeboat,'' was vague and should be deleted. The Coast Guard agrees 
that the proposed wording was vague. In this rule, Sec. 108.550(f)(3) 
states ``the location and orientation of each lifeboat must be such 
that the lifeboat is either headed away from the unit upon launching, 
or can be turned to a heading away from the unit immediately upon 
launching.''
    Two comments stated that the written and audiovisual training 
material requirements in Sec. 109.213(a) were intended for conventional 
SOLAS ships and not MODUs. The Coast Guard disagrees. This material is 
prepared by all lifesaving equipment manufacturers and is available for 
equipment used on MODUs as well as for equipment on conventional 
vessels.
    Several comments were concerned about the requirement now in 
Sec. 109.213(g) to provide abandonment training on MODUs within two 
weeks after crew or industrial personnel join the unit. The comments 
stated that the word ``orientation'' should be substituted for 
``training,'' and that this orientation should take place within 2 
days. The Coast Guard believes that the immediate orientation given to 
persons as they first arrive at a MODU should continue. This 
orientation may include some of the elements the on board training 
required, but it does not necessarily replace the training requirement. 
The use of the term ``join the unit'' is intended to provide some 
flexibility with regard to the extent of training given to itinerant 
contractor personnel.

[[Page 25279]]

    Several comments questioned the need to periodically replace falls 
on MODUs, as required in Sec. 109.301(j), if the falls were thoroughly 
inspected and found satisfactory. The Coast Guard does not agree that 
it is possible to adequately inspect falls visually so the requirement 
has been retained. The NPRM noted that casualties had occurred as a 
result of lifeboat falls that parted due to deterioration. The Coast 
Guard is aware of newly developed nondestructive inspection equipment 
for wire rope falls, but has not been able to determine its suitability 
or practicality. It is possible that, in the future, use of such 
equipment could allow thorough fall inspections and continued use of 
falls in good condition, but use of such inspection equipment will not 
be authorized at the current time.

OSVs

    The NTSB's comments opposed the continued use of lifefloats as 
survival craft on OSVs operating in the Gulf of Mexico because these 
devices do not protect against hypothermia. The Coast Guard agrees that 
hypothermia can be a problem in the Gulf of Mexico and that lifefloats 
and buoyant apparatus do not keep survivors out of the water. However, 
the casualty record of these vessels does not indicate that a change is 
needed. The Coast Guard believes that lifefloats should continue to be 
acceptable because, as a result of the addition of satellite EPIRBs on 
these vessels and the volume of marine traffic associated with the 
offshore oil industry in the Gulf of Mexico, rescue should come 
rapidly. This provision is in Sec. 133.105(c).
    The NTSB also opposed the exemption of liftboats from the 
requirement for having launching appliances for liferafts. The comment 
noted that, if the vessel were elevated and it became necessary to 
abandon ship, launching appliances might be crucial. The Coast Guard 
does not agree with the comment and has not changed this provision of 
the rule. A liftboat is a specialized type of OSV with movable legs 
capable of raising its hull above the surface of the sea. The operating 
characteristics of liftboats make the use of liferaft launching 
appliances highly unlikely. Liftboats exist for the sole purpose of 
servicing offshore structures, such as production platforms. Liftboats 
come alongside these structures and the liftboat's legs are jacked down 
so that the liftboat's deck elevates out of the water to the level of 
the structure's deck. If there is an emergency aboard the liftboat, 
crew can simply walk over onto the structure. If there is an emergency 
on the structure, the liftboat would jack down and move away. If there 
is a leg failure on a liftboat, it will collapse into the water where 
it has a very low freeboard, making launching appliances unnecessary. 
See Sec. 133.150(c)(5).

New 1996 SOLAS Amendments

    The International Maritime Organization has developed a new set of 
amendments to SOLAS, Chapter III, which were recently adopted and are 
contained in the 1996 SOLAS Amendments. These amendments will come into 
force July 1, 1998. The 1996 SOLAS Amendments remove the performance 
and construction requirements for lifesaving appliances from Chapter 
III of SOLAS and put them into a new mandatory Lifesaving Appliances 
Code (LSA Code). The requirements for the number and arrangement of 
lifesaving appliances on ships remain in SOLAS, Chapter III along with 
regulations concerning their operation and maintenance. These 
amendments also contain some new and some revised regulations, which 
are included in this interim rule to the extent that they were 
anticipated and proposed in the NPRM. New regulations that were not 
proposed in the NPRM, but which provide alternatives or lessened 
requirements, are also included. The following paragraphs summarize the 
more significant revisions to SOLAS, Chapter III in the 1996 SOLAS 
Amendments and explain the way they are addressed in this interim rule. 
The Coast Guard is adopting certain of these SOLAS revisions in 
subchapter W so that it will be in line with the SOLAS requirements 
when they come into force. Comments are invited on these new 
provisions.
    The 1996 SOLAS Amendments revise the installation requirements for 
free-fall lifeboats on cargo ships. Free-fall lifeboats were included 
as an option in the 1983 SOLAS Amendments and in the NPRM. To the 
extent that the revisions do not impose more stringent requirements 
than those in the NPRM, they are included in this interim rule. 
Specifically, special requirements for free-fall lifeboat launching 
arrangements are in Secs. 199.110(e), 199.120(b), 199.150(c), and 
199.157.
    Anti-exposure suits are allowed in the 1996 SOLAS Amendments as an 
option to immersion suits for the crews of rescue boats and marine 
evacuation systems. Immersion suits are intended as survival equipment 
in cold water and, as such, they can be bulky and restrictive. Anti-
exposure suits can be designed to be practical working suits and can 
still provide reasonable hypothermia protection. This interim rule, 
like SOLAS, allows this option in Sec. 199.70(c). Several comments on 
the NPRM objected to the immersion suit requirement for rescue boat 
crews on vessels and MODUs operating between 32 degrees north and 32 
degrees south latitude because immersion suits are not required in 
these latitudes for the rest of the persons on board. The Coast Guard 
agrees, and SOLAS 1996 also allows exemption from the requirement in 
warm climates. Therefore, the exemption is contained in this interim 
rule under Secs. 199.70(c)(1), 108.580(c)(1), and 133.70(c)(1).
    The 1996 SOLAS Amendments require clear deck space to accommodate 
all persons assigned to muster stations, but at least 0.35 square 
meters (3.75 square feet) per person. Neither the 1983 SOLAS Amendments 
nor the NPRM under this docket included this minimum area requirement. 
Therefore, this requirement is not included in this interim rule. 
Nevertheless, any ship built after July 1, 1998, engaged in 
international voyages will have to comply.
    The 1983 SOLAS Amendments required that as far as practicable, 
survival craft be stowed in a secure and sheltered position and 
protected from damage by fire and explosion. The NPRM proposed that, on 
tankers, survival craft stowage locations be protected from the cargo 
tank area by the deckhouse or A-class divisions. The 1996 SOLAS 
Amendments only require that survival craft on tankers not be stowed on 
or above a cargo tank, slop tank, or other tank containing explosive or 
hazardous cargoes. This interim rule includes this less strict 
requirement in Sec. 199.290(c).
    The 1983 SOLAS Amendments allowed the use of marine evacuation 
systems in place of davit-launching systems for liferafts. Marine 
evacuations systems consist of a slide or chute to provide passage to a 
water-level platform, from which liferafts are boarded. The 1983 SOLAS 
Amendments did not contain any requirements for installation, training, 
drills, or servicing of these appliances. The 1996 SOLAS Amendments do 
include installation, training, drill, and servicing requirements, and 
they are included in this interim rule. Since marine evacuation systems 
are optional, these requirements would only affect operators who choose 
this option. See Secs. 199.145, 199.150(b), and 199.201(b). Marine 
evacuation systems have also been added as alternatives to liferaft 
launching devices discussed in subchapters I-A and L. See 
Secs. 108.525, 108.545, 133.145, and 133.150(c).

[[Page 25280]]

    The 1996 SOLAS Amendments require that recovery of a rescue boat be 
possible in not more than 5 minutes in moderate sea conditions when the 
rescue boat is loaded with its full complement of persons and 
equipment. This requirement was not contemplated in the NPRM and is 
therefore not included in this rule.
    The 1996 SOLAS Amendments require that rescue boat embarkation and 
recovery arrangements allow for safe and efficient handling of a 
stretcher case. This requirement has been included in this interim 
rule, because the Coast Guard believes that rescue boat embarkation and 
recovery arrangements generally meet this requirement, and that this 
requirement can generally be met at the design stage at no additional 
expense. The requirement is in Sec. 199.160(c)(1).
    The 1996 SOLAS Amendments revised the requirements for passenger 
safety instructions. The Coast Guard believes that these requirements 
present no additional burden on the operator and they have therefore 
been included in Sec. 199.180(b).
    The 1983 SOLAS Amendments required falls to be turned end-for-end 
every 2\1/2\ years and replaced every 5 years. The 1996 Amendments 
allow an alternative for fall designs that can not be turned end-for-
end. These falls can be examined periodically and replaced at least 
every 4 years. The alternative has been included in Sec. 199.190(j).
    The 1983 SOLAS Amendments required all engines in lifeboats and 
rescue boats to be operated each week for at least 3 minutes. The 1996 
Amendments add that, during this period of time, it should be 
demonstrated that the gear box and gear box train are engaging 
satisfactorily. It also provides for alternatives for rescue boat 
outboard engines that can not be run out of water for 3 minutes. These 
provisions have been included in Sec. 199.190(d)(2).
    Numerous accidents have occurred as a result of poor launching 
appliance and lifeboat release gear condition, which is largely due to 
inadequate maintenance or infrequent servicing. The 1996 SOLAS 
Amendments contain specific requirements for periodic servicing of this 
equipment. These servicing requirements have been included in 
Sec. 199.190(i). In general, the servicing requirements do not exceed 
the maintenance and inspection that a prudent operator now performs to 
ensure that lifesaving equipment is in working order and ready for 
immediate use. The SOLAS requirements adopted in this rulemaking are 
consistent with current manufacturers' instructions on maintenance of 
this equipment.
    The 1996 SOLAS Amendments state that, for a davit-launched survival 
craft on passenger ships, the height of the davit head with the 
survival craft in embarkation position shall, as far as practicable, 
not exceed 15 meters (50 feet) to the waterline when the ship is in its 
lightest seagoing condition. This is not a requirement, but a strong 
recommendation to designers to avoid excessively high stowage locations 
for survival craft on passenger ships. This provision has been included 
in Sec. 199.230(c) as a recommendation and not a new requirement.
    Another SOLAS, Chapter III revision adopted in 1991 after the NPRM 
was published affected fire training and drill requirements in 
regulation 18, Chapter III of SOLAS. Those requirements were not 
substantially different than those proposed in the NPRM and they are, 
therefore, included in this rule at Sec. 199.180(f).

Incorporation by Reference

    1. The following material is incorporated by reference in 
Sec. 108.101:
    American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)--Rules for Building and Classing 
Offshore Mobile Drilling Units, ANSI A14.3, ANSI Z89.1, American 
Petroleum Institute (API)--API Spec 2C with supplement 2, ASTM F-1121, 
Federal Specification ZZ-H-451 F, IMO Resolution A.520(13), IMO 
Resolution A.658(16), IMO Resolution A.760(18), NFPA 407, NFPA 496, and 
Underwriters Laboratories (UL)--UL 19-78.
    2. The following material is incorporated by reference in 
Sec. 125.180:
    IMO Resolution A.520(13), and IMO Resolution A.760(18).
    3. The following material is incorporated by reference in 
Sec. 199.05:
    ASTM F1003, ASTM F1014, IMO Resolution A.520(13), IMO Resolution 
A.604(15), IMO Resolution A.657(16), IMO Resolution A.760(18), IMO 
Resolution A.212(VII), and IMO Resolution A.328(IX).
    Copies of the material are available for inspection where indicated 
under ADDRESSES. Copies of the material are available at the addresses 
in Secs. 108.101, 125.180, and 199.05.
    The Coast Guard has submitted this material to the Director of the 
Federal Register for approval of the incorporation by reference.

Assessment

    This interim rule is not a significant regulatory action under 
section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866. However, due to its nature, it 
has been reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget under that 
order. It requires an assessment of potential costs and benefits under 
section 6(a)(3) of that order. It is not significant under the 
regulatory policies and procedures of the Department of Transportation 
(DOT) (44 FR 11040; February 26, 1979).
    An interim assessment has been prepared and is available in the 
docket for inspection or copying where indicated under ADDRESSES. The 
Assessment is summarized as follows.
    This interim rule applies to all existing and new U.S. inspected 
passenger vessels 100 tons gross tonnage and over, cargo vessels, 
tankships, manned cargo and tank barges, oceanographic research 
vessels, nautical school vessels (with the exception of sailing school 
ships), OSVs, and MODUs. Coast Guard records list 1,012 existing 
vessels that do not have SOLAS, MODU, or Special Purpose Vessel Code 
certificates (161 passenger vessels, 120 cargo vessels, 48 tankships, 
12 manned barges, 4 oceanographic research vessels, 8 nautical school 
vessels, 567 OSVs, and 92 MODUs) are currently operating under the U.S. 
flag, and will be affected by this interim rule. Because the 
regulations in this interim rule are based on SOLAS, the IMO MODU Code, 
and the IMO Special Purpose Vessel Code, vessels with certificates 
indicating compliance with these standards will not be substantially 
affected by this interim rule. Therefore vessels with SOLAS, MODU, or 
Special Purpose Vessel Code certificates are not included in the 
regulatory analysis.

Discussion of Comments

    Several comments to the NPRM suggested that the estimated cost to 
comply with implementation requirements and the recurring cost to 
vessel owners were understated. One comment estimated implementation 
cost for the proposed requirements to be $3 million and that it would 
affect seven specific passenger ferries. Another comment provided 
calculations to support an implementation cost estimate of $562,500 per 
passenger ferry.
    The requirements in this interim rule are different from or less 
than those proposed in the NPRM. This interim rule contains fewer refit 
requirements for existing vessels and also provides alternatives for 
passenger ferries which provide a lower cost alternative. For example, 
if a passenger ferry operating on a lakes, bays, and sounds service 
chooses to have an approved safety assessment rather than fit 
additional survival craft, the cost of the assessment will be 
substantially less than the costs for additional survival craft 
estimated in

[[Page 25281]]

the NPRM. The cost estimates in this summary and in the assessment 
reflect the requirements of this interim rule and have taken into 
account the cost estimates provided by the passenger ferry industry.

Industry Costs

    Industry cost for this interim rule is estimated based on the 
implementation cost to existing vessels, the implementation cost to new 
vessels, and the recurring cost to all vessels for replacement of 
appliances as they become unserviceable.
    Compliance cost of this interim rule will total about $19.2 
million. The present value of the costs will total $16 million. This 
reflects a 7 percent discount to 1996 of the projected future estimated 
costs of this interim rule in accordance with current Office of 
Management and Budget guidance. Passenger vessels account for an 
estimated 50 percent of total costs; cargo vessels, tankships, and 
manned barges together account for an estimated 13 percent of total 
costs; and oceanographic research vessels, nautical school vessels, 
OSVs, and MODUs account for the remainder. A discussion of costs for 
each requirement follows.
    The costs associated with the interim rule on lifesaving appliances 
and arrangements were developed based on vessel type, vessel use, and 
average vessel size. Cost analysis calculations were based upon the 
following assumptions: (1) the interim rule will come into effect on 
October 1, 1996, for all requirements except a requirement for retro-
reflective material on all lifesaving appliances (required as of 
October 1, 1997), the carriage of immersion suits and thermal 
protective aids on passenger vessels (required as of October 1, 2001), 
and the number and type of survival craft required for certain vessels 
(required as of October 1, 2001); (2) the estimate of annual new 
vessels affected by this interim rule is directly proportional to the 
number of vessels that will be annually retired from the U.S. fleet; 
therefore, the vessel population will remain constant; (3) the average 
capacity of a passenger vessel was estimated to be 500 persons; (4) the 
average capacity on all other affected vessels was estimated to be 50 
persons; (5) no costs for this rule were associated with existing 
vessels presently carrying a SOLAS certificate; (6) both costs and 
benefits developed for this rulemaking are discounted at 7 percent back 
to 1996; (7) recurring cost items are annualized based on the average 
life of each lifesaving appliance or equipment; and (8) all recurring 
costs are calculated through the year 2001.
    Survival Craft for MODUs. As required by Sec. 180.525, new MODUs, 
except for small self-elevating units, must increase their lifeboat 
capacity. Lifeboats having an aggregate capacity of twice the number of 
persons on board would be typical. The lifeboats will cost about 
$400,000 each. The requirements in Sec. 108.550(c), that new MODUs 
provide greater clearance for lifeboats and liferafts from MODU 
structures, could amount to $200,000 per lifeboat or liferaft 
installation, for a total cost of $600,000 to comply with both 
requirements.
    MODUs--Float-Free Liferafts. The cost of replacing davit-launched 
liferafts with float-free liferafts as required in Sec. 108.525(a)(2) 
applies to newly constructed MODUs. This replacement will result in an 
estimated cost savings of $60,000 per vessel.
    Distress Signals. The cost to replace distress signals as required 
in Secs. 108.595(b), 133.60(b), and 199.60(c) applies to all vessels on 
oceans, coastwise, and Great Lakes services. Each vessel is required to 
have a minimum of 12 rocket parachute flares. Vessels on Great Lakes 
services are offered an alternative to use hand flares. The annual 
recurring cost of this requirement to industry, based on a 3-year 
replacement schedule, is estimated to be $123,280.
    Lifejacket Lights. The cost of lifejacket lights meeting SOLAS 
standards required in Secs. 108.580(b), 108.580(c), 199.70(b), and 
199.70(c) applies to cargo vessels 500 tons gross tonnage and over, and 
all other vessels on ocean and coastwise services except for OSVs. 
Additionally, the cost will vary based on vessel type. Lifejacket light 
costs were based on the added cost of a light ($5) for each jacket. 
There is no implementation cost associated with this requirement for 
new vessels and existing vessels. Lights are already required by 
regulation and are only required to be upgraded if they become 
unserviceable. The annual recurring cost, based on a 5-year replacement 
schedule, is estimated to be $15,200.
    Lifejackets with Increased Freeboard. The cost of new lifejackets 
with the greater freeboard required by SOLAS standards, as cited in 
Secs. 108.580(b) and 199.70(b) applies to MODUs and all vessels on 
ocean and coastwise services, with exceptions to OSVs, and will vary 
based on the vessel size. The additional cost is estimated to be $1,200 
for each passenger vessel and $120 for each other vessel. The annual 
recurring cost is estimated to be $29,400.
    Lifebuoy Lifelines. The cost to replace lifebuoy lifelines as 
required in Secs. 108.580(a)(2), 133.70(c)(4), and 199.70(a)(3) applies 
to all vessels. The cost per vessel is estimated to be $20. The annual 
recurring cost, based on a 5-year replacement schedule, is estimated to 
be $4,048.
    Emergency Instructions. The cost of emergency instructions required 
in Secs. 108.901(c), 133.80, and 199.80 applies to all vessels and will 
vary based on vessel size and amount of accommodations on board. The 
new vessel and existing vessel implementation cost of generating the 
emergency instructions is estimated to be $50 per vessel. The copy cost 
required for posting is estimated to be minimal. Therefore, the total 
cost to industry for this requirement is $50,600. No recurring costs 
were associated with this requirement.
    Operating Instructions. The cost of operating instructions required 
in Secs. 108.655, 133.90, and 199.90 applies to all vessels and will 
vary based on the vessel size. The new vessel and existing vessel 
implementation cost of generating the instructions is estimated to be 
$50 per vessel. The cost for copying materials required for posting is 
estimated to be minimal. The total cost to industry for this 
requirement is $50,600. No recurring costs were associated with this 
requirement.
    Manning and Supervision. There is no cost directly associated with 
the requirements of Secs. 109.323 and 199.100. The interim rule does 
not require the hiring of additional crew because current U.S. manning 
requirements are sufficient to meet this condition. The training costs 
associated with this requirement are reflected in the costs for drills 
and onboard training.
    Falls. The cost to renew falls as required in Secs. 109.301(j) and 
199.190(j) applies to all vessels except for MODUs, and vessels in 
services limited to fresh water. The cost will vary based on vessel 
type and size. Each set of falls costs about $2,500. The annual 
recurring cost to industry to replace falls, based on a 5-year 
replacement, is estimated to be $1,050,000.
    Inspection for Certification. The additional cost to inspect and 
certify vessels as required in Sec. 199.45 applies to all new vessels 
and will vary based on vessel size. The cost to inspect and certify 
small vessels, which include OSVs and manned barges, is estimated to be 
$2,000 each. Large vessels, which include all other vessels affected by 
the interim rule, are estimated to cost $5,000 each. The annual cost to 
industry is estimated to be $80,000.
    Launching Appliances for High Freeboard Vessels. The high speed 
launching appliances as required in Secs. 108.553 and 199.153 applies 
to about

[[Page 25282]]

25 percent of all new MODUs and cargo/tank vessels. The cost per vessel 
is estimated to be $5,000.
    Line Thrower Firings. The cost of annual line thrower firings as 
required in Sec. 190.170 has been eliminated. It applies to all vessels 
carrying line-throwing appliances, which are self-propelled vessels on 
ocean services with the exception of tankships, which are not required 
to conduct firing under the present regulations. The annual cost 
savings to industry is estimated to be $556,000.
    Drills and Onboard Training. The cost to provide onboard training 
as required in Secs. 109.213 and 199.180 applies to all vessels, with 
exception of OSVs, and will vary based on vessel size. The cost 
attributed to the time loss due to performing drills is negligible 
because drills are presently required by regulation. The only 
difference between present requirements and the requirement in this 
rule is that some drills will now be training sessions. The annual 
costs associated with the additional training sessions and related 
expenses are estimated to be $2,000 each for large vessels and $500 
each for small vessels. The total implementation and annual recurring 
costs to existing and new vessels for this requirement are estimated to 
be $872,000.
    Maintenance of Equipment. The maintenance of equipment as required 
by Secs. 109.301 and 199.190 applies to all vessels, with exception of 
OSVs, and those operating on lakes, bays, and sounds services, and 
rivers services. No new vessel implementation or recurring cost is 
associated with this requirement. Existing vessel implementation costs 
for the requirement to carry spare parts is estimated to be $100 per 
vessel and is applicable to about 802 vessels. The total existing 
vessel implementation cost to industry for this requirement is 
estimated to be $24,500. No recurring costs were estimated for this 
requirement.
    Partially Enclosed Lifeboats. The cost of partially enclosed 
lifeboats as required in Sec. 199.202 applies to newly constructed 
oceangoing passenger vessels. The added cost per vessel is estimated to 
be $50,000.
    Totally Enclosed Lifeboats. The cost of totally enclosed lifeboats 
as required in Sec. 199.261 applies to newly constructed cargo vessels. 
The added cost per vessel is estimated to be $50,000.
    Fire Protected Lifeboats. The cost of fire protected lifeboats as 
required in Sec. 199.261 applies to newly constructed tank vessels. The 
added cost per vessel is estimated to be $60,000.
    Cargo Vessel Immersion Suits. The requirement to carry immersion 
suits for all persons on board as required by Sec. 199.273 applies to 
all cargo vessels. This requirement affects cargo vessels not limited 
to operating between 32 degrees north latitude and 32 degrees south 
latitude. No cost is associated with this requirement because existing 
regulations mandate suits on all cargo vessels.
    Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs). The cost to 
install EPIRBs as required by Secs. 133.60(a) and 199.510 applies to 
all vessels. However, because the FCC presently has a requirement for 
EPIRBs, the new and existing vessel implementation cost of this rule 
will only affect cargo vessels and OSVs less than 300 tons gross 
tonnage and all vessels operating on the Great Lakes. The cost of an 
EPIRB is estimated to be $1,200 for each vessel. The estimated total 
implementation cost to industry for this requirement for new and 
existing vessels is $649,200. Because these vessels are provided an 
alternative of using an existing EPIRB until 1999, if fitted before 
October 1, 1996, the implementation costs associated with this 
requirement are evenly distributed over the years 1997 through 1999. 
Recurring cost for this requirement was estimated based on a 5-year 
replacement schedule for the EPIRB batteries. These batteries were 
estimated to cost $400 per EPIRB. The recurring cost for this 
requirement to the industry is estimated to be $43,280.
    Retro-Reflective Material on all Floating Appliances. The cost to 
equip floating appliances with retroflective material as required by 
Secs. 108.515(a)(2), 133.10(b)(2), and 199.10(i)(1)(i) applies to all 
vessels. The new and existing implementation cost will vary based on 
the number of lifeboats, rescue boats, and other lifesaving appliances 
each vessel is required to carry. It is estimated that vessels will 
have to fit about 40 items with retro-reflective material at a cost of 
$5 per item. Therefore, the total implementation cost to industry to 
meet this requirement is estimated to be $197,800. The recurring cost 
of this requirement is estimated to be $25 per vessel. The total annual 
recurring cost to industry is estimated to be $25,300.
    Equipment for Lifeboats. The cost of periodically replacing certain 
equipment required by Secs. 108.575(b), 133.175(b), and 199.175(b), 
applies to all vessels, with the exception of OSVs, and those operating 
on lakes, bays, and sounds services, and rivers services, and will vary 
based on vessel type. It is estimated that passenger vessels will spend 
about $500 annually per vessel on replacement equipment and other 
vessels will each spend about $50 annually per vessel. The total annual 
recurring cost to industry for this requirement is estimated to be 
$16,300.
    Rescue Boats. The cost of the replacing rescue boats as required by 
Secs. 108.560, 133.135, and 199.202 applies to existing and new 
passenger vessels on lakes, bays, and sounds service, and Great Lakes 
service. The cost of a rescue boat is estimated to be $50,000. The 
recurring annual cost to industry based on a 25-year replacement 
schedule is estimated to $272,000.
    Passenger Vessel Immersion Suits and Thermal Protective Aids. The 
cost of immersion suits and thermal protective aids as required by 
Sec. 199.214 applies to passenger vessels not limited to operating 
between 32 degrees north and 32 degrees south latitude. Where 
applicable, passenger vessels must carry at least three immersion suits 
or anti-exposure suits for each lifeboat on the vessel. It is estimated 
that 9 passenger vessels must provide 3 immersion suits for 8 lifeboats 
at a cost of $1,200 per lifeboat. Thermal protective aids are also 
required on these vessels for each person not provided with an 
immersion suit. The thermal protective aids were estimated to cost $35 
each. The estimated total new and existing implementation cost to 
industry to meet this requirement is $141,750. No recurring costs are 
associated with this requirement.
    Survival Craft for Passenger Vessels. The type and number of 
survival craft required by Sec. 199.201 affects all passenger vessels. 
Alternatives to these requirements for passenger vessels in certain 
services are provided in Sec. 199.630. Vessel operators may choose 
alternatives for meeting survival craft requirements. It is estimated 
that 50 percent of the passenger vessel population will choose the 
option to develop a safety management and contingency plan. Operators 
will spend an estimated $10,000 per operator to develop the safety 
management and contingency plan and possibly demonstrate some aspect of 
it. Some additional equipment or vessel modifications might be required 
to implement the plan, for an estimated non-recurring cost of $10,000 
per vessel. The remaining 50 percent of passenger vessels will increase 
the number of inflatable buoyant apparatus (IBAs) to accommodate either 
100 percent or 67 percent of the passenger population, where 
applicable. The existing vessel implementation cost for passenger 
vessels required to accommodate 100 percent of the passengers with IBAs 
is estimated to be $70,000 assuming 10 50-

[[Page 25283]]

person IBAs are required on the average 500-passenger ferry. In 
addition, these IBAs will have to be installed on the vessel, and in 
some cases launching or boarding appliances may be required. This could 
amount to an additional $40,000 per vessel, for a total cost of 
$110,000 per vessel. Additionally, the IBAs must be serviced annually. 
Assuming $400 per IBA in servicing fees, this will amount to a 
recurring annual cost of about $4,000 per year per vessel.
    Survival Craft for Cargo Vessels. As required by 
Sec. 199.261(b)(2), ocean and coastwise cargo/tank ships and manned 
barges must increase their float-free liferaft capacity by 50 percent. 
This additional liferaft will cost about $4,000 per vessel installed. 
The raft will have to be serviced annually at an estimated cost of $400 
for each servicing.
    Davit Launched Liferaft. The cost of davit-launched liferafts on 
one side for 100 percent capacity as required in Sec. 199.640(d) 
applies to newly constructed cargo vessels on Great Lakes services. The 
cost per vessel is estimated to be $30,000.

Government Costs

    The cost of this interim rule to the Federal government includes 
costs to the Maritime Administration (MARAD). About 1 percent of 
MARAD's active fleet is involved in commercial service; therefore, 
requiring compliance with this interim rule. The MARAD commercial fleet 
is comprised of six freight ships and four tank ships. The total 
implementation costs to MARAD's existing vessels are an estimated 
$39,812. MARAD's annual cost to upgrade equipment as it becomes 
unserviceable is estimated to be $33,659.
    State and local governments account for 8 percent of the affected 
population, or about 75 ferries and other vessels regulated under 
subchapter H. The total implementation cost to existing state vessels 
is estimated to be about $1.9 million, assuming that 50 percent of the 
ferries opt for a safety management and contingency plan that does not 
involve additional lifesaving equipment. The recurring annual cost to 
existing and new vessels is estimated to be $358,567.

Total Costs

    The total costs of this interim rule are $8,463,250 in 
implementation costs to existing vessels and $10,742,972 in recurring 
annual costs to existing and new vessels. Costs of the interim rule are 
forecast to 2001. Vessel owners must meet the interim rule's 
requirements beginning October 1, 1996. Exceptions hold for the 
following requirements: (1) the type of survival craft for certain 
vessels as required in Secs. 199.10(i)(1)(ii), 199.261(b)(2), and 
199.630; and (2) immersion suits and thermal protective aids for 
certain passenger vessels as required in Secs. 199.10(i)(1)(iii) and 
199.214. Both have a 5-year phase-in period, ending October 1, 2001. 
Another exception to the October 1, 1996, date is the requirement for 
retro-reflective material on all floating appliances, and certain 
operational requirements listed in Secs. 108.515(a)(2), 133.10(b)(2), 
and 199.10(i)(1)(i), which will be required on October 1, 1997. Costs 
are estimated at $2,739,290 in 1997; $4,224,933 in 1998 and 1999; and 
$4,008,533 in 2000 and 2001. The present value of the costs of this 
interim rule discounted at 7 percent to 1996 is estimated to total 
$11,259,277.

Cost-Benefit Evaluation

    A benefit analysis that accounts for the overall improvement in 
lifesaving appliances and arrangements realized by this interim rule 
was completed by researching 475 Coast Guard rescue cases, relating 
these cases to the risk associated with the potential for losing a life 
at sea on the affected vessel fleet, and estimating how many of these 
potential lost lives would be saved by the implementation of this 
interim rule. Rescue case data was reviewed from the Coast Guard's 
Search and Rescue Mission Information System (SARMIS) over the past 5 
years. The criteria for selecting the case data included the likelihood 
of the case type to result in a person entering the water. For example, 
cases involving a collision or sinking were reviewed but adrift and ice 
bound cases were not included. Because SARMIS only records vessel 
length, the case data for this analysis was not differentiated based on 
the vessel's gross tonnage but rather on the vessel's length overall 
(LOA). The following vessel LOA estimates were used to assess vessel 
tons gross tonnage: an LOA of over 100 feet was used to assess 
passenger vessels over 100 tons gross tonnage (subchapter H); an LOA 
between 66 to 200 feet was used to assess OSVs (subchapter L); an LOA 
of over 200 feet was used to assess cargo vessels--including manned 
barges (subchapter I); an LOA of over 66 feet was used to assess tank 
vessels--including manned barges (subchapter D); an LOA of over 66 feet 
was used to assess nautical school vessels and research vessels; and 
all MODU data entries were used.
    The overall improvement in lifesaving appliances and arrangements 
realized by this interim rule were estimated by estimating the 5-year 
case data on Coast Guard rescues and recording the number of lives at 
risk (lives lost and saved by the Coast Guard) due to each type of 
vessel casualty that would be likely to result in a person entering the 
water for each vessel type. The casualty types considered in this 
interim rule were capsizing, fire and explosion, flooding and sinking, 
and collisions.
    The number of lives at risk considered for each casualty and vessel 
type was then adjusted to reflect current Coast Guard rescue 
effectiveness. This adjusted range of lives at risk calculation was 
done by multiplying the Coast Guard's Search and Rescue program 
effectiveness for lives saved (90 percent) to the range of lives at 
risk calculated for each casualty type. For example, according to the 
SARMIS data, there were 99 lives lost due to capsizing, 25 lives lost 
due to fire and explosion, 0 lives lost due to flooding and sinking, 
and 0 lives lost due to collision over the past 5 years on passenger 
vessels over 100 feet in length. The adjusted number of lives at risk 
on passenger ships follows: (99 lives multiplied by .10) plus (25 lives 
multiplied by .10) plus (0 lives multiplied by .10) plus (0 lives 
multiplied by .10).
    The probability that the improved lifesaving appliances and 
arrangements will increase the rescue likelihood of lives at risk was 
estimated based on the adjusted calculations. For capsizing casualties, 
the probability of this interim rule increasing a person's rescue was 
estimated to be between 5 and 15 percent. This was determined by 
considering the positive effects of increased survival craft 
availability, visibility, and the effectiveness of crew training on 
egress. For fire and explosion casualties, the probability of this 
interim rule increasing a person's rescue was estimated to be between 0 
and 5 percent. This was determined by considering the positive effects 
of increased standards for stowage arrangements of survival craft on 
new vessels, availability of survival craft in remote locations, and 
the effectiveness of crew training on fire fighting and abandonment. 
For flooding and sinking casualties, the probability of this interim 
rule increasing a person's rescue was estimated to be between 2 and 8 
percent. This was determined by considering the positive effects of 
increased standards for launching arrangements of survival craft on new 
vessels and the effectiveness of muster lists and emergency 
instructions. For collision casualties, the probability of this interim 
rule increasing a person's rescue was estimated to be between 1 and 5 
percent. This was determined by considering the positive effects of

[[Page 25284]]

requirements for emergency communication capabilities, drill 
requirements, and improved equipment capabilities.
    Factoring in the effectiveness estimated to adjusted range of lives 
at risk for passenger vessels becomes the accumulation of the 
following: capsizing risks range from .5 to 1.5 lives (9.9 lives at 
risk multiplied by .05) and (9.9 lives at risk multiplied by .15)]; 
fire and explosion risks range from 0 to .13 lives; flooding and 
sinking calculations result in 0 lives; and collision calculations 
result in 0 lives. Therefore, the benefits from this interim rule for 
passenger vessels over the next 5 years range from .5 lives to 1.63 
lives saved.
    This calculation was done for the remaining vessel types. For cargo 
vessels over 200 feet in length, 0 lives were lost due to capsizing, 84 
lives were lost due to fire and explosion, 147 lives were lost due to 
flooding and sinking, and 0 lives were lost due to collision over the 
past 5 years. Using this method the estimated adjusted range of lives 
at risk for cargo vessels becomes the following: capsizing calculations 
result in 0 lives; fire and explosion risks range from 0 to .4 lives; 
flooding and sinking risks range from .3 to 1.2 lives; and collision 
calculations result in 0 lives. Therefore, the benefits from this 
interim rule for cargo vessels over the next 5 years range from .3 
lives to 1.6 lives saved.
    For tank vessels over 66 feet in length, 0 lives were lost due to 
capsizing, 66 lives were lost due to fire and explosion, 26 lives were 
lost due to flooding and sinking, and 0 lives were lost due to 
collision over the past 5 years. Using this method the estimated 
adjusted range of lives at risk for tank vessels becomes the following: 
capsizing calculations result in 0 lives; fire and explosion risks 
range from 0 to .3 lives; flooding and sinking risks range from .1 to 
.2 lives; and collision calculations result in 0 lives. Therefore, the 
benefits from this interim rule for tank vessels over the next 5 years 
range from .1 lives to .5 lives saved.
    For OSVs 66 to 200 feet in length, 18 lives were lost due to 
capsizing, 11 lives were lost due to fire and explosion, 136 lives were 
lost due to flooding and sinking, and 7 lives were lost due to 
collision over the past 5 years. Using this method the estimated 
adjusted range of lives at risk for OSVs follows: capsizing risks range 
from .1 to 2.7 lives; fire and explosion risks range from 0 to .1 
lives; flooding and sinking risks range from .3 to 1.1 lives; and 
collision risks range from .01 to .04 lives. Therefore, the benefits 
from this interim rule for OSVs over the next 5 years range from .41 
lives to 3.94 lives saved.
    For MODUs of all lengths, 0 lives were lost due to capsizing, 25 
lives were lost due to fire and explosion, 16 lives were lost due to 
flooding and sinking, and 0 lives were lost due to collision over the 
past 5 years. Using this method the estimated adjusted range of lives 
at risk for MODUs follows: capsizing calculations result in 0 lives; 
fire and explosion risks range from 0 to .125 lives; flooding and 
sinking risks range from .03 to .13 lives; and collision calculations 
result in 0 lives. Therefore, the benefits from this interim rule for 
MODUs over the next 5 years range from .03 lives to .25 lives saved.
    For nautical school and research vessels, insufficient data was 
found in order to assess them independently. However, the Coast Guard 
finds that the benefits realized by this interim rule would be similar 
to the cargo and passenger vessel benefits for nautical school and 
research vessels.
    The total discounted cost for this interim rule is estimated to be 
$11,259,277. The benefits from this interim rule for passenger vessels, 
cargo vessels, tank vessels, OSVs, and MODUs over the next 5 years 
range from 1.34 lives to 7.92 lives saved. The overall benefit for the 
five vessel categories affected for the first 5 years of this interim 
rule implementation is estimated to be between $3.6 million and $21.4 
million. The present value of the estimated range is between $2.2 
million and $13 million. Based on the willingness of society to pay 
$2.7 million for the value of a fatality averted, as determined by the 
Department of Transportation (DOT), if this interim rule causes a 
reduction in the number of fatalities by 4.2 people in 5 years, the 
benefits will exceed the cost. The number of persons at risk in a major 
marine casualty would range from about 25 to 2,000 or more. Since this 
interim rule addresses shortcomings in lifesaving systems identified in 
past major marine casualties, the Coast Guard is confident that more 
than four lives would be saved by the requirements in this rule in any 
single major casualty involving a vessel equipped to this rule. 
Furthermore, the benefits of this interim rule could be realized at any 
time throughout a vessel's economic life, which may extend for 25 years 
or more, not just during the 5-year analysis period. As discussed 
previously, statistical models are not meaningful in predicting the 
occurrence of such low probability/high consequence accidents. Since 
some of the less tangible benefits realized through unification of the 
U.S. regulations with international regulations are not taken into 
account in this analysis, the Coast Guard is confident that the total 
benefits exceed total costs, and has determined that this interim rule 
is cost effective.

Small Entities

    Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), the 
Coast Guard must consider whether this interim rule will have a 
significant economic impact on small entities. ``Small entities'' 
include independently owned and operated small businesses that are not 
dominant in their field and that otherwise qualify as ``small business 
concerns'' under Section 3 of the Small Business act (15 U.S.C. 632). 
``Small entities'' also include not-for-profit organizations and small 
governmental jurisdictions.
    This interim rule considered small business impact for vessels 
privately held by independent companies with less than 500 employees. 
It may affect certain OSVs operating primarily in the Gulf of Mexico. 
An estimated one-half of the OSV population is owned by 35 vessel 
owners, each having 9 or fewer OSVs. Information provided by the 
International Association of Drilling Contractors and the Passenger 
Vessel Association, show that there is one MODU and about 10 percent of 
passenger vessels regulated under subchapter H that should be given 
consideration under the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    Sufficient flexibility and alternatives are built into the rule to 
allow small entities to comply with requirements at a modest cost. The 
greatest cost item to OSVs requires the purchase of satellite EPIRBs. 
Flexibility has been provided by allowing vessels which currently have 
class A EPIRBs or two class C EPIRBs, installed to retain these until 
February 1999, after which these vessels must meet the new requirement 
of the interim rule. Other flexibilities offered include a 5-year 
phase-in period to certain passenger vessels to comply with survival 
craft requirements. These passenger vessels are provided with 
alternative options for meeting survival craft requirements.
    Because of these accommodations, the Coast Guard certifies that 
this interim rule will not have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities. If, however, you think that your 
business or organization qualifies as a small entity and that this 
interim rule will have a significant economic impact on your business 
or organization, please submit a comment (see ADDRESSES) explaining why 
you think it qualifies and in what

[[Page 25285]]

way and to what degree this interim rule will economically affect it.

Collection of Information

    Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), the 
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) reviews each rule that contains a 
collection-of-information requirement to determine whether the 
practical value of the information is worth the burden imposed by its 
collection. Collection-of-information requirements include reporting, 
recordkeeping, notification, and other similar requirements.
    This interim rule contains collection-of-information requirements. 
The Coast Guard has submitted the requirements to the Office of 
Management and Budget (OMB) for review under section 3504(h) of the 
Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), and OMB has approved 
them. Persons submitting comments on the requirements should submit 
their comments both to OMB and to the Coast Guard where indicated under 
ADDRESSES. The section numbers of those provisions and the 
corresponding OMB approval numbers are as follows:

a. Sec. 31.36-1--2115-0071
b. Sec. 35.07-10--2115-0071
c. Sec. 35.10-1--2115-0071
d. Sec. 35.10-5--2115-0576, 2115-0577
e. Sec. 35.40-40--2115-0577
f. Sec. 70.28-1--2115-0071
g. Sec. 78.13-1--2115-0576, 2115-0577
h. Sec. 78.17-50--2115-0071
i. Sec. 78.37-5--2115-0071
j. Sec. 78.47-45--2115-0577
k. Sec. 90.27-1--2115-0071
l. Sec. 97.13-1--2115-0576, 2115-0577
m. Sec. 97.15-35--2115-0071
n. Sec. 97.35-5--2115-0071
o. Sec. 97.37-42--2115-0577
p. Sec. 107.305--2115-0554
q. Sec. 108.105--2115-0554
r. Sec. 108.645--2115-0577
s. Sec. 108.646--2115-0577
t. Sec. 108.647--2115-0577
u. Sec. 108.649--2115-0577
v. Sec. 108.650--2115-0577
w. Sec. 108.655--2115-0577
x. Sec. 108.901--2115-0557
y. Sec. 109.213--2115-0071
z. Sec. 109.301--2115-0071
aa. Sec. 109.323--2115-0576, 2115-0557
ab. Sec. 109.425--2115-0007
ac. Sec. 109.433--2115-0071
ad. Sec. 133.40--2115-0554
ae. Sec. 133.70--2115-0577
af. Sec. 133.80--2115-0577
ag. Sec. 133.90--2115-0577
ah. Sec. 167.55-5--2115-0577
ai. Sec. 167.65-1--2115-0071
aj. Sec. 188.27-1--2115-0071
ak. Sec. 195.06-1--2115-0071
al. Sec. 196.13-1--2115-0576, 2115-0577
am. Sec. 196.15-35--2115-0071
an. Sec. 196.35-5--2115-0071
ao. Sec. 196.37-37--2115-0577
ap. Sec. 199.10--2115-0007
aq. Sec. 199.40--2115-0554
ar. Sec. 199.60--2115-0577
as. Sec. 199.70--2115-0577
at. Sec. 199.80--2115-0577
au. Sec. 199.90--2115-0577
av. Sec. 199.100--2115-0576, 2115-0577
aw. Sec. 199.175--2115-0577
ax. Sec. 199.176--2115-0577
ay. Sec. 199.178--2115-0577
az. Sec. 199.180--2115-0071, 2115-0577
ba. Sec. 199.190--2115-0071
bb. Sec. 199.217--2115-0577
bc. Sec. 199.640--2115-0577

Federalism

    Section 202 of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 requires 
that the Agency prepare a budgetary impact statement before 
promulgating a rule that includes a Federal mandate that may result in 
expenditures by state, local, and tribal governments, in the aggregate, 
or by the private sector of $100 million or more in any 1 year. Because 
this interim rule is estimated to result in the expenditure by state, 
local, and tribal governments of less than $100 million per year, a 
budgetary impact statement has not been prepared. Nevertheless, much of 
the information required in a budgetary impact statement can be found 
in the Final Regulatory Assessment for this rule.
    Several state and local governments operate about 75 passenger 
ferries and other vessels regulated under subchapter H. Total 
implementation costs to the passenger vessel industry affected by this 
interim rule are estimated at $6.7 million and the total recurring 
annual costs from 1998 through 2001 is estimated to be $3 million. 
State and local government passenger ferries and other vessels account 
for an estimated 34 percent or $3.3 million of the total compliance 
costs for passenger vessels. The implementation costs to state and 
local government vessels accounts for $1.9 million and the total annual 
recurring cost would account for $1.4 million.
    Because of the minimal estimated cost to state and local 
governments, the Coast Guard finds that preparation of a Federalism 
Assessment is unwarranted.

Environment

    The Coast Guard considered the environmental impact of this interim 
rule and concluded that under paragraph 2.B.2 of Commandant Instruction 
M16475.1B, this interim rule is categorically excluded from further 
environmental documentation. This interim rule is made to enhance the 
safety and survivability of personnel at sea, as well as improving the 
effectiveness of search and rescue. It is expected to have no 
environmental impact. A Categorical Exclusion Determination is 
available in the docket for inspection or copying where indicated under 
ADDRESSES.

List of Subjects

46 CFR Part 30

    Cargo vessels, Foreign relations, Hazardous materials 
transportation, Penalties, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, 
Seamen.

46 CFR Part 31

    Cargo vessels, Marine safety, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

46 CFR Part 32

    Cargo vessels, Fire prevention, Marine safety, Navigation (water), 
Occupational safety and health, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Seamen.

46 CFR Part 33

    Cargo vessels, Marine safety, Occupational safety and health, 
Seamen.

46 CFR Part 35

    Cargo vessels, Marine safety, Navigation (water), Occupational 
safety and health, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Seamen.

46 CFR Part 70

    Marine safety, Passenger vessels, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

46 CFR Part 71

    Marine safety, Passenger vessels, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

46 CFR Part 75

    Marine safety, Passenger vessels.

46 CFR Part 77

    Marine safety, Navigation (water), Passenger vessels.

46 CFR Part 78

    Marine safety, Navigation (water), Passenger vessels, Penalties, 
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

46 CFR Part 90

    Cargo vessels, Marine safety.

46 CFR Part 91

    Cargo vessels, Marine safety, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

46 CFR Part 94

    Cargo vessels, Marine safety.

46 CFR Part 96

    Cargo vessels, Fire protection, Marine safety.

[[Page 25286]]

46 CFR Part 97

    Cargo vessels, Marine safety, Navigation (water), Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

46 CFR Part 107

    Marine safety, Oil and gas exploration, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 108

    Fire prevention, Incorporation by reference, Marine safety, 
Occupational safety and health, Oil and gas exploration, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 109

    Marine safety, Occupational safety and health, Oil and gas 
exploration, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 125

    Incorporation by reference, Marine safety, Occupational safety and 
health, Oil and gas exploration, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 133

    Marine safety, Occupational safety and health, Oil and gas 
exploration, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 167

    Fire prevention, Marine safety, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Schools, Seamen, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 168

    Occupational safety and health, Schools, Seamen, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 188

    Marine safety, Oceanographic research vessels.

46 CFR Part 189

    Marine safety, Oceanographic research vessels, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

46 CFR Part 192

    Marine safety, Oceanographic research vessels.

46 CFR Part 195

    Marine safety, Navigation (water), Oceanographic research vessels.

46 CFR Part 196

    Marine safety, Oceanographic research vessels, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

46 CFR Part 199

    Cargo vessels, Incorporation by reference, Marine safety, Oil and 
gas exploration, Passenger vessels, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Vessels.

    Dated: May 7, 1996.
James C. Card,
Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard Chief, Marine Safety and Environmental 
Protection.

    For the reasons set out in the preamble, under the authority of 46 
U.S.C. 3306, the Coast Guard amends 46 CFR chapter I as follows:

SUBCHAPTER D--TANK VESSELS

PART 30--GENERAL PROVISIONS

    1. The authority citation for part 30 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 3703; 49 U.S.C. 5103, 5106; 49 
CFR 1.45, 1.46; Section 30.01-2 also issued under the authority of 
44 U.S.C. 3507; Section 30.01-5 also issued under the authority of 
Sec. 4109, Pub. L. 101-380, 104 Stat. 515.


Sec. 30.01-5  [Amended]

    2. In Sec. 30.01-5, paragraph (b) is removed and reserved.
    3. In Sec. 30.01-6, paragraph (d) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 30.01-6  Application to vessels on an international voyage.

* * * * *
    (d) The Commandant or his authorized representative may exempt any 
vessel from the construction requirements of this subchapter if the 
vessel does not proceed more than 20 nautical miles from the nearest 
land in the course of its voyage.

PART 31--INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION

    4. The authority citation for part 31 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 3703; 49 
U.S.C. 5103, 5106; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 
277; E.O. 12777, 56 FR 545757, 3 CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 351; 49 CFR 
1.46. Section 31.10-21a also issued under the authority of Sect. 
4109, Pub. L. 101-380, 104 Stat. 515.

    5. In Sec. 31.01-1, paragraph (a) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 31.01-1  Inspections required--TB/ALL.

    (a) Every tank vessel subject to the regulations in this subchapter 
shall be inspected biennially, annually, or oftener, if necessary, by 
the Coast Guard to see that the hull, boilers, machinery, equipment, 
apparatus for storage, and appliances of the vessel comply with marine 
inspection laws, and the regulations in this subchapter, and when 
applicable, subchapters E, F, J, O, Q, S, and W of this chapter and 33 
CFR parts 155 and 157.
* * * * *
    6. In Sec. 31.05-1, paragraph (a) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 31.05-1  Issuance of certificate of inspection--TB/ALL.

    (a) When a tank vessel is found to comply with the regulations in 
this subchapter, and applicable provisions of subchapters E, F, J, O, 
Q, S, and W of this chapter and 33 CFR parts 155 and 157, a certificate 
of inspection will be issued to it, or to its owners, by the Officer in 
Charge, Marine Inspection.
* * * * *
    7. Subpart 31.36 is added to read as follows:

Subpart 31.36--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements

Sec.
31.36-1  Lifesaving appliances and arrangements--TB/ALL.

Subpart 31.36--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements


Sec. 31.36-1  Lifesaving appliances and arrangements--TB/ALL.

    All lifesaving appliances and arrangements on tank vessels must be 
in accordance with subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and 
Arrangements) of this chapter.

PART 33--[REMOVED]

    8. Part 33 is removed.

PART 35--OPERATIONS

    9. The authority citation for part 35 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3703, 6101; 49 
U.S.C. 5103, 5106; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 1980 Comp., p. 277; E.O. 
12777, 56 FR 54757, 3 CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 351; 49 CFR 1.46.

    10. In Sec. 35.07-10, paragraph (b)(1) is revised, paragraphs 
(b)(2) and (b)(7) are removed, and paragraphs (b) (3), (4), (5), (6), 
(8), (9), and (10) are redesignated as paragraphs (b)(2) through (b)(8) 
to read as follows:


Sec. 35.07-10  Actions required to be logged-TB/ALL.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (1) Onboard training, musters, and drills: held in accordance with 
subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances or Arrangements) of this chapter.
* * * * *
    11. Section 35.10-1 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 35.10-1  Emergency training, musters, and drills--T/ALL.

    Onboard training, musters, and drills must be in accordance with 
subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.

[[Page 25287]]

    12. Section 35.10-5 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 35.10-5  Muster lists, emergency signals, and manning--T/ALL.

    The requirements for muster lists, emergency signals, and manning 
must be in accordance with subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and 
Arrangements) of this chapter.


Secs. 35.10-6, 35.10-7, 35.10-9, 35.10-20, 35.10-25, 35.10-
30  [Removed]

    13. Sections 35.10-6, 35.10-7, 35.10-9, and 35.10-20, 35.10-25, and 
35.10-30 are removed.


Secs. 35.30-50, 35.30-55  [Removed]

    14. Sections 35.30-50 and 35.30-55 are removed.
    15. In subpart 35.40, the subpart heading is revised to read as 
follows:

Subpart 35.40-Posting and Marking Requirements--TB/ALL

    16. Section 35.40-40 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 35.40-40  Marking and instructions for fire and emergency 
equipment--TB/ALL.

    Lifesaving appliances, instructions to passengers, and stowage 
locations for all tank vessels must be in accordance with subchapter W 
(Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.

SUBCHAPTER H--PASSENGER VESSELS

PART 70--GENERAL PROVISIONS

    17. The authority citation for part 70 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3703; 49 U.S.C. 5103, 5106; E.O. 
12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 1.45, 1.46; 
Section 70.01-15 also issued under the authority of 44 U.S.C. 3507.

    18. In Sec. 70.05-10, paragraph (d) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 70.05-10  Application to vessels on an international voyage.

* * * * *
    (d) The Commandant or his authorized representative may exempt any 
vessel from the construction requirements of this subchapter if the 
vessel does not proceed more than 20 nautical miles from the nearest 
land in the course of its voyage.


Sec. 70.10-3  [Removed]

    19. Section 70.10-3 removed.
    20. Sec. 70.10-34 is added to read as follows:


Sec. 70.10-34  Passenger.

    (a) The term passenger means--
    (1) On an international voyage, every person other than--
    (i) The master and the members of the crew or other persons 
employed or engaged in any capacity on board a vessel on the business 
of that vessel; and
    (ii) A child under 1 year of age.
    (2) On other than an international voyage, an individual carried on 
the vessel, except--
    (i) The owner or an individual representative of the owner or, in 
the case of a vessel under charter, an individual charterer or 
individual representative of the charter;
    (ii) The master; or
    (iii) A member of the crew engaged in the business of the vessel 
who has not contributed consideration for carriage and who is paid for 
onboard services.
    (b) The term passenger for hire means a passenger for whom 
consideration is contributed as a condition of carriage on the vessel, 
whether directly or indirectly flowing to the owner, charterer, 
operator, agent, or any other person having an interest in the vessel.
    21. Section 70.10-35 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 70.10-35  Passenger Vessel.

    The term passenger vessel means--
    (a) On an international voyage, a vessel of at least 100 tons gross 
tonnage carrying more than 12 passengers; and
    (b) On other than an international voyage, a vessel of at least 100 
tons gross tonnage--
    (1) Carrying more than 12 passengers, including at least one 
passenger for hire; or
    (2) That is chartered and carrying more than 12 passengers.
    22. Section 70.10-43 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 70.10-43  Short international voyage.

    A short international voyage is an international voyage in the 
course of which a vessel is not more than 200 miles from a port or 
place in which the passengers and crew could be placed in safety. 
Neither the distance between the last port of call in the country in 
which the voyage begins and the final port of destination nor the 
return voyage may exceed 600 miles. The final port of destination is 
the last port of call in the scheduled voyage at which the vessel 
commences its return voyage to the country in which the voyage began.
    23. Subpart 70.28 is added to read as follows:

Subpart 70.28--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements

Sec.
70.28-1  Lifesaving appliances and arrangements.

Subpart 70.28--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements


Sec. 70.28-1  Lifesaving appliances and arrangements.

    All lifesaving appliances and arrangements on passenger vessels 
must be in accordance with subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and 
Arrangements) of this chapter.

PART 71--INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION

    24. The authority citation for part 71 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); 46 U.S.C. 2113, 3306; E.O. 12234, 
45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; E.O. 12777, 56 FR 54757, 3 
CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 351; 49 CFR 1.46.

    25. Section 71.15-1 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 71.15-1  Standards in inspection of hulls, boilers, and machinery.

    In the inspection of hulls, boilers, and machinery of vessels, the 
standards established by the American Bureau of Shipping, see part 70, 
subpart 70.35 of this chapter respecting material and inspection of 
hulls, boilers, and machinery, and the certificate of classification 
referring thereto, except where otherwise provided for by the rules and 
regulations in this subchapter, subchapter E (Load Lines), subchapter F 
(Marine Engineering), subchapter J (Electrical Engineering), and 
subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter, 
shall be accepted as standard by the inspectors.
    26. In Sec. 71.20-20, paragraph (a)(1) is revised, paragraph (a) is 
redesignated as introductory text, and paragraphs (a) (1), (2), (3), 
(4), (5), and (6) are redesignated as paragraphs (a) through (f) to 
read as follows:


Sec. 71.20-20  Specific tests and inspections.

 * * * * *
    (a) For inspection procedures of lifesaving appliances and 
arrangements, see subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) 
of this chapter.
 * * * * *
    27. Section 71.25-15 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 71.25-15   Lifesaving equipment.

    For inspection procedures of lifesaving appliances and 
arrangements, see subchapter W (Lifesaving

[[Page 25288]]

Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.

PART 75--[REMOVED]

    28. Part 75 is removed.

PART 77--VESSEL CONTROL AND MISCELLANEOUS SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT

    29. The authority citation for part 77 continues to read as 
follows:

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

    30. Subpart 77.06 is added to read as follows:
Subpart 77.06--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements
Sec.
77.06-1  Installation.

Subpart 77.06--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements


Sec. 77.06-1   Installation.

    The installation of all lifesaving appliances and arrangements must 
be in accordance with the requirements of subchapter W (Lifesaving 
Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.

PART 78--OPERATIONS

    31. The authority citation for part 78 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 6101; 49 
U.S.C. 5103, 5106; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1981 Comp., p. 
277; E.O. 12777, 56 FR 54757, 3 CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 351; 49 CFR 
1.46.

    32. Section 78.13-1 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 78.13-1   Muster lists, emergency signals, and manning.

    The requirements for muster lists, emergency signals, and manning 
must be in accordance with subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and 
Arrangements) of this chapter.


Secs. 78.13-5, 78.13-10, 78.13-15, 78.13-20   [Removed]

    33. Sections 78.13-5, 78.13-10, 78.13-15 and 78.13-20 are removed.

Subpart 78.14--[Removed]

    34. Subpart 78.14 is removed.


Sec. 78.17-40   [Removed]

    35. Section 78.17-40 is removed.
    36. Section 78.17-50 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 78.17-50   Emergency training, musters, and drills.

    Onboard training, musters, and drills must be in accordance with 
subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.


Secs. 78.17-52, 78.17-55, 78.17-60, 78.17-70, 78.17-85, 78.17-90   
[Removed]

    37. Sections 78.17-52, 78.17-55, 78.17-60, 78.17-70, 78.17-85, and 
17.17-90 are removed.
    38. In Sec. 78.37-5 paragraphs (a)(10) and (a)(12) are removed, 
paragraph (a) is redesignated as introductory text, and paragraphs 
(a)(1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6), (7), (8), (9), (11), (13), (14), and 
(15) are redesignated as paragraphs (a) through (m) and newly 
redesignated paragraph (a) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 78.37-5   Actions required to be logged.

 * * * * *
    (a) Onboard training, musters, and drills: held in accordance with 
subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.
 * * * * *


Secs. 78.47-43, 78.47-45   [Removed]

    39. Sections 78.47-43 and 78.47-45 are removed.
    40. A new Sec. 78.47-45 is added to read as follows:


Sec. 78.47-45   Markings for lifesaving appliances, instructions to 
passengers, and stowage locations.

    Lifesaving appliances, instructions to passengers, and stowage 
locations must be marked in accordance with subchapter W (Lifesaving 
Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.


Secs. 78.47-47, 78.47-50, 78.47-51, 78.47-60, 78.47-63, 78.47-65, 
78.47-72   [Removed]

    41. Sections 78.47-47, 78.47-50, 78.47-51, 78.47-60, 78.47-63, 
78.47-65, and 78.47-72 are removed.

Subpart 78.49--[Removed]

    42. Subpart 78.49 is removed.

Subpart 78.87--[Removed]

    43. Subpart 78.87 is removed.
SUBCHAPTER I--CARGO AND MISCELLANEOUS VESSELS

PART 90--GENERAL PROVISIONS

    44. The authority citation for part 90 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3703, 49 U.S.C. 5103, 5106; E.O. 
12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 1.46.

    45. In Sec. 90.05-10, paragraph (d) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 90.05-10  Application to vessels on an international voyage.

* * * * *
    (d) The Commandant or his authorized representative may exempt any 
vessel from the construction requirements of this subchapter if the 
vessel does not proceed more than 20 nautical miles from the nearest 
land in the course of its voyage.


Sec. 90.10-3  [Removed]

    46. Section 90.10-3 is removed.
    47. Section 90.10-29 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 90.10-29  Passenger.

    (a) The term passenger means--
    (1) On an international voyage, every person other than--
    (i) The master and the members of the crew or other persons 
employed or engaged in any capacity on board a vessel on the business 
of that vessel; and
    (ii) A child under 1 year of age.
    (2) On other than an international voyage, an individual carried on 
the vessel, except--
    (i) The owner or an individual representative of the owner or, in 
the case of a vessel under charter, an individual charterer or 
individual representative of the charterer;
    (ii) The master; or
    (iii) A member of the crew engaged in the business of the vessel 
who has not contributed consideration for carriage and who is paid for 
onboard services.
    (b) The term passenger for hire means a passenger for whom 
consideration is contributed as a condition of carriage on the vessel, 
whether directly or indirectly flowing to the owner, charterer, 
operator, agent, or any other person having an interest in the vessel.
    48. Subpart 90.27 is added to read as follows:
Subpart 90.27--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements
Sec.
90.27-1  Lifesaving appliances and arrangements.

Subpart 90.27--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements


Sec. 90.27-1  Lifesaving appliances and arrangements.

    All lifesaving appliances and arrangements must be in accordance 
with subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this 
chapter.

PART 91--INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION

    49. The authority citation for part 91 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); 46 U.S.C. 3306; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 
58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; E.O. 12777, 56 FR 54757, 3 CFR, 
1991 Comp., p. 351; 49 CFR 1.46.


[[Page 25289]]


    50. Section 91.15-1 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 91.15-1  Standards in inspection of hulls, boilers, and machinery.

    In the inspection of hulls, boilers, and machinery of vessels, the 
standards established by the American Bureau of Shipping, see part 90, 
subpart 90.35 of this chapter, respecting material and inspection of 
hulls, boilers, and machinery, and the certificate of classification 
referring thereto, except where otherwise provided for by the rules and 
regulations in this subchapter, subchapter E (Load Lines), subchapter F 
(Marine Engineering), subchapter J (Electrical Engineering), and 
subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter, 
shall be accepted as standard by the inspectors.
    51. In Sec. 91.20-20, paragraph (a) is redesignated as introductory 
text, and paragraphs (a) (1), (2), (3), (4), and (5) are redesignated 
as paragraphs (a) through (e) and newly redesignated paragraph (a) is 
revised to read as follows:


Sec. 91.20-20  Specific tests and inspections.

* * * * *
    (a) For inspection procedures of lifesaving appliances and 
arrangements, see subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) 
of this chapter.
* * * * *
    52. Section 91.25-15 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 91.25-15  Lifesaving equipment.

    For inspection procedures of Lifesaving appliances and 
arrangements, see subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) 
of this chapter.

PART 94--[REMOVED]

    53. Part 94 is removed.

PART 96--VESSEL CONTROL AND MISCELLANEOUS SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT

    54. The authority citation for part 96 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1981 
Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 1.46.

    55. Subpart 96.06 is added to read as follows:
Subpart 96.06--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements
Sec.
96.06-1  Installation.

Subpart 96.06--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements


Sec. 96.06-1  Installation.

    The installation of all lifesaving appliances and arrangements must 
be in accordance with subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and 
Arrangements) of this chapter.

PART 97--OPERATIONS

    56. The authority citation for part 97 is revised to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 6101; 49 
U.S.C. 5103, 5106; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 
277; E.O. 12777, 56 FR 54757, 3 CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 351; 49 CFR 
1.46.

    57. Section 97.13-1 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 97.13-1  Muster lists, emergency signals, and manning.

    The requirements for muster lists, emergency signals, and manning 
must be in accordance with subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and 
Arrangements) of this chapter.


Secs. 97.13-5, 97.13-10, 97.13-15, 97.13-20  [Removed]

    58. Sections 97.13-5, 97.13-10, 97.13-15 and 97.13-20 are removed.

Subpart 97.14--[Removed]

    59. Subpart 97.14 is removed.


Sec. 97.15-25  [Removed]

    60. Section 97.15-25 is removed.
    61. Section 97.15-35 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 97.15-35  Emergency training, musters, and drills.

    Onboard training, musters, and drills must be in accordance with 
subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.


Secs. 97.15-37, 97.15-40, 97.15-45, 97.15-50, 97.15-65, 97.15-
70  [Removed]

    62. Sections 97.15-37, 97.15-40, 97.15-45, 97.15-50, 97.15-65, and 
97.15-70 are removed.
    63. In Sec. 97.35-5, paragraphs (a)(7) and (a)(9) are removed, 
paragraph (a) is redesignated as introductory text, and paragraphs (a) 
(1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6), (8), (10), (11), and (12) are 
redesignated as paragraphs (a) through (j) and newly redesignated 
paragraph (a) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 97.35-5  Actions required to be logged.

* * * * *
    (a) Onboard training, musters, and drills: held in accordance with 
subchapter W (Lifesaving appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.
* * * * *


Secs. 97.37-37, 97.37-40  [Removed]

    64. Sections 97.37-37 and 97.37-40 are removed.
    65. Section 97.37-42 is added to read as follows:


Sec. 97.37-42  Markings for lifesaving appliances, instructions to 
passengers, and stowage locations.

    Lifesaving appliances, instructions to passengers, and stowage 
locations must be marked in accordance with subchapter W (Lifesaving 
Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.


Secs. 97.37-43, 97.37-55  [Removed]

    66. Sections 97.37-43 and 97.37-55 are removed.

Subparts 97.39, 97.85--[Removed]

    67. Subparts 97.39 and 97.85 are removed.
SUBCHAPTER I-A--MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS

PART 107--INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION

    68. The authority citation for part 107 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 43 U.S.C. 1333; 46 U.S.C. 3306, 5115; 49 CFR 1.45, 
1.46; Sec. 107.05 also issued under the authority of 44 U.S.C. 3507.

    69. In Sec. 107.111, add definitions, in alphabetical order, to 
read as follows:


Sec. 107.111  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Accommodation means a cabin or other covered or enclosed place 
intended to carry persons.
* * * * *
    Approval series means the first six digits of a number assigned by 
the Coast Guard to approved equipment. Where approval is based on a 
subpart of subchapter Q of this chapter, the approval series 
corresponds to the number of the subpart. A listing of approved 
equipment, including all of the approval series, is published 
periodically by the Coast Guard in Equipment Lists (COMDTINST M16714.3 
series), available from the Superintendent of Documents.
* * * * *
    Embarkation ladder means the ladder provided at survival craft 
embarkation stations to permit safe access to survival craft after 
launching.
    Embarkation station means the place where a survival craft is 
boarded.
    Float-free launching means the method of launching a survival craft 
or lifesaving appliance whereby the craft or appliance is automatically 
released from a sinking unit and is ready for use.
    Free-fall launching means the method of launching a survival craft 
whereby

[[Page 25290]]

the craft, with its full complement of persons and equipment on board, 
is released and allowed to fall into the sea without any restraining 
apparatus.
* * * * *
    Immersion suit means protective suit that reduces loss of body heat 
of a person wearing it in cold water.
* * * * *
    Inflatable appliance means an appliance that depends upon nonrigid, 
gas-filled chambers for buoyancy and that is normally kept uninflated 
until ready for use.
    Inflated appliance means an appliance that depends upon nonrigid, 
gas-filled chambers for buoyancy and that is kept inflated and ready 
for use at all times.
* * * * *
    Launching appliance or launching arrangement means the method or 
devices for transferring a survival craft or rescue boat from its 
stowed position to the water. For a launching arrangement using a 
davit, the term includes the davit, winch, and falls.
    Lifejacket means a flotation device approved as a life preserver or 
lifejacket.
    Marine evacuation system means an appliance designed to rapidly 
transfer large numbers of persons from an embarkation station by means 
of a passage to a floating platform for subsequent embarkation into 
associated survival craft, or directly into associated survival craft.
* * * * *
    Muster station means the place where the crew and industrial 
personnel assemble before boarding a survival craft.
* * * * *
    Novel lifesaving appliance or arrangement means one that has new 
features not fully covered by the provisions of this subchapter but 
providing an equal or higher standard of safety.
* * * * *
    Rescue boat means a boat designed to rescue persons in distress and 
to marshal survival craft.
    Retrieval means the safe recovery of survivors.
    Seagoing condition means the operating condition of the unit with 
the personnel, equipment, fluids, and ballast necessary for safe 
operation on the waters where the unit operates. For bottom-bearing 
mobile offshore drilling units (MODU), the term also applies in the 
bottom-bearing mode, but the lightest seagoing condition is considered 
to be the highest anticipated operating condition.
* * * * *
    Survival craft means a craft capable of sustaining the lives of 
persons in distress after abandoning the unit on which they were 
carried. The term includes lifeboats and liferafts, but does not 
include rescue boats.
* * * * *
    70. In Sec. 107.231, paragraphs (h), (i), and (z) are removed; and 
paragraphs (j) through (y), (aa), (bb), and (cc) are redesignated as 
paragraph (h) through (y); and paragraph (b) through (q) and newly 
redesignated paragraph (v) are revised to read as follows:


Sec. 107.231  Inspection for certification.

* * * * *
    (b) The survival craft and rescue boat launching appliances are in 
proper condition and operating properly at loads ranging from light 
load to full load.
    (c) The lifeboats and rescue boats, including engines and release 
mechanisms are in proper condition and operating properly.
    (d) The flotation equipment such as lifebuoys, lifejackets, 
immersion suits, work vests, lifefloats, buoyant apparatus, and 
associated equipment are in proper condition.
    (e) Each inflatable liferaft and inflatable lifejacket has been 
serviced as required under this chapter;
    (f) Each hydrostatic release unit, other than a disposable 
hydrostatic release unit, has been serviced as required under this 
chapter.
    (g) The crew has the ability to effectively carry out abandonment 
and fire fighting procedures.
* * * * *
    (v) Tests and inspections of the lifesaving equipment shall be 
carried out during the initial inspection for certification, and 
whenever any new item of lifesaving equipment is installed on the unit. 
The tests and inspections shall determine that the installation of each 
item of lifesaving equipment is consistent with each condition of its 
approval, as listed on its Coast Guard Certificate of Approval. The 
tests and inspections shall also demonstrate, as applicable,--
    (1) The proper condition and operation of the survival craft and 
rescue boat launching appliances at loads ranging from light load to 10 
percent overload;
    (2) The proper condition and operation of lifeboats and rescue 
boats, including engines and release mechanisms;
    (3) The proper condition of flotation equipment such as lifebuoys, 
lifejackets, immersion suits, work vests, and associated equipment;
    (4) The proper condition of distress signaling equipment, including 
EPIRB's, SART's, and pyrotechnic signaling devices;
    (5) The proper condition of line-throwing appliances;
    (6) The proper condition and operation of embarkation and 
debarkation appliances, including embarkation-debarkation ladders, and 
alternate means of escape;
    (7) The ability of the crew to effectively carry out abandonment 
and firefighting procedures; and
    (8) The ability to meet the egress and survival craft launching 
requirements of this part.
* * * * *


Secs. 107.239, 107.243  [Removed]

    71. Section 107.239 and 107.243 are removed.
    72. In Sec. 107.305, paragraphs (bb) and (cc) are revised to read 
as follows:


Sec. 107.305  Plans and information.

* * * * *
    (bb) The location and arrangement of each lifesaving system 
including each embarkation deck, showing each overboard discharge and 
clearances from projections and obstructions in the way of launching 
lifeboats, rescue boats, and liferafts throughout the range of list and 
trim angles required under part 108, subpart E of this chapter.
    (cc) The weight of each lifeboat, rescue boat, and davit-launched 
liferaft when fully equipped and loaded.
* * * * *

PART 108--DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT

    73. The authority citation for part 108 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 43 U.S.C. 1333, 1333(d); 46 U.S.C. 3102, 3306, 5115; 
49 CFR 1.46.

    74. In Sec. 108.101, paragraph (b) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 108.101  Incorporation by reference.

* * * * *
    (b) The material approved for incorporation by reference in this 
part and the sections affected are:

                                American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)                               
                                                                                                                
1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103                                                                        
ASTM D93-94, Flash Point by Pennsky-Martens Closed  108.500                                                     
 Cup Tester.                                                                                                    

[[Page 25291]]

                                                                                                                
ASTM F-1014, Standard Specification for             108.497                                                     
 Flashlights on Vessels, 1986.                                                                                  
ASTM F-1121, International Shore Connections for    108.427                                                     
 Marine Fire Applications, 1987.                                                                                
                                                                                                                
                                   International Maritime Organization (IMO)                                    
                                                                                                                
4 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7SR, England                                                                   
Resolution A.520(13), Code of Practice for the      108.105.                                                    
 Evaluation, Testing and Acceptance of Prototype                                                                
 Novel Life-saving Appliances and Arrangements, 17                                                              
 November 1983.                                                                                                 
Resolution A.649(16), Code for the Construction     108.503.                                                    
 and Equipment of Mobile Offshore Drilling Units                                                                
 (MODU Code), 19 October 1989 with amendments of                                                                
 June 1991.                                                                                                     
Resolution A.658(16), Use and Fitting of Retro-     108.645; 108.649.                                           
 reflective Materials on Life-saving Appliances,                                                                
 20 November 1989.                                                                                              
Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-      108.646; 108.647; 108.649; 108.655.                         
 saving Appliances and Arrangements, 17 November                                                                
 1993.                                                                                                          
                                                                                                                



    75. Section 108.103 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 108.103  Equipment not required on a unit.

    Each item of lifesaving and firefighting equipment carried on board 
the unit in addition to equipment of the type required under this 
subchapter, must--
    (a) Be approved; or
    (b) Be acceptable to the cognizant OCMI, for use on the unit.
    76. In Sec. 108.105, paragraph (a) is revised, and paragraphs (c) 
through (f) are added to read as follows:


Sec. 108.105  Substitutions for required fittings, material, apparatus, 
equipment, arrangements, calculations, and tests.

    (a) Where this subchapter requires a particular fitting, material, 
apparatus, equipment, arrangement, calculation or test, the Commandant 
(G-MSE) may accept any substitution that is at least as effective as 
that specified. If necessary, the Commandant (G-MSE) may require 
engineering evaluations and tests to demonstrate the equivalence of the 
substitution.
* * * * *
    (c) The Commandant (G-MSE) may accept a novel lifesaving appliance 
or arrangement, if it provides a level of safety equivalent to the 
requirements of this part and the appliance or arrangement--
    (1) Is evaluated and tested in accordance with IMO Resolution 
A.520(13), Code of Practice for the Evaluation, Testing and Acceptance 
of Prototype Novel Life-saving Appliances and Arrangements; or
    (2) Has successfully undergone evaluation and tests that are 
substantially equivalent to those recommendations.
    (d) During a unit's construction and when any modification to the 
lifesaving arrangement is done after construction, the owner must 
obtain acceptance of lifesaving arrangements from the Commandant (G-
MSC).
    (e) The OCMI may accept substitute lifesaving appliances other than 
those required by this part, except for--
    (1) Survival craft and rescue boats; and
    (2) Survival craft and rescue boat launching and embarkation 
appliances.
    (f) Acceptance of lifesaving appliances and arrangements will 
remain in effect unless--
    (1) The OCMI deems their condition to be unsatisfactory or unfit 
for the service intended; or
    (2) The OCMI deems the crew's ability to use and assist others in 
the use of the lifesaving appliances or arrangements to be inadequate.
    77. Subpart E is revised to read as follows:

Subpart E--Lifesaving Equipment

Sec.
108.500  General.
108.503  Relationship to international standards.
108.510  Application.
108.515  Requirements for units built before October 1, 1996.
108.520  Type of survival craft.
108.525  Survival craft number and arrangement.
108.530  Stowage of survival craft.
108.540  Survival craft muster and embarkation arrangements.
108.545  Marine evacuation system launching arrangements.
108.550  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements: 
general.
108.553  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements using 
falls and a winch.
108.555  Lifeboat launching and recovery arrangements.
108.557  Free-fall lifeboat launching and recovery arrangements.
108.560  Rescue boats.
108.565  Stowage of rescue boats.
108.570  Rescue boat embarkation, launching and recovery 
arrangements.
108.575  Survival craft and rescue boat equipment.
108.580  Personal lifesaving appliances.
108.595  Communications.
108.597  Line-throwing appliance.

Subpart E--Lifesaving Equipment


Sec. 108.500  General.

    (a) Each unit, other than a surface type unit, must meet the 
requirements in this subpart.
    (b) Each surface type unit must meet the lifesaving system 
requirements in subchapter W of this chapter, for a tank vessel 
certificated to carry cargoes that have a flash less than 60  deg.C, as 
determined under ASTM D93-94.
    (c) The OCMI may require a unit to carry specialized or additional 
lifesaving equipment other than as required by this part, if the OCMI 
determines the conditions of the unit's service present uniquely 
hazardous circumstances which are not adequately addressed by existing 
requirements.


Sec. 108.503  Relationship to international standards.

    For the purposes of this part, any unit carrying a valid IMO MODU 
Safety Certificate, including a listing of lifesaving equipment as 
required by the 1989 IMO MODU Code, is considered to have met the 
requirements of this subpart if, in addition to the requirements of the 
1989 IMO MODU Code, it meets the following requirements:
    (a) Each new lifeboat and launching appliance may be of aluminum 
construction only if its stowage location is protected with a water 
spray system in accordance with Sec. 108.550(d) of this chapter.
    (b) Each lifejacket, immersion suit, and emergency position 
indicating radiobeacon (EPIRB) must be marked with the unit's name in 
accordance with Secs. 108.649 and 108.650.
    (c) Inflatable lifejackets, if carried, must be of the same or 
similar design as required by Sec. 108.580(b).
    (d) Containers for lifejackets, immersions suits, and anti-exposure 
suits must be marked as specified in Sec. 108.649(g).
    (e) Each liferaft must be arranged to permit it to drop into the 
water from the deck on which it is stowed as required in 
Sec. 108.530(c)(3).
    (f) Survival craft must be arranged to allow safe disembarkation 
onto the unit after a drill in accordance with Sec. 108.540(f).
    (g) The requirements for guarding of falls in Secs. 108.553 (d) and 
(f) must be met.
    (h) The winch drum requirements described in Sec. 108.553(e) must 
be met

[[Page 25292]]

for all survival craft winches, not just multiple drum winches.
    (i) The maximum lowering speed requirements from Secs. 108.553 (h) 
and (i) must be met.
    (j) An auxiliary line must be kept with each line-throwing 
appliance in accordance with Sec. 108.597(c)(2).
    (k) Immersion suits are required on all units, except those 
operating between the 32 degrees north and 32 degrees south latitude in 
accordance with Sec. 108.580(c).
    (l) All abandonment drills conducted on units carrying immersion 
suits must include immersion suits.


Sec. 108.510  Application.

    (a) For the purposes of this subpart--
    (1) Similar stage of construction means the stage at which--
    (i) Construction identifiable with a specific unit begins; and
    (ii) Assembly of that unit comprising at least 50 metric tons (55.1 
U.S. tons) or 1 percent of the estimated mass of all structural 
material, whichever is less, has been achieved.
    (2) Unit constructed means a unit, the keel of which is laid or 
which is at a similar stage of construction.
    (b) Subject to Sec. 108.515, each unit constructed before October 
1, 1996, must meet the requirements of this subpart, except for the 
number, type, and arrangement of lifeboats (including survival 
capsules), lifeboat davits, winches, inflatable liferafts, liferaft 
launching equipment, and rescue boats.
    (c)(1) If a District Commander determines that the overall safety 
of the persons on board a unit will not be significantly reduced, the 
District Commander may grant an exemption from compliance with a 
provision of this part to a specific unit for a specified geographic 
area within the boundaries of the Coast Guard District. This exemption 
may be limited to certain periods of the year.
    (2) Requests for exemption under this paragraph must be in writing 
to the OCMI for transmission to the District Commander in the area in 
which the unit is in service or will be in service.
    (3) If the exemption is granted by the District Commander, the OCMI 
will endorse the unit's Certificate of Inspection with a statement 
describing the exemption.


Sec. 108.515  Requirements for units built before October 1, 1996.

    (a) Units which were constructed prior to October 1, 1996, must--
    (1) By October 1, 1997, have either--
    (i) Lifeboats and liferafts that meet Sec. 108.525; or
    (ii) Totally enclosed fire-protected lifeboats of sufficient 
capacity to accommodate 100 percent of the persons permitted on board, 
plus additional totally enclosed lifeboats or davit-launched liferafts 
of sufficient capacity to accommodate 100 percent of the persons 
permitted on board the unit. The following exceptions apply:
    (A) An open lifeboat may be used instead of davit-launched 
liferafts as long as it is in good working order. An open lifeboat 
requiring extensive repairs must be replaced with either a totally 
enclosed fire-protected lifeboat, or davit-launched liferafts.
    (B) A submersible unit constructed before January 3, 1979, may 
continue to use the lifesaving arrangements described on the units 
Certificate of Inspection in effect on October 1, 1996.
    (2) By October 1, 1997, fit retro-reflective material on all 
floating appliances, lifejackets, and immersion suits.
    (3) Except for the requirements in paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) of 
this section, units may retain the arrangement of lifesaving appliances 
previously required and approved for the unit, as long as the 
arrangement or appliance is maintained in good condition to the 
satisfaction of the OCMI.
    (b) When any lifesaving appliance or arrangement on a unit subject 
to this part is replaced, or when the unit undergoes repairs, 
alterations or modifications of a major character involving replacement 
of, or any addition to, the existing lifesaving appliances or 
arrangements, each new lifesaving appliance and arrangement must meet 
the requirements of this part, unless the OCMI determines that the unit 
cannot accommodate the new appliance or arrangement, except that--
    (1) A survival craft is not required to meet the requirements of 
this part if it is replaced without replacing its davit and winch; and
    (2) A davit and its winch are not required to meet the requirements 
of this part if one or both are replaced without replacing the survival 
craft.


Sec. 108.520  Type of survival craft.

    (a) Each lifeboat must be a fire-protected lifeboat approved under 
approval series 160.135. A lifeboat of aluminum construction in the 
hull or canopy must be protected in its stowage position by a water 
spray system meeting the requirements of part 34, subpart 34.25 of this 
chapter.
    (b) Each inflatable liferaft must be approved under approval series 
160.151. Each rigid liferaft must be approved under approval series 
160.118. Each liferaft must have a capacity of six persons or more.


Sec. 108.525  Survival craft number and arrangement.

    (a) Each unit must carry the following:
    (1) Lifeboats installed in at least two widely separated locations 
on different sides or ends of the unit. The arrangement of the 
lifeboats must provide sufficient capacity to accommodate the total 
number of persons permitted on board if--
    (i) All the lifeboats in any one location are lost or rendered 
unusable; or
    (ii) All the lifeboats on any one side or end of the unit are lost 
or rendered unusable.
    (2) Liferafts arranged for float-free launching and having an 
aggregate capacity that will accommodate the total number of persons 
permitted on board.
    (b) In the case of a self-elevating unit where, due to its size or 
configuration, lifeboats can not be located in the widely separated 
locations required under paragraph (a)(1) of this section, the OCMI may 
accept the following number and arrangement of survival craft:
    (1) Lifeboats with an aggregate capacity to accommodate the total 
number of persons permitted on board.
    (2) Liferafts served by launching appliances or marine evacuation 
systems of an aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of 
persons permitted on board. These liferafts may be the float-free 
liferafts under paragraph (a)(2) of this section, or liferafts in 
addition to the float-free liferafts.


Sec. 108.530  Stowage of survival craft.

    (a) General. Each survival craft required to be served by a 
launching appliance or marine evacuation system must be stowed as 
follows:
    (1) Each survival craft must be stowed as close to the 
accommodation and service spaces as possible.
    (2) Each survival craft must be 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 or rescue boat at 
any other launching station.
    (3) Each survival craft must be stowed as near the water surface as 
is safe and practicable.
    (4) Each survival craft must be stowed where the survival craft, in 
the embarkation position, is above the waterline with the unit--
    (i) In the fully loaded condition; and
    (ii) Listed up to 20 degrees either way, or to the angle where the 
unit's weatherdeck edge becomes submerged, whichever is less.
    (5) Each survival craft must be sufficiently ready for use so that 
two

[[Page 25293]]

crew members can complete preparations for embarkation and launching in 
less than 5 minutes.
    (6) Each survival craft must be fully equipped as required under 
this subpart.
    (7) Each survival craft must be in a secure and sheltered position 
and protected from damage by fire and explosion, as far as practicable.
    (8) Each survival craft must not require lifting from its stowed 
position in order to launch, except that a davit-launched liferaft may 
be lifted by a manually powered winch from its stowed position to its 
embarkation position.
    (b) Additional lifeboat-specific stowage requirements. In addition 
to meeting the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section, each 
lifeboat must be stowed as follows:
    (1) The unit must be arranged so each lifeboat, in its stowed 
position, is protected from damage by heavy seas.
    (2) Each lifeboat must be stowed attached to its launching 
appliance.
    (3) Each lifeboat must be provided a means for recharging the 
lifeboat batteries from the unit's power supply at a supply voltage not 
exceeding 50 volts.
    (c) Additional liferaft-specific stowage requirements. In addition 
to meeting the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section, each 
liferaft must be stowed as follows:
    (1) Each liferaft must be stowed to permit manual release from its 
securing arrangements.
    (2) Each liferaft must be stowed at a height above the waterline in 
the lightest seagoing condition, not greater than the maximum stowage 
height indicated on the liferaft. Each liferaft without an indicated 
maximum stowage height must be stowed not more than 18 meters (59 feet) 
above the waterline in the unit's lightest seagoing condition.
    (3) Each liferaft must be arranged to permit it to drop into the 
water from the deck on which it is stowed. A liferaft stowage 
arrangement meets this requirement if it--
    (i) Is outboard of the rail or bulwark;
    (ii) Is on stanchions or on a platform adjacent to the rail or 
bulwark; or
    (iii) Has a gate or other suitable opening to allow the liferaft to 
be pushed directly overboard.
    (4) Each davit-launched liferaft must be stowed within reach of its 
lifting hook, unless some means of transfer is provided that is not 
rendered inoperable--
    (i) Within the list limits specified in paragraph (a)(4)(ii) of 
this section;
    (ii) By unit motion; or
    (iii) By power failure.
    (5) Each rigid container for an inflatable liferaft to be launched 
by a launching appliance must be secured in a way that the container or 
parts of it are prevented from falling into the water during and after 
inflation and launching of the contained liferaft.
    (6) Each liferaft must have a painter system providing a connection 
between the unit and the liferaft.
    (7) Each liferaft or group of liferafts must be arranged for float-
free launching. The arrangement must ensure that the liferaft or 
liferafts when released and inflated, are not dragged under by the 
sinking unit. A hydrostatic release unit used in a float-free 
arrangement must be approved under approval series 160.162.


Sec. 108.540  Survival craft muster and embarkation arrangements.

    (a) Each muster station must have sufficient space to accommodate 
all persons assigned to muster at that station. One or more muster 
stations must be close to each embarkation station.
    (b) Each muster station and embarkation station must be readily 
accessible from accommodation and work areas.
    (c) Each lifeboat must be arranged to be boarded and launched 
directly from the stowed position.
    (d) Each lifeboat must be arranged to be boarded by its full 
complement of persons within 3 minutes from the time the instruction to 
board is given.
    (e) Each davit-launched and free-fall survival craft muster station 
and embarkation station for a survival craft which is boarded before it 
is launched must be arranged to enable stretcher cases to be placed in 
the survival craft.
    (f) Means must be provided for bringing each davit-launched 
survival craft against the side of the unit and holding it alongside to 
allow persons to be--
    (1) Safely embarked in the case of a survival craft intended to be 
boarded over the edge of the deck; and
    (2) Safely disembarked after a drill in the case of a survival 
craft not intended to be moved to the stowed position with a full 
complement of persons on board.
    (g) Each davit-launched liferaft launching arrangement must have a 
means to hold the liferaft in the embarkation position that--
    (1) Will hold the liferaft securely in high winds;
    (2) Can be rapidly engaged in the proper position for boarding; and
    (3) Can be rapidly released for launching by one person from within 
the loaded liferaft.
    (h) Each launching station or each two adjacent launching stations 
must have an embarkation ladder as follows:
    (1) Each embarkation ladder must be approved under approval series 
160.117 or be a rope ladder approved under approval series 160.017, and 
must be installed in a way that--
    (i) Each embarkation ladder must extend in a single length, from 
the deck to the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition with the 
unit listed not less than up to 15 degrees either way; or
    (ii) Each embarkation ladder may be replaced by a device approved 
to provide safe and rapid access to survival craft in the water, if the 
OCMI permits the device, provided that there is at least one 
embarkation ladder on each side of the unit.
    (2) An embarkation ladder is not required if--
    (i) The distance from the embarkation deck to the unit's lightest 
operating waterline is less than 3 meters (10 feet); and
    (ii) The unit is not in international service.
    (3) If the embarkation ladders can not be supported against a 
vertical flat surface, the unit must instead be provided with at least 
two widely separated fixed metal ladders or stairways extending from 
the deck to the surface of the water and meet the following:
    (i) Each inclined fixed ladder must meet the requirements under 
Sec. 108.159.
    (ii) Each vertical fixed ladder must meet the requirements under 
Sec. 108.160 for fixed ladders, except that the vertical bars in cages 
must be open at least 500 millimeters (20 inches) on one side 
throughout the length of the ladder.
    (iii) If a fixed ladder can not be installed, the OCMI may approve 
an alternate means of escape with sufficient capacity to permit all 
persons permitted on board to safely descend to the waterline.
    (4) Alternate means of escape under paragraphs (h)(1)(ii) and 
(h)(3) of this section, such as portable slides, safety booms, moveable 
ladders, elevators, and controlled descent devices must be approved. An 
alternate means of escape must have sufficient capacity to permit all 
persons permitted on board to safely descend to the waterline within 10 
minutes from the time the signal to start is given.


Sec. 108.545  Marine evacuation system launching arrangements.

    (a) Arrangements. Each marine evacuation system must have the 
following arrangements:
    (1) Each marine evacuation system must be capable of being deployed 
by one person.
    (2) Each marine evacuation system must enable the total number of 
persons

[[Page 25294]]

for which it is designed, to be transferred from the unit into the 
inflated liferafts within a period of 10 minutes from the time the 
signal to abandon the unit is given.
    (3) Each marine evacuation system must be arranged so that 
liferafts may be securely attached to the platform and released from 
the platform by a person either in the liferaft or on the platform.
    (4) Each marine evacuation system must be capable of being deployed 
from the unit under unfavorable conditions of list of up to 20 degrees.
    (5) If the marine evacuation system has an inclined slide, the 
angle of the slide from horizontal must be within a range of 30 to 35 
degrees when the unit is upright and in the lightest seagoing 
condition.
    (6) Each marine evacuation system platform must be capable of being 
restrained by a bowsing line or other positioning system that is 
designed to deploy automatically, and if necessary, be capable of being 
adjusted to the position required for evacuation.
    (b) Stowage. Each marine evacuation system must be stowed as 
follows:
    (1) There must not be any openings between the marine evacuation 
system's embarkation station and the unit's side at the unit's 
waterline in the lightest seagoing condition.
    (2) The marine evacuation system must be protected from any 
projections of the unit's structure or equipment.
    (3) The marine evacuation system's passage and platform, when 
deployed, its stowage container, and its operational arrangement must 
not interfere with the operation of any other lifesaving appliance at 
any other launching station.
    (4) Where appropriate, the marine evacuation system's stowage area 
must be protected from damage by heavy seas.
    (c) Stowage of associated liferafts. Inflatable liferafts used in 
conjunction with the marine evacuation system must be stowed as 
follows:
    (1) Each inflatable liferaft used in conjunction with the marine 
evacuation system must be close to the system container, but capable of 
dropping clear of the deployed chute and boarding platform.
    (2) Each inflatable liferaft used in conjunction with the marine 
evacuation system must be capable of individual release from its 
stowage rack.
    (3) Each inflatable liferaft used in conjunction with the marine 
evacuation system must be stowed in accordance with Sec. 108.530.
    (4) Each inflatable liferaft used in conjunction with the marine 
evacuation system must be provided with pre-connected or easily 
connected retrieving lines to the platform.


Sec. 108.550  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements: 
general.

    (a) Each launching appliance for a lifeboat must be a davit 
approved under approval series 160.132, with a winch approved under 
approval series 160.115. Each launching appliance for a davit-launched 
liferaft must be approved under approval series 160.163, with an 
automatic disengaging apparatus approved under approval series 160.170.
    (b) All lifeboats required for abandonment by the total number of 
persons permitted on board must be capable of being launched with their 
full complement of persons and equipment within 10 minutes from the 
time the signal to abandon the unit is given.
    (c) Each survival craft must be arranged to clear each leg, column, 
footing, brace, mat, and each similar structure below the hull of a 
self-elevating unit and clear the upper hull, the columns, and the 
pontoons of a column stabilized unit, with the unit in an intact 
condition.
    (1) The survival craft must be arranged to be launched down the 
straight side of the unit or be mounted on a structure intended to 
provide clearance from lower structures of the unit.
    (2) The OCMI may allow a reduction in the total number of survival 
craft meeting this requirement when the unit is in the transit mode and 
the number of personnel on board is reduced. In such cases, sufficient 
survival craft must be available for use by the total number of 
personnel remaining on board.
    (d) Each lifeboat of aluminum construction in the hull or canopy, 
and each aluminum launching appliance must be protected in its stowage 
position by a water spray system meeting the requirements of part 34, 
subpart 34.25 of this chapter.
    (e) With the exception of the secondary means of launching for 
free-fall lifeboats, each launching appliance together with all its 
lowering and recovery gear must be arranged in a way that the fully 
equipped survival craft it serves can be safely lowered when loaded 
with its full complement of persons, and also without persons, 
against--
    (1) A list of up to 20 degrees on the high side; and
    (2) A list of up to 20 degrees or the degree of list where the 
survival craft becomes waterborne, whichever, is the greater, on the 
low side.
    (f) When the unit is under any unfavorable condition such as 
maximum airgap, lightest transit or operational condition, or any 
damaged condition under part 174, subpart C of this chapter,--
    (1) Notwithstanding the requirements under Sec. 108.550(e), 
survival craft launching appliances and marine evacuation systems must 
be capable of operation;
    (2) Falls, where used, must be long enough for survival craft to 
reach the water; and
    (3) Lifeboats with an aggregate capacity that will accommodate the 
total number of persons permitted on board must be capable of being 
launched safely, and clear of any obstruction. The location and 
orientation of each lifeboat must be such that the lifeboat is either 
headed away from the unit upon launching, or can be turned to a heading 
away from the unit immediately upon launching.
    (g) A launching appliance must not depend on any means other than 
gravity or stored mechanical power independent of the unit's power 
supplies to launch the survival craft it serves, in the fully loaded 
and equipped conditions, and also in the light condition.
    (h) Each launching appliance's structural attachment to the vessel 
must be designed, based on the ultimate strength of the construction 
material, to be at least 4.5 times the load imparted on the attachment 
by the launching appliance and its fully loaded survival craft under 
the most adverse combination of list and trim under paragraph (b) of 
this section.
    (i) Each launching appliance must be arranged so that--
    (1) All parts requiring regular maintenance by the crew are readily 
accessible and easily maintained;
    (2) The launching appliance remains effective under conditions of 
icing;
    (3) The same type of release mechanism is used for each similar 
survival craft carried on board the unit; and
    (4) The preparation and handling of survival craft at any one 
launching station does not interfere with the prompt preparation and 
handling of any other survival craft at any other station.
    (j) Each launching mechanism must be arranged so it may be actuated 
by one person from a position on the unit's deck, and also from a 
position within the survival craft. Each launching and recovery 
arrangement must allow the operator on the deck to observe the survival 
craft at all times during launching.

[[Page 25295]]

    (k) Means must be provided outside the machinery space to prevent 
any discharge of water onto survival craft during abandonment.


Sec. 108.553  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements using 
falls and a winch.

    Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements, in addition to 
meeting the requirements in Sec. 108.550, must meet the following 
requirements:
    (a) Each fall wire must be of rotation-resistant and corrosion-
resistant steel wire rope.
    (b) The breaking strength of each fall wire and each attachment 
used on the fall must be at least six times the load imparted on the 
fall by the fully-loaded survival craft.
    (c) Each fall must be long enough for the survival craft to reach 
the water with the unit in its lightest seagoing condition, under 
unfavorable conditions of trim and with the unit listed not less than 
20 degrees either way.
    (d) Each unguarded fall must not pass near any operating position 
of the winch, such as hand cranks, payout wheels, and brake levers.
    (e) Each winch drum must be arranged so the fall wire winds onto 
the drum in a level wrap, and a multiple drum winch must be arranged so 
that the falls wind off at the same rate when lowering, and onto the 
drums at the same rate when hoisting.
    (f) Each fall, where exposed to damage or fouling, must have guards 
or equivalent protection. Each fall that leads along a deck must be 
covered with a guard that is not more than 300 millimeters (1 foot) 
above the deck.
    (g) The lowering speed for a fully loaded survival craft must be 
not less than that obtained from the following formula:
    (1) S=0.4+(0.02 H), where S is the speed of lowering in meters per 
second, and H is the height in meters from the davit head to the 
waterline at the lightest seagoing condition, with H not greater than 
30, regardless of the lowering height.
    (2) S=79+(1.2 H), where S is the speed of lowering in feet per 
minute, and H is the height in feet, with H not greater than 99.
    (h) The lowering speed for a survival craft loaded with all of its 
equipment must be not less than 70 percent of the speed required under 
paragraph (g) of this section.
    (i) The lowering speed for a fully loaded survival craft must be 
not more than 1.3 meters per second (256 feet per minute).
    (j) If a survival craft is recovered by electric power, the 
electrical installation, including the electric power-operated boat 
winch, must meet the requirements in subchapter J of this chapter. If a 
survival craft is recovered by any means of power, including a portable 
power source, safety devices must be provided which automatically cut 
off the power before the davit arms or falls reach the stops in order 
to avoid overstressing the falls or davits, unless the motor is 
designed to prevent such overstressing.
    (k) Each launching appliance must be fitted with brakes that meet 
the following requirements:
    (1) The brakes must be capable of stopping the descent of the 
survival craft or rescue boat and holding it securely when loaded with 
it full complement of persons and equipment.
    (2) The brake pads must, where necessary, be protected from water 
and oil.
    (3) Manual brakes must be arranged so that the brake is always 
applied unless the operator, or a mechanism activated by the operator, 
holds the brake control in the off position.


Sec. 108.555  Lifeboat launching and recovery arrangements.

    Liftboat launching and recovery arrangements, in addition to 
meeting the requirements in Secs. 108.550 and 108.553, must meet the 
following requirements:
    (a) Each lifeboat must be capable of being launched with the unit 
making headway of 5 knots in calm water, or with the unit anchored or 
bearing on the bottom in a current of up to 5 knots. A painter may be 
used to meet this requirement.
    (b) Each lifeboat must be provided with a launching appliance. The 
launching appliance must be capable of launching and recovering the 
lifeboat with its crew.
    (c) Each launching appliance arrangement must allow the operator on 
the unit to observe the lifeboat at all times during recovery.
    (d) Each launching appliance arrangement must be designed to ensure 
persons can safely disembark from the survival craft prior its stowage.


Sec. 108.557  Free-fall lifeboat launching and recovery arrangements.

    (a) The launching appliance for a free-fall lifeboat must be 
designed and installed so that the launching appliance and the lifeboat 
it serves operate as a system to protect the occupants from harmful 
acceleration forces and to effectively clear the unit.
    (b) The launching appliance must be designed and arranged so that 
in its ready to launch position, the distance from the lowest point on 
the lifeboat it serves to the water surface with the unit in its 
lightest seagoing condition does not exceed the lifeboat's certificated 
free-fall height.
    (c) The launching appliance must be arranged so as to preclude 
accidental release of the lifeboat in its unattended stowed position. 
If the means provided to secure the lifeboat cannot be released from 
inside the lifeboat, the means to secure the lifeboat must be arranged 
as to preclude boarding the lifeboat without first releasing it.
    (d) Each free-fall launching arrangement must be provided with a 
secondary means to launch the lifeboat by falls. Such means must comply 
with the requirements of Secs. 108.550, 108.553, and 108.555. 
Notwithstanding Sec. 108.550(e), the launching appliance must be 
capable of launching the lifeboat against unfavorable conditions of 
list of 5 degrees in any direction and it need not comply with the 
speed requirements of Secs. 108.553 (g), (h), and (i).
    If the secondary launching appliance is not dependent on gravity, 
stored mechanical power or other manual means, the launching 
arrangement must be connected both to the unit's main and emergency 
power supplies.


Sec. 108.560  Rescue boats.

    Each unit must carry at least one rescue boat. Each rescue boat 
must be approved under approval series 160.156. A lifeboat is accepted 
as a rescue boat if it also meets the requirements for a rescue boat.


Sec. 108.565  Stowage of rescue boats.

    (a) Rescue boats must be stowed as follows:
    (1) Each rescue boat must be ready for launching in not more than 5 
minutes.
    (2) Each rescue boat must be in a position suitable for launching 
and recovery.
    (3) Each rescue boat must be in a way that neither the rescue boat 
nor its stowage arrangements will interfere with the operation of any 
survival craft at any other launching station.
    (4) Each rescue boat that is also a lifeboat, must be in compliance 
with Sec. 108.530.
    (b) Each rescue boat must be provided a means for recharging the 
rescue boat batteries from the unit's power supply at a supply voltage 
not exceeding 50 volts.
    (c) Each inflated rescue boat must be kept fully inflated at all 
times.


Sec. 108.570  Rescue boat embarkation, launching and recovery 
arrangements.

    (a) Each rescue boat must be capable of being launched with the 
unit making headway of 5 knots in calm water, or

[[Page 25296]]

with the unit anchored or bearing on the bottom in a current of up to 5 
knots. A painter may be used to meet this requirement.
    (b) Each rescue boat embarkation and launching arrangement must 
permit the rescue boat to be boarded and launched in the shortest 
possible time.
    (c) If the rescue boat is one of the unit's survival craft, the 
rescue boat must also be as follows:
    (1) The rescue boat must meet the embarkation arrangement and 
launching station requirements of Sec. 108.510.
    (2) The rescue boat must meet the launching arrangement 
requirements of Secs. 108.550 and 108.557, and if the launching 
arrangement uses falls and a winch, Sec. 108.553.
    (3) If the launching arrangement uses a single fall, the rescue 
boat must have an automatic disengaging apparatus approved under 
approval series 160.170, instead of a lifeboat release mechanism.
    (d) Rapid recovery of the rescue boat must be possible when loaded 
with its full complement of persons and equipment. If the rescue boat 
is also a lifeboat, rapid recovery must be possible when loaded with 
its lifeboat equipment and an approved rescue boat complement of at 
least six persons.
    (e) Each rescue boat launching appliance must be fitted with a 
powered winch motor.
    (f) Each rescue boat launching appliance must be capable of 
hoisting the rescue boat when loaded with its full rescue boat 
complement of persons and equipment at a rate of not less than 0.3 
meters per second (59 feet per minute).


Sec. 108.575  Survival craft and rescue boat equipment.

    (a) All lifeboat and rescue boat equipment must be as follows:
    (1) The equipment must be secured within the boat by lashings, 
storage in lockers, or compartments, storage in brackets or similar 
mounting arrangements or other suitable means.
    (2) The equipment must be secured in such a manner as not to 
interfere with any abandonment procedures or reduce seating capacity.
    (3) The equipment must be as small and of as little mass as 
possible.
    (4) The equipment must be packed in a suitable and compact form.
    (5) The equipment should be stowed so the items do not--
    (i) Reduce the seating capacity;
    (ii) Adversely affect the seaworthiness of the survival craft or 
rescue boat; or
    (iii) Overload the launching appliance.
    (b) Each lifeboat, rigid liferaft, and rescue boat, unless 
otherwise stated in this paragraph, must carry the equipment specified 
for it in table Sec. 108.575(b) of this section. A lifeboat that is 
also a rescue boat must carry the equipment in the table column marked 
for a lifeboat. Each item in the table has the same description as in 
Sec. 199.175 of this chapter.

                                   Table 108.575(b).--Survival Craft Equipment                                  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     International service           Other than international   
                                               ---------------------------------             service            
 Item                    Item                                                   --------------------------------
  No.                                            Lifeboat    Rigid      Rescue                Rigid      Rescue 
                                                            liferaft     boat     Lifeboat   liferaft     boat  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.....  Bailer \1\............................          1          1          1          1          1          1
2.....  Bilge pump \2\........................          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........
3.....  Boathook..............................          2  .........          1          2  .........          1
4.....  Bucket \3\............................          2  .........          1          2  .........          1
5.....  Can opener............................          3          3  .........  .........  .........  .........
6.....  Compass...............................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
7.....  Dipper................................          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........
8.....  Drinking cup..........................          1          1  .........  .........  .........  .........
9.....  Fire extinguisher.....................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
10....  First-aid kit.........................          1          1          1          1          1          1
11....  Fishing kit...........................          1          1  .........  .........  .........  .........
12....  Flashlight............................          1          1          1          1          1          1
13....  Hatchet...............................          2  .........  .........          2  .........  .........
14....  Heaving line..........................          2          1          2          2          1          2
15....  Instruction card......................  .........          1  .........  .........          1  .........
16....  Jackknife.............................          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........
17....  Knife \1\ \4\.........................  .........          1          1  .........          1          1
18....  Ladder................................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
19....  Mirror, signaling.....................          1          1  .........          1          1  .........
20....  Oars (units) \5\ \6\..................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
        Paddles...............................  .........          2  .........  .........          2  .........
21....  Painter...............................          2          1          1          2          1          1
22....  Provisions (units per person).........          1          1  .........  .........  .........  .........
23....  Pump \7\..............................  .........  .........          1  .........  .........  .........
24....  Radar reflector.......................          1          1          1  .........  .........  .........
25....  Rainwater collection device...........          1  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........
26....  Repair kit \7\........................  .........  .........          1  .........  .........          1
27....  Sea anchor............................          1          2          1          1          2          1
28....  Searchlight...........................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
29....  Seasickness kit (kits/person).........          1          1  .........          1          1  .........
30....  Signal, smoke.........................          2          2  .........          2          1  .........
31....  Signal, hand flare....................          6          6  .........          6          6  .........
32....  Signal, parachute flare...............          4          4  .........          4          4  .........
33....  Skates and fenders \8\................          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........
34....  Sponge \7\............................  .........          2          2  .........          2          2
35....  Survival instructions.................          1          1  .........          1          1  .........
36....  Table of lifesaving signals...........          1          1  .........          1          1  .........
37....  Thermal protective aid (percent of                                                                      
         persons) \9\.........................        10%        10%        10%        10%        10%        10%
38....  Took kit..............................          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........

[[Page 25297]]

                                                                                                                
39....  Towline \10\..........................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
40....  Water (liters per person).............          3        1.5  .........          3          1  .........
41....  Whistle...............................          1          1          1          1          1          1
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:                                                                                                          
\1\ Each liferaft approved for 13 persons or more must carry two of these items.                                
\2\ Bilge pumps are not required for boats of self-bailing design.                                              
\3\ Not required for inflated or rigid/inflated rescue boats.                                                   
\4\ A hatchet counts toward this requirement in rigid rescue boats.                                             
\5\ Oars not required on a free-fall lifeboat; a unit of oars means the number of oars specified by the         
  manufacturer.                                                                                                 
\6\ Rescue boats may substitute buoyant oars for paddles, as specified by the manufacturer.                     
\7\ Not required for a rigid rescue boat.                                                                       
\8\ Required if specified by the boat manufacturer.                                                             
\9\ Sufficient thermal protective aids are required for at least 10% of the persons the survival craft is       
  equipped to carry, but not less than two.                                                                     
\10\ Required only if the lifeboat is also the rescue boat.                                                     




Sec. 108.580  Personal lifesaving appliances.

    (a) Lifebuoys. Each unit must carry at least eight lifebuoys 
approved under approval series 160.150 as follows:
    (1) Stowage. Lifebuoys must be stowed as follows:
    (i) Each lifebuoy must be capable of being rapidly cast loose.
    (ii) Each lifebuoy must not be permanently secured to the unit in 
anyway.
    (iii) Lifebuoys must be so distributed as to be readily available 
on each side of the unit and, as far as practicable, on each open deck 
extending to the side of the unit. The lifebuoys with attached self-
igniting lights must be evenly distributed on all sides of the unit.
    (iv) At least two lifebuoys, each with attached self-activating 
smoke signals, must be stowed where they can be quickly released from 
the navigating bridge or main control station, or a location readily 
available to personnel on board. These lifebuoys should, when released, 
fall directly into the water without striking any part of the unit.
    (2) Attachments and fittings. Lifebuoys must have the following 
attachments and fittings:
    (i) At least one lifebuoy on each side of the unit fitted with a 
buoyant lifeline that is--
    (A) At least as long as twice the height where it is stowed above 
the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition, or 30 meters (100 
feet), whichever is the greater;
    (B) Non-kinking;
    (C) Not less than 8 millimeters (\5/16\ inch) in diameter;
    (D) Of a breaking strength which is not less than 5 kiloNewtons 
(1,124 pounds-force); and
    (E) Is, if synthetic, a dark color or certified by the manufacturer 
to be resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light.
    (ii) At least one-half the total number of lifebuoys on the unit 
must each be fitted with a self-igniting light approved under approval 
series 161.010. A self-igniting light must not be attached to the 
lifebuoys required by this section to be fitted with lifelines.
    (iii) At least two lifebuoys on the unit each must be fitted with a 
self-activating smoke signal approved under approval series 160.157. 
Lifebuoys fitted with smoke signals must also be fitted with lights.
    (b) Lifejackets. Each unit must carry lifejackets approved under 
approval series 160.155, 160.176, or 160.177. If the unit carries 
inflatable lifejackets, they must be of the same or similar design and 
have the same method of operation.
    (1) General. Each unit must carry a lifejacket for each person on 
board and in addition, a sufficient number of lifejackets must be 
carried for persons at each work station and industrial work site.
    (2) Stowage. Lifejackets must be stowed as follows:
    (i) The lifejackets must be readily accessible.
    (ii) The additional lifejackets required by paragraph (b)(1) of 
this section must be stowed in places readily accessible to the work 
stations and industrial work sites.
    (iii) Where, due to the particular arrangements of the unit, the 
lifejackets under paragraph (b)(1) of this section could become 
inaccessible, the OCMI may require an increase in the number of 
lifejackets to be carried, or suitable alternative arrangements.
    (3) Attachments and fittings. Lifejackets must have the following 
attachments and fittings:
    (i) Each lifejacket must have a lifejacket light approved under 
approval series 161.112 securely attached to the front shoulder area of 
the lifejacket. On a unit not in international service, a light 
approved under approval series 161.012 may be used. However, 
chemiluminescent-type lifejacket lights are not permitted on units 
certificated to operate on waters where water temperature may drop 
below 10  deg.C (50  deg.F).
    (ii) Each lifejacket must have a whistle firmly secured by a cord 
to the lifejacket.
    (c) Immersion suits or anti-exposure suits. Each unit must carry 
immersion suits approved under approval series 160.171 or anti-exposure 
suits approved under approval series 160.153.
    (1) General. Each unit, except units operating between 32 degrees 
north latitude and 32 degrees south latitude, must carry--
    (i) Immersion suits or anti-exposure suits of suitable size for 
each person assigned to the rescue boat crew;
    (ii) Immersion suits approved under approval series 160.171 of the 
appropriate size for each person on board, which count toward meeting 
the requirements of paragraph (c)(1)(i) of this section; and
    (iii) In addition to the immersion suits required under paragraph 
(c)(1)(ii) of this section, each watch station, work station, and 
industrial work site must have enough immersion suits to equal the 
number of persons normally on watch in, or assigned to, the station or 
site at one time. However, an immersion suit is not required at a 
station or site for a person whose cabin or berthing area (and the 
immersion suits stowed in that location) is readily accessible to the 
station or site.
    (2) Attachments and fittings. Immersion suits or anti-exposure 
suits must have the following attachments and fittings:
    (i) Each immersion suit or anti-exposure suit must have a 
lifejacket light approved under approval series

[[Page 25298]]

161.112 securely attached to the front shoulder area of the immersion 
suit or anti-exposure suit. On a unit not in international service, a 
light approved under approval series 161.012 may be used. However, 
chemiluminescent type lifejacket lights are not permitted on units 
certificated to operate on waters where water temperature may drop 
below 10  deg.C (50  deg.F).
    (ii) Each immersion suit or anti-exposure suit must have a whistle 
firmly secured by a cord to the immersion suit or anti-exposure suit.


Sec. 108.595   Communications.

    (a) Radio lifesaving appliances. Radio lifesaving appliance 
installations and arrangements must meet the requirements of 47 CFR 
part 80.
    (b) Distress flares. Each unit must--
    (1) Carry not less than 12 rocket parachute flares approved under 
approval series 160.136; and
    (2) Stow the flares in a portable watertight container carried on 
the navigating bridge, or if the unit does not have a bridge, in the 
control room.


Sec. 108.597   Line-throwing appliance.

    (a) General. Each unit in international service must have a line-
throwing appliance that is approved under approval series 160.040. Each 
unit not in international service must carry a line-throwing appliance 
approved under either approval series 160.040 or 160.031.
    (b) Stowage. The line-throwing appliance and its equipment must be 
readily accessible for use.
    (c) Additional equipment. Each unit must carry the following 
equipment for the line-throwing appliance:
    (1) The equipment on the list provided by the manufacturer with the 
approved appliance; and
    (2) An auxiliary line that--
    (i) Has a breaking strength of at least 40 kiloNewtons (9,000 
pounds-force);
    (ii) Is, if synthetic, a dark color or certified by the 
manufacturer to be resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light; 
and
    (iii) Is--
    (A) At least 450 meters (1,500 feet) long, if the line-throwing 
appliance is approved under approval series 160.040; or
    (B) At least 150 meters (500 feet) long, if the line-throwing 
appliance is approved under approval series 160.031.
    78. Section 108.645 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 108.645   Markings on lifesaving appliances.

    (a) Lifeboats and rescue boats. Each lifeboat and rescue boat must 
be plainly marked as follows:
    (1) Each side of each lifeboat and rescue boat bow must be marked 
in block capital letters and numbers with--
    (i) The name of the unit; and
    (ii) The name of the port required to be marked on the stern of the 
unit to meet the requirements of part 67, subpart 67.13 of this 
chapter.
    (2) The length and beam of the boat and the number of persons the 
boat is equipped for, not exceeding the number shown on its nameplate, 
must be clearly marked in permanent characters.
    (3) The number of the boat and the unit's name, must be plainly 
marked or painted so that the markings are visible from above the boat.
    (4) Type II retro-reflective material approved under approval 
series 164.018 must be placed on the boat and meet the arrangement 
requirements in IMO Resolution A.658(16).
    (b) Rigid liferafts. Each rigid liferaft must be marked as follows:
    (1) The name of the unit must be marked on each rigid liferaft.
    (2) The name of the port required to be marked on the stern of the 
unit to meet the requirements of part 67, subpart 67.13 of this 
chapter.
    (3) The length of the painter must be marked on each rigid 
liferaft.
    (4) At each entrance of each rigid liferaft, the number of persons 
the rigid liferaft is equipped for, not exceeding the number shown on 
its nameplate, must be marked in letters and numbers at least 100 
millimeters (4 inches) high, in a color contrasting to that of the 
liferaft.
    79. Section 108.646 is added to read as follows:


Sec. 108.646   Marking of stowage locations.

    (a) Containers, brackets, racks, and other similar stowage 
locations for lifesaving equipment, must be marked with symbols in 
accordance with IMO Resolution A.760(18), indicating the devices stowed 
in that location for that purpose.
    (b) If more than one device is stowed in that location, the number 
of devices must also be indicated.
    (c) Survival craft should be numbered consecutively, starting from 
the unit's bow and designating survival craft on the starboard side 
with odd numerals, and survival craft on the port side with even 
numerals.
    80. Section 108.647 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 108.647   Inflatable liferafts.

    The number of the liferaft and the number of persons it is 
permitted to accommodate must be marked or painted in a conspicuous 
place in the immediate vicinity of each inflatable liferaft in block 
capital letters and numbers. The word ``liferaft'' or the appropriate 
symbol from IMO Resolution A.760(18) shall be used to identify the 
stowage location. Liferafts stowed on the sides of the unit should be 
numbered in the same manner as the lifeboats. This marking must not be 
on the inflatable liferaft container.
    81. Section 108.649 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 108.649   Lifejackets, immersion suits, and lifebuoys.

    (a) Each lifejacket must be marked--
    (1) In block capital letters with the name of the unit; and
    (2) With type I retro-reflective material approved under approval 
series 164.018. The arrangement of the retro-reflective material must 
meet IMO Resolution A.658(16).
    (b) The lifejacket stowage positions must be marked with either the 
word ``LIFEJACKET'' or with the appropriate symbol from IMO Resolution 
A.760(18).
    (c) Each immersion suit or anti-exposure suit must be marked in 
block capital letters with the name of the unit.
    (d) Immersion suits or anti-exposure suits must be stowed so they 
are readily accessible, and the stowage positions must be marked with 
either the words ``IMMERSION SUITS'' or ``ANTI-EXPOSURE SUITS'', or 
with the appropriate symbol from IMO Resolution A.760(18).
    (e) Each lifebuoy must be marked--
    (1) In block capital letters with the unit's name and with the name 
of the port required to be marked on the unit under part 67, subpart 
67.13 of this chapter; and
    (2) With type II retro-reflective material approved under part 164, 
subpart 164.018 of this chapter. The arrangement of the retro-
reflective material must meet IMO Resolution A.658(16).
    (f) Each lifebuoy stowage position must be marked with either the 
words ``LIFEBUOY'' or ``LIFE BUOY'', or with the appropriate symbol 
from IMO Resolution A.760(18).
    (g) Each lifejacket, immersion suit, and anti-exposure suit 
container must be marked in block capital letters and numbers with the 
quantity, identity, and size of the equipment stowed inside the 
container. The equipment may be identified in words, or with the 
appropriate symbol from IMO Resolution A.760(18).

[[Page 25299]]

    82. Section 108.650 is added to read as follows:


Sec. 108.650  EPIRBs and SARTs.

    Emergency position indicating radiobeacons and search and rescue 
transponders. Each EPIRB and SART should have the name of the unit 
plainly marked or painted on its label, except for EPIRBs or SARTs in 
an inflatable liferaft or permanently installed in a survival craft.
    83. Section 108.655 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 108.655  Operating instructions.

    Each unit must have posters or signs displayed in the vicinity of 
each survival craft and the survival craft's launching controls that--
    (a) Illustrate the purpose of controls;
    (b) Illustrate the procedures for operating the launching device;
    (c) Give relevant instructions or warnings;
    (d) Can be easily seen under emergency lighting conditions; and
    (e) Display symbols in accordance with IMO Resolution A.760(18).
    84. Subpart J is added to read as follows:

Subpart J--Muster list

Sec.
108.901  Muster list and emergency instructions.

Subpart J--Muster list


Sec. 108.901  Muster list and emergency instructions.

    (a) General. Copies of clear instructions must be provided on the 
unit, detailing the actions that each person on board should follow in 
the event of an emergency.
    (b) Muster list. Copies of the muster list must be posted in 
conspicuous places throughout the unit including on the navigating 
bridge, in the control room, and in crew accommodation spaces. The 
muster list must be posted at all times while the unit is in service, 
After the muster list has been prepared, if any change takes place that 
necessitates an alteration in the muster list, the person in charge 
must either revise the muster list or prepare a new one. Muster lists 
must provide the following information:
    (1) Each muster list must specify instructions for operating the 
general emergency alarm system.
    (2) Each muster list must specify the emergency signals.
    (3) Each muster list must specify the actions to be taken by the 
crew and industrial personnel when each signal is sounded.
    (4) Each muster list must specify how the order to abandon the unit 
will be given.
    (5) Each muster list must specify the persons that are assigned to 
make sure that lifesaving and firefighting appliances are maintained in 
good condition and ready for immediate use.
    (6) Each muster list must specify the duties assigned to the 
different members of the crew, that include--
    (i) Closing the watertight doors, fire doors, valves, scuppers, 
sidescuttles, skylights, portholes, and other similar openings in the 
unit's hull;
    (ii) Equipping the survival craft and other lifesaving appliances;
    (iii) Preparing and launching the survival craft;
    (iv) Preparing other lifesaving appliances;
    (v) Mustering the visitors and other persons in addition to the 
crew and industrial personnel;
    (vi) Using communication equipment;
    (vii) Manning the emergency squad assigned to deal with fires and 
other emergencies;
    (viii) Special duties assigned with respect to the use of 
firefighting equipment and installations;
    (ix) Cover the duties of the crew in case of collisions or other 
serious casualties; and
    (x) Cover the duties of the crew in case of severe storms.
    (7) Each muster list must specify the duties assigned to members of 
the crew in relation to visitors and other persons on board in case of 
an emergency, that include--
    (i) Warning visitors and other persons on board;
    (ii) Seeing that visitors and other persons on board are suitably 
dressed and have donned their lifejackets or immersion suits correctly;
    (iii) Assembling visitors and other persons on board at muster 
stations; and
    (iv) Keeping order in the passageways and on the stairways and 
generally controlling the movements of the visitors and other persons 
on board;
    (8) Each muster list must specify substitutes for key persons if 
they are disabled, taking into account that different emergencies 
require different actions.
    (c) Emergency instructions. Illustrations and instructions in 
English and any other appropriate language, as determined by the OCMI, 
must be posted in each cabin used for persons who are not members of 
the crew or industrial personnel, and be conspicuously displayed at 
each muster station and in other accommodation spaces to inform 
industrial personnel of--
    (1) The fire and emergency signal;
    (2) Their muster station;
    (3) The essential actions they must take in an emergency;
    (4) The location of lifejackets, including child-size lifejackets;
    (5) The method of donning lifejackets;
    (6) If immersion suits are provided, the location of the immersion 
suits; and
    (7) Fully illustrated instructions on the method of donning 
immersion suits.

PART 109--OPERATIONS

    85. The authority citation for part 109 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 43 U.S.C. 1333; 46 U.S.C. 3306, 5115, 6101, 10104; 49 
CFR 1.46.


Secs. 109.207, 109.208  [Removed]

    86. Sections 109.207 and 109.208 are removed.
    87. Section 109.213 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 109.213  Emergency training and drills.

    (a) Training materials. Abandonment training material must be on 
board each unit. The training material must consist either of a manual 
of one or more volumes, written in easily understood terms and 
illustrated wherever possible, or audiovisual training aids, or both as 
follows:
    (1) If a training manual is used, a copy must be made available to 
each person on board the unit. If audiovisual training aids are used, 
they must be incorporated into the onboard training sessions described 
under paragraph (g) of this section.
    (2) The training material must explain, in detail--
    (i) The procedure for donning lifejackets, immersion suits, and 
anti-exposure suits carried on board;
    (ii) The procedure for mustering at the assigned stations;
    (iii) The procedure for boarding, launching, and clearing the 
survival craft and rescue boats;
    (iv) The method of launching from within the survival craft;
    (v) The procedure for releasing from launching appliances;
    (vi) The method and use of devices for protection in launching 
areas, where appropriate;
    (vii) Illumination in launching area;
    (viii) The use of all survival equipment;
    (ix) The use of all detection equipment;
    (x) With illustrations, the use of radio lifesaving appliances;
    (xi) The use of sea anchors;
    (xii) The use of engine and accessories;
    (xiii) The recovery of survival craft and rescue boats, including 
stowage and securing;

[[Page 25300]]

    (xiv) The hazards of exposure and the need for warm clothing;
    (xv) The best use of the survival craft for survival;
    (xvi) The methods of retrieval, including the use of helicopter 
rescue gear (slings, baskets, stretchers), and unit's line throwing 
apparatus;
    (xvii) The other functions contained in the muster list and 
emergency instructions; and
    (xviii) The instructions for emergency repair of the lifesaving 
appliances.
    (b) Familiarity with emergency procedures. Every crew member with 
assigned emergency duties on the muster list, must be familiar with 
their assigned duties before working on the unit.
    (c) Drills--general. (1) Drills must, as far as practicable, be 
conducted as if there were an actual emergency.
    (2) Every crew member must participate in at least one abandonment 
drill and one fire drill every month. A drill must take place within 24 
hours of a change in crew or industrial personnel if more than 25 
percent of the persons on board have not participated in an abandonment 
drill on board the unit in the previous month.
    (3) Drills must be held before the unit enters service for the 
first time after modification of a major character, or when a new crew 
is engaged.
    (d) Abandonment drills. (1) Abandonment drills must include the 
following:
    (i) Each drill must include summoning of industrial personnel and 
crew to muster stations with the general alarm, followed by drill 
announcements on the public address or other communication system, and 
ensuring that all on board are made aware of the order to abandon ship.
    (ii) Each drill must include reporting to stations and preparing 
for the duties described in the muster list.
    (iii) Each drill must include checking that industrial personnel 
and crew are suitably dressed.
    (iv) Each drill must include checking that lifejackets or immersion 
suits are correctly donned.
    (v) Each drill must include lowering of at least one lifeboat after 
any necessary preparation for launching.
    (vi) Each drill must include starting and operating the lifeboat 
engine.
    (vii) Each drill must include operating davits used for launching 
the liferafts.
    (2) Different lifeboats must, as far as practicable, be lowered in 
compliance with the requirements of paragraph (d)(1)(v) of this section 
at successive drills.
    (3) Each lifeboat must be launched with its assigned operating crew 
aboard, and maneuvered in the water at least once every 3 months, 
during an abandonment drill.
    (4) As far as is reasonable and practicable, rescue boats other 
than lifeboats which are also rescue boats, must be launched each month 
with their assigned crew aboard and maneuvered in the water. In all 
cases this requirement must be complied with at least once every 3 
months.
    (5) If a unit is fitted with marine evacuation systems, drills must 
include an exercising of the procedures required for the deployment of 
such a system up to the point immediately preceding actual deployment 
of the system. This aspect of drills should be augmented by regular 
instruction using the on board training aids. Additionally, every crew 
member assigned to duties involving the marine evacuation system must, 
as far as practicable, be further trained by participation in a full 
deployment of a similar system into water, either on board a unit or 
ashore, at intervals of not longer than 2 years, but in no case longer 
than 3 years.
    (6) Emergency lighting for mustering and abandonment must be tested 
at each abandonment drill.
    (7) On a unit carrying immersion suits or anti-exposure suits, 
immersion suits or anti-exposure suits must be worn by crew members and 
industrial personnel in at least one abandonment drill per month. If 
wearing the suit is impracticable due to warm weather, the crew members 
must be instructed on its donning and use.
    (e) Line-throwing appliance. A drill must be conducted on the use 
of the line-throwing appliance at least once every 3 months. The actual 
firing of the appliance is at the discretion of the person in charge.
    (f) Fire drills. (1) Fire drills must, as far as practicable, be 
planned in such a way that due consideration is given to regular 
practice in the various emergencies that may occur depending on the 
type of unit.
    (2) Each fire drill must include--
    (i) Reporting to stations, and preparing for the duties described 
in the muster list for the particular fire emergency being simulated;
    (ii) Starting of fire pumps and the use of two jets of water to 
determine that the system is in proper working order;
    (iii) Checking the fireman's outfits and other personal rescue 
equipment;
    (iv) Checking the relevant communication equipment;
    (v) Checking the operation of watertight doors, fire doors, and 
fire dampers and main inlets and outlets of ventilation systems in the 
drill area;
    (vi) Checking the necessary arrangements for subsequent abandonment 
of the unit; and
    (vii) Operation of remote controls for stopping ventilation and 
fuel supplies to machinery spaces.
    (3) The equipment used during drills must immediately be brought 
back to its fully operational condition, and any faults and defects 
discovered during the drills must be remedied as soon as possible.
    (g) Onboard training and instruction. (1) Except as provided in 
paragraph (g)(2) of this section, onboard training in the use of the 
unit's lifesaving appliances, including survival craft equipment, and 
in the use of the unit's fire-extinguishing appliances must be given to 
each member of the crew and industrial personnel as soon as possible 
but not later than 2 weeks after they join the unit.
    (2) If crew or industrial personnel are on a regularly scheduled 
rotating assignment to the unit, onboard training in the use of the 
unit's lifesaving appliances, including survival craft equipment, and 
in the use of the unit's fire-extinguishing appliances must be given 
not later than 2 weeks after the time of first joining the unit.
    (3) The crew and industrial personnel must be instructed in the use 
of the unit's fire-extinguishing appliances, lifesaving appliances, and 
in survival at sea at the same interval as the drills. Individual 
instruction may cover different parts of the unit's lifesaving and 
fire-extinguishing appliances, but all the unit's lifesaving and fire-
extinguishing appliances, must be covered within any period of 2 
months.
    (4) Crew and industrial personnel must be given instructions which 
include, but are not limited to--
    (i) The operation and use of the unit's inflatable liferafts;
    (ii) The problems of hypothermia, first aid treatment for 
hypothermia and other appropriate first aid procedures;
    (iii) The special instructions necessary for use of the unit's 
lifesaving appliances in severe weather and severe sea conditions; and
    (iv) The operation and use of fire-extinguishing appliances.
    (5) Onboard training in the use of davit-launched liferafts must 
take place at intervals of not more than 4 months on each unit with 
davit-launched liferafts. Whenever practicable this must include the 
inflation and lowering of a liferaft. If this liferaft is a special 
liferaft intended for training purposes only, and is not part of the 
unit's lifesaving

[[Page 25301]]

equipment, this liferaft must be conspicuously marked.
    (6) Each of the industrial personnel without designated 
responsibility for the survival of others on board, must be instructed 
in at least--
    (i) The emergencies which might occur on that particular type of 
unit;
    (ii) The consequences of panic;
    (iii) The location and actuation of fire alarm controls;
    (iv) The location and proper method of use of firefighting 
equipment;
    (v) Fire precautions;
    (vi) The types of all lifesaving appliances carried on the unit and 
proper methods of using them, including--
    (A) The correct method of donning and wearing a lifejacket, and if 
provided an immersion suit;
    (B) Jumping into the water from a height while wearing a lifejacket 
and, if provided, an immersion suit;
    (C) How to board survival craft from the unit and from the water;
    (D) Operation and use of the unit's inflatable liferafts;
    (E) Special instructions necessary for use of the unit's lifesaving 
appliances in severe weather and severe sea conditions;
    (F) Swimming while wearing a lifejacket; and
    (G) Keeping afloat without a lifejacket.
    (vii) Where appropriate, how to survive in the water--
    (A) In the presence of fire or oil on the water;
    (B) In cold conditions; and
    (C) If sharks may be present.
    (viii) Problems of hypothermia, first aid treatment for hypothermia 
and other appropriate first aid procedures;
    (ix) The need to adhere to the principles of survival; and
    (x) The basic methods of boarding helicopters.
    (7) Each member of the crew and each of the industrial personnel 
with designated responsibility for the survival of others on board must 
be instructed in at least the items covered in paragraph (g)(6) of this 
section, and--
    (i) Methods of detection, isolation, control, and extinguishing of 
fire;
    (ii) Checking and maintaining fire fighting equipment;
    (iii) Marshaling of personnel; and
    (iv) Abandonment of the unit, including--
    (A) Launching survival craft;
    (B) Getting survival craft quickly and safely clear of the unit; 
and
    (C) Righting a capsized survival craft.
    (v) Handling all survival craft and their equipment, including--
    (A) Checking and maintaining their readiness for immediate use;
    (B) Using equipment to the best advantage;
    (C) Using the sea anchor;
    (D) Remaining, as far as practicable, in the general vicinity of 
the unit, well clear of but not downwind of any hydrocarbons or fire;
    (E) Recovering and, as far as practicable, caring for other 
survivors;
    (F) Keeping a lookout;
    (G) Operating available means of detection by others, including 
radio distress alerting and radio emergency procedures; and
    (H) Making proper use of food and drinking water and using 
protective measures in survival craft such as those for preventing 
exposure to cold, sun, wind, rain, and sea, and for preventing 
seasickness.
    (vi) Cautioning on the preservation of body fluids and the dangers 
of drinking seawater;
    (vii) Transferring personnel from survival craft to helicopters or 
to work boats;
    (viii) Maintaining morale; and
    (ix) Methods of helicopter rescue.
    (h) Records. (1) When musters are held, details of abandonment 
drills, fire drills, other lifesaving appliances, and onboard training 
must be recorded in the unit's official logbook. Logbook entries must 
include the following:
    (i) Logbook entries must identify the date and time of the drill, 
muster, or training session.
    (ii) Logbook entries must identify the survival craft and fire-
extinguishing equipment used in the drills.
    (iii) Logbook entries must identify the inoperative or 
malfunctioning equipment and the corrective action taken.
    (iv) Logbook entries must identify crew members participating in 
drills or training sessions.
    (v) Logbook entries must identify the subject of the onboard 
training session.
    (2) If a full muster, drill, or training session is not held at the 
appointed time, an entry must be made in the logbook stating the 
circumstances and the extent of the muster, drill, or training session 
held.


Secs. 109.215, 109.217, 109.219, 109.221, 109.225  [Removed]

    88. Sections 109.215, 109.217, 109.219, 109.221, and 109.225 are 
removed.
    89. Section 109.301 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 109.301  Operational readiness, maintenance, and inspection of 
lifesaving equipment.

    (a) Operational readiness. Except as provided in 
Sec. 109.301(b)(3), each lifesaving appliance must be in good working 
order and ready for immediate use at all times when the unit is in 
operation.
    (b) Maintenance. (1) The manufacturer's instructions for onboard 
maintenance of lifesaving appliances must be onboard and must include 
the following for each appliance--
    (i) Checklists for use when carrying out the inspections required 
under Sec. 109.301(e);
    (ii) Maintenance and repair instructions;
    (iii) A schedule of periodic maintenance;
    (iv) A diagram of lubrication points with the recommended 
lubricants;
    (v) A list of replaceable parts;
    (vi) A list of sources of spare parts; and
    (vii) A log for records of inspections and maintenance.
    (2) In lieu of compliance with paragraph (b)(1) of this section, 
The OCMI may accept a planned maintenance program that includes the 
items listed in that paragraph.
    (3) If lifeboats, rescue boats or rigid liferafts are maintained 
and repaired while the unit is in operation, there must be a sufficient 
number of lifeboats and liferafts remaining available for use to 
accommodate all persons on board.
    (c) Spare parts and repair equipment. Spare parts and repair 
equipment must be provided for each lifesaving appliance and component 
subject to excessive wear or consumption and that needs to be replaced 
regularly.
    (d) Weekly inspections and tests. (1) Each survival craft, rescue 
boat, and launching appliance must be visually inspected to ensure its 
readiness for use.
    (2) Each lifeboat engine and 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. 
During this time, demonstrations should indicate that the gear box and 
gear box train are engaging satisfactorily. If the special 
characteristics of an outboard motor fitted to a rescue boat would not 
allow the outboard motor to be run other than with its propeller 
submerged for a period of 3 minutes, the outboard motor should be run 
for such period as prescribed in the manufacturer's handbook.
    (3) The general alarm system must be tested.
    (e) Monthly inspections. (1) Each lifesaving appliance, including 
lifeboat equipment, must be inspected monthly using the checklists 
required under paragraph (b) of this section to make sure it is 
complete and in good working

[[Page 25302]]

order. A report of the inspection, including a statement as to the 
condition of the equipment, must be recorded in the unit's official 
logbook.
    (2) Each EPIRB and each SART other than an EPIRB or SART in an 
inflatable liferaft, must be tested monthly. The EPIRB must be tested 
using the integrated test circuit and output indicator to determine 
that it is operative.
    (f) Annual inspections. Annual inspection and repair must include 
the following:
    (1) Each survival craft, except for inflatable liferafts, must be 
stripped, cleaned, and thoroughly inspected and repaired, as needed, at 
least once in each year, including emptying and cleaning each fuel 
tank, and refilling it with fresh fuel.
    (2) Each davit, winch, fall and other launching appliance must be 
thoroughly inspected and repaired, as needed, once in each year.
    (3) Each item of survival equipment with an expiration date must be 
replaced during the annual inspection and repair, if the expiration 
date has passed.
    (4) Each battery clearly marked with an expiration date, that is 
used in an item of survival equipment must be replaced during the 
annual inspection and repair, if the expiration date has passed.
    (5) Except for a storage battery used in a lifeboat or rescue boat, 
each battery without an expiration date that is used in an item of 
survival equipment must be replaced during the annual inspection and 
repair.
    (g) Servicing of inflatable lifesaving appliances, inflated rescue 
boats, and marine evacuation systems.
    (1) Each inflatable lifesaving appliance and marine evacuation 
system must be serviced--
    (i) Within 12 months of its initial packing; and
    (ii) Within 12 months of each subsequent servicing, except when 
servicing is delayed until the next scheduled inspection of the unit, 
provided the delay does not exceed 5 months.
    (2) Each inflatable lifejacket must be serviced in accordance with 
servicing procedures meeting the requirements of part 160, subpart 
160.176 of this chapter. Each hybrid inflatable lifejacket must be 
serviced in accordance with the owners manual and meet the requirements 
of part 160, subpart 160.077 of this chapter.
    (3) Each inflatable liferaft must be serviced--
    (i) Whenever the container of the raft is damaged, or the straps or 
seal broken; and
    (ii) In accordance with servicing procedures meeting the 
requirements of part 160, subpart 160.051 of this chapter.
    (4) Each inflated rescue boat must be repaired and maintained in 
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. All repairs must be 
made at a servicing facility approved by the Commandant (G-MSE), except 
for emergency repairs carried out on board the unit.
    (h) Periodic servicing of hydrostatic release units. Each 
hydrostatic release unit, other than a disposable hydrostatic release 
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 unit, provided the delay does not 
exceed 5 months; and
    (2) In accordance with repair and testing procedures meeting the 
requirements of part 160, subpart 160.062 of this chapter.
    (i) Periodic servicing of launching appliances and release gear. 
(1) Launching appliances must be serviced at the intervals recommended 
in the manufacturer's instructions, or as set out in the shipboard 
planned maintenance program.
    (2) Launching appliances must be thoroughly examined at intervals 
not exceeding 5 years and upon completion of the examination, the 
launching appliance must be subjected to a dynamic test of the winch 
brake.
    (3) Lifeboat and rescue boat release gear must be serviced at the 
intervals recommended in the manufacturer's instructions, or as set out 
in the planned maintenance program.
    (4) Lifeboat and rescue boat release gear must be subjected to a 
thorough examination by properly trained personnel familiar with the 
system at each inspection for certification.
    (5) Lifeboat and rescue boat release gear must be operationally 
tested under a load of 1.1 times the total mass of the lifeboat when 
loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment, whenever 
overhauled, or at least once every 5 years.
    (j) Maintenance of falls. (1) Each fall used in a launching 
appliance must be turned end-for-end at intervals of not more than 30 
months and must be renewed when necessary due to deterioration or at 
intervals of not more than 5 years, whichever is earlier.
    (2) As an alternative to paragraph (j)(1) of this section, each 
fall may be inspected annually and renewed whenever necessary due to 
deterioration or at intervals of not more than 4 years, whichever is 
earlier.
    (k) Rotational deployment of marine evacuation systems. In addition 
to or in conjunction with the servicing intervals of marine evacuation 
systems required by paragraph (g)(1) of this section, each marine 
evacuation system must be deployed from the unit on a rotational basis. 
Each marine evacuation system must be deployed at least once every 6 
years.


Secs. 109.305, 109.307, 109.313, 109.314, 109.317, 109.320, 
109.321  [Removed]

    90. Sections 109.305, 109.307, 109.313, 109.314, 109.317, 109.320 
and 109.321 removed.
    91. Section 109.323 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 109.323  Manning of survival craft and supervision.

    (a) There must be a sufficient number of trained persons on board 
the survival craft for mustering and assisting untrained persons.
    (b) There must be a sufficient number of deck officers, able 
seamen, or certificated persons on board to operate the survival craft 
and launching arrangements required for abandonment by the total number 
of persons on board.
    (c) There must be one person placed in charge of each survival 
craft to be used. The person in charge must--
    (1) Be a deck officer, able seaman, or certificated person. The 
OCMI, considering the number of persons permitted on board, and the 
characteristics of the unit, may permit persons practiced in the 
handling and operation of liferafts or inflatable buoyant apparatus to 
be placed in charge of liferafts or inflatable buoyant apparatus;
    (2) Have another person designated second-in-command of each 
lifeboat permitted to carry more than 40 persons. This person should be 
a deck officer, able seaman, or certificated person; and
    (3) Have a list of the survival craft crew and must see that the 
crewmembers are acquainted with their duties. The second-in-command of 
a lifeboat must also have a list of the lifeboat crew.
    (d) There must be a person assigned to each motorized survival 
craft who is capable of operating the engine and carrying out minor 
adjustments.
    (e) The person in charge must make sure that the persons required 
under paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) of this section are equitably 
distributed among the unit's survival craft.

[[Page 25303]]

Sec. 109.325  [Removed]

    92. Section 109.325 is removed.


Sec. 109.341  [Removed]

    93. Section 109.341 is removed.
    94. Section 109.425 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 109.425  Repairs and alterations: fire detecting and extinguishing 
equipment.

    (a) Before making repairs or alterations, except emergency repairs 
or alterations to fire detecting and extinguishing equipment, the 
master or person in charge shall report the nature of the repairs or 
alterations to the OCMI.
    (b) When emergency repairs or alterations to fire detecting or 
fire-extinguishing equipment have been made, the master or person in 
charge shall report the nature of the repairs or alterations to the 
OCMI.
    95. In Sec. 109.433, paragraph (d) is revised; paragraphs (e) 
through (i), and (n) are removed; and paragraphs (j) through (m) are 
redesignated as paragraphs (e) through (h) to read as follows:


Sec. 109.433  Logbook entries.

* * * * *
    (d) The logbook must include information on emergency training 
drills required in Sec. 109.213(h).
* * * * *
    96. In subpart E, the heading is revised to read as follows:

Subpart E--Emergency Signals


Sec. 109.501  [Removed]

    97. Section 109.501 is removed.
    98. In Sec. 109.503, paragraph (a) is removed, and paragraphs (b) 
and (c) are redesignated as paragraphs (a) and (b), and the section 
heading and newly redesignated paragraph (b)(2) are revised to read as 
follows:


Sec. 109.503  Emergency signals.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) If whistle signals are used to direct the handling of lifeboats 
and davit-launched liferafts, they must be--
    (i) One short blast to lower the lifeboats and davit-launched 
liferafts; and
    (ii) Two short blasts to stop lowering the lifeboats and davit-
launched liferafts.
* * * * *


Sec. 109.505  [Removed]

    99. Section 109.505 is removed.

SUBCHAPTER L--OFFSHORE SUPPLY VESSELS

PART 125--GENERAL

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 3703; 49 U.S.C. App. 1804; 49 
CFR 1.46.

    100. In Sec. 125.160, add definitions in alphabetical order, to 
read as follows:


Sec. 125.160  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Anti-exposure suit means a protective suit designed for use by 
rescue boat crews and marine evacuation system parties.
    Approval series means the first six digits of a number assigned by 
the Coast Guard to approved equipment. Where approval is based on a 
subpart of subchapter Q of this chapter, the approval series 
corresponds to the number of the subpart. A listing of approved 
equipment, including all of the approval series, is published 
periodically by the Coast Guard in Equipment Lists (COMDTINST M16714.3 
series), available from the Superintendent of Documents.
* * * * *
    Crew means all persons carried on board the OSV to provide 
navigation and maintenance of the OSV, its machinery, systems, and 
arrangements essential for propulsion and safe navigation or to provide 
services for other persons on board.
* * * * *
    Embarkation ladder means the ladder provided at survival craft 
embarkation stations to permit safe access to survival craft after 
launching.
    Embarkation station means the place where a survival craft is 
boarded.
* * * * *
    Float-free launching means that method of launching a survival 
craft or lifesaving appliance whereby the craft or appliance is 
automatically released from a sinking vessel and is ready for use.
* * * * *
    Immersion suit means a protective suit that reduces loss of body 
heat of a person wearing it in cold water.
    Inflatable appliance means an appliance that depends upon nonrigid, 
gas-filled chambers for buoyancy and that is normally kept uninflated 
until ready for use.
    Inflated appliance means an appliance that depends upon nonrigid, 
gas-filled chambers for buoyancy and that is kept inflated and ready 
for use at all times.
* * * * *
    Launching appliance or launching arrangement means the method or 
devices for transferring a survival craft or rescue boat from its 
stowed position to the water. For a launching arrangement using a 
davit, the term includes the davit, winch, and falls.
* * * * *
    Lifejacket means a flotation device approved as a life preserver or 
lifejacket.
* * * * *
    Marine evacuation system means an appliance designed to rapidly 
transfer large numbers of persons from an embarkation station by means 
of a passage to a floating platform for subsequent embarkation into 
associated survival craft, or directly into associated survival craft.
* * * * *
    Muster station means the place where the crew and offshore workers 
assemble before boarding a survival craft.
    Novel lifesaving appliance or arrangement means one that has new 
features not fully covered by the provisions of this part but that 
provides an equal or higher standard of safety.
* * * * *
    Rescue boat means a boat designed to rescue persons in distress and 
to marshal survival craft.
    Seagoing condition means the operating condition of the OSV with 
the personnel, equipment, fluids, and ballast necessary for safe 
operation on the waters where the OSV operates.
    Survival craft means a craft capable of sustaining the lives of 
persons in distress from the time of abandoning the OSV on which the 
persons were originally carried. The term includes lifeboats, 
liferafts, buoyant apparatus, and lifefloats, but does not include 
rescue boats.
    101. In Sec. 125.180, paragraph (b) under International Maritime 
Organization (IMO), the entries for Resolution A.658(16) and Resolution 
A.760(18) are revised, and a new entry for Resolution A.520(13) is 
added in numerical order to read as follows:


Sec. 125.180  Incorporation by reference.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *

                                    International Maritime Organization (IMO)                                   
                                                                                                                
4 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7SR, England                                                                   
Resolution A.520(13), Code of Practice for the      133.40                                                      
 Evaluation, Testing and Acceptance of Prototype                                                                
 Novel Life-saving Appliances and Arrangements, 17                                                              
 November 1983.                                                                                                 

[[Page 25304]]

                                                                                                                
Resolution A.658(16), Use and Fitting of            131.855; 131.875; 133.70                                    
 Retroreflective Materials on Life-saving                                                                       
 Appliances, 20 November 1989.                                                                                  
Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-      131.875; 133.70; 133.90                                     
 saving Appliances and Arrangements, 17 November                                                                
 1993.                                                                                                          
International Convention for the Safety of Life at  126.170                                                     
 Sea (SOLAS), Consolidated Edition, 1992.                                                                       
                                                                                                                



    102. Part 133, consisting of Secs. 133.03 through 133.175, is added 
to read as follows:

PART 133--LIFESAVING SYSTEMS

Subpart A--General

Sec.
133.03  Relationship to international standards.
133.07  Additional equipment and requirements.
133.09  Equivalents.
133.10  Applicability.
133.20  Exemptions.
133.40  Evaluation, testing and approval of lifesaving appliances 
and arrangements.
133.45  Tests and inspections of lifesaving equipment and 
arrangements.

Subpart B--Requirements for All OSVs

133.60  Communications.
133.70  Personal lifesaving appliances.
133.80  Emergency instructions.
133.90  Operating instructions.
133.105  Survival craft.
133.110  Survival craft muster and embarkation arrangements.
133.120  Launching stations.
133.130  Stowage of survival craft.
133.135  Rescue boats.
133.140  Stowage of rescue boats.
133.145  Marine evacuation system launching arrangements.
133.150  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements: 
general.
133.153  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements using 
falls and a winch.
133.160  Rescue boat embarkation, launching and recovery 
arrangements.
133.170  Line-throwing appliance.
133.175  Survival craft and rescue boat equipment.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306; 46 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--General


Sec. 133.03  Relationship to international standards.

    This subpart and subpart B of this part are based on Chapter III, 
SOLAS. Section numbers in this subpart and subpart B of this part are 
generally related to the regulation numbers in Chapter III, SOLAS, but 
paragraph designations are not related to the numbering in Chapter III, 
SOLAS. To find the corresponding Chapter III, SOLAS regulation for this 
subpart and subpart B of this part, beginning with Sec. 133.10, divide 
the section number following the decimal point by 10.


Sec. 133.07  Additional equipment and requirements.

    The OCMI may require an OSV to carry specialized or additional 
lifesaving equipment other than as required in this part if the OCMI 
determines that the conditions of a voyage present uniquely hazardous 
circumstances which are not adequately addressed by existing 
requirements.


Sec. 133.09  Equivalents.

    When this part requires a particular fitting, material, or 
lifesaving appliance or arrangement, the Commandant   (G-MSE) may 
accept any other fitting, material, or lifesaving appliance or 
arrangement that is at least as effective as that required by this 
part. The Commandant may require engineering evaluations and tests to 
determine the equivalent effectiveness of the substitute fitting, 
material, or lifesaving appliance or arrangement.


Sec. 133.10  Applicability.

    (a) Unless expressly provided otherwise in this part, this part 
applies to all inspected OSVs of the United States flag, including 
lifeboats.
    (b) Offshore supply vessels which were constructed prior to October 
1, 1996, must--
    (1) By October 1, 1997, meet the requirements of Secs. 133.60(a), 
133.80, and 133.90;
    (2) By October 1, 1997, fit retro-reflective material on all 
floating appliances, lifejackets, and immersion suits; and
    (3) Offshore supply vessels may retain the arrangement of 
lifeboats, lifeboat davits, winches, inflatable liferafts, liferaft 
launching equipment, rescue boats, lifefloats, and buoyant apparatus 
previously required and approved for the OSV, as long as the 
arrangement or appliance is maintained in good condition to the 
satisfaction of the OCMI.
    (c) When any lifesaving appliance or arrangement on an OSV subject 
to this part is replaced, or when the OSV undergoes repairs, 
alterations, or modifications of a major character involving 
replacement of, or any addition to, the existing lifesaving appliances 
or arrangements, each new lifesaving appliance and arrangement must 
meet the requirements of this part, unless the OCMI determines that the 
OSV cannot accommodate the new appliance or arrangement.


Sec. 133.20  Exemptions.

    (a) If a District Commander determines that the overall safety of 
the persons on board an OSV will not be significantly reduced, the 
District Commander may grant an exemption from compliance with a 
provision of this part to a specific OSV for a specified geographic 
area within the boundaries of the Coast Guard District. This exemption 
may be limited to certain periods of the year.
    (b) Requests for exemption under this section must be in writing to 
the OCMI for transmission to the District Commander in the area in 
which the OSV is in service or will be in service.
    (c) If the exemption is granted by the District Commander, the OCMI 
will endorse the OSV's Certificate of Inspection with a statement 
describing the exemption.


Sec. 133.40  Evaluation, testing and approval of lifesaving appliances 
and arrangements.

    (a) Each item of lifesaving equipment required by this part to be 
carried on board the OSV must be approved.
    (b) Each item of lifesaving equipment carried on board the OSV in 
addition to those required by this part must--
    (1) Be approved; or
    (2) Be accepted by the cognizant OCMI for use on the OSV.
    (c) The Commandant (G-MSE) may accept a novel lifesaving appliance 
or arrangement if it provides a level of safety equivalent the 
requirements of this part and if the appliance or arrangement--
    (1) Is evaluated and tested in accordance with IMO Resolution 
A.520(13), Code of Practice for the Evaluation, Testing and Acceptance 
of Prototype Novel Life-saving Appliances and Arrangements; or
    (2) Has successfully undergone evaluation and tests that are 
substantially equivalent to those recommendations.
    (d) During an OSV's construction, and when any modification to the 
lifesaving arrangement is done after construction, a OSV owner must 
obtain acceptance of lifesaving arrangements from the Commandant (G-
MSC).
    (e) The OCMI may accept substitute lifesaving appliances other than 
those required by this part, except for--
    (1) Survival craft and rescue boats; and
    (2) Survival craft and rescue boat launching and embarkation 
appliances.

[[Page 25305]]

    (f) Acceptance of lifesaving appliances and arrangements will 
remain in effect unless--
    (1) The OCMI deems their condition to be unsatisfactory or unfit 
for the service intended; or
    (2) The OCMI deems the crew's ability to use and assist others in 
the use of the lifesaving appliances or arrangements to be inadequate.


Sec. 133.45  Tests and inspections of lifesaving equipment and 
arrangements.

    (a) Initial inspection. The initial inspection of lifesaving 
appliances and arrangements for certification includes a demonstration 
of--
    (1) The proper condition and operation of the survival craft and 
rescue boat launching appliances at loads ranging from light load to 10 
percent overload;
    (2) The proper condition and operation of rescue boats, including 
engines and release mechanisms;
    (3) The proper condition of flotation equipment such as lifebuoys, 
lifejackets, immersion suits, work vests, lifefloats, buoyant 
apparatus, and associated equipment;
    (4) The proper condition of distress signaling equipment, including 
EPIRB and pyrotechnic signaling devices;
    (5) The proper condition of line-throwing appliances;
    (6) The proper condition and operation of embarkation appliances, 
including embarkation ladders and marine evacuation systems;
    (7) The ability of the crew to effectively carry out abandon-ship 
procedures; and
    (8) The ability to meet the egress and survival craft launching 
requirements of this part.
    (b) Reinspections. Tests and inspections of lifesaving equipment 
shall be carried out during each inspection for renewal of 
certification, and shall demonstrate, as applicable,--
    (1) The proper condition and operation of the survival craft and 
rescue boat launching appliances at loads ranging from light load to 
full load;
    (2) The proper condition and operation of rescue boats including 
engines and release mechanisms;
    (3) The proper condition of flotation equipment such as lifebuoys, 
lifejackets, immersion suits, work vests, lifefloats, buoyant 
apparatus, and associated equipment;
    (4) That each inflatable liferaft and inflatable lifejacket has 
been serviced as required under this chapter;
    (5) That each hydrostatic release unit, other than a disposable 
hydrostatic release unit, has been serviced as required under this 
chapter; and
    (6) That the crew has the ability to effectively carry out abandon-
ship procedures.
    (c) Other inspections. Lifesaving appliances and arrangements are 
subject to tests and inspections described in paragraph (b) of this 
section during OSV boardings to ensure that the appliances and 
arrangements comply with applicable requirements, are in satisfactory 
condition, and remain fit for service.

Subpart B--Requirements for All OSVs


Sec. 133.60  Communications.

    (a) Emergency position indicating radiobeacons (EPIRB) and search 
and rescue transponders (SART).
    (1) Each OSV must carry a category 1 406 MHz satellite EPIRB 
meeting the requirements of 47 CFR part 80.
    (2) When the OSV is underway, the EPIRB must be stowed in its 
float-free bracket with the controls set for automatic activation and 
mounted in a manner so that it will float free if the OSV sinks.
    (3) Each EPIRB should have the name of the OSV plainly marked or 
painted on its label, except for EPIRBs in an inflatable liferaft or 
permanently installed in a survival craft.
    (b) Distress flares. Each OSV must--
    (1) Carry not less than 12 rocket parachute flares approved under 
approval series 160.136; and
    (2) Stow the flares on or near the OSV's navigating bridge.
    (c) Onboard communications and alarm systems. Each OSV must meet 
the requirements for onboard communications between emergency control 
stations, muster and embarkation stations, and strategic positions on 
board, and the emergency alarm system requirements in part J of this 
chapter, and be supplemented by either a public address system or other 
suitable means of communication.
    (d) Emergency position indicating radiobeacon alternative. OSVs, as 
an alternative to the requirements in paragraph (a) of this section, 
may until February 1, 1999, have a Coast Guard-approved class A EPIRB, 
if the EPIRB was--
    (1) Manufactured after October 1, 1988; and
    (2) Installed on the OSV on or before July 5, 1996.


Sec. 133.70  Personal lifesaving appliances.

    (a) Lifebuoys. Each OSV must carry lifebuoys approved under 
approval series 160.150 and 160.050 as follows:
    (1) Number. The number of lifebuoys carried must be as prescribed 
in table 133.70 of this section.

                              Table 133.70                              
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                      Minimum number of 
                                                       ring lifebuoys   
        Length of vessel in meters  (feet)         ---------------------
                                                      Ocean    Coastwise
                                                     service    service 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under 30 (98).....................................          8          3
30 (98) and under 60 (196)........................          8          4
60 (196) and under 100 (328)......................          8          6
100 (328) and over................................         12         12
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) Stowage. Lifebuoys must be stowed as follows:
    (i) Each lifebuoy must be capable of being rapidly cast loose.
    (ii) Each lifebuoy must not be permanently secured to the OSV in 
any way.
    (iii) Each lifebuoy stowage position must be marked with either the 
words ``LIFEBUOY'' or ``LIFE BUOY'', or with the appropriate symbol 
from IMO Resolution A.760(18).
    (iv) Lifebuoys must be so distributed as to be readily available on 
each side of the OSV and, as far as practicable, on each open deck 
extending to the side of the OSV. At least one lifebuoy must be located 
near the stern of the OSV. The lifebuoys with attached self-igniting 
lights must be equally distributed on both sides of the OSV.
    (3) Color and markings. Lifebuoys must be colored and marked as 
follows:
    (i) Each lifebuoy must be orange.
    (ii) Each lifebuoy must be marked in block capital letters with the 
name of the OSV and the name of the port required to be marked on the 
stern of the OSV under Sec. 67.13 of this chapter.
    (4) Attachments and fittings. Lifebuoys must have the following 
attachments and fittings:
    (i) At least one lifebuoy on each side of the OSV fitted with a 
buoyant lifeline that is--
    (A) At least as long as twice the height where it is stowed above 
the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition, or 30 meters (100 
feet), whichever is the greater;
    (B) Non-kinking;
    (C) Not less than 8 millimeters (\5/16\ inch) in diameter;
    (D) Of a breaking strength which is not less than 5 kiloNewtons 
(1,124 pounds-force); and
    (E) Resistant to deterioration from ultraviolent light. Line that 
is certified by the manufacturer or is synthetic and a dark color meets 
this requirement.
    (ii) Except for an OSV in coastwise service and under 30 meters (99 
feet) in length, at least one-half the total number of lifebuoys, but 
not less than two, must

[[Page 25306]]

each be fitted with a self-igniting light approved under approval 
series 161.010. The self-igniting light must not be attached to the 
lifebuoys required by this section to be fitted with lifelines. 
However, if the OSV carries less than four lifebuoys, a buoyant 
lifeline can be fitted to one of the lifebuoys with a self-igniting 
light.
    (b) Lifejackets. Each OSV must carry lifejackets approved under 
approval series 160.002, 160.005, 160.055, 160.077, 160.155, 160.176, 
or 160.177. If the OSV carries inflatable lifejackets, they must be of 
the same or similar design and have the same method of operation.
    (1) General. Each OSV must carry a lifejacket for each person on 
board and in addition, a sufficient number of lifejackets must be 
carried for persons on watch and for use at remotely located survival 
craft stations.
    (2) Stowage. Lifejackets must be stowed as follows:
    (i) The lifejackets must be readily accessible.
    (ii) The lifejacket stowage positions must be marked with either 
the word ``LIFEJACKETS'' or with the appropriate symbol from IMO 
Resolution A.760(18).
    (iii) The additional lifejackets required by paragraph (b)(1) of 
this section must be stowed on the bridge, in the engine control room, 
and at other manned watch stations..
    (3) Markings. Each lifejacket must be marked--
    (i) In block capital letters with the name of the OSV; and.
    (ii) With type I retro-reflective material approved under approval 
series 164.018. The arrangement of the retro-reflective material must 
meet IMO Resolution A.658(16).
    (4) Lifejacket lights. Each lifejacket must have a lifejacket light 
approved under approval series 161.112 or 161.012 securely attached to 
the front shoulder area of the lifejacket. Chemiluminescent-type 
lifejacket lights approved under approval series 161.012 are not 
permitted on OSVs certificated to operate on waters where water 
temperature may drop below 10  deg.C (50  deg.F).
    (c) Immersion suits or anti-exposure suits. Immersion suits must be 
approved under approval series 160.171, and anti-exposure suits must be 
approved under approval series 160.153.
    (1) General. Each OSV, except OSVs operating in the Gulf of Mexico 
or on other routes between 32 degrees north latitude and 32 degrees 
south latitude, must carry--.
    (i) An immersion suit or anti-exposure suit of suitable size for 
each person assigned to the rescue boat crew; and
    (ii) An immersion suit of the appropriate size for each person on 
board. The immersion suits required under this paragraph count toward 
meeting the requirements of paragraph (c)(1)(i) of this section.
    (2) Stowage. Immersion suits and anti-exposure suits must be stowed 
as follows:
    (i) Immersion suits and anti-exposure suits must be stowed so they 
are readily accessible, and the stowage positions must be marked with 
the words ``IMMERSION SUITS'' or ``ANTI-EXPOSURE SUITS'' as 
appropriate, or with the appropriate symbol from IMO Resolution 
A.760(18).
    (ii) If watch stations, work stations, or work sites are remote 
from cabins, staterooms, or berthing areas and the immersion suits are 
stowed in those locations, there must be, in addition to the immersion 
suits required under paragraph (c)(1)(ii) of this section, enough 
immersion suits stowed at the watch stations, work stations, or work 
sites to equal the number of persons normally on watch in, or assigned 
to, those locations at any time.
    (3) Markings. Each immersion suit or anti-exposure suit must be 
marked in block capital letters with the name of the OSV.
    (4) Lights for immersion suits or anti-exposure suits. Each 
immersion suit or anti-exposure suit must have a lifejacket light 
approved under approval series 161.112 or 161.012 securely attached to 
the front shoulder area of the immersion suit or anti-exposure suit. 
Chemiluminescent-type lifejacket lights approved under approval series 
161.012 are not permitted on OSVs certificated to operate on waters 
where water temperature may drop below 10  deg.C (50  deg.F).
    (d) Lifejacket, immersion suit, and anti-exposure suit containers. 
Each lifejacket, immersion suit, and anti-exposure suit container must 
be marked in block capital letters and numbers with the quantity, 
identity, and size of the equipment stowed inside the container. The 
equipment may be identified in words, or with the appropriate symbol 
from IMO Resolution A.760(18).


Sec. 133.80  Emergency instructions.

    (a) General. Copies of clear instructions must be provided on the 
OSV, detailing the actions that each person on board should follow in 
the event of an emergency.
    (b) Emergency instructions. Illustrations and instructions in 
English and any other appropriate language, as determined by the OCMI, 
must be conspicuously displayed at each muster station and in spaces 
where offshore workers are carried, to inform offshore workers of--
    (1) The fire and emergency signal;
    (2) Their muster station;
    (3) The essential actions they must take in an emergency;
    (4) The location of lifejackets; and
    (5) The method of donning lifejackets.


Sec. 133.90  Operating instructions.

    Each OSV must have posters or signs displayed in the vicinity of 
each survival craft and the survival craft's launching controls that--
    (a) Illustrate the purpose of controls;
    (b) Illustrate the procedures for operating the launching device;
    (c) Give relevant instructions or warnings;
    (d) Can be easily seen under emergency lighting conditions; and
    (e) Display symbols in accordance with IMO Resolution A.760(18).


Sec. 133.105  Survival craft.

    (a) Each survival craft must be approved and equipped as follows:
    (1) Each inflatable liferaft--
    (i) On an OSV on an unlimited oceans route, must be approved under 
approval series 160.151 and be equipped with a SOLAS A pack;
    (ii) On an OSV on an oceans route limited to within 50 nautical 
miles of the shore, must be approved under approval series 160.151 and 
be equipped with either a SOLAS A pack or SOLAS B pack; and
    (iii) On an OSV on a coastwise route, must be approved under 
approval series 160.151 or 160.151, with any approved equipment pack.
    (2) Each rigid liferaft must be approved under approval series 
160.118 and be equipped as specified in table 133.175 of this part.
    (3) Each inflatable buoyant apparatus must be approved under 
approval series 160.010.
    (4) Each lifefloat must be approved under approval series 160.027 
and be equipped with the following:
    (i) One boathook.
    (ii) Two paddles. Each paddle must be at least 1.2 meters (4 feet) 
long and buoyant.
    (iii) One painter. The painter must--
    (A) Be at least 30 meters (100 feet) long, but not less than three 
times the distance between the deck where the lifefloats are stowed and 
to the OSV's waterline in the lightest seagoing condition;
    (B) Have a breaking strength of at least 6.7 kiloNewtons (1,500 
pounds-force), except that if the capacity of the lifefloat is 50 
persons or more, the breaking strength must be at least 13.4 
kiloNewtons (3,000 pounds-force);

[[Page 25307]]

    (C) If made of a synthetic material, be dark in color or certified 
by the manufacturer to be resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet 
light;
    (D) Be stowed in such a way that it runs out freely when the 
buoyant apparatus, inflatable buoyant apparatus, or lifefloat floats 
away from the sinking OSV; and
    (E) Have a float-free link meeting the requirements of part 160, 
subpart 160.073 of this chapter, connecting the painter to the OSV.
    (iv) One self-igniting light. The self-igniting light must be 
approved under approval series 161.010, and must be attached to the 
buoyant apparatus, inflatable buoyant apparatus, or lifefloat by a 12-
thread manila or equivalent lanyard, at least 5.5 meters (18 feet) 
long. The self-igniting light is not required on a lifefloat with a 
capacity of 24 persons or less.
    (5) Each marine evacuation system must be approved under approval 
series 160.175.
    (6) Lifeboats may be substituted for liferafts. If lifeboats are 
installed on an OSV, their installation and arrangement must meet the 
applicable requirements of subchapter W of this chapter.
    (b) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, OSVs must 
carry one or more liferafts with an aggregate capacity that will 
accommodate the total number of persons on board. The liferafts must 
be--
    (1) Stowed in a position providing for easy side-to-side transfer 
at a single open deck level; or
    (2) Additional liferafts must be provided to bring the total 
capacity available on each side to at least 100 percent of the total 
number of persons on board. If additional liferafts are provided and 
the rescue boat required under Sec. 133.135 is also a lifeboat, it may 
be included in the aggregate capacity requirement.
    (c) Each OSV operating in the Gulf of Mexico, as an alternative to 
the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section, may carry a 
sufficient number of inflatable buoyant apparatus or a sufficient 
number of lifefloats, having an aggregate capacity that, together with 
any lifeboats, rescue boats, and liferafts, will accommodate the total 
number of persons on board.


Sec. 133.110  Survival craft muster and embarkation arrangements.

    (a) Each OSV must have muster stations that--
    (1) Are near the embarkation stations, unless the muster station is 
the embarkation station;
    (2) Permit ready access for the offshore workers to the embarkation 
station, unless the muster station is the embarkation station; and
    (3) Have sufficient room to marshal and instruct the offshore 
workers.
    (b) Each muster station must have sufficient space to accommodate 
all persons assigned to muster at that station. One or more muster 
stations must be close to each embarkation station.
    (c) Each muster station and embarkation station must be readily 
accessible to accommodation and work areas.
    (d) Each muster station and embarkation station must be adequately 
illuminated by lighting supplied from the emergency source of 
electrical power.
    (e) Each davit-launched survival craft muster station and 
embarkation station must be arranged to enable stretcher cases to be 
placed in the survival craft.
    (f) Each launching station or each two adjacent launching stations 
with an embarkation position more than 3 meters (10 feet) above the 
waterline in the lightest seagoing condition, must have an embarkation 
ladder as follows:
    (1) Each embarkation ladder must be approved under approval series 
160.117 or approval series 160.017.
    (2) Each embarkation ladder must extend in a single length, from 
the deck to the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition under 
unfavorable conditions of trim and with the OSV listed not less than 15 
degrees either way.
    (3) Each embarkation ladder may be replaced by a device approved to 
provide safe and rapid access to survival craft in the water, if the 
OCMI permits the device, provided that there is at least one 
embarkation ladder on each side of the OSV.
    (g) Each davit-launched liferaft must be arranged to be boarded and 
launched from a position immediately adjacent to the stowed position or 
from a position to where, under Sec. 133.130, the liferaft is 
transferred before launching.
    (h) If a davit-launched survival craft is embarked over the edge of 
the deck, the craft must be provide with a means for bringing it 
against the side of the OSV and holding it alongside the OSV to allow 
persons to safely embark.
    (i) If a davit-launched survival craft or rescue boat is not 
intended to be moved to the stowed position with persons on board, the 
craft must be provided with a means for bringing it against the side of 
the OSV and holding it alongside the OSV to allow persons to safely 
disembark after a drill.


Sec. 133.120  Launching stations.

    (a) Each launching station must be positioned to ensure safe 
launching with clearance from--
    (1) The propeller; and
    (2) The steeply overhanging portions of the hull.
    (b) Each survival craft be launched down the straight side of the 
OSV.
    (c) Each launching station in the forward part of the OSV must--
    (1) Be located aft of the collision bulkhead in a sheltered 
position; and
    (2) Have a launching appliance approved as being of sufficient 
strength for forward installation.


Sec. 133.130  Stowage of survival craft.

    (a) General. Each survival craft must be stowed as follows:
    (1) Each survival craft must be as close to the accommodation and 
service spaces as possible.
    (2) Each survival craft must be in a way that neither the survival 
craft nor its stowage arrangements will interfere with the embarkation 
and operation of any other survival craft or rescue boat at any other 
launching station.
    (3) Each survival craft must be as near the water surface as is 
safe and practicable.
    (4) Other than liferafts intended for throw-overboard launching, 
each survival craft must be not less than 2 meters above the waterline 
with the OSV--
    (i) In the fully loaded condition;
    (ii) Under unfavorable conditions of trim; and
    (iii) Listed up to 20 degrees either way, or to the angle where the 
OSV's weatherdeck edge becomes submerged, whichever is less.
    (5) Each survival craft must be sufficiently ready for use so that 
two crew members can complete preparations for embarkation and 
launching in less than 5 minutes.
    (6) Each survival craft must be fully equipped as required under 
this part.
    (7) Each survival craft must be in a secure and sheltered position 
and protected from damage by fire and explosion, as far as practicable.
    (8) Each survival craft must not require lifting from its stowed 
position in order to launch, except that--
    (i) A davit-launched liferaft may be lifted by a manually powered 
winch from its stowed position to its embarkation position; or
    (ii) A survival craft that weights 185 kilograms (407.8 pounds) or 
less, may require lifting of not more than 300 millimeters (1 foot).
    (b) Additional liferaft stowage requirements. In addition to 
meeting the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section, each 
liferaft must be stowed as follows:
    (1) Each liferaft must be stowed to permit manual release from its 
securing arrangements.

[[Page 25308]]

    (2) Each liferaft must be stowed at a height above the waterline in 
the lightest seagoing condition not greater than the maximum stowage 
height indicated on the liferaft container. Each liferaft without an 
indicated maximum stowage height must be stowed not more than 18 meters 
(59 feet) above the waterline in the OSV's lightest seagoing condition.
    (3) Each liferaft must be arranged to permit it to drop into the 
water from the deck on which it is stowed. A liferaft stowage 
arrangement meets this requirement if it--
    (i) Is outboard of the rail or bulwark;
    (ii) Is on stanchions or on a platform adjacent to the rail or 
bulwark; or
    (iii) Has a gate or other suitable opening to allow the liferaft to 
be pushed directly overboard and--
    (A) Each gate or opening must be large enough to allow the liferaft 
to be pushed overboard; and
    (B) If the liferaft is intended to be available for use on either 
side of the OSV, a gate or opening must be provided on each side.
    (4) Each davit-launched liferaft must be stowed within reach of its 
lifting hook, unless some means of transfer is provided that is not 
rendered inoperable--
    (i) Within the limits of trim and list and list specified in 
paragraph (a)(4)(iii) of this section;
    (ii) By OSV motion; or
    (iii) By power failure.
    (5) Each rigid container for an inflatable liferaft to be launched 
by a launching appliance must be secured in a way that the container or 
parts of it are prevented from falling into the water during and after 
inflation and launching of the contained liferaft.
    (6) Each liferaft must have a painter system providing a connection 
between the OSV and the liferaft.
    (7) Each liferaft or group of liferafts must be arranged for float-
free launching. The arrangement must ensure that the liferaft or 
liferafts when released and inflated, are not dragged under by the 
sinking OSV. A hydrostatic release unit used in a float-free 
arrangement must be approved under approval series 160.162.
    (c) Additional lifefloat stowage requirements. Each lifefloat must 
be capable of float-free launching and be arranged as follows:
    (1) Lifefloats must be secured to the OSV by--
    (i) A hydrostatic release unit approved under approval series 
160.062 or 160.162 and that is appropriate for the size and number of 
the lifefloats attached to them; or
    (ii) Lashings that can be easily slipped.
    (2) A painter must be secured to the lifefloat by--
    (i) The attachment fitting provided by the manufacturer; or
    (ii) A wire or line that encircles the body of the lifefloat and 
will not slip off, and meets the requirements of 
Sec. 133.105(a)(4)(iii).
    (3) If lifefloats are arranged in groups with each group secured by 
a single painter,--
    (i) The combined weight of each group must not exceed 185 kilograms 
(407.8 pounds);
    (ii) Each lifefloat must be individually attached to the group's 
single painter by its own painter which must be long enough to allow 
floating without contact with any other lifefloat in the group;
    (iii) The strength of the float-free link and the strength of the 
group's single painter must be appropriate for the combined capacity of 
the group of lifefloats;
    (iv) The group of lifefloats must not be stowed in more than four 
tiers. When stowed in tiers, the separate units must be kept apart by 
spacers; and
    (v) The group of lifefloats must be stowed to prevent shifting with 
easily detached lashings.


Sec. 133.135  Rescue boats.

    (a) Each OSV must carry at least one rescue boat. Each rescue boat 
must be approved under approval series 160.156 and equipped as 
specified in table 133.175 of this part.
    (b) Offshore supply vessels, as an alternative to the requirement 
in paragraph (a) of this section, may carry a motor-propelled workboat 
or a launch if the workboat or launch must meet the embarkation, 
launching, and recovery arrangement requirements in Sec. 133.160(a), 
(c), (d), (e), and (f).
    (c) A rescue boat is not required for a vessel operating on the 
continental shelf of the United States, if--
    (1) The OCMI determines the vessel is arranged to allow a helpless 
person to be recovered from the water;
    (2) The recovery of the helpless person can be observed from the 
navigating bridge; and
    (3) The vessel does not regularly engage in operations that 
restrict its maneuverability.


Sec. 133.140  Stowage of rescue boats.

    (a) Rescue boats must be stowed as follows:
    (1) Each rescue boat must be ready for launching in not more than 5 
minutes.
    (2) Each rescue boat must be in a position suitable for launching 
and recovery.
    (3) Each rescue boat must be stowed in a way that neither the 
rescue boat nor its stowage arrangements will interfere with the 
operation of any survival craft at any other launching station.
    (b) Each rescue boat must be provided a means for recharging the 
rescue boat batteries from the OSV's power supply at a supply voltage 
not exceeding 50 volts.
    (c) Each inflated rescue boat must be kept fully inflated at all 
times.


Sec. 133.145  Marine evacuation system launching arrangements.

    (a) Arrangements. Each marine evacuation system must have the 
following arrangements:
    (1) Each marine evacuation system must be capable of being deployed 
by one person.
    (2) Each marine evacuation system must enable the total number of 
persons for which it is designed, to be transferred from the OSV into 
the inflated liferafts within a period of 10 minutes from the time an 
abandon-ship signal is given.
    (3) Each marine evacuation system must be arranged so that 
liferafts may be securely attached to the platform and released from 
the platform by a person either in the liferaft or on the platform.
    (4) Each marine evacuation system must be capable of being deployed 
from the OSV under unfavorable conditions of trim of up to 10 degrees 
either way and of list of up to 20 degrees either way.
    (5) If the marine evacuation system has an inclined slide, the 
angle of the slide from horizontal must be within a range of 30 to 35 
degrees when the OSV is upright and in the lightest seagoing condition.
    (6) Each marine evacuation system platform must be capable of being 
restrained by a bowsing line or other positioning system that is 
designed to deploy automatically, and if necessary, be capable of being 
adjusted to the position required for evacuation.
    (b) Stowage. Each marine evacuation system must be stowed as 
follows:
    (1) There must not be any openings between the marine evacuation 
system's embarkation station and the OSV's side at the OSV's waterline 
in the lightest seagoing condition.
    (2) The marine evacuation system's launching positions must be 
arranged, as far as practicable, to be straight down the OSV's side and 
safely clear the propeller and any steeply overhanging positions of the 
hull.
    (3) The marine evacuation system must be protected from any 
projections of the OSV's structure or equipment.
    (4) The marine evacuation system's passage and platform, when 
deployed; its stowage container; and its

[[Page 25309]]

operational arrangement must not interfere with the operation of any 
other lifesaving appliance at any other launching station.
    (5) Where appropriate, the marine evacuation system's stowage area 
must be protected from damage by heavy seas.
    (c) Stowage of associated liferafts. Inflatable liferafts used in 
conjunction with the marine evacuation system must be stowed as 
follows:
    (1) Each inflatable liferaft used in conjunction with the marine 
evacuation system must be close to the system container, but capable of 
dropping clear of the deployed chute and boarding platform.
    (2) Each inflatable liferaft used in conjunction with the marine 
evacuation system must be capable of individual release from its 
stowage rack.
    (3) Each inflatable liferaft used in conjunction with the marine 
evacuation system must be stowed in accordance with Sec. 133.130.
    (4) Each inflatable liferaft used in conjunction with the marine 
evacuation system must be provided with preconnected or easily 
connected retrieving lines to the platform.


Sec. 133.150  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements: 
general.

    (a) All survival craft required for abandonment by the total number 
of persons on board must be capable of being launched with their full 
complement of persons and equipment within 10 minutes from the time the 
abandon-ship signal is given.
    (b) Each launching appliance for a davit-launched liferaft must be 
approved under approval series 160.163, with an automatic disengaging 
apparatus approved under approval series 160.170.
    (c) Unless expressly provided otherwise, each survival craft must 
be provided launching appliances or marine evacuation systems, except--
    (1) Those survival craft that can be boarded from a position on 
deck less than 4.5 meters (14.75 feet) above the waterline in the 
lightest seagoing condition and that have a mass of not more than 185 
kilograms (407 pounds);
    (2) Those survival craft that can be boarded from a position on 
deck less than 4.5 meters (14.75 feet) above the waterline in the 
lightest seagoing condition and that are stowed for launching directly 
from the stowed position, under unfavorable conditions of trim of 10 
degrees and list of 20 degrees either way;
    (3) Those survival craft that are carried in excess of the survival 
craft for 200 percent of the total number of persons on board the OSV, 
and that have a mass of not more than 185 kilograms (407 pounds);
    (4) Those survival craft carried in excess of the survival craft 
for 200 percent of the total number of persons on board the OSV, and 
are stowed for launching directly from the stowed position under 
unfavorable conditions of trim of 10 degrees and list of 20 degrees 
either way;
    (5) Those survival craft that are provided for use in conjunction 
with a marine evacuation system, and stowed for launching directly from 
the stowed position under unfavorable conditions of trim of 10 degrees 
and list of 20 degrees either way; or
    (6) Liferafts installed on lifeboats.
    (d) Each launching appliance must be arranged so that the fully 
equipped survival craft the launching appliance serves can be safely 
launched against unfavorable conditions of trim of up to 10 degrees 
either way and of list of up to 20 degrees either way,--
    (1) When the survival craft is loaded with its full complement of 
persons; and
    (2) When not more than the required operating crew is on board.
    (e) A launching appliance must not depend on any means other than 
gravity or stored mechanical power, independent of the OSV's power 
supplies, to launch the survival craft the launching appliance serves, 
in the fully loaded and equipped condition, and also in the light 
condition.
    (f) Each launching appliance's structural attachment to the OSV 
must be designed to be at least 4.5 times--
    (1) The load imparted on the attachment by the launching appliance 
and its fully loaded survival craft under the most adverse combination 
of list and trim as required under paragraph (b) of this section; and
    (2) The ultimate strength of the construction material.
    (g) Each launching appliance must be arranged so that--
    (1) All parts requiring regular maintenance by the OSV's crew are 
readily accessible and easily maintained;
    (2) The launching appliance remains effective under conditions of 
icing;
    (3) The same type of release mechanism is used for each similar 
survival craft carried on board the OSV;
    (4) The preparation and handling of each survival craft at any one 
launching station does not interfere with the prompt preparation and 
handling of any other survival craft at any other station;
    (5) The persons on board the OSV can safely and rapidly board the 
survival craft;
    (6) Each davit-launched liferaft can be boarded by its full 
complement of persons within 3 minutes from the time the instruction to 
board is given: and
    (7) During preparation and launching, the survival craft, its 
launching appliance, and the area of water into which it is to be 
lunched is illuminated by lighting supplied from the emergency source 
of electrical power.
    (h) Each launching mechanism must be arranged so it may be actuated 
by one person, both from a position on the OSV's deck, and from a 
position within the survival craft. Each launching and recovery 
arrangement must allow the operator on the deck to observe the survival 
craft at all times during launching.
    (i) Means must be provided outside the machinery space to prevent 
any discharge of water onto survival craft during abandonment.


Sec. 133.153  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangement using 
falls and a winch.

    Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements, in addition to 
meeting the requirements in Sec. 133.150, must meet the following 
requirements:
    (a) Each fall wire must be of rotation-resistant and corrosion-
resistant steel wire rope.
    (b) The breaking strength of each fall wire and each attachment 
used on the fall must be at least six time the load imparted on the 
fall by the fully-loaded survival craft.
    (c) Each fall must be long enough for the survival craft to reach 
the water with the OSV in its lightest seagoing condition, under 
unfavorable conditions of trim and with the OSV listed not less than 20 
degrees either way.
    (d) Each unguarded fall must not pass near any operating position 
of the winch, such as hand cranks, pay-out wheels, and brake levers.
    (e) Each winch drum must be arranged so the fall wire winds onto 
the drum in a level wrap. A multiple drum winch must be arranged so 
that the falls wind off at the same rate when lowering, and onto the 
drums at the same rate when hoisting.
    (f) Each fall, where exposed to damage or fouling, must have guards 
or equivalent protection. Each fall that leads along a deck must be 
covered with a guard that is not more than 300 millimeters (1 foot) 
above the deck.
    (g) The lowering speed for a fully loaded survival craft must be 
not less than that obtained from the following formula:
    (1) S=0.4+(0.02 H), where S is the speed of lowering in meters per 
second, and H is the height in meters from the davit head to the 
waterline at the lightest seagoing condition.

[[Page 25310]]

    (2) S=79+(1.2 H), where S is the speed of lowering in feet per 
minute, and H is the height in feet.
    (h) The lowering speed for a survival craft loaded with all of its 
equipment must be not less than 70 percent of the speed required under 
paragraph (g) of this section.
    (i) The lowering speed for a fully loaded survival craft must be 
not more than 1.3 meters per second (256 feet per minute).
    (j) If a survival craft is recovered by electric power, the 
electrical installation, including the electric power-operated boat 
winch, must meet the requirements in part 129 of this chapter. If a 
survival craft is recovered by any means of power, including a portable 
power source, safety devices must be provided which automatically cut 
off the power before the davit arms or falls reach the stops in order 
to avoid overstressing the falls or davits, unless the motor is 
designed to prevent such overstressing.
    (k) Each launching appliance must be fitted with brakes that meet 
the following requirements:
    (1) The brakes must be capable of stopping the descent of the 
survival craft or rescue boat and holding it securely when loaded with 
its full complement of persons and equipment.
    (2) The brake pads must, where necessary, be protected from water 
and oil.
    (3) Manual brakes must be arranged so that the brake is always 
applied unless the operator, or a mechanism activated by the operator, 
holds the brake control in the off position.


Sec. 133.160   Rescue boat embarkation, launching and recovery 
arrangements.

    (a) Each rescue boat must be able to be boarded and launched 
directly from the stowed position with the number of persons assigned 
to crew the rescue boat on board. If the rescue boat is also a lifeboat 
and the other lifeboats are boarded and launched from an embarkation 
deck, the arrangements must be such that the rescue boat can also be 
boarded and launched from the embarkation deck.
    (b) Each rescue boat must be capable of being launched with the OSV 
making headway of 5 knots in calm water. A painter may be used to meet 
this requirement.
    (c) Each rescue boat embarkation and launching arrangement must 
permit the rescue boat to be boarded and launched in the shortest 
possible time.
    (d) Rapid recovery of the rescue boat must be possible when loaded 
with its full complement of persons and equipment.
    (e) Each rescue boat launching appliance must be fitted with a 
powered winch motor.
    (f) Each rescue boat launching appliance must be capable of 
hoisting the rescue boat when loaded with its full rescue boat 
complement of persons and equipment at a rate of not less than 0.3 
meters per second (59 feet per minute).


Sec. 133.170   Line-throwing appliance.

    (a) General. Each OSV must have a line-throwing appliance that is 
approved under approval series 160.031 or 160.040.
    (b) Stowage. The line-throwing appliance and its equipment must be 
readily accessible for use.
    (c) Additional equipment. Each OSV must carry the following 
equipment for the line-throwing appliance:
    (1) The equipment on the list provided by the manufacturer with the 
approved appliance.
    (2) An auxiliary line that--
    (i) For an appliance approved under approval series 160.040, is at 
least 450 meters (1,500 feet) long;
    (ii) For an appliance approved under approval series 160.031, is at 
least 150 meters (500 feet) long;
    (iii) Has a breaking strength of at least 40 kiloNewtons (9,000 
pounds-force); and
    (iv) Is, if synthetic, a dark color or certified by the 
manufacturer to be resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light.


Sec. 133.175   Survival craft and rescue boat equipment.

    (a) All rescue boat equipment must be as follows:
    (1) The equipment must be secured within the boat by lashings, 
storage in lockers or compartments, storage in brackets or similar 
mounting arrangements, or other suitable means.
    (2) The equipment must be secured in such a manner as not to 
interfere with any abandonment procedures or reduce seating capacity.
    (3) The equipment must be as small and of as little mass as 
possible.
    (4) The equipment must be packed in a suitable and compact form.
    (5) The equipment should be stowed so the items do not--
    (i) Reduce the seating capacity;
    (ii) Adversely affect the seaworthiness of the survival craft or 
rescue boat; or
    (iii) Overload the launching appliance.
    (b) Each rigid liferaft and rescue boat, unless otherwise stated in 
this paragraph, must carry the equipment specified for it in table 
133.175 of this section. Each item in the table has the same 
description as in Sec. 199.175 of this chapter.

                Table 133.175.--Survival Craft Equipment                
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                     Oceans               Coastwise     
                             -------------------------------------------
 Item                           Rigid                 Rigid             
  No.           Item           liferaft    Rescue    liferaft    Rescue 
                               (SOLAS A     boat     (SOLAS B     boat  
                                Pack)                 Pack)             
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.....  Bailer \1\..........          1          1          1          1
3.....  Boathook............  .........          1  .........          1
4.....  Bucket \2\..........  .........          1  .........          1
5.....  Can opener..........          3  .........  .........  .........
6.....  Compass.............  .........          1  .........          1
8.....  Drinking cup........          1  .........  .........  .........
9.....  Fire extinguisher...  .........          1  .........          1
10....  First-aid kit.......          1          1          1          1
11....  Fishing kit.........          1  .........  .........  .........
12....  Flashlight..........          1          1          1          1
14....  Heaving line........          1          2          1          2
15....  Instruction card....          1  .........          1  .........
17....  Knife \1\ \3\.......          1          1          1          1
18....  Ladder..............  .........          1  .........          1
19....  Mirror, signalling..          1  .........          1  .........

[[Page 25311]]

                                                                        
20....  Oars, units \4\.....  .........          1  .........          1
        Paddles.............          2  .........          2  .........
21....  Painter.............          1          1          1          1
22....  Provisions (units                                               
         per person)........          1  .........  .........  .........
23....  Pump \5\............  .........          1  .........          1
24....  Radar reflector.....          1          1          1          1
26....  Repair kit \5\......  .........          1  .........          1
27....  Sea anchor..........          2          1          2          1
28....  Searchlight.........  .........          1  .........          1
29....  Seasickness kit                                                 
         (units per person).          1  .........          1  .........
30....  Signal, smoke.......          2  .........          1  .........
31....  Signal, hand flare..          6  .........          6  .........
32....  Signal, parachute                                               
         flare..............          4  .........          4  .........
34....  Sponge \5\..........          2          2          2          2
35....  Survival                                                        
         instructions.......          1  .........          1  .........
36....  Table of lifesaving                                             
         signals............          1  .........          1  .........
37....  Thermal protective                                              
         aids (percent of                                               
         persons) \6\.......        10%        10%        10%        10%
39....  Towline.............  .........          1  .........          1
40....  Water (liters per                                               
         person)............        1.5  .........          1  .........
41....  Whistle.............          1          1          1          1
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:                                                                  
\1\ Each liferaft equipped for 13 persons or more must carry two of     
  these items.                                                          
\2\ Not required for inflated or rigid-inflated rescue boats.           
\3\ A hatchet counts towards this requirement in rigid rescue boats.    
\4\ Oars are not required on a free-fall lifeboat; a unit of oars means 
  the number of oars specified by the boat manufacturer.                
\5\ Not required for a rigid rescue boat.                               
\6\ Sufficient thermal protective aids are required for at least 10% of 
  the persons the survival craft is equipped to carry, but not less than
  two.                                                                  



SUBCHAPTER R--NAUTICAL SCHOOLS

PART 167--PUBLIC NAUTICAL SCHOOL SHIPS

    103. The authority citation for part 167 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 8105; 46 U.S.C. App. 1295g; 49 
CFR 1.46.

    104. Section 167.05-25 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 167.05-25  Nautical school ship.

    The term nautical school ship means a vessel operated by or in 
connection with a nautical school or an educational institution under 
Section 13 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1986.
    105. Section 167.05-35 is added to read as follows:


Sec. 167.05-35  Public nautical school.

    The term public nautical school means any school or branch thereof 
operated by any State or political subdivision thereof or a school 
operated by the United States Maritime Administration that offers 
instruction for the primary purpose of training for service in the 
merchant marine.
    106. Section 167.15-28 is added to read as follows:


Sec. 167.15-28  Inspection of lifesaving appliances and arrangements.

    The inspection of lifesaving appliances and arrangements must be in 
accordance with the requirements for special purpose vessels in 
subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.
    107. Section 167.35-1 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 167.35-1  General.

    Lifesaving appliances and arrangements on nautical school ships 
must be in accordance with the requirements for special purpose vessels 
in subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this 
chapter.


Secs. 167.35-2, 167.35-3, 167.35-5, 167.35-10, 167.35-15, 167.35-20, 
167.35-25, 167.35-30, 167.35-35, 167.35-40, 167.35-45, 167.35-50, 
167.35-60, 167.35-65, 167.35-70, 167.35-72, 167.35-75, 167.35-80, 
167.35-85, 167.35-90  [Removed]

    108. Sections 167.35-2, 167.35-3, 167.35-5, 167.35-10, 167.35-15, 
167.35-20, 167.35-25, 167.35-30, 167.35-35, 167.35-40, 167.35-45, 
167.35-50, 167.35-60, 167.35-65, 167.35-70, 167.35-72, 167.35-75, 
167.35-80, 167.35-85, and 167.35-90 are removed.
    109. In Sec. 167.55-5, the section heading and paragraph (j) are 
revised and the note at the end of the section is removed to read as 
follows:


Sec. 167.55-5  Marking of fire and emergency equipment.

* * * * *
    (j) Lifesaving appliances. Each lifesaving appliance must be marked 
as required under subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) 
of this chapter.
* * * * *
    110. Section 167.65-1 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 167.65-1  Emergency training, musters, and drills.

    Onboard training, musters, and drills must be in accordance with 
subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.


Sec. 167.65-55  [Removed]

    111. Section 167.65-55 is removed.

PART 168--CIVILIAN NAUTICAL SCHOOL VESSELS

    112. The authority citation for part 168 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306; 46 U.S.C. App. 1295g; 49 CFR 1.46.

    113. Section 168.05-5 is revised to read as follows:

[[Page 25312]]

Sec. 168.05-5  Application of passenger vessel inspection regulations.

    Where the requirements are not covered specifically in this part, 
all the regulations applying to passenger vessels in subchapters E 
(Load Lines), F (Marine Engineering), H (Passenger Vessels), J 
(Electrical Engineering), K (Small Passenger Vessels Carrying More Than 
150 Passengers Or With Overnight Accommadations For More Than 49 
Passengers), P (Manning), Q (Specifications), T (Small Passenger 
Vessels), and W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this 
chapter are hereby made applicable to all vessels or other floating 
equipment used by or in connection with any civilian nautical school, 
whether such vessels or other floating equipment are being navigated or 
not, except vessels of the Navy or Coast Guard.
    114. Section 168.10-1 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 168.10-1  Nautical school vessels.

    The term nautical school vessel means a vessel operated by or in 
connection with a nautical school or an educational institution under 
Section 13 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1986.
    115. Section 168.10-5 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 168.10-5  Civilian nautical school.

    The term civilian nautical school means any school or branch 
thereof operated and conducted in the United States, except State 
nautical schools and schools operated by the United States or any 
agency thereof, which offers instruction for the primary purpose of 
training for service in the merchant marine.

SUBCHAPTER U--OCEANOGRAPHIC RESEARCH VESSELS

PART 188--GENERAL PROVISIONS

    116. The authority citation for part 188 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2113, 3306; 49 U.S.C. 5103, 5106; E.O. 
12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 1.46.

    117. In Sec. 188.05-10, paragraph (d) is revised to read as 
follows:


Sec. 188.05-10  Application to vessels on an international voyage.

* * * * *
    (d) The Commandant or his authorized representative may exempt any 
vessel from the construction requirements of this subchapter if the 
vessel does not proceed more than 20 nautical miles from the nearest 
land in the course of its voyage.


Sec. 188.10-52  [Removed]

    118. Section 118.10-52 is removed.
    119. Section 118.10-53 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 188.10-53  Oceanographic research vessel.

    The term oceanographic research vessel means a vessel that the 
Secretary finds is being employed only in instruction in oceanography 
or limnology, or both, or only in oceanographic or limnological 
research, including those studies about the sea such as seismic, 
gravity meter, and magnetic exploration and other marine geophysical or 
geological surveys, atmospheric research, and biological research.
    120. Subpart 188.27 is added to read as follows:

Subpart 188.27--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements

Sec.
188.27-1  Lifesaving appliances and arrangements.

Subpart 188.27--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements


Sec. 188.27-1  Lifesaving appliances and arrangements.

    All lifesaving appliances and arrangements shall be in accordance 
with the requirements for special purpose vessels in subchapter W 
(Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.

PART 189--INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION

    121. The authority citation for part 189 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); 46 U.S.C. 2113, 3306; E.O. 12234, 
45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; E.O. 12777, 56 FR 54757, 3 
CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 351; 49 CFR 1.46.

    122. Section 189.15-1 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 189.15-1  Standards in inspection of hulls, boilers, and 
machinery.

    In the inspection of hulls, boilers, and machinery of vessels, the 
standards established by the American Bureau of Shipping, see part 188, 
subpart 188.35 of this chapter, respecting material and construction of 
hulls, boilers, and machinery, and certificate of classification 
referring thereto, except where otherwise provided for by the rules and 
regulations in this subchapter, subchapter E (Load Lines), subchapter F 
(Marine Engineering), subchapter J (Electrical Engineering), and 
subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter 
shall be accepted as standard by the inspectors.
    123. In Sec. 189.20-20, paragraph (a) is redesignated as 
introductory text, and paragraphs (a)(1), (2), (3), and (4) are 
redesignated as paragraphs (a) through (d) and newly redesignated 
paragraph (a) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 189.20-20  Specific tests and inspections.

* * * * *
    (a) For inspection procedures of lifesaving appliances and 
arrangements, see subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) 
of this chapter.
* * * * *
    124. Section 189.25-15 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 189.25-15  Lifesaving equipment.

    For inspection procedures of lifesaving appliances and 
arrangements, see subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) 
of this chapter.

PART 192--[REMOVED]

    125. Part 192 is removed.

PART 195--VESSEL CONTROL AND MISCELLANEOUS SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT

    126. The authority citation for part 195 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2113, 3306; 49 U.S.C. App. 1804; E.O. 
12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 1.46.

    127. Subpart 195.06 is added to read as follows:

Subpart 195.06--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements

Sec.
195.06-1  Lifesaving appliances and arrangements.

Subpart 195.06--Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements


Sec. 195.06-1  Lifesaving appliances and arrangements.

    All lifesaving appliances and arrangements shall be in accordance 
with the requirements for special purpose vessels in subchapter W 
(Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.

PART 196--OPERATIONS

    128. The authority citation for part 196 is revised to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); 46 U.S.C. 2213, 3306, 5115, 6101; 
E.O. 12777, 56 FR 54757, 3 CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 351; E.O. 12234, 45 
FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 1.46.

    129. Section 196.13-1 is revised to read as follows:

[[Page 25313]]

Sec. 196.13-1  Muster lists, emergency signals, and manning.

    The requirements for muster lists, emergency signals, and manning 
must be in accordance with subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and 
Arrangements) of this chapter.
Secs. 196.13-5, 196-13.10, 196.13-15, 196.13-20  [Removed]

    130. Sections 196.13-5 196.13-10, 196.13-15 and 196.13-20 are 
removed.
Subpart 196.14--[Removed]

    131. Subpart 196.14 is removed.
Sec. 196.15-25  [Removed]

    132. Section 196.15-25 is removed.
    133. Section 196.15-35 is revised to read as follows:
Sec. 196.15-35  Emergency training, musters, and drills.

    Onboard training, musters, and drills must be in accordance with 
subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.
Secs. 196.15-37, 196.15-40, 196.15-45, 196.15-50, 196.15-65, 196.15-70 
[Removed]

    134. Sections 196.15-37, 196.15-40, 196.15-45, 196.15-50, 196.15-
65, and 196.15-70 are removed.
    135. In Sec. 196.35-5, paragraphs (a)(6) and (a)(8) are removed, 
paragraph (a) is redesignated as introductory text, and paragraphs 
(a)(1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (7), (9), (10), (11), (12), and (13) are 
redesignated as paragraphs (a) through (k) and newly designated 
paragraph (a) is revised to read as follows:
Sec. 196.35-5  Actions required to be logged.

 * * * * *
    (a) Onboard training, musters, and drills: held in accordance with 
subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.
 * * * * *
    136. Section 196.37-37 is revised to read as follows:
Sec. 196.37-37  Markings for lifesaving appliances, instructions to 
passengers, and stowage locations.

    Lifesaving appliances, instructions to passengers, and stowage 
locations must be marked in accordance with subchapter W (Lifesaving 
Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.
Secs. 196.37-40, 196.37-43, 196.37-49  [Removed]

    137. Sections 196.37-40, 196.37-43, and 196.37-49 are removed.
Subpart 196.39--[Removed]

    138. Subpart 196.39 is removed.
Subpart 196.90--[Removed]

    139. Subpart 196.90 is removed.
    140. Subchapter W, consisting of part 199, is added to read as 
follows:
SUBCHAPTER W--LIFESAVING APPLIANCES AND ARRANGEMENTS
PART 199--LIFESAVING SYSTEMS FOR CERTAIN INSPECTED VESSELS
Subpart A--General

Sec.
199.01  Purpose.
199.03  Relationship to international standards.
199.05  Incorporation by reference.
199.07  Additional equipment and requirements.
199.09  Equivalents.
199.10  Applicability.
199.20  Exemptions.
199.30  Definitions.
199.40  Evaluation, testing and approval of lifesaving appliances 
and arrangements.
199.45  Tests and inspections of lifesaving equipment and 
arrangements.
Subpart B--Requirements for All Vessels

199.60  Communications.
199.70  Personal lifesaving appliances.
199.80  Muster list and emergency instructions.
199.90  Operating instructions.
199.100  Manning of survival craft and supervision.
199.110  Survival craft muster and embarkation arrangements.
199.120  Launching stations.
199.130  Stowage of survival craft.
199.140  Stowage of rescue boats.
199.145  Marine evacuation system launching arrangements.
199.150  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements; 
general.
199.153  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements using 
falls and a winch.
199.155  Lifeboat launching and recovery arrangements.
199.157  Free-fall lifeboat launching and recovery arrangements.
199.160  Rescue boat embarkation, launching and recovery 
arrangements.
199.170  Line-throwing appliance.
199.175  Survival craft and rescue boat equipment.
199.176  Markings on lifesaving appliances.
199.178  Marking of stowage locations.
199.180  Training and drills.
199.190  Operational readiness, maintenance and inspection of 
lifesaving equipment.
Subpart C--Additional Requirements for Passenger Vessels

199.200  General.
199.201  Survival craft.
199.202  Rescue boats.
199.203  Marshalling of liferafts.
199.211  Lifebuoys.
199.212  Lifejackets.
199.214  Immersion suits and thermal protective aids.
199.217  Muster list and emergency instructions.
199.220  Survival craft and rescue boat embarkation arrangements.
199.230  Stowage of survival craft.
199.240  Muster stations.
199.245  Survival craft embarkation and launching arrangements.
199.250  Drills.
Subpart D--Additional Requirements for Cargo Vessels

199.260  General.
199.261  Survival craft.
199.262  Rescue boats.
199.271  Lifebuoys.
199.273  Immersion suits.
199.280  Survival craft embarkation and launching arrangements.
199.290  Stowage of survival craft.
Subpart E--Additional Requirements for Vessels Not Subject to SOLAS
199.500  General.
199.510  EPIRB requirements.
199.520  Lifeboat requirements.
Subpart F--Exemptions and Alternatives for Vessels Not Subject to SOLAS
199.600  General.
199.610  Exemptions for vessels in specified services.
199.620  Alternatives for all vessels in a specified service.
199.630  Alternatives for passenger vessels in a specified service.
199.640  Alternatives for cargo vessels in a specified service.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3703; 46 CFR 1.46.
Subpart A--General
Sec. 199.01  Purpose.

    (a) This part sets out the requirements for lifesaving appliances 
and arrangements for all inspected U.S. vessels except for--
    (1) Offshore supply vessels, which are covered by subchapter L of 
this chapter;
    (2) Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODU), which are covered by 
subchapter I-A of this chapter;
    (3) Small passenger vessels, which are covered by subchapters K and 
T of this chapter; and
    (4) Sailing school vessels, which are covered by part 169 of this 
chapter.
    (b) This subpart and subparts B, C, and D of this part set out the 
requirements for vessels on international voyages that are subject to 
the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, and 
its Protocol of 1978, as amended (SOLAS).
    (c) Subparts E and F of this part set out additional requirements, 
alternatives, and exemptions for vessels that are not subject to SOLAS.
Sec. 199.03  Relationship to international standards.

    (a) This subpart and subparts B, C, and D of this part are based on 
Chapter III, SOLAS. Section numbers in this subpart and subparts B, C, 
and D of this part are generally related to the

[[Page 25314]]

regulation numbers in Chapter III, SOLAS, but paragraph designations 
are not related to the numbering in Chapter III, SOLAS. To find the 
corresponding Chapter III, SOLAS regulation for this subpart and 
subparts B, C, and D of this part, beginning with Sec. 199.10, divide 
the section number following the decimal point by 10.
    (b) For purposes of this part, any vessel carrying a valid 
Passenger Ship Safety Certificate supplemented by a Record of 
Equipment, or a valid Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate 
supplemented by a Record of Equipment, is considered to have met the 
requirements of this part if the equipment meets Sec. 199.40 and if, in 
addition to the requirements of SOLAS Chapter III, the vessel meets the 
following requirements:
    (1) Each new lifeboat and launching appliance on a tank vessel may 
be of aluminum construction only if its stowage location is protected 
with a water spray system in accordance with Sec. 199.290(b).
    (2) Each child-size lifejacket and immersion suit must be 
appropriately marked and stowed separately from adult or extended-size 
devices as required in Sec. 199.70(b)(2).
    (3) Each lifejacket and immersion suit must be marked with the 
vessel's name in accordance with Secs. 199.70 (b)(3) and (c)(3).
    (4) Inflatable lifejackets, if carried, must be of the same or 
similar design as required by Sec. 199.70(b).
    (5) Containers for lifejackets, immersions suits, and anti-exposure 
suits must be marked as specified in Sec. 199.70(d).
    (6) Instructions for passengers must include illustrated 
instructions on the method of donning lifejackets as required in 
Sec. 199.80(c)(5).
    (7) Each liferaft must be arranged to permit it to drop into the 
water from the deck on which it is stowed as required in 
Sec. 199.130(c)(3).
    (8) Lifeboats and rescue boats must be arranged to allow safe 
disembarkation onto the vessel after a drill in accordance with 
Sec. 199.110(h).
    (9) The requirements for guarding of falls in Secs. 199.153 (d) and 
(f) must be met.
    (10) The winch drum requirements described in Sec. 199.153(e) must 
be met for all survival craft winches, not just multiple drum winches.
    (11) The maximum lowering speed requirements for launching 
arrangements using falls and a winch in Secs. 199.153 (i) and (j) must 
be met.
    (12) An auxiliary line must be kept with each line-throwing 
appliance in accordance with Sec. 199.170(c)(2).
    (13) Immersion suits must be carried on all cargo vessels except 
those operating between the 32 degrees north and 32 degrees south 
latitude in accordance with Sec. 199.273.
    (14) Vessels carrying immersion suits must conduct drills in 
accordance with Secs. 199.180 (d)(11) and (d)(12).
    (c) The certificates in paragraph (b) of this section will be 
accepted as proof of compliance with the requirements in this part 
unless the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI), determines 
that--
    (1) The condition of the vessel or of its equipment does not 
correspond substantially with the particulars of its certificates; or
    (2) The vessel and its equipment have not been maintained in 
conformance with the provisions of the regulations in this part.


Sec. 199.05  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that 
specified in paragraph (b) of this section, the Coast Guard must 
publish notice of change in the Federal Register; and the material must 
be available to the public. All approved material is available for 
inspection at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol 
Street NW., suite 700, Washington, DC, and at the U.S. Coast Guard, 
Lifesaving and Fire Safety Branch (G-MSE-4), 2100 Second Street SW., 
Washington, DC 20593-0001, and is available from the sources indicated 
in paragraph (b) of this section.
    (b) The material approved for incorporation by reference in this 
part and the sections affected are as follows:

                               American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)                                
                                                                                                                
1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 1903                                                                         
ASTM D93-94, Flash Point by Pennsky-Martens Closed  199.261; 199.290                                            
 Cup Tester.                                                                                                    
ASTM F1003, Standard Specification for              199.175                                                     
 Searchlights on Motor Lifeboats, 1986 (Reapproved                                                              
 1992).                                                                                                         
ASTM F1014, Standard Specification for Flashlights  199.175                                                     
 on Vessels, 1986.                                                                                              
                                                                                                                
                                    International Maritime Organization (IMO)                                   
                                                                                                                
4 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7SR, England                                                                   
MSC Circular 699, Revised Guidelines for Passenger  199.217                                                     
 Safety Instructions, 17 July 1995.                                                                             
Resolution A.520(13), Code of Practice for the      199.40                                                      
 Evaluation, Testing and Acceptance of Prototype                                                                
 Novel Life-saving Appliances and Arrangements, 17                                                              
 November 1983.                                                                                                 
Resolution A.657(16), Instructions for Action in    199.175                                                     
 Survival Craft, 19 November 1989.                                                                              
Resolution A.658(16), Use and Fitting of Retro-     199.70; 199.176                                             
 reflective Materials on Life-saving Appliances,                                                                
 20 November 1989.                                                                                              
Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-      199.70; 199.90                                              
 saving Appliances and Arrangements, 17 November                                                                
 1993.                                                                                                          
Resolution MSC.4(48), International Code for the    199.30; 199.280                                             
 Construction and Equipment of Ships carrying                                                                   
 Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (IBC Code), 1994.                                                                  
Resolution MSC.5(48), International Code for the    199.30; 199.280                                             
 Construction and Equipment of Ships carrying                                                                   
 Liquefied Gases in Bulk, (IGC Code), 1993.                                                                     
                                                                                                                

Sec. 199.07  Additional equipment and requirements.

    The OCMI may require a vessel to carry specialized or additional 
lifesaving equipment other than as required in this part if the OCMI 
determines that the conditions of a voyage present uniquely hazardous 
circumstances that are not adequately addressed by existing 
requirements.


Sec. 199.09  Equivalents.

    When this part requires a particular fitting, material, or 
lifesaving appliance or arrangement, the Commandant (G-MSE) may accept 
any other fitting, material, or lifesaving appliance or arrangement 
that is at least as effective as that required by this part. The 
Commandant may require engineering evaluations and tests to determine 
the equivalent effectiveness of the substitute fitting, material, or 
lifesaving appliance or arrangement.

[[Page 25315]]

Sec. 199.10  Applicability.

    (a) Unless expressly provided otherwise in this Chapter, this part 
applies to all inspected U.S. flag vessels.
    (b) This part does not apply to nonself-propelled vessels without 
accommodations or work stations on board, and unless otherwise required 
by this chapter, does not apply to offshore supply vessels, mobile 
offshore drilling units, small passenger vessels, and sailing school 
vessels.
    (c) For purposes of the application of this part, a cargo vessel, 
whenever built, which is converted to a passenger vessel is deemed to 
be a passenger vessel that is constructed on the date on which the 
conversion commences.
    (d) This subpart and subparts B, C, and D of this part apply to 
vessels engaged on international voyages, except--
    (1) Cargo vessels of less than 500 tons gross tonnage;
    (2) Vessels not propelled by mechanical means;
    (3) Wooden vessels of primitive build; and
    (4) Vessels solely navigating the Great Lakes of North America and 
the River Saint Lawrence as far east as a straight line drawn from Cap 
des Rosiers to West Point, Anticosti Island and, on the north side 
Anticosti Island, the 63rd meridian.
    (e) Vessels engaged on international voyages which were constructed 
before July 1, 1986, must meet the requirements of 
Secs. 199.70(b)(4)(i), 199.80, 199.90, 199.100, 199.180, 199.190 
(paragraph (b) applies as much as practicable), 199.214, 199.217, 
199.250, 199.261 (b)(2) and (e), and 199.273, and must fit retro-
reflective material on all floating appliances, lifejackets and 
immersion suits. Except for the requirements of Secs. 199.261 (b)(2) 
and (e), vessels may retain the number, type, and arrangement of 
lifesaving appliances previously required and approved for the vessel, 
as long as the arrangement or appliance is maintained in good condition 
to the satisfaction of the OCMI.
    (f) For the purposes of this part, the following vessels must meet 
the requirements for passenger vessels:
    (1) Passenger vessels.
    (2) Special purpose vessels carrying more than 50 special 
personnel.
    (3) Special purpose vessels carrying not more than 50 special 
personnel if the vessels meet the structural fire protection 
requirements in subchapter H of this chapter for passenger vessels of 
the same size.
    (g) For the purposes of this part, the following vessels must meet 
the requirements for cargo vessels:
    (1) Cargo vessels.
    (2) Tank vessels.
    (3) Special purpose vessels carrying not more than 50 special 
personnel that do not meet the structural fire protection requirements 
in subchapter H of this chapter for passenger vessels of the same size.
    (h) (1) Passenger vessels on international voyages must meet the 
requirements of this subpart and subparts B and C of this part.
    (2) Cargo vessels on international voyages must meet the 
requirements of this subpart and subparts B and D of this part.
    (3) The provisions for passenger vessels on short international 
voyages in this subpart and subparts B and C of this part do not apply 
to special purpose vessels described in paragraphs (f) (2) and (3) of 
this section.
    (i) Vessels not on international voyages and vessels listed in 
paragraph (d) of this section must meet the requirements of this 
subpart and subparts B, C, D, and E of this part unless otherwise 
exempted or permitted by subpart F of this part.
    (1) Vessels on other than international voyages and vessels listed 
in paragraph (d) of this section which were constructed prior to 
October 1, 1996, must--
    (i) By October 1, 1997, meet the requirements of 
Secs. 199.70(b)(4)(i), 199.80, 199.90, 199.100, 199.180, 199.190 
(paragraph (b) applies as much as practicable), 199.217, 199.250, 
199.273, and 199.510, and fit retro-reflective material on all floating 
appliances, lifejackets and immersion suits;
    (ii) By October 1, 2001, passenger vessels must carry the number 
and type of survival craft specified in table 199.630 of this part and 
cargo vessels in oceans and coastwise service must carry the number and 
type of survival craft specified in Sec. 199.261 (b)(2) and (e);
    (iii) By October 1, 2001, passenger vessels must carry the 
immersion suits and thermal protective aids specified in Sec. 199.214; 
and
    (iv) Except for the requirements in paragraphs (i)(1)(ii) and 
(i)(1)(iii) of this section, vessels may retain the arrangement of 
lifeboats, lifeboat davits, winches, inflatable liferafts, liferaft 
launching equipment, rescue boats, lifefloats, and buoyant apparatus 
previously required and approved for the vessel, as long as the 
arrangement or appliance is maintained in good condition to the 
satisfaction of the OCMI.
    (2) This paragraph does not apply to public vessels.
    (j) When any lifesaving appliance or arrangement on a vessel 
subject to this part is replaced, or when the vessel undergoes repairs, 
alterations or modifications of a major character involving replacement 
of, or any addition to, the existing lifesaving appliance or 
arrangements, each new lifesaving appliance and arrangement must meet 
the requirements of this part, unless the OCMI determines that the 
vessel cannot accommodate the new appliance or arrangement, except 
that--
    (1) A survival craft is not required to meet the requirements of 
this part if it is replaced without replacing its davit and winch; and
    (2) A davit and its winch are not required to meet the requirements 
of this part if one or both are replaced without replacing the survival 
craft.
    (k) No extensive repairs or alterations, except in an emergency, 
may be made to a lifesaving appliance without advance notification to 
the OCMI. Insofar as possible, each repair or alteration must be made 
with material and tested in the manner specified in this subchapter and 
applicable to the new construction requirements in subchapter Q of this 
chapter. Emergency repairs or alterations must be reported as soon as 
practicable to the OCMI, where the vessel may call after such repairs 
are made. Lifeboats, rescue boats, or rigid liferafts may not be 
reconditioned for use on a vessel other than the one they were 
originally built for, unless specifically accepted by the OCMI.


Sec. 199.20   Exemptions.

    (a) Vessels engaged on international voyages. (1) The following 
types of vessels engaged on international voyages may request an 
exemption from Commandant (G-MCO) from requirements of this part:
    (i) A vessel for which the sheltered nature and conditions of an 
international voyage would render the application of any specific 
requirements of this part unreasonable or unnecessary and which in the 
course of the voyage does not proceed more than 20 miles from the 
nearest land.
    (ii) A vessel embodying features of a novel kind to which the 
application of any provision of this part would seriously impede 
research into the development of such features and their incorporation 
on vessels engaged on international voyages.
    (2) A written request for exemption under this section must be 
submitted to the cognizant OCMI for review and forwarding to Commandant 
(G-MCO).
    (b) Single voyage exemption from SOLAS requirements. A vessel that 
is not normally engaged on international voyages, but which, under 
exceptional

[[Page 25316]]

circumstances, is required to undertake a single international voyage, 
may be exempted from the applicable requirements in this subpart and 
subparts B, C, and D of this part by the Commandant (G-MCO). A written 
request for exemption under this paragraph must be submitted to the 
cognizant OCMI for review and forwarding to Commandant (G-MCO).
    (c) Exemption Certificates. When Commandant (G-MCO) grants an 
exemption under paragraph (a) or (b) of this section, an Exemption 
Certificate describing the exemption will be issued by the appropriate 
OCMI. The Exemption Certificate must be carried on board the vessel at 
all times and must be available to Coast Guard personnel upon request.
    (d) Vessels not engaged on international voyages. (1) If a District 
Commander determines that the overall safety of the persons on board a 
vessel will not be significantly reduced, the District Commander may 
grant an exemption from compliance with a provision of this part to a 
specific vessel for a specified geographic area within the boundaries 
of the Coast Guard District. This exemption may be limited to certain 
periods of the year.
    (2) Requests for exemption under this paragraph must be made in 
writing to the OCMI for transmission to the district Commander for the 
area in which the vessel is in service or will be in service.
    (3) If the exemption is granted by the District Commander, the OCMI 
will endorse the vessel's Certificate of Inspection with a statement 
describing the exemption.


Sec. 199.30  Definitions.

    The following definitions apply to this part:
    Accommodation means a cabin, or other covered or enclosed place, 
intended to be occupied by persons. Each place in which passengers and 
special personnel is carried is considered an accommodation, whether or 
not it is covered or enclosed. Accommodations include, but are not 
limited to halls, dining rooms, mess rooms, lounges, corridors, 
lavatories, cabins, offices, hospitals, cinemas, game and hobby rooms, 
and other similar places open to persons on board.
    Anti-exposure suit means a protective suit designed for use by 
rescue boat crews and marine evacuation system parties.
    Approval series means the first six digits of a number assigned by 
the Coast Guard to approved equipment. Where approval is based on a 
subpart of subchapter Q of this chapter, the approval series 
corresponds to the number of the subpart. A listing of approved 
equipment, including all of the approval series, is published 
periodically by the Coast Guard in Equipment Lists (COMDTINST M16714.3 
series), available from the Superintendent of Documents.
    Approved means carrying an approval granted by the Commandant under 
subchapter Q of this chapter.
    Cargo vessel means any vessel that is not a passenger vessel.
    Certificated person means a person holding a U.S. merchant 
mariner's document with an endorsement as a lifeboatman or another 
inclusive rating under part 12 of this chapter.
    Child, for the purpose of determining the number of lifejackets 
required under this part, means a person less than 41 kilograms (90 
pounds) in mass.
    Civilian nautical school means any school or branch thereof 
operated and conducted in the United States, except State nautical 
schools and schools operated by the United States or any agency 
thereof, which offers instruction for the primary purpose of training 
for service in the merchant marine.
    Coastwise voyage means a voyage on the waters of any ocean or the 
Gulf of Mexico no more than 20 nautical miles offshore.
    Commandant means the Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard.
    Crew means all persons carried on board the vessel to provide 
navigation and maintenance of the vessel, its machinery, systems, and 
arrangements essential for propulsion and safe navigation or to provide 
services for other persons on board.
    District Commander means an officer of the U.S. Coast Guard 
designated by the Commandant to command all Coast Guard activities 
within a Coast Guard District. Coast Guard Districts are described in 
33 CFR part 2.
    Detection means the determination of the location of survivors or 
survival craft.
    Embarkation ladder means the ladder provided at survival craft 
embarkation stations to permit safe access to survival craft after 
launching.
    Embarkation station means the place where a survival craft is 
boarded.
    Extended-size lifejacket means a lifejacket that is approved for 
use by adults as well as by some larger children.
    Ferry means a vessel as described in Sec. 70.10-15 of this chapter.
    Float-free launching means that method of launching a survival 
craft or lifesaving appliance whereby the craft or appliance is 
automatically released from a sinking vessel and is ready for use.
    Free-fall launching means that method of launching a survival craft 
whereby the craft, with its full complement of persons and equipment on 
board, is released and allowed to fall into the sea without any 
restraining apparatus.
    Immersion suit means a protective suit that reduces loss of body 
heat of a person wearing it in cold water.
    Inflatable appliance means an appliance that depends upon nonrigid, 
gas-filled chambers for buoyancy and that is normally kept uninflated 
until ready for use.
    Inflated appliance means an appliance that depends upon nonrigid, 
gas-filled chambers for buoyancy and that is kept inflated and ready 
for use at all times.
    International voyage means a voyage from the United States to a 
port outside the United States or conversely; or, a voyage originating 
and terminating at ports outside the United States. Voyages between the 
continental United States and Hawaii or Alaska, and voyages between 
Hawaii and Alaska, shall be considered international voyages for the 
purposes of this part.
    Lakes, bays, and sounds means the waters of any lakes, bays, or 
sounds other than the waters of the Great Lakes.
    Launching appliance or launching arrangement means the method or 
devices designed to transfer a survival craft or rescue boat from its 
stowed position to the water. For a launching arrangement using a 
davit, the term includes the davit, winch, and falls.
    Length of vessel, means the load-line length defined in Sec. 42.13-
15(a) of this chapter.
    Lifejacket means a flotation device approved as a life preserver or 
lifejacket.
    Major character means any repair, alteration or modification to a 
vessel that is a major conversion as decided by the Commandant (G-MCO).
    Major conversion means a conversion of a vessel that--
    (a) Substantially changes the dimensions or carrying capacity of 
the vessel;
    (b) Changes the type of the vessel;
    (c) Substantially prolongs the life of the vessel; or
    (d) Otherwise so changes the vessel that it is essentially a new 
vessel.
    Marine evacuation system means an appliance designed to rapidly 
transfer large numbers of persons from an embarkation station by means 
of a passage to a floating platform for subsequent embarkation into 
associated survival craft, or directly into associated survival craft.
    Mobile offshore drilling unit (MODU) means a vessel capable of 
engaging in

[[Page 25317]]

drilling operations for the exploration or exploitation of subsea 
resources.
    Muster station means the place where persons on board assemble 
before boarding a survival craft.
    Nautical school vessel means a vessel operated by or in connection 
with a nautical school or an educational institution under Section 13 
of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1986.
    Novel lifesaving appliance or arrangement means a lifesaving 
appliance or arrangement that has new features not fully covered by the 
provisions of this part but that provides an equal or higher standard 
of safety.
    Ocean means the waters of any ocean or the Gulf of Mexico more than 
20 nautical miles offshore.
    Oceanographic research vessel means a vessel that the Secretary 
finds is being employed only in instruction in oceanography or 
limnology, or both, or only in oceanographic or limnological research, 
including those studies about the sea such as seismic, gravity meter, 
and magnetic exploration and other marine geophysical or geological 
surveys, atmospheric research, and biological research.
    Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI), means a Coast guard 
Officer responsible for marine inspection functions in a Marine 
Inspection Zone. Marine Inspection Zones are described in 33 CFR part 
2.
    Passenger means--
    (a) On an international voyage, every person other than--
    (1) The master and the members of the crew or other persons 
employed or engaged in any capacity on board a vessel on the business 
of that vessel; and
    (2) A child under 1 year of age.
    (b) On other than an international voyage, an individual carried on 
the vessel, except--
    (1) The owner or an individual representative of the owner or, in 
the case of a vessel under charter, an individual charterer or 
individual representative of the charterer;
    (2) The master; or
    (3) A member of the crew engaged in the business of the vessel who 
has not contributed consideration for carriage and who is paid for 
onboard services.
    Passenger for hire means a passenger for whom consideration is 
contributed as a condition of carriage on the vessel, whether directly 
or indirectly flowing to the owner, charterer, operator, agent, or any 
other person having an interest in the vessel.
    Passenger vessel means--
    (a) On an international voyage, a vessel of at least 100 tons gross 
tonnage carrying more than 12 passengers; and
    (b) On other than an international voyage, a vessel of at least 100 
tons gross tonnage--
    (1) Carrying more than 12 passengers, including at least one 
passenger for hire; or
    (2) That is chartered and carrying more than 12 passengers.
    Public nautical school means any school or branch thereof operated 
by any State or political subdivision thereof or a school operated by 
the United States Maritime Administration that offers instruction for 
the primary purpose of training for service in the merchant marine.
    Public vessel means a vessel that--
    (a) Is owned, or demise chartered, and operated by the U.S. 
Government or a government of a foreign country including a vessel 
operated by the Coast Guard or Saint Lawrence Seaway Development 
Corporation, but not a vessel owned or operated by the Department of 
Transportation or any corporation organized or controlled by the 
Department; and
    (b) Is not engaged in commercial service.
    Rescue boat means a boat designed to rescue persons in distress and 
to marshal survival craft.
    Retrieval means the safe recovery of survivors.
    Rivers, in relation to vessel service, means operating exclusively 
in the waters of rivers and/or canals.
    Seagoing condition means the operating condition of the vessel with 
the personnel, equipment, fluids, and ballast necessary for safe 
operation on the waters where the vessel operates.
    Scientific personnel means individuals on board an oceanographic 
research vessel only to engage in scientific research, or to instruct 
or receive instruction in oceanography or limnology.
    Similar stage of construction means the stage at which--
    (a) Construction identifiable with a specific vessel begins; and
    (b) Assembly of that vessel has commenced comprising at least 50 
metric tons (55.1 U.S. tons) or 1 percent of the estimated mass of all 
structural material, whichever is less.
    Short international voyage is an international voyage in the course 
of which a vessel is not more than 200 miles from a port or place in 
which the passengers and crew could be placed in safety. Neither the 
distance between the last port of call in the country in which the 
voyage begins and the final port of destination, nor the return voyage, 
may exceed 600 miles. The final port of destination is the last port of 
call in the scheduled voyage at which the vessel commences its return 
voyage to the country in which the voyage began.
    Special personnel means all persons who are not passengers or 
members of the crew and who are carried on board a special purpose 
vessel in connection with the special purpose of that vessel or because 
of special work being carried out aboard that vessel. Special personnel 
include--
    (a) On oceanographic research vessels, scientific personnel; and
    (b) On nautical school vessels, students, cadets, and instructors 
who are not members of the crew.
    Special purpose vessel means a mechanically self-propelled vessel 
which by reason of its function carries on board more than 12 special 
personnel including passengers. Special purpose vessels include 
oceanographic research vessels and nautical school vessels.
    Survival craft means a craft capable of sustaining the lives of 
persons in distress from the time of abandoning the vessel on which the 
persons were originally carried. The term includes lifeboats, 
liferafts, buoyant apparatus, and lifefloats, but does not include 
rescue boats.
    Tank vessel means a vessel that is constructed or adapted to carry, 
or that carries, oil or hazardous material in bulk as cargo or cargo 
residue, and that--
    (a) Is a vessel of the United States;
    (b) Operates on the navigable waters of the United States; or
    (c) Transfers oil or hazardous material in a port or place subject 
to the jurisdiction of the United States.
    Toxic vapor or gas means a product for which emergency escape 
respiratory protection is required under Subchapter 17 of the 
International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships carrying 
Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (IBC Code) and under Subchapter 19 of the 
International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships carrying 
Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code).
    Vessel constructed means a vessel, the keel of which is laid or 
which is at a similar stage of construction.
    Warm water means water where the monthly mean low water temperature 
is normally more than 15  deg.C (59  deg.F).


Sec. 199.40  Evaluation, testing and approval of lifesaving appliances 
and arrangements.

    (a) Each item of lifesaving equipment required by this part to be 
carried on board the vessel must be approved.
    (b) Each item of lifesaving equipment carried on board the vessel 
in addition to those required by this part must--
    (1) Be approved; or
    (2) Be accepted by the cognizant OCMI for use on the vessel.

[[Page 25318]]

    (c) The Commandant (G-MSE) may accept a novel lifesaving appliance 
or arrangement if it provides a level of safety equivalent to the 
requirements of this part and the appliance or arrangement--
    (1) Is evaluated and tested in accordance with IMO Resolution 
A.520(13), Code of Practice for the Evaluation, Testing and Acceptance 
of Prototype Novel Life-saving Appliances and Arrangements; or
    (2) Has successfully undergone evaluation and tests that are 
substantially equivalent to those recommendations.
    (d) During the vessel's construction and when any modification to 
the lifesaving arrangement is done after construction, a vessel owner 
must obtain acceptance of lifesaving arrangements from the Commandant 
(G-MSC).
    (e) The OCMI may accept substitute lifesaving appliances other than 
those required by this part except for--
    (1) Survival craft and rescue boats; and
    (2) Survival craft and rescue boat launching and embarkation 
appliances.
    (f) Acceptance of lifesaving appliances and arrangements will 
remain in effect unless--
    (1) The OCMI deems their condition to be unsatisfactory or unfit 
for the service intended; or
    (2) The OCMI deems the crew's ability to use and assist others in 
the use of the lifesaving appliances or arrangements to be inadequate.


Sec. 199.45  Tests and inspections of lifesaving equipment and 
arrangements.

    (a) Initial inspection. The initial inspection of lifesaving 
appliances and arrangements for certification includes a demonstration 
of--
    (1) The proper condition and operation of the survival craft and 
rescue boat launching appliances at loads ranging from light load to 10 
percent overload;
    (2) The proper condition and operation of lifeboats and rescue 
boats, including engines and release mechanisms;
    (3) The proper condition of flotation equipment such as lifebuoys, 
lifejackets, immersion suits, work vests, lifefloats, buoyant 
apparatus, and associated equipment;
    (4) The proper condition of distress signaling equipment, including 
emergency position indicating radiobeacons (EPIRB), search and rescue 
transponders (SART), and pyrotechnic signaling devices;
    (5) The proper condition of line-throwing appliances;
    (6) The proper condition and operation of embarkation appliances, 
including embarkation ladders and marine evacuation systems;
    (7) The ability of the crew to effectively carry out abandon-ship 
and fire-fighting procedures; and
    (8) The ability to meet the egress and survival craft launching 
requirements of this part.
    (b) Reinspections. Tests and inspections of the lifesaving 
equipment shall be carried out during each inspection for renewal of 
certification, and shall include, as applicable, a demonstration of--
    (1) The proper condition and operation of the survival craft and 
rescue boat launching appliances at loads ranging from light load to 
full load, except that any portion of the load test conducted in 
connection with replacement or end-for-ending of a fall since the 
vessel's last inspection or reinspection, need not be repeated;
    (2) The proper condition and operation of lifeboats and rescue 
boats, including engines and release mechanisms;
    (3) The proper condition of flotation equipment such as lifebuoys, 
lifejackets, immersion suits, work vests, lifefloats, buoyant 
apparatus, and associated equipment;
    (4) The proper servicing of each inflatable liferaft and inflatable 
lifejacket has been serviced as required under this chapter;
    (5) The proper servicing of each hydrostatic release unit, other 
than a disposable hydrostatic release unit, as required under this 
chapter; and
    (6) The ability of crew to effectively carry out abandon-ship and 
fire-fighting procedures.
    (c) Other inspections. (1) Lifesaving appliances and arrangements 
are subject to tests and inspections described in paragraph (a) of this 
section whenever a new lifesaving appliance is installed on the vessel. 
The test in paragraph (a)(1) of this section must be carried out 
whenever a wire fall for a launching appliance is replaced or turned 
end-for-end.
    (2) Lifesaving appliances and arrangements are subject to tests and 
inspections described in paragraph (b) of this section during vessel 
boardings to ensure that the appliances and arrangements comply with 
applicable requirements, are in satisfactory condition, and remain fit 
for the service.

Subpart B--Requirements for All Vessels


Sec. 199.60  Communications.

    (a) Radio lifesaving appliances. Radio lifesaving appliance 
installations and arrangements must meet the requirements of 47 CFR 
part 80.
    (b) Emergency position indicating radiobeacons (EPIRB) and search 
and rescue transponders (SART). Each EPIRB and SART should have the 
name of the vessel plainly marked or painted on its label, except for 
EPIRBs or SARTs in an inflatable liferaft or permanently installed in a 
survival craft.
    (c) Distress signals. Each vessel must--
    (1) Carry not less than 12 rocket parachute flares approved under 
approval series 160.136; and
    (2) Stow the flares on or near the vessel's navigating bridge.
    (d) Onboard communications and alarm systems. Each vessel must meet 
the requirements for onboard communications between emergency control 
stations, muster and embarkation stations, and strategic positions on 
board. Each vessel must also meet the emergency alarm system 
requirements in subchapter J of this chapter, which must be 
supplemented by either a public address system or other suitable means 
of communication.


Sec. 199.70  Personal lifesaving appliances.

    (a) Lifebuoys. Each vessel must carry lifebuoys approved under 
approval series 160.150 as follows:
    (1) Stowage. Lifebuoys must be stowed as follows:
    (i) Each lifebuoy must be capable of being rapidly cast loose.
    (ii) No lifebuoy may be permanently secured to the vessel in any 
way.
    (iii) Each lifebuoy stowage position must be marked with either the 
words ``LIFEBUOY'' or ``LIFE BUOY'', or with the appropriate symbol 
from IMO Resolution A.760(18).
    (iv) Lifebuoys must be so distributed as to be readily available on 
each side of the vessel and, as far as practicable, on each open deck 
extending to the side of the vessel. At least one lifebuoy must be 
located near the stern of the vessel. The lifebuoys with attached self-
igniting lights must be equally distributed on both sides of the 
vessel.
    (v) At least two lifebuoys, each with attached self-activating 
smoke signals, must be stowed where they can be quickly released from 
the navigating bridge and should, when released, fall directly into the 
water without striking any part of the vessel.
    (2) Markings. Each lifebuoy must be marked in block capital letters 
with the name of the vessel and the name of the port required to be 
marked on the stern of the vessel under Sec. 67.13 of this chapter.
    (3) Attachments and fittings. Lifebuoys must have the following 
attachments and fittings:

[[Page 25319]]

    (i) At least one lifebuoy on each side of the vessel fitted with a 
buoyant lifeline that is--
    (A) At least as long as twice the height where it is stowed above 
the waterline with the vessel in its lightest seagoing condition, or 30 
meters (100 feet) in length, whichever is the greater;
    (B) Non-kinking;
    (C) Not less than 8 millimeters (\5/16\ inch) in diameter;
    (D) Of a breaking strength which is not less than 5 kiloNewtons 
(1,124 pounds-force); and
    (E) Is, if synthetic, a dark color or certified by the manufacturer 
to be resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light.
    (ii) At least one-half the total number of lifebuoys on the vessel 
must each be fitted with a self-igniting light approved under approval 
series 161.010. The self-igniting light may not be attached to the 
lifebuoys required by this section to be fitted with lifelines.
    (iii) At least two lifebuoys on the vessel must be fitted with a 
self-activating smoke signal approved under approval series 160.157. 
Lifebuoys fitted with smoke signals must also be fitted with lights.
    (b) Lifejackets. Each vessel must carry lifejackets approved under 
approval series 160.155, 160.176 or 160.177. If the vessel carries 
inflatable lifejackets, they must be of the same or similar design and 
have the same method of operation.
    (1) General. Each vessel must carry a lifejacket for each person on 
board, and in addition--
    (i) A number of lifejackets suitable for children equal to at least 
10 percent of the total number of passengers on board must be provided, 
or such greater number as may be required to provide a lifejacket of 
suitable size for each person smaller than the lower size limit of the 
adult-size lifejacket; and
    (ii) A sufficient number of lifejackets must be carried for persons 
on watch and for use at remotely located survival craft stations.
    (2) Stowage. Lifejackets must be stowed as follows:
    (i) The lifejackets must be readily accessible.
    (ii) The child-size lifejackets must be stowed separately from the 
adult lifejackets.
    (iii) The lifejackets stowage positions must be marked with the 
words ``LIFEJACKETS'' or ``CHILD LIFEJACKETS'' as appropriate, or with 
the appropriate symbol from IMO Resolution A.760(18).
    (iv) The additional lifejackets for persons on watch required by 
paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section must be stowed on the bridge, in 
the engine control room, and at other manned watch stations.
    (v) Where, due to the particular arrangements of the vessel, the 
lifejackets required by paragraph (b) of this section may become 
inaccessible, alternative provisions must be made to the satisfaction 
of the OCMI that may include an increase in the number of lifejackets 
to be carried.
    (3) Markings. Each lifejacket must be marked--
    (1) In block capital letters with the name of the vessel; and
    (ii) With Type I retro-reflective material approved under approval 
series 164.018. The arrangement of the retro-reflective material must 
meet IMO Resolution A.658(16).
    (4) Attachments and fittings. Lifejackets must have the following 
attachments and fittings:
    (i) Each lifejacket must have a lifejacket light approved under 
approval series 161.112 securely attached to the front shoulder area of 
the lifejacket.
    (ii) Each lifejacket must have a whistle firmly secured by a cord 
to the lifejacket.
    (c) Rescue boat and marine evacuation system immersion suits or 
anti-exposure suits. (1) General. Each vessel, except vessels operating 
on routes between 32 degrees north latitude and 32 degrees south 
latitude, must carry immersion suits approved under approval series 
160.171 or anti-exposure suits approved under approval series 160.153 
of suitable size for each person assigned to the rescue boat crew and 
each person assigned to a marine evacuation system crew.
    (2) Stowage. Immersion suits or anti-exposure suits must be stowed 
so they are readily accessible. The stowage positions must be marked 
with either the words ``IMMERSION SUITS'' or ``ANTI-EXPOSURE SUITS'' as 
appropriate, or with the appropriate symbol from IMO Resolution 
A.760(18).
    (3) Markings. Each immersion suit or anti-exposure suit must be 
marked in block capital letters with the name of the vessel.
    (4) Attachments and fittings. Immersion suits or anti-exposure 
suits must have the following attachments and fittings:
    (i) Each immersion suit or anti-exposure suit must have a 
lifejacket light approved under approval series 161.112 securely 
attached to the front shoulder area of the immersion suit or anti-
exposure suit.
    (ii) Each immersion suit or anti-exposure suit must have a whistle 
firmly secured by a cord to the immersion suit or anti-exposure suit.
    (d) Lifejacket, immersion suit, and anti-exposure suit containers. 
Each lifejacket, immersion suit, and anti-exposure suit container must 
be marked in block capital letters and numbers with the quantity, 
identity, and size of the equipment stowed inside the container. The 
equipment may be identified in words or with the appropriate symbol 
from IMO Resolution A.760(18).


Sec. 199.80  Muster list and emergency instructions.

    (a) General. Clear instructions must be provided on the vessel that 
detail the actions each person on board should follow in the event of 
an emergency.
    (b) Muster list. Copies of the muster list must be posted in 
conspicuous places throughout the vessel including on the navigating 
bridge, in the engine room, and in crew accommodation spaces. The 
muster list must be posted before the vessel begins its voyage. After 
the muster list has been prepared, if any change takes place that 
necessitates an alteration in the muster list, the master must either 
revise the existing muster list or prepare a new one. Each muster lists 
must at least specify--
    (1) The instructions for operating the general emergency alarm 
system and public address system;
    (2) The emergency signals;
    (3) The actions to be taken by the persons on board when each 
signal is sounded;
    (4) The order to abandon the vessel will be given;
    (5) The officers that are assigned to make sure that lifesaving and 
firefighting appliances are maintained in good condition and ready for 
immediate use;
    (6) The duties assigned to the different members of the crew. 
Duties to be specified include--
    (i) Closing the watertight doors, fire doors, valves, scuppers, 
sidescuttles, skylights, portholes, and other similar openings in the 
vessel's hull;
    (ii) Equipping the survival craft and other lifesaving appliances;
    (iii) Preparing and launching the survival craft;
    (iv) Preparing other lifesaving appliances;
    (v) Mustering the passengers and other persons on board;
    (vi) Using communication equipment;
    (vii) Manning the emergency squad assigned to deal with fires and 
other emergencies; and
    (viii) Using firefighting equipment and installations.
    (7) The duties assigned to members of the crew in relation to 
passengers and other persons on board in case of an

[[Page 25320]]

emergency. Assigned duties to be specified include--
    (i) Warning the passengers and other persons on board;
    (ii) Seeing that passengers and other persons on board are suitably 
dressed and have donned their lifejackets or immersion suits correctly;
    (iii) Assembling passengers and other persons on board at muster 
stations;
    (iv) Keeping order in the passageways and on the stairways and 
generally controlling the movements of the passengers and other persons 
on board; and
    (v) Making sure that a supply of blankets is taken to the survival 
craft; and
    (8) The substitutes for key persons if they are disabled, taking 
into account that different emergencies require different actions.
    (c) Emergency instructions. Illustrations and instructions in 
English, and any other appropriate language as determined by the OCMI, 
must be posted in each passenger cabin and in spaces occupied by 
persons other than crew, and must be conspicuously displayed at each 
muster station. The illustrations and instructions must include 
information on--
    (1) The fire and emergency signal;
    (2) Their muster station;
    (3) The essential actions they must take in an emergency;
    (4) The location of lifejackets, including child-size lifejackets; 
and
    (5) The method of donning lifejackets.


Sec. 199.90  Operating instructions.

    Each vessel must have posters or signs displayed in the vicinity of 
each survival craft and the survival craft's launching controls that--
    (a) Illustrate the purpose of controls;
    (b) Illustrate the procedures for operating the launching device;
    (c) Give relevant instructions or warnings;
    (d) Can be easily seen under emergency lighting conditions; and
    (e) Display symbols in accordance with IMO Resolution A.760(18).


Sec. 199.100  Manning of survival craft and supervision.

    (a) There must be a sufficient number of trained persons on board 
the vessel for mustering and assisting untrained persons.
    (b) There must be a sufficient number of deck officers, able 
seamen, or certificated persons on board the vessel to operate the 
survival craft and launching arrangements required for abandonment by 
the total number of persons on board.
    (c) There must be one person placed in charge of each survival 
craft to be used. The person in charge must--
    (1) Be a deck officer, able seaman, or certificated person. The 
OCMI, considering the nature of the voyage, the number of persons 
permitted on board, and the characteristics of the vessel, may permit 
persons practiced in the handling and operation of liferafts or 
inflatable buoyant apparatus to be placed in charge of liferafts or 
inflatable buoyant apparatus; and
    (2) Have a list of the survival craft crew and ensure that the 
crewmembers are acquainted with their duties.
    (d) There must be a second-in-command designated for each lifeboat. 
This person should be a deck officer, able seaman, or certificated 
person. The second-in-command of a lifeboat must also have a list of 
the lifeboat crew.
    (e) There must be a person assigned to each motorized survival 
craft who is capable of operating the engine and carrying out minor 
adjustments.
    (f) The master must make sure that the persons required under 
paragraphs (a), (b), (c), and (d) of this section are equitable 
distributed among the vessel's survival craft.


Sec. 199.110  Survival craft muster and embarkation arrangements.

    (a) Each muster station must have sufficient space to accommodate 
all persons assigned to muster at that station. One or more muster 
stations must be close to each embarkation station.
    (b) Each muster station and embarkation station must be readily 
accessible to accommodation and work areas.
    (c) Each muster station and embarkation station must be adequately 
illuminated by lighting with power supplied from the vessel's emergency 
source of electrical power.
    (d) Each alleyway, stairway, and exit giving access to a muster and 
embarkation station must be adequately illuminated by lighting that is 
capable of having its power supplied by the vessel's emergency source 
of electrical power.
    (e) Each davit-launched and free-fall survival craft muster station 
and embarkation station must be arranged to enable stretcher cases to 
be placed in the survival craft.
    (f) Each launching station, or each two adjacent launching 
stations, must have an embarkation ladder as follows:
    (1) Each embarkation ladder must be approved under approval series 
160.117 or be a rope ladder approved under approval series 160.017.
    (2) Each embarkation ladder must extend in a single length from the 
deck to the waterline with the vessel in its lightest seagoing 
condition under unfavorable conditions of trim and with the vessel 
listed not less than 15 degrees either way.
    (3) Provided that there is at least one embarkation ladder on each 
side of the vessel, the OCMI may permit additional embarkation ladders 
to be other approved devices that provide safe and rapid access to 
survival craft in the water.
    (4) The OCMI man accept other safe and effective means of 
embarkation for use with a liferaft required under Sec. 199.261(e).
    (g) If a davit-launched survival craft is embarked over the edge of 
the deck, the craft must be provided with a means for bringing it 
against the side of the vessel and holding it alongside the vessel to 
allow persons to safely embark.
    (h) If a davit-launched survival craft is not intended to be moved 
to the stowed position with persons on board, the craft must be 
provided with a means for bringing it against the side of the vessel 
and holding it alongside the vessel to allow persons to safely 
disembark after a drill.


Sec. 199.120  Launching stations.

    (a) Each launching station must be positioned to ensure safe 
launching with clearance from the propeller and from the steeply 
overhanging portions of the hull.
    (b) Each survival craft must be launched down the straight side of 
the vessel, except for free-fall launched survival craft.
    (c) Each launching station in the forward part of the vessel must--
    (1) Be in a sheltered position that is located aft of the collision 
bulkhead; and
    (2) Have a launching appliance approved with an endorsement as 
being of sufficient strength for forward installation.


Sec. 199.130  Stowage of survival craft.

    (a) General. Each survival craft must be stowed--
    (1) As close to the accommodation and service spaces as possible;
    (2) So that neither the survival craft nor its stowage arrangements 
will interfere with the embarkation and operation of any other survival 
craft or rescue boat at any other launching station;
    (3) As near the water surface as is safe and practicable;
    (4) Except for liferafts intended for throw-overboard launching, 
not less than 2 meters above the waterline with the vessel--
    (i) In the fully loaded condition;

[[Page 25321]]

    (ii) Under unfavorable conditions of trim; and
    (iii) Listed up to 20 degrees either way, or to the angle at which 
the vessel's weatherdeck edge becomes submerged, whichever is less.
    (5) Sufficiently ready for use so that two crew members can 
complete preparations for embarkation and launching in less than 5 
minutes;
    (6) In a secure and sheltered position and protected from damage by 
fire and explosion, as far as practicable; and
    (7) So as not to require lifting from its stowed position in order 
to launch, except that--
    (i) A davit-launched liferaft may be lifted by a manually powered 
winch from its stowed position to its embarkation position; or
    (ii) A survival craft that weights 185 kilograms (407.8 pounds) or 
less may be lifted not more than 300 millimeters (1 foot) in order to 
launch.
    (b) Additional lifeboat stowage requirements. In addition to the 
requirements of paragraph (a) of this section, each lifeboat must be 
stowed as follows:
    (1) Each lifeboat for lowering down the side of the vessel must be 
stowed as far forward of the vessel's propeller as practicable. Each 
lifeboat, in its stowed position, must be protected from damage by 
heavy seas.
    (2) Each lifeboat must be stowed attached to its launching 
appliance.
    (3) Each lifeboat must have a means for recharging the lifeboat 
batteries from the vessel's power supply at a supply voltage not 
exceeding 50 volts.
    (c) Additional liferaft stowage requirements. In addition to the 
requirements of paragraph (a) of this section, each liferaft must be 
stowed as follows:
    (1) Each liferaft must be stowed to permit manual release from its 
securing arrangements.
    (2) Each liferaft must be stowed at a height above the waterline 
not greater than the maximum stowage height indicated on the liferaft 
container with the vessel in its lightest seagoing condition. Each 
liferaft without an indicated maximum stowage height must be stowed not 
more than 18 meters (59 feet) above the waterline with the vessel in 
its lightest seagoing condition.
    (3) Each liferaft must be arranged to permit it to drop into the 
water from the deck on which it is stowed. A liferaft stowage 
arrangements meets this requirement if it--
    (i) Is outboard of the rail or bulwark;
    (ii) Is on stanchions or on a platform adjacent to the rail or 
bulwark; or
    (iii) Has a gate or other suitable opening large enough to allow 
the liferaft to be pushed directly overboard and, if the liferaft is 
intended to be available for use on either side of the vessel, such 
gate or opening is provided on each side of the vessel.
    (4) Each davit-launched liferaft must be stowed within reach of its 
lifting hook, unless some means of transfer is provided that is not 
rendered inoperable--
    (i) Within the limits of trim and list specified in paragraph 
(a)(4) of this section;
    (ii) By vessel motion; or
    (iii) By power failure.
    (5) Each rigid container for an inflatable liferaft to be launched 
by a launching appliance must be secured so that the container or parts 
of it do not fall into the water during and after inflation and 
launching of the contained liferaft.
    (6) Each liferaft must have a painter system providing a connection 
between the vessel and the liferaft.
    (7) Each liferaft or group of liferafts must be arranged for float-
free launching. The arrangement must ensure that the liferaft or 
liferafts, when released and inflated, are not dragged under by the 
sinking vessel. A hydrostatic release unit used in a float-free 
arrangement must be approved under approval series 160.162.


Sec. 199.140  Stowage of rescue boats.

    (a) General. Rescue boats must be stowed--
    (1) To be ready for launching in not many than 5 minutes;
    (2) In a position suitable for launching and recovery;
    (3) In a way that neither the rescue boat nor its stowage 
arrangements will interfere with the operation of any survival craft at 
any other launching station; and
    (4) If it is also a lifeboat, in compliance with the requirements 
of Sec. 199.130.
    (b) Each rescue boat must have a means provided for recharging the 
rescue boat batteries from the vessel's power supply at a supply 
voltage not exceeding 50 volts.
    (c) Each inflated rescue boat must be kept fully inflated at all 
times.


Sec. 199.145  Marine evacuation system launching arrangements.

    (a) Arrangements. Each marine evacuation system must--
    (1) Be capable of being deployed by one person;
    (2) Enable the total number of persons for which it is designed, to 
be transferred from the vessel into the inflated liferafts within a 
period of 30 minutes in the case of a passenger vessel and 10 minutes 
in the case of a cargo vessel from the time an abandon-ship signal is 
given;
    (3) Be arranged so that liferafts may be securely attached to and 
released from the marine evacuation system platform by a person either 
in the liferaft or on the platform;
    (4) Be capable of being deployed from the vessel under unfavorable 
conditions of trim of up to 10 degrees either way and of list of up to 
20 degrees either way;
    (5) If the marine evacuation system has an inclined slide, it 
must--
    (i) Be arranged so the angle of the slide from horizontal is within 
a range of 30 to 35 degrees when the vessel is upright and in its 
lightest seagoing condition; and
    (ii) If the vessel is a passenger vessel, be arranged so the angle 
of the slide from horizontal is no more than 55 degrees in the final 
stage of flooding as described in subchapter S of this chapter; and
    (6) Be capable of being restrained by a bowsing line or other 
positioning system that is designed to deploy automatically and if 
necessary, is capable of being adjusted to the position required for 
evacuation.
    (b) Stowage. Each marine evacuation system must be stowed as 
follows:
    (1) There must not be any openings between the marine evacuation 
system's embarkation station and the vessel's side at the waterline 
with the vessel in its lightest seagoing condition.
    (2) The marine evacuation system's launching positions must be 
arranged, as far as practicable, to be straight down the vessel's side 
and to safely clear the propeller and any steeply overhanging positions 
of the hull.
    (3) The marine evacuation system must be protected from any 
projections of the vessel's structure or equipment.
    (4) The marine evacuation system's passage and platform, when 
deployed; its stowage container; and its operational arrangement must 
not interfere with the operation of any other lifesaving appliance at 
any other launching station.
    (5) The marine evacuation system's stowage area must be protected 
from damage by heavy seas.
    (c) Stowage of associated liferafts. Inflatable liferafts used in 
conjunction with the marine evacuation system must be stowed--
    (1) Close to the system container, but capable of dropping clear of 
the deployed chute and boarding platform;
    (2) So it is capable of individual release from its stowage rack;
    (3) In accordance with the requirements of Sec. 199.130; and

[[Page 25322]]

    (4) With pre-connected or easily connected retrieving lines to the 
platform.


Sec. 199.150  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements; 
general.

    (a) (1) Each launching appliance for a lifeboat must be approved 
under approval series 160.132 with a winch approved under approval 
series 160.115.
    (2) Each launching appliance for a davit-launched liferaft must be 
approved under approval series 160.163 with an automatic disengaging 
apparatus approved under approval series 160.170.
    (b) Unless expressly provided otherwise in this part, each survival 
craft must be provided with a launching appliance or marine evacuation 
system, except those survival craft that--
    (1) Can be boarded from a position on deck less than 4.5 meters 
(14.75 feet) above the waterline with the vessel in its lightest 
seagoing condition and that are stowed for launching directly from the 
stowed position under unfavorable conditions of trim of 10 degrees and 
list of 20 degrees either way;
    (3) Are carried in excess of the survival craft for 200 percent of 
the total number of persons on board the vessel, and that have a mass 
of not more than 185 kilograms (407 pounds);
    (4) Are carried in excess of the survival craft for 200 percent of 
the total number of persons on board the vessel and that are stowed for 
launching directly from the stowed position under unfavorable 
conditions or trim of 10 degrees and list of 20 degrees either way; or
    (5) Are provided for use in conjunction with a marine evacuation 
system and that are stowed for launching directly from the stowed 
position under unfavorable conditions of trim of 10 degrees and list of 
20 degrees either way.
    (c) With the exception of the secondary means of launching for 
free-fall lifeboats, each launching appliance must be arranged so that 
the fully equipped survival craft it serves can be safely launched 
against unfavorable conditions of trim of up to 10 degrees either way 
and of list of up to 20 degrees either way--
    (1) When the survival craft is loaded with its full complement of 
persons; and
    (2) When not more than the required operating crew is on board.
    (d) A launching appliance must not depend on any means other than 
gravity or stored mechanical power, independent of the vessel's power 
supplies, to launch the survival craft it serves in both the fully 
loaded and equipped condition and in the light condition.
    (e) Each launching appliance's structural attachment to the vessel 
must be designed, based on the ultimate strength of the construction 
material, to be at least 4.5 times the load imparted on the attachment 
by the launching appliance and its fully loaded survival craft under 
the most adverse combination of list and trim under paragraph (c) of 
this section.
    (f) Each launching appliance must be arranged so that--
    (1) All parts requiring regular maintenance by the vessel's crew 
are readily accessible and easily maintained;
    (2) The launching appliance remains effective under conditions of 
icing;
    (3) The same type of release mechanism is used for each similar 
survival craft carried on board the vessel;
    (4) The preparation and handling of each survival craft at any one 
launching station does not interfere with the prompt preparation and 
handling of any other survival craft at any other station;
    (5) The persons on board the vessel can safely and rapidly board 
the survival craft; and
    (6) During preparation and launching, the survival craft, its 
launching appliance, and the area of water into which it is to be 
launched are illuminated by lighting supplied from the vessel's 
emergency source of electrical power.
    (g) Each launching and recovery arrangement must allow the operator 
on the deck to observe the survival craft at all times during 
launching.
    (h) Means must be provided outside the machinery space to prevent 
any discharge of water onto survival craft during launching.
    (i) If there is a danger of the survival craft being damaged by the 
vessel's stabilizer wings, the stabilizer wings must be able to be 
brought inboard using power from the emergency source of electrical 
power. Indicators operated by the vessel's emergency power system must 
be provided on the navigating bridge to show the position of the 
stabilizer wings.


Sec. 199.153  Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements using 
falls and a winch.

    Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements, in addition to 
meeting the requirements in Sec. 199.150, must meet the following 
requirements:
    (a) Each launching mechanism must be arranged so it may be actuated 
by one person from a position on the vessel's deck, and except for 
secondary launching appliances for free-fall launching arrangements, 
from a position within the survival craft.
    (b) Each fall wire must be of rotation-resistant and corrosion-
resistant steel wire rope.
    (c) The breaking strength of each fall wire and each attachment 
used on the fall must be at least six times the load imparted on the 
fall by the fully-loaded survival craft.
    (d) Each fall must be long enough for the survival craft to reach 
the water with the vessel in its lightest seagoing condition, under 
unfavorable conditions of trim, and with the vessel listed not less 
than 20 degrees either way.
    (e) Each unguarded fall must not pass near any operating position 
of the winch, such as hand cranks, pay out wheels, and brake levers.
    (f) Each winch drum must be arranged so the fall wire winds onto 
the drum in a level wrap. A multiple drum winch must be arranged so 
that the falls wind off at the same rate when lowering and onto the 
drums at the same rate when hoisting.
    (g) Each fall, where exposed to damage or fouling, must have guards 
or equivalent protection. Each fall that leads along a deck must be 
covered with a guard that is not more than 300 millimeters (1 foot) 
above the deck.
    (h) The lowering speed for a fully loaded survival craft must be 
not less than the speed obtained from one of the following formulas:
    (1) S=0.4+(0.02 H), where S the lowering speed in meters per second 
and H is the lowering height in meters from the davit head to the 
waterline with the vessel in its lightest seagoing condition, with H 
not greater than 30 regardless of the actula lowering height.
    (2) S=79+(1.2 H), where S is the lowering speed in feet per minute 
and H is the lowering height in feet from the davit head to thee 
waterline with the vessel in its lightest seagoing condition, with H 
not greater than 99 regardless of the actual lowering height.
    (i) The lowering speed for a survival craft loaded with all of its 
equipment must be not less than 70 percent of the speed required under 
paragraph (g) of this section.
    (j) The lowering speed for a fully loaded survival craft must be 
not more than 1.3 meters per second (256 feet per minute).
    (k) If a survival craft is recovered by electric power, the 
electrical installation, including the electric power-operated boat 
winch, must meet the requirements in subchapter J of this chapter. If a 
survival craft is recovered by any means using power, including a 
portable power source, safety devices

[[Page 25323]]

must be provided that automatically cut off the power before the davit 
arms or falls reach the stops in order to avoid overstressing the falls 
or davits, unless the motor is designed to prevent such overstressing.
    (l) Each launching appliance must be fitted with brakes that meet 
the following requirements:
    (1) The brakes must be capable of stopping the descent of the 
survival craft or rescue boat and holding the survival craft or rescue 
boat securely when loaded with its full complement of persons and 
equipment.
    (2) The brake pads must, where necessary, be protected from water 
and oil.
    (3) Manual brakes must be arranged so that the brake is always 
applied unless the operator, or a mechanism activated by the operator, 
holds the brake control in the off position.


Sec. 199.155   Lifeboat launching and recovery arrangements.

    Lifeboat launching and recovery arrangements, in addition to 
meeting the requirements in Secs. 199.150 and 199.153, must meet the 
following requirements:
    (a) Each lifeboat must be provided with a launching appliance. The 
launching appliance must be capable of launching and recovering the 
lifeboat with its crew.
    (b) Each launching appliance arrangement must allow the operator on 
the vessel to observe the lifeboat at all times during recovery.
    (c) Each launching appliance arrangement must be designed to ensure 
persons can safely disembark from the survival craft prior to its 
stowage.
    (d) Each lifeboat, other than a totally enclosed lifeboat, must be 
provided with a davit span with not less than two lifelines of 
sufficient length to reach the water with the vessel in its lightest 
seagoing condition, under unfavorable conditions of trim, and with the 
vessel listed up to 20 degrees either way.


Sec. 199.157   Free-fall lifeboat launching and recovery arrangements.

    (a) The launching appliance for a free-fall lifeboat must be 
designed and installed so that the launching appliance and the lifeboat 
it serves operate as a system to protect the occupants from harmful 
acceleration forces and to effectively clear the vessel.
    (b) The launching appliance must be designed and arranged so that, 
in its ready to launch position, the distance from the lowest point on 
the lifeboat it serves to the water surface with the vessel in its 
lightest seagoing condition does not exceed the lifeboat's certificated 
free-fall height.
    (c) The launching appliance must be arranged to preclude accidental 
release of the lifeboat in its unattended stowed position. If the means 
provided to secure the lifeboat cannot be released from inside the 
lifeboat, the means to secure the lifeboat must be arranged to preclude 
boarding the lifeboat without first releasing it.
    (d) Each free-fall launching arrangement must be provided with a 
secondary means to launch the lifeboat by falls. Such means must comply 
with the requirements of Secs. 199.150, 199.153, and 199.155. 
Notwithstanding Sec. 199.150(c), the secondary launching appliance must 
be capable of launching the lifeboat against unfavorable conditions of 
trim of 2 degrees either way and of list of 5 degrees either way. The 
secondary launching appliance need not comply with the speed 
requirements of Secs. 199.153 (g), (h), and (i). If the secondary 
launching appliance is not dependent on gravity, stored mechanical 
power, or other manual means, the launching arrangement must be 
connected both to the vessel's main and emergency power supplies.


Sec. 199.160   Rescue boat embarkation, launching and recovery 
arrangements.

    (a) Each rescue boat must be capable of being launched with the 
vessel making headway of 5 knots in calm water. A painter may be used 
to meet this requirement.
    (b) Each rescue boat embarkation and launching arrangement must 
permit the rescue boat to be boarded and launched in the shortest 
possible time.
    (c) The rescue boat must meet the embarkation and launching 
arrangement requirements of Secs. 199.110 (e) and (g), 199.150, 
199.155, and if the launching arrangement uses falls and a winch, 
Sec. 199.153.
    (d) If the rescue boat is one of the vessel's survival craft, the 
rescue boat must also meet the following requirements:
    (1) The rescue boat must meet the muster and embarkation 
arrangement requirements of Sec. 199.110 and the launching station 
requirements of Sec. 199.120.
    (2) If the launching arrangement uses a single fall, the rescue 
boat may have an automatic disengaging apparatus approved under 
approval series 160.170 instead of a lifeboat release mechanism.
    (e) Rapid recovery of the rescue boat must be possible when loaded 
with its full complement of persons and equipment. If the rescue boat 
is also a lifeboat, rapid recovery must be possible when loaded with 
its lifeboat equipment and an approved rescue boat complement of at 
least six persons.
    (f) Each rescue boat launching appliance must be fitted with a 
powered winch motor.
    (g) Each rescue boat launching appliance must be capable of 
hoisting the rescue boat when loaded with its full rescue boat 
complement of persons and equipment at a rate of not less than 0.3 
meters per second (59 feet per minute).


Sec. 199.170  Line-throwing appliance.

    (a) General. Each vessel must have a line-throwing appliance 
approved under approval series 160.040.
    (b) Stowage. The line-throwing appliance and its equipment must be 
readily accessible for use.
    (c) Additional equipment. Each vessel must carry the following 
equipment for the line-throwing appliance--
    (1) The equipment on the list provided by the manufacturer with the 
approved appliance; and
    (2) An auxiliary line that--
    (i) Is at least 450 meters (1,500 feet) long;
    (ii) Has a breaking strength of at least 40 kiloNewtons (9,000 
pounds-force); and
    (iii) Is, if synthetic, of a dark color or certified by the 
manufacturer to be resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light.


Sec. 199.175  Survival craft and rescue boat equipment.

    (a) All lifeboat and rescue boat equipment--
    (1) Must be secured within the boat by lashings, by storage in 
lockers or compartments, by storage in brackets or similar mounting 
arrangements, or by other suitable means;
    (2) Must be secured in such a manner as not to interfere with any 
abandonment procedures or reduce seating capacity;
    (3) Must be as small and of as little mass as possible;
    (4) Must be packed in a suitable and compact form; and
    (5) Should be stowed so the items do not--
    (i) Reduce the seating capacity;
    (ii) Adversely affect the seaworthiness of the survival craft or 
rescue boat; or
    (iii) Overload the launching appliance.
    (b) Each lifeboat, rigid liferaft, and rescue boat, unless 
otherwise stated in this paragraph, must carry the equipment listed in 
this paragraph and specified for it in table 199.175 of this section 
under the vessel's category of service. A lifeboat that is also a 
rescue boat must carry the equipment in the table column marked for a 
lifeboat.
    (1) Bailer. The bailer must be buoyant.

[[Page 25324]]

    (2) Bilge pump. The bilge pump must be approved under approval 
series 160.044 and must be installed in a ready-to-use condition as 
follows:
    (i) The bilge pump for a lifeboat approved for less than 70 persons 
must be either size 2 or size 3.
    (ii) The bilge pump for a lifeboat approved for 70 persons or more 
must be size 3.
    (3) Boathook. In the case of a boat launched by falls, the boathook 
must be kept free for fending-off purposes. For inflated rescue boats 
and for rigid-inflated rescue boats, each boathook must be designed to 
minimize the possibility of damage to the inflated portions of the 
hull.
    (4) Bucket. The bucket must be made of corrosion-resistant material 
and should either be buoyant or have an attached lanyard at least 1.8 
meters (6 feet) long.
    (5) Can opener. A can opener may be in a jackknife approved under 
approval series 160.043.
    (6) Compass. The compass and its mounting arrangement must be 
approved under approval series 160.014. In a totally enclosed lifeboat, 
the compass must be permanently fitted at the steering position; in any 
other boat it must be provided with a binnacle, if necessary to protect 
it from the weather, and with suitable mounting arrangements.
    (7) Dipper. The dipper must be rustproof and attached to a lanyard 
that should be at least 0.9 meters (3 feet) long.
    (8) Drinking cup. The drinking cup must be graduated and rustproof. 
The cup should also be of a breakage-resistant material.
    (9) Fire extinguisher. The fire extinguisher must be approved under 
approval series 162.028. The fire extinguisher must be type B-C, size 
II, or larger. Two type B-C, size I fire extinguishers may be carried 
in place of a type B-C, size II fire extinguisher.
    (10) First aid kit. The first aid kit in a lifeboat and in a rescue 
boat must be approved under approval series 160.041. The first aid kit 
in a rigid liferaft must be approved under approval series 160.054.
    (11) Fishing kit. The fishing kit must be approved under approval 
series 160.061.
    (12) Flashlight. The flashlight must be a type I or type III that 
is constructed and marked in accordance with the American Society of 
Testing and Materials (ASTM) F1014. One spare set of batteries and one 
spare bulb, stored in a watertight container, must be provided for each 
flashlight.
    (13) Hatchet. The hatchet must be approved under approval series 
160.013. The hatchet should be stowed in brackets near the release 
mechanism and, if more than one hatchet is carried, the hatchets should 
be stowed at opposite ends of the boat.
    (14) Heaving line. The heaving line must be buoyant, must be at 
least 30 meters (99 feet) long, must have a buoyant rescue quoit 
attached to one end, and should be at least 8 millimeters (\5/16\ 
inches) in diameter.
    (15) Instruction card. The instruction card must be waterproof and 
contain the information required by IMO Resolution A.657(16). The 
instruction card should be located so that it can be easily seen upon 
entering the liferaft.
    (16) Jackknife. The jackknife must be approved under approval 
series 160.043 and must be attached to the boat by its lanyard.
    (17) Knife. The knife must be of the non-folding type with a 
buoyant hanle as follows:
    (i) The knife for a rigid liferaft must be secured to the raft by a 
lanyard and stowed in a pocket on the exterior of the canopy near the 
point where the painter is attached to the liferaft. If an approved 
jackknife is substituted for the second knife required on a liferaft 
equipped for 13 or more persons, the jackknife must also be secured to 
the liferaft by a lanyard.
    (ii) The knife in an inflated or rigid-inflated rescue boat must be 
of a type designed to minimize the possibility of damage to the fabric 
portions of the hull.
    (18) Ladder. The boarding ladder must be capable of being used at 
each entrance on either side or at the stern of the boat to enable 
persons in the water to board the boat. The lowest step of the ladder 
must be not less than 0.4 meters (15.75 inches) below the boat's light 
waterline.
    (19) Mirror. The signalling mirror must be approved under approval 
series 160.020.
    (2) Oars and paddles. Each lifeboat and rescue boat must have 
buoyant oars or paddles of the number, size, and type specified by the 
manufacturer of the boat. An oarlock or equivalent device, either 
permanently installed or attached to the boat by a lanyard or chain, 
must be provided for each oar. Each oar should have the vessel's name 
marked on it in block letters.
    (21) Painter. (i) One painter on a lifeboat and the painter on a 
rescue boat must be attached by a painter release device at the forward 
end of the lifeboat. The second painter on a lifeboat must be secured 
at or near the bow of the lifeboat, ready for use. On lifeboats to be 
launched by free-fall launching, both painters must be stowed near the 
bow ready for use.
    (A) If the painter is of synthetic material, the painter must be of 
a dark color or certified by the manufacturer to be resistant to 
deterioration from ultraviolet light.
    (B) The painter for a lifeboat and each painter for a rescue boat 
must be of a length that is at least twice the distance from the 
stowage position of the boat to the waterline with the vessel in its 
lightest seagoing condition, or must be meters (50 feet) long, 
whichever is the greater.
    (C) The painter must have a breaking strength of at least 34 
kiloNewtons (7,700 pounds-force).
    (D) The painter for a rigid liferaft must be of a length that is at 
least 20 meters (66 feet) plus the distance from the liferaft's stowed 
position to the waterline with the vessel in its lightest seagoing 
condition, or must be 15 meters (50 feet) long, whichever is the 
greater.
    (E) If the painter is of synthetic material, the painter must be of 
a dark color or certified by the manufacturer to be resistant to 
deterioration from ultraviolet light.
    (F) The painter must have a breaking strength of at least 15 
kiloNewtons (3,937 pounds-force) for liferafts approved for more than 
25 persons, of at least 20 kiloNewtons (2,250 pounds-force) for 
liferafts approved for 9 to 25 persons, and of at least 7.5 kiloNewtons 
(1,687 pounds-force) for any other liferaft.
    (G) The painter must have a float-free link meeting the 
requirements of part 160, subpart 160.073 of this chapter secured to 
the end of the painter that is attached to the vessel. The float-free 
link arrangement must break under a load of 2.20.4 
kiloNewtons (400 to 536 pounds-force).
    (22) Provisions. Each unit of provisions must be approved under 
approval series 160.046 and must provide at least 10,000 kiloJoules 
(2,390 calories). Individual provision packages may provide less than 
10,000 kiloJoules, as long as the total quantity of provisions on board 
provides for at least 10,000 kiloJoules per person.
    (23) Pump. The pump or bellows must be manually operated and should 
be arranged so it is capable of inflating any part of the inflatable 
structure of the rescue boat.
    (24) Radar reflector. The radar reflector must be capable of 
detection at a distance of 4 nautical miles and must have a mounting 
arrangements to install it on the boat in its proper orientation. A 9-
GigaHertz radar transponder may be

[[Page 25325]]

substituted for the radar reflector if the transponder is accepted by 
the Federal Communications Commission as meeting the requirements of 47 
CFR part 80 and is stowed in the boat or raft.
    (25) Rainwater collection device. The rainwater collection device 
must be arranged to collect falling rain and direct it into the water 
tanks in the lifeboat. If the lifeboat carries a manually-powered, 
reverse osmosis desalinator approved under approval series 160.058, a 
rainwater collection device is not required.
    (26) Repair kit. The repair kit for an inflated and a rigid-
inflated rescue boat must be packed in a suitable container and include 
at least--
    (i) Six sealing clamps;
    (ii) Five 50-millimeter (2-inch) diameter tube patches;
    (iii) A roughing tool; and
    (iv) A container of cement compatible with the tube fabric. The 
cement must have an expiration date on its container that is not more 
than 24 months after the date of manufacture of the cement.
    (27) Sea anchor. (i) The sea anchor for a lifeboat must be approved 
under approval series 160.019.
    (ii) Each sea anchor for a rigid liferaft must be of the type 
specified by the liferaft manufacturer and must be fitted with a shock 
resistant hawser. It may also be fitted with a tripping line. One sea 
anchor must be permanently attached to the liferaft in such a way that, 
when the liferaft is waterborne, it will cause the liferaft to lie 
oriented to the wind in the most stable manner. The second sea anchor 
must be stowed in the liferaft as a spare. A davit-launched liferaft 
and a liferaft on a passenger vessel must have the permanently attached 
sea anchor arranged to deploy automatically when the liferaft floats 
free.
    (iii) The sea anchor for a rescue boat must be of the type 
specified by the rescue boat manufacturer, and must have a hawser of 
adequate strength that is at least 10 meters (33 feet) long.
    (28) Searchlight. (i) The searchlight must be of the type 
originally provided with the approved lifeboat or rescue boat, or must 
be certified by the searchlight manufacturer to meet ASTM F1003. The 
boat must carry two spare bulbs.
    (ii) The searchlight must be permanently mounted on the canopy or 
must have a stanchion-type or collapsible-type, portable mounting on 
the canopy. The mounting must be located to enable operation of the 
searchlight by the boat operator.
    (iii) The searchlights power source must be capable of operating 
the light without charging or recharging for not less than--
    (A) Three hours of continuous operation; or
    (B) Six hours total operation when it is operated in cycles of 15 
minutes on and 5 minutes off.
    (iv) If the searchlight's power source is an engine starting 
battery, there must be sufficient battery capacity to start the engine 
at the end of either operating period specified in paragraph 
(b)(28)(iii) of this section.
    (v) The searchlight's power source must be connected to the 
searchlight using watertight electrical fittings.
    (29) Seasickness kit. The seasickness kit must be in a waterproof 
package and must include one waterproof seasickness bag, anti-
seasickness medication sufficient for one person for 48 hours, and 
instructions for using the medication. Each seasickness kit should be 
stowed within reach of the seat for which it is intended.
    (30) Signal, smoke. The smoke signal must be approved under 
approval series 160.122.
    (31) Signal, hand flare. The hand flare must be approved under 
approval series 160.121.
    (32) Signal, rocket parachute flare. The rocket parachute flare 
must be approved under approval series 160.136.
    (33) Skates and fenders. The skates and fenders must be as 
specified by the lifeboat or rescue boat manufacturer to facilitate 
launching and prevent damage to a lifeboat intended for launching down 
the side of a vessel.
    (34) Sponge. The sponge must be suitable for soaking up water.
    (35) Survival instructions. The survival instructions must be as 
described in IMO Resolution A.657(16), Annex I for liferafts and Annex 
II for lifeboats.
    (36) Table of lifesaving signals. The table of lifesaving signals 
must be as described in Annex IV to the International Regulations for 
Preventing Collisions at Sea 1972, as amended, and must be printed on a 
waterproof card or stored in a waterproof container.
    (37) Thermal protective aid. The thermal protective aid must be 
approved under approval series 160.174.
    (38) Tool kit. The tool kit must contain sufficient tools for minor 
adjustments to the engine and its accessories.
    (39) Towline. The towline must be buoyant and at least 50 meters 
(164 feet) long. The towline must have a breaking strength of not less 
than 13.3 kiloNewtons (3,000 pounds-force) or be of sufficient strength 
to tow the largest liferaft carried on the vessel when loaded with its 
full complement of persons and equipment at a speed of at least 2 
knots.
    (40) Water. The water must be emergency drinking water approved 
under approval series 160.026.
    (i) The requirement for up to one-third of the emergency drinking 
water may be met by a desalting apparatus approved under approval 
series 160.058 that is capable of producing the substituted amount of 
water in 2 days.
    (ii) The requirement for up to two-thirds of the emergency drinking 
water may be met by a manually-powered, reverse osmosis desalinator 
approved under approval series 160.058 and that is capable of producing 
the substituted amount of water in 2 days.
    (41) Whistle. The whistle must be corrosion-resistant, and should 
be a ball-type or multi-tone whistle that is attached to a lanyard.

                                    Table 199.175.--Survival Craft Equipment                                    
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                      International voyage          Short international voyage  
                                               -----------------------------------------------------------------
 Item                                                        Rigid                            Rigid             
  No.                    Item                               liferaft    Rescue               liferaft    Rescue 
                                                 Lifeboat   (SOLAS A     boat     Lifeboat   (SOLAS B     boat  
                                                             pack)                            pack)             
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.....  Bailer \1\............................          1          1          1          1          1          1
2.....  Bilge pump \2\........................          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........
3.....  Boathook..............................          2  .........          1          2  .........          1
4.....  Bucket \3\............................          2  .........          1          2  .........          1
5.....  Can opener............................          3          3  .........          3  .........  .........
6.....  Compass...............................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
7.....  Dipper................................          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........

[[Page 25326]]

                                                                                                                
8.....  Drinking cup..........................          1          1  .........          1  .........  .........
9.....  Fire extinguisher.....................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
10....  First aid kit.........................          1          1          1          1          1          1
11....  Fishing kit...........................          1          1  .........  .........  .........  .........
12....  Flashlight............................          1          1          1          1          1          1
13....  Hatchet...............................          2  .........  .........          2  .........  .........
14....  Heaving line..........................          2          1          2          2          1          2
15....  Instruction card......................  .........          1  .........  .........          1  .........
16....  Jackknife.............................          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........
17....  Knife \1\ \4\.........................  .........          1          1  .........          1          1
18....  Ladder................................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
19....  Mirror, signalling....................          1          1  .........          1          1  .........
20....  Oars, units \5\ \6\...................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
        Paddles...............................  .........          2  .........  .........          2  .........
21....  Paddles...............................          2          1          1          2          1          1
22....  Provisions (units per person).........          1          1  .........  .........  .........  .........
23....  Pump \7\..............................  .........  .........          1  .........  .........          1
24....  Radar reflector.......................          1          1          1          1          1          1
25....  Rainwater collection device...........          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........
26....  Repair kit \7\........................  .........  .........          1  .........  .........          1
27....  Sea anchor............................          1          2          1          1          2          1
28....  Searchlight...........................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
29....  Seasickness kit (units per person)....          1          1  .........          1          1  .........
30....  Signal, smoke.........................          2          2  .........          2          1  .........
31....  Signal, hand flare....................          6          6  .........          6          3  .........
32....  Signal, parachute flare...............          4          4  .........          4          2  .........
33....  Skates and fenders \8\................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
34....  Sponge \7\............................  .........          2          2  .........          2          2
35....  Survival instructions.................          1          1  .........          1          1  .........
36....  Table of lifesaving signals...........          1          1  .........          1          1  .........
37....  Thermal protective aids...............        10%        10%        10%        10%        10%        10%
38....  Tool kit..............................          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........
39....  Towline \10\..........................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
40....  Water (liters per person).............          3        1.5  .........          3  .........  .........
41....  Whistle...............................          1          1          1          1          1          1
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:                                                                                                          
\1\ Each liferaft equipped for 13 persons or more must carry two of these items.                                
\2\ Not required for boats of self-bailing design.                                                              
\3\ Not required for inflated or rigid-inflated rescue boats.                                                   
\4\ A hatchet counts towards this requirement in rigid rescue boats.                                            
\5\ Oars are not required on a free-fall lifeboat; a unit of oars means the number of oars specified by the boat
  manufacturer.                                                                                                 
\6\ Rescue boats may substitute buoyant paddles for oars, as specified by the manufacturer.                     
\7\ Not required for a rigid rescue boat.                                                                       
\8\ Required if specified by the boat manufacturer.                                                             
\9\ Sufficient thermal protective aids are required for at least 10% of the persons the survival craft is       
  equipped to carry, but not less than two.                                                                     
\10\ Required only if the lifeboat is also the rescue boat.                                                     




Sec. 199.176  Markings on lifesaving appliances.

    (a) Lifeboats and rescue boats. Each lifeboat and rescue boat must 
be plainly marked as follows:
    (1) Each side of each lifeboat and rescue boat bow must be marked 
in block capital letters and numbers with--
    (i) The name of the vessel; and
    (ii) The name of the port required to be marked on the stern of the 
vessel to meet the requirements of part 67, subpart 67.13 of this 
chapter.
    (2) The length and beam of the boat and the number of persons for 
which the boat is equipped must be clearly marked, preferably on the 
bow, in permanent characters. The number of persons for which the boat 
is equipped must not exceed the number of persons shown on its 
nameplate.
    (3) The number of the boat and a means of identifying the vessel to 
which the boat belongs, such as the vessel's name, must be plainly 
marked or painted so that the markings are visible from above the boat.
    (4) The Type II retro-reflective material approved under approval 
series 164.018 must be placed on the boat to meet the arrangement 
requirements in IMO Resolution A.658(16).
    (b) Rigid liferafts. Each rigid liferaft must be marked as follows:
    (1) The name of the vessel must be marked on each rigid liferaft.
    (2) The name of the port required to be marked on the stern of the 
vessel to meet the requirements of part 67, subpart 67.13 of this 
chapter must be marked on each rigid liferaft.
    (3) The rigid liferaft must be marked with the words ``SOLAS A 
pack'' or ``SOLAS B pack'', to reflect the pack inside.
    (4) The length of the painter must be marked on each rigid 
liferaft.
    (5) At each entrance of each rigid liferaft, the number of persons 
for which the rigid liferaft is equipped must be marked in letters and 
numbers at least 100 millimeters (4 inches) high and in a color 
contrasting to that of the liferaft. The number of persons for which 
the

[[Page 25327]]

liferaft is equipped must not exceed the number of persons shown on its 
nameplate.


Sec. 199.178  Marking of stowage locations.

    (a) Containers, brackets, racks, and other similar stowage 
locations for lifesaving equipment must be marked with symbols in 
accordance with IMO Resolution A.760(18) indicating the device stowed 
in that location.
    (b) If more than one device is stowed in a location, the number of 
devices stowed must be indicated.
    (c) Survival craft should be numbered consecutively starting from 
the vessel's bow. Survival craft on the starboard side should be 
numbered with odd numerals and survival craft on the port side should 
be numbered with even numerals.
    (d) Each liferaft stowage location should be marked with the 
capacity of the liferaft stowed there.


Sec. 199.180  Training and drills.

    (a) Training materials. Training material must be on board each 
vessel and must consist of a manual of one or more volumes written in 
easily understood terms and illustrated wherever possible, or of 
audiovisual training aids, or of both as follows:
    (1) If a training manual is used, a copy must be in each crew 
messroom and recreation room or in each crew cabin. If audiovisual 
training aids are used, they must be incorporated into the onboard 
training sessions described in paragraph (g) of this section.
    (2) The training material must explain in detail--
    (i) The procedure for donning lifejackets, immersion suits, and 
anti-exposure suits carried on board;
    (ii) The procedure for mustering at the assigned stations;
    (iii) The procedure for boarding, launching, and clearing the 
survival craft and rescue boats;
    (iv) The method of launching from within the survival craft;
    (v) The procedure for releasing survival craft from launching 
appliances;
    (vi) The methods and use of devices for protection in launching 
areas, where appropriate;
    (vii) The illumination in the launching areas;
    (viii) The use of all survival equipment;
    (ix) The use of all detection equipment;
    (x) With the assistance of illustrations, the use of radio 
lifesaving appliances;
    (xi) The use of sea anchors;
    (xii) The use of the survival craft engine and accessories;
    (xiii) The recovery of survival craft and rescue boats, including 
stowage and securing;
    (xiv) The hazards of exposure and the need for warm clothing;
    (xv) The best use of the survival craft for survival;
    (xvi) The methods of retrieval, including the use of helicopter 
rescue gear such as slings, baskets, and stretchers; the use of 
breeches-buoy and shore lifesaving apparatus; and the use of the 
vessel's line-throwing apparatus;
    (xvii) All other functions contained in the muster list and 
emergency instructions; and
    (xviii) The instructions for emergency repair of the lifesaving 
appliances.
    (b) Familiarity with emergency procedures. (1) Every crewmember 
with emergency duties assigned on the muster list must be familiar with 
their assigned duties before the voyage begins.
    (2) On a vessel engaged on voyage when the passengers or special 
personnel are scheduled to be on board for more than 24 hours, musters 
of the passengers and special personnel must take place within 24 hours 
after their embarkation. Passengers and special personnel must be 
instructed in the use of the lifejackets and the action to take in an 
emergency.
    (3) Whenever new passengers or special personnel embark, a safety 
briefing must be given immediately before sailing or immediately after 
sailing. The briefing must include the instructions required by 
Sec. 199.80 and must be made by means of an announcement in one or more 
languages likely to be understood by the passengers and special 
personnel. The announcement must be made on the vessel's public address 
system or by other equivalent means likely to be heard by the 
passengers and special personnel who have not yet heard it during the 
voyage. The briefing may be included in the muster required by 
paragraph (b)(2) of this section if the muster is held immediately upon 
departure. Information cards or posters, or video programs displayed on 
the vessel video displays, may be used to supplement the briefing, but 
may not be used to replace the announcement.
    (c) Drills--general. (1) Drills must, as far as practicable, be 
conducted as if there were an actual emergency.
    (2) Every crewmember must participate in at least one abandon-ship 
drill and one fire drill every month. The drills of the crew must take 
place within 24 hours of the vessel leaving a port if more than 25 
percent of the crew have not participated in abandon-ship and fire 
drills on board that particular vessel in the previous month.
    (3) Drills must be held before sailing when a vessel enters service 
for the first time, after modification of a major character, or when a 
new crew is engaged.
    (4) The OCMI may accept other equivalent drill arrangements for 
those classes of vessels for which compliance with this paragraph is 
impracticable.
    (d) Abandon-ship drills. (1) Abandon-ship drills must include--
    (i) Summoning persons on board to muster stations with the general 
alarm followed by drill announcements on the public address or other 
communication system and ensuring that the persons on board are made 
aware of the order to abandon ship;
    (ii) Reporting to stations and preparing for the duties described 
in the muster list;
    (iii) Checking that persons on board are suitably dressed;
    (iv) Checking that lifejackets or immersion suits are correctly 
donned;
    (v) Lowering of at least one lifeboat after any necessary 
preparation for launching;
    (vi) Starting and operating the lifeboat engine; and
    (vii) Operating davits used for launching the liferafts.
    (2) Abandon-ship drills should also include conducting a mock 
search and rescue of passengers or special personnel trapped in their 
staterooms, and giving instructions in the use of radio lifesaving 
appliances.
    (3) Different lifeboats must, as far as practicable, be lowered to 
comply with the requirements of paragraph (d)(1)(v) of this section at 
successive drills.
    (4) Except as provided in paragraphs (d)(5) and (d)(6) of this 
section, each lifeboat must be launched with its assigned operating 
crew aboard and maneuvered in the water at least once every 3 months 
during an abandon-ship drill.
    (5) Lowering into the water, rather than launching of a lifeboat 
arranged for free-fall launching, is acceptable when free-fall 
launching is impracticable, provided that the lifeboat is free-fall 
launched with its assigned operating crew aboard and is maneuvered in 
the water at least once every 6 months. However, when compliance with 
the 6-month requirement is impracticable, the OCMI may extend this 
period to 12 months, provided that arrangements are made for simulated 
launching at intervals of not more than 6 months.
    (6) The OCMI may exempt a vessel operating on short international 
voyages from the requirement to launch the lifeboats on both sides of 
the vessel if

[[Page 25328]]

berthing arrangements in port and operations do not permit launching of 
lifeboats on one side. However, all lifeboats on the vessel must be 
lowered at least once every 3 months and launched at least annually.
    (7) As far as is reasonable and practicable, rescue boats, other 
than lifeboats which are also rescue boats, must be launched with their 
assigned crew aboard and maneuvered in the water each month. Such 
launching and maneuvering must occur at least once every 3 months.
    (8) If lifeboat and rescue boat launching drills are carried out 
with the vessel making headway, such drills must, because of the 
dangers involved, be practiced in sheltered waters only and be under 
the supervision of an officer experienced in such drills.
    (9) If a vessel is fitted with marine evacuation systems, drills 
must include an exercising of the procedures required for the 
deployment of such a system up to the point immediately preceding 
actual deployment of the system. This aspect of drills should be 
augmented by regular instruction using the on board training aids. 
Additionally, every crewmember assigned to duties involving the marine 
evacuation system must, as far as practicable, participate in a full 
deployment of a similar system into water, either on board a vessel or 
ashore, every 2 years but not longer than every 3 years. This training 
may be associated with the deployments required by Sec. 199.190(k).
    (10) Emergency lighting for mustering and abandonment must be 
tested at each abandon-ship drill.
    (11) If a vessel carries immersion suits or anti-exposure suits, 
the suits must be worn by crewmembers in at least one abandon-ship 
drill per month. If wearing the suits is impracticable due to warm 
weather, the crewmembers must be instructed on their donning and use.
    (12) If a vessel carries immersion suits for persons other than the 
crew, the abandon-ship drill must include instruction to these persons 
on the stowage, donning, and use of the suits.
    (e) Line-throwing appliance. A drill must be conducted on the use 
of the line-throwing appliance at least once every 3 months. The actual 
firing of the appliance is at the discretion of the master.
    (f) Fire drills. (1) Fire drills must, as far as practicable, be 
planned with due consideration given to the various emergencies that 
may occur for that type of vessel and its cargo.
    (2) Each fire drill must include--
    (i) Reporting to stations and preparing for the duties described in 
the station bill for the particular fire emergency being simulated;
    (ii) Starting of fire pumps and the use of two jets of water to 
determine that the system is in proper working order;
    (iii) Checking the firemen's outfits and other personal rescue 
equipment;
    (iv) Checking the relevant communications equipment;
    (v) Checking the operation of watertight doors, fire doors, and 
fire dampers and main inlets and outlets of ventilation systems in the 
drill area; and
    (vi) Checking the necessary arrangements for subsequent abandonment 
of the vessel.
    (3) The equipment used during drills must immediately be brought 
back to its fully operational condition. Any faults and defects 
discovered during the drills must be remedied as soon as possible.
    (g) Onboard training and instruction. (1) Onboard training in the 
use of the vessel's lifesaving appliances, including survival craft 
equipment, and in the use of the vessel's fire-extinguishing appliances 
must be given as soon as possible but not later than 2 weeks after a 
crewmember joins the vessel.
    (2) If the crewmember is on a regularly scheduled rotating 
assignment to the vessel, the training required in paragraph (g)(1) of 
this section need be given only within 2 weeks of the time the 
crewmember first joins the vessel.
    (3) The crew must be instructed in the use of the vessel's fire-
extinguishing and lifesaving appliances and in survival at sea at the 
same interval as the drills. Individual units of instruction may cover 
different parts of the vessel's lifesaving and fire-extinguishing 
appliances, but all the vessel's lifesaving and fire-extinguishing 
appliances must be covered within any period of 2 months.
    (4) Every crewmember must be given instructions that include, but 
are not limited to--
    (i) The operation and use of the vessel's inflatable liferafts;
    (ii) The problems of hypothermia, first aid treatment for 
hypothermia, and other appropriate first aid procedures;
    (iii) Any special instructions necessary for use of the vessel's 
lifesaving appliances in severe weather and severe sea conditions; and
    (iv) The operation and use of fire-extinguishing appliances.
    (5) Onboard training in the use of davit-launched liferafts must 
take place at intervals of not more than 4 months on each vessel with 
davit-launched liferafts. Whenever practicable, this training must 
include the inflation and lowering of a liferaft. If this liferaft is a 
special liferaft intended for training purposes only and is not part of 
the vessel's lifesaving equipment, this liferaft must be conspicuously 
marked.
    (h) Records. (1) When musters are held, details of abandon-ship 
drills, fire drills, drills of other lifesaving appliances, and onboard 
training must be recorded in the vessel's official logbook. Logbook 
entries must include--
    (i) The date and time of the drill, muster, or training session;
    (ii) The survival craft and fire-extinguishing equipment used in 
the drills;
    (iii) Identification of inoperative or malfunctioning equipment and 
the corrective action taken;
    (iv) Identification of crewmembers participating in drills or 
training sessions; and
    (v) The subject of the onboard training session.
    (2) If a full muster, drill, or training session is not held at the 
appointed time, an entry must be made in the logbook stating the 
circumstances and the extent of the muster, drill, or training session 
held.


Sec. 199.190  Operational readiness, maintenance, and inspection of 
lifesaving equipment.

    (a) Operational readiness. Before the vessel leaves port and at all 
times during the voyage, each lifesaving appliance must be in working 
order and ready for immediate use.
    (b) Maintenance. (1) The manufacturer's instructions for onboard 
maintenance of lifesaving appliances must be on board the vessel. The 
following must be provided for each appliance.
    (i) Checklists for use when carrying out the inspections required 
under paragraph (e) of this section.
    (ii) Maintenance and repair instructions.
    (iii) A schedule of periodic maintenance.
    (iv) A diagram of lubrication points with the recommended 
lubricants.
    (v) A list of replaceable parts.
    (vi) A list of sources of spare parts.
    (vii) A log of records of inspections and maintenance.
    (2) In lieu of compliance with paragraph (b)(1) of this section, 
the OCMI may accept a shipboard planned maintenance program that 
includes the items listed in that paragraph.
    (c) Spare parts and repair equipment. Spare parts and repair 
equipment must be provided for each lifesaving appliance and component 
that is subject to excessive wear or consumption and that needs to be 
replaced regularly.
    (d) Weekly inspections and tests. (1) Each survival craft, rescue 
boat, and

[[Page 25329]]

launching appliance must be visually inspected to ensure its readiness 
for use.
    (2) Each lifeboat engine and 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. 
During this time, demonstrations should indicate that the gear box and 
gear box train are engaging satisfactorily. If the special 
characteristics of an outboard motor fitted to a rescue boat do not 
allow the outboard motor to be run for a period of 3 minutes other than 
with its propeller submerged, the outboard motor should be run for such 
period as prescribed in the manufacturer's handbook.
    (3) The general alarm system must be tested.
    (e) Monthly inspections. (1) Each lifesaving appliance, including 
lifeboat equipment, must be inspected monthly using the checklists 
required under paragraph (b)(1)(i) of this section to make sure the 
appliance and the equipment are complete and in good working order. A 
report of the inspection, including a statement as to the condition of 
the equipment, must be recorded in the vessel's official logbook.
    (2) Each EPIRB and each SART, other than an EPIRB or SART in an 
inflatable liferaft, must be tested monthly. The EPIRB must be tested 
using the integrated test circuit and output indicator to determine 
that it is operative.
    (f) Annual inspections. Annual inspections must include the 
following:
    (1) Each survival craft, except for inflatable craft, must be 
stripped, cleaned, and thoroughly inspected and repaired, as needed, at 
least once each year and each fuel tank must be emptied, cleaned, and 
refilled with fresh fuel.
    (2) Each davit, winch, fall, and other launching appliance must be 
thoroughly inspected and repaired, as needed, once each year.
    (3) Each item of survival equipment with an expiration date must be 
replaced during the annual inspection if the expiration date has 
passed.
    (4) Each battery clearly marked with an expiration date and used in 
an item of survival equipment must be replaced during the annual 
inspection if the expiration date has passed.
    (5) Except for a storage battery used in a lifeboat or rescue boat, 
each battery without an expiration date that is used in an item of 
survival equipment must be replaced during the annual inspection.
    (g) Servicing of inflatable lifesaving appliances, inflated rescue 
boats, and marine evacuation systems.
    (1) Each inflatable lifesaving appliance and marine evacuation 
system must be serviced--
    (i) Within 12 months of its initial packing; and
    (ii) Within 12 months of each subsequent servicing, except when 
servicing is delayed until the next scheduled inspection of the vessel, 
provided the delay does not exceed 5 months.
    (2) Each inflatable lifejacket must be serviced in accordance with 
servicing procedures meeting the requirements of part 160, subpart 
160.176 of this chapter. Each hybrid inflatable lifejacket must be 
serviced in accordance with the owners manual and meet the requirements 
of part 160, subpart 160.077 of this chapter.
    (3) Each inflatable liferaft must be serviced--
    (i) In accordance with servicing procedures meeting the 
requirements of part 160, subpart 160.051 of this chapter; and
    (ii) Whenever the container of the raft is damaged, or the straps 
or seal broken.
    (4) Each inflated rescue boat must be repaired and maintained in 
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. All repairs must be 
made at a serving facility approved by the Commandant (G-MSE), except 
for emergency repairs carried out on board the vessel.
    (h) Periodic servicing of hydrostatic release units. Each 
hydrostatic release unit, other than a disposable hydrostatic release 
unit, must be serviced in accordance with repair and testing procedures 
meeting the requirements of part 160, subpart 160.062 of this chapter--
    (1) Within 12 months of its manufacture; and
    (2) Within 12 months of each subsequent servicing, except when 
servicing is delayed until the next scheduled inspection of the vessel, 
provided the delay does not exceed 5 months.
    (i) Periodic serving of launching appliances and release gear. (1) 
Launching appliances must be serviced at the intervals recommended in 
the manufacturer's instructions or as set out in the shipboard planned 
maintenance program.
    (2) Launching appliances must be thoroughly examined at intervals 
not exceeding 5 years and, upon completion of the examination, the 
launching appliance must be subjected to a dynamic test of the winch 
brake.
    (3) Lifeboat and rescue boat release gear must be serviced at the 
intervals recommended in the manufacturer's instructions, or as set out 
in the shipboard-planned-maintenance program.
    (4) Lifeboat and rescue boat release gear must be subjected to a 
thorough examination by properly trained personnel familiar with the 
system at each inspection for certification.
    (5) Lifeboat and rescue boat release gear must be operationally 
tested under a load of 1.1 times the total mass of the lifeboat when 
loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment whenever 
overhauled or at least once every 5 years.
    (j) Maintenance of falls. (1) Each fall used in a launching 
appliance must--
    (i) Be turned end-for-end at intervals of not more than 30 months; 
and
    (ii) Be renewed when necessary due to deterioration or at intervals 
of not more than 5 years, whichever is earlier.
    (2) As an alternative to paragraph (j)(1) of this section, each 
fall may--
    (i) Be inspected annually; and
    (ii) Be renewed whenever necessary due to deterioration or at 
intervals of not more than 4 years, whichever is earlier.
    (k) Rotational deployment of marine evacuation systems. In 
addition, to or in conjunction with, the servicing intervals of marine 
evacuation systems required by paragraph (g)(1) of this section, each 
marine evacuation system must be deployed from the vessel on a 
rotational basis. Each marine evacuation system must be deployed at 
least once every 6 years.

Subpart C--Additional Requirements for Passenger Vessels


Sec. 199.200  General.

    Passenger vessels and special purpose vessels described in 
Sec. 199.10(f), must meet the requirements in this subpart in addition 
to the requirements in subparts A and B of this part.


Sec. 199.201  Survival craft.

    (a) Each survival craft must be approved and equipped as follows:
    (1) Each lifeboat must be approved under approval series 160.135 
and equipped as specified in table 199.175 of this part.
    (2) Each inflatable liferaft must be approved under approval series 
160.151 and equipped with--
    (i) A SOLAS A pack; or
    (ii) For a passenger vessel on a short international voyage, a 
SOLAS B pack.
    (3) Each rigid liferaft must be approved under approval series 
160.118 and equipped as specified in table 199.175 of this part.
    (4) Each marine evacuation system must be approved under approval 
series 160.175.
    (5) Each liferaft must have a capacity of six persons or more.

[[Page 25330]]

    (b) Each passenger vessel must carry the following:
    (1) A combination of lifeboats and liferafts that have an aggregate 
capacity sufficient to accommodate the total number of persons on 
board, provided that--
    (i) On each side of the vessel, lifeboats with an aggregate 
capacity sufficient to accommodate at least 37.5 percent of the total 
number of persons on board are carried; and
    (ii) Any liferafts that are provided in combination with the 
lifeboats are served by launching appliances or marine evacuation 
systems equally distributed on each side of the vessel.
    (2) In addition to the survival craft required in paragraph (b)(1) 
of this section, additional liferafts must be provided that have a 
aggregate capacity sufficient to accommodate at least 25 percent of the 
total number of persons on board. The additional liferafts--
    (i) Must be served by at least one launching appliance or marine 
evacuation system on each side of the vessel. These launching 
appliances or marine evacuation systems must be those described under 
paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section or be equivalent approved 
appliances capable of being used on both sides of the vessel; and
    (ii) Are not required to be stowed in accordance with 
Sec. 199.130(c)(4).
    (c) Each passenger vessel engaged on a short international voyage 
that also complies with the standards of subdivision requirements for 
vessels on short international voyages as described in subchapter S of 
this chapter may, as an alternative to the lifeboat requirements in 
paragraph (b)(1)(i) of this section, carry lifeboats with an aggregate 
capacity sufficient to accommodate at least 30 percent of the total 
number of persons on board. These lifeboats must be equally 
distributed, as far as practicable, on each side of the vessel.
    (d) Each passenger vessel that is less than 500 tons gross tonnage 
and is certificated to permit less than 200 persons on board is not 
required to meet the requirements of paragraphs (b) or (c) of this 
section if it meets the following:
    (1) On each side of the vessel--
    (i) Liferafts are carried with an aggregate capacity sufficient to 
accommodate the total number of persons on board and are stowed in a 
position providing for easy side-to-side transfer at a single open deck 
level; or
    (ii) Liferafts are carried with an aggregate capacity sufficient to 
accommodate 150 percent of the total number of persons on board. If the 
rescue boat required under Sec. 199.202 is also a lifeboat, its 
capacity may be included to meet the aggregate capacity requirement.
    (2) If the largest survival craft on either side of the vessel is 
lost or rendered unserviceable, there must be survival craft available 
for use on each side of the vessel, including those which are stowed in 
a position providing for side-to-side transfer at a single open deck 
level, with a capacity sufficient to accommodate the total number of 
persons on board.


Sec. 199.202  Rescue boats.

    (a) Each passenger vessel of 500 tons gross tonnage and over must 
carry on each side of the vessel at least one rescue boat approved 
under approval series 160.156 that is equipped as specified in table 
199.175 of this part.
    (b) Each passenger vessel of less than 500 tons gross tonnage must 
carry at least one rescue boat approved under approval series 160.156 
that is equipped as specified in table 199.175 of this part.
    (c) A lifeboat is accepted as a rescue boat if, in addition to 
being approved under approval series 160.135, it is also approved under 
approval series 160.156.


Sec. 199.203  Marshalling of liferafts.

    (a) Each passenger vessel must have a lifeboat or rescue boat for 
each six liferafts when--
    (1) Each lifeboat and rescue boat is loaded with its full 
complement of persons; and
    (2) The minimum number of liferafts necessary to accommodate the 
remainder of the persons on board have been launched.
    (b) A passenger vessel engaged on a short international voyage that 
also complies with the standards of subdivision requirements for 
vessels on short international voyages as described in subchapter S of 
this chapter may have a lifeboat or rescue boat for each nine liferafts 
when--
    (1) Each lifeboat and rescue boat is loaded with its full 
complement of persons; and
    (2) The minimum number of liferafts necessary to accommodate the 
remainder of the persons on board have been launched.


Sec. 199.211  Lifebuoys.

    (1) Each passenger vessel must carry the number of lifebuoys 
prescribed in table 199.211 of this section.

    Table 199.211.--Requirements for Lifebuoys for Passenger Vessels    
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Minimum  
             Length of vessel in meters (feet)                number of 
                                                              lifebuoys 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under 60 (196).............................................            8
60(196) and under 120(393).................................           12
120(393) and under 180 (590)...............................           18
180 (590) and under 240 (787)..............................           24
240 (787) and over.........................................           30
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (b) Notwithstanding Sec. 199.70(a)(3)(ii), each passenger vessel 
under 60 meters (196 feet) in length must carry at least six lifebuoys 
with self-igniting lights.


Sec. 199.212  Lifejackets.

    (a) In addition to the lifejackets required under Sec. 199.70(b), 
each passenger vessel must carry lifejackets for at least 5 percent of 
the total number of persons on board. These lifejackets must be stowed 
in conspicuous places on deck or at muster stations.
    (b) Where lifejackets for persons other than the crew are stowed in 
staterooms located remotely from direct routes between public spaces 
and muster stations, any additional lifejackets required by 
Sec. 199.70(b)(2)(v) for these persons must be stowed in the public 
spaces, near muster stations, or on direct routes between them. These 
lifejackets must be stowed so that their distribution and donning does 
not impede orderly movement to muster stations and survival craft 
embarkation stations.


Sec. 199.214  Immersion suits and thermal protective aids.

    (a) Each passenger vessel must carry at least three immersion suits 
approved under approval series 160.171 for each lifeboat on the vessel.

[[Page 25331]]

    (b) In addition to the requirements in paragraph (a) of this 
section, each passenger vessel must carry a thermal protective aid 
approved under approval series 160.174 for each person not provided 
with an immersion suit.
    (c) The immersion suits and thermal protective aids required under 
paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section are not required if the 
passenger vessel operates only on routes between 32 degrees north and 
32 degrees south latitude.


Sec. 199.217  Muster list and emergency instructions.

    (a) The format of each passenger vessel muster list required under 
Sec. 199.80 must be approved by the OCMI.
    (b) The passenger vessel muster list or emergency instructions must 
include procedures for locating and rescuing persons other than the 
crew who may be trapped in their staterooms.
    (c) As an alternative to the requirements in Sec. 199.80(c), the 
passenger vessel emergency instructions may meet the requirements of 
MSC Circular 699 (Guidelines for Passenger Safety Instructions).


Sec. 199.220  Survival craft and rescue boat embarkation arrangements.

    (a) Survival craft embarkation arrangements must be designed for--
    (1) Each lifeboat to be boarded and launched either directly from 
the stowed position or from an embarkation deck, but not both; and
    (2) Davit-launched liferafts to be boarded and launched from a 
position immediately adjacent to the stowed positions or from a 
position where, as described under Sec. 199.130(b)(4), the liferaft is 
transferred before launching.
    (b) Each rescue boat must be able to be boarded and launched 
directly from the stowed position with the number of persons assigned 
to crew the rescue boat on board. Notwithstanding paragraph (a)(1) of 
this section, if the rescue boat is also a lifeboat and the other 
lifeboats are boarded and launched from an embarkation deck, the 
arrangements must be such that the rescue boat can also be boarded and 
launched from the embarkation deck.


Sec. 199.230  Stowage of survival craft.

    (a) To meet the requirements of Sec. 199.130(b)(1), each lifeboat 
on a passenger vessel of 80 meters (262 feet) in length and upwards 
must be stowed where the after-end of the lifeboat is at least 1.5 
times the length of the lifeboat forward of the vessel's propeller.
    (b) The stowage height of a survival craft must take into account 
the vessel's escape provisions, the vessel's size, and the weather 
conditions likely to be encountered in the vessel's intended area of 
operation.
    (c) The height of the davit head of each davit when it is in 
position to launch the survival craft should, as far as practicable, 
not exceed 15 meters (49 feet) to the waterline when the vessel is in 
its lightest seagoing condition.


Sec. 199.240  Muster stations.

    Each passenger vessel must, in addition to meeting the requirements 
of Sec. 199.110, have muster stations that--
    (a) Are near the embarkation stations, unless a muster station is 
also an embarkation station;
    (b) Permit ready access to the embarkation station, unless a muster 
station is also an embarkation station; and
    (c) Have sufficient room to marshal and instruct passengers and 
special personnel.


Sec. 199.245  Survival craft embarkation and launching arrangements.

    (a) Each davit-launched liferaft must be arranged to be rapidly 
boarded by its full complement of persons.
    (b) All survival craft required for abandonment by the total number 
of persons on board must be capable of being launched with the survival 
crafts' full complement of persons and equipment within a period of 30 
minutes from the time the abandon-ship signal is given.


Sec. 199.250  Drills.

    (a) An abandon-ship drill and a fire drill, as described in 
Sec. 199.180, must be conducted on each passenger vessel at least 
weekly.
    (b) The entire crew does not have to be involved in every drill, 
but each crewmember must participate in an abandon-ship drill and a 
fire drill each month.
    (c) Passengers and special personnel must be strongly encouraged to 
attend abandon-ship and fire drills.

Subpart D--Additional Requirements for Cargo Vessels


Sec. 199.260  General.

    Cargo vessels and special purpose vessels, as described in 
Sec. 199.10(g), must meet the requirements in this subpart in addition 
to the requirements in subparts A and B of this part.


Sec. 199.261  Survival craft.

    (a) Each survival craft must be approved and equipped as follows:
    (1) Each lifeboat must be a totally enclosed lifeboat approved 
under approval series 160.135 and equipped as specified in table 
199.175 of this part.
    (2) Each inflatable liferaft must be approved under approval series 
160.151 and be equipped with a SOLAS A pack.
    (3) Each rigid liferaft must be approved under approval series 
160.118 and be equipped as specified in table 199.175 of this part.
    (4) Each liferaft must have a capacity of six persons or more.
    (5) Each marine evacuation system must be approved under approval 
series 160.175.
    (b) Each cargo vessel must carry--
    (1) On each side of the vessel, lifeboats with an aggregate 
capacity sufficient to accommodate the total number of persons on 
board; and
    (2) Liferafts--
    (i) With an aggregate capacity sufficient to accommodate the total 
number of persons on board and that are stowed in a position providing 
for easy side-to-side transfer at a single open deck level; or
    (ii) With an aggregate capacity on each side sufficient to 
accommodate the total number of persons on board.
    (c) A cargo vessel is not required to meet the requirements of 
paragraph (b) of this section if it carries--
    (1) Lifeboats capable of being free-fall launched over the stern of 
the vessel that have an aggregate capacity sufficient to accommodate 
the total number of persons on board; and
    (2) On each side of the vessel, liferafts with an aggregate 
capacity sufficient to accommodate the total number of persons on board 
with the liferafts on at least one side of the vessel being served by 
launching appliances or marine evacuation systems.
    (d) Cargo vessels less than 85 meters (278 feet) in length, with 
the exception of tank vessels, are not required to meet paragraphs (b) 
or (c) of this section if they meet the following:
    (1) On each side of the vessel--
    (i) Liferafts are carried with an aggregate capacity sufficient to 
accommodate the total number of persons on board and are stowed in a 
position providing for easy side-to-side transfer at a single open deck 
level; or
    (ii) Liferafts are carried with an aggregate capacity sufficient to 
accommodate 150 percent of the total number of persons on board. If the 
rescue boat required under Sec. 199.262 is also a lifeboat, its 
capacity may be included to meet the aggregate capacity requirement.
    (2) In the event the largest survival craft on either side of the 
vessel is lost or rendered unserviceable, there must be survival craft 
available for use on each side of the vessel, including those which are 
stowed in a position providing for side-to-side transfer at a

[[Page 25332]]

single open deck level, with a capacity sufficient to accommodate the 
total number of persons on board.
    (e) Each cargo vessel on which the horizontal distance from the 
extreme end of the stem or stern of the vessel to the nearest end of 
the closest survival craft is more than 100 meters (328 feet) must 
carry, in addition to the liferafts required by paragraphs (b)(2) and 
(c)(2) of this section, a liferaft stowed as far forward or aft, or one 
as far forward and another as far aft, as is reasonable and 
practicable. The requirement for the liferaft to float free under 
Sec. 199.130(c)(7) does not apply to a liferaft under this paragraph, 
provided it is arranged for quick manual release.
    (f) Each lifeboat on a tank vessel certificated to carry cargos 
that emit toxic vapors or gases must be approved as a lifeboat with a 
self-contained air support system or a fire-protected lifeboat.
    (g) Each lifeboat must be approved as a fire-protected lifeboat if 
it is carried on a tank vessel certificated to carry cargos that have a 
flashpoint less than 60  deg.C as determined under ASTM D93-94.


Sec. 199.262  Rescue boats.

    (a) Each cargo vessel must carry at least one rescue boat. Each 
rescue boat must be approved under approval series 160.156 and be 
equipped as specified in table 199.175 of this part.
    (b) A lifeboat is accepted as a rescue boat if, in addition to 
being approved under approval series 160.135, it also is approved under 
approval series 160.156.


Sec. 199.271  Lifebuoys.

    Each cargo vessel must carry the number of lifebuoys prescribed in 
table 199.271 of this section.

       Table 199.271.--Requirements for Lifebuoys on Cargo Vessels      
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Minimum  
             Length of vessel in meters (feet)                number of 
                                                              lifebuoys 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under 100 (328)............................................            8
100 (328) and under 150 (492)..............................           10
150 (492) and under 200 (656)..............................           12
200 (656) and over.........................................           14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sec. 199.273  Immersion suits.

    (a) Each cargo vessel must carry an immersion suit approved under 
approval series 160.171 of an appropriate size for each person on 
board.
    (b) If watch stations, work stations, or work sites are remote from 
cabins, staterooms, or berthing areas and the immersion suits stowed in 
those locations, there must be, in addition to the immersion suites 
required under paragraph (a) of this section, enough immersion suits 
stowed at the watch stations, work stations, or work sites to equal the 
number of persons normally on watch in, or assigned to, those locations 
at any time.
    (c) The immersion suits required under paragraphs (a) and (b) of 
this section are not required if the cargo vessel operates only on 
routes between 32 degrees north and 32 degrees south latitude.
    (d) The immersion suits required under this section can be included 
to meet the requirements of Sec. 199.70(c).


Sec. 199.280  Survival craft embarkation and launching arrangements.

    (a) Each lifeboat must be arranged to be boarded and launched 
directly from the stowed position.
    (b) Each davit-launched liferaft must be arranged to be boarded and 
launched from a position immediately adjacent to the stowed position or 
from a position where, under Sec. 199.130(b)(4), the liferaft is 
transferred before launching.
    (c) Cargo vessels of 20,000 tons gross tonnage or more must carry 
lifeboats that are capable of being launched, using painters if 
necessary, with the vessel making headway at speeds up to 5 knots in 
clam water.
    (d) All survival craft required for abandonment by the total number 
of persons on board must be capable of being launched with their full 
complement of persons and equipment within 10 minutes from the time the 
abandon-ship signal is given.
    (e) On a tank vessel carrying crude oil, product, chemicals, or 
liquefied gases, notwithstanding the requirements of Sec. 199.150(b), 
each launching appliance, together with its lowering and recovery gear, 
must be arranged so that the fully equipped survival craft the 
launching appliance serves can be safely lowered on the lower side of 
the vessel at the angle of heel after damage calculated in accordance 
with--
    (1) The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution 
from Ships, 1973, as amended by the Protocal of 1978 (MARPOL 73/78), in 
the case of an oil tanker;
    (2) The International Code for the Construction and Equipment of 
Ships carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk, in the case of a chemical 
tanker; or
    (3) The International Code for the Construction and Equipment of 
Ships carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk, in the case of a gas carrier.


Sec. 199.290  Stowage of survival craft.

    (a) To meet the requirements of Sec. 199.130(b)(1), each lifeboat--
    (1) On a cargo vessel 80 meters (262 feet) or more in length but 
less than 120 meters (393 feet) in length, must be stowed with the 
after-end of the lifeboat at a distance not less than one length of the 
lifeboat forward of the vessel's propeller; and
    (2) On a cargo vessel 120 meters (393 feet) or more in length, must 
be stowed with the after end of the lifeboat not less than 1.5 times 
the length of the lifeboat forward of the vessel's propeller.
    (b) On a tank vessel certificated to carry cargos that have a 
flashpoint less the 60  deg.C as determined under ASTM D93-94, each 
lifeboat or launching appliance of aluminum construction must be 
protected by a water spray system meeting the requirements of part 34, 
subpart 34.25 of this chapter.
    (c) Other than the stowage position for the liferaft required under 
Sec. 199.261(e), no stowage position or muster and embarkation station 
for a survival craft on a tank vessel may be located on or above a 
cargo tank, slop tank, or other tank containing explosives or hazardous 
liquids.
    (d) Each lifeboat and davit-launched liferaft must be arranged to 
be boarded by its full complement of persons within 3 minutes from the 
time the instruction to board is given.

Subpart E--Additional Requirements for Vessels Not Subject to SOLAS


Sec. 199.500  General.

    This subpart sets out requirements in addition to the requirements 
in subparts A, B, C, and D of this part applicable to vessels not 
subject to SOLAS.

[[Page 25333]]

Sec. 199.510  EPIRB requirements.

    (a) Each vessel must carry a category 1 406 MHz satellite EPIRB 
meeting the requirements of 47 CFR part 80.
    (b) When the vessel is underway, the EPIRB must be stowed in its 
float-free bracket with the controls set for automatic activation and 
be mounted in a manner so that it will float free if the vessel sinks.


Sec. 199.520  Lifeboat requirements.

    When the vessel's lifeboats are used to carry persons to and from 
the vessel in a harbor or at an anchorage, the survival craft remaining 
on the vessel must have an aggregate capacity sufficient to accommodate 
all persons remaining on board.

Subpart F--Exemptions and Alternatives for Vessels Not Subject to 
SOLAS


Sec. 199.600  General.

    This subpart sets out specific exemptions and alternatives to 
requirements in subparts A, B, C, D, and E of this part for vessels not 
subject to SOLAS.


Sec. 199.610  Exemptions for vessels in specified services.

    (a) All vessels. Vessels operating in coastwise; Great Lakes; 
lakes, bays, and sounds; and rivers service are exempt from 
requirements in subparts A through E of this part as specified in this 
paragraph and in table 199.610(a) of this section.
    (1) Non-self propelled vessels. Non-self propelled vessels need not 
meet the EPIRB requirement in Sec. 199.510 and the rescue boat 
requirements in Secs. 199.202 or 199.262 if they are in tow, moored to 
or alongside a MODU or a self-propelled vessel, or moored to shore.
    (2) Vessels operating on short runs. The distress signals 
requirement in Sec. 199.60(c) need not be met if the vessel operates on 
a route with a duration of 30 minutes or less.
    (3) Vessels operating in shallow water. The float-free link 
described in Secs. 199.175(b)(21)(ii)(B) and 199.640(j)(4)(E) is not 
required if the vessel operates on a route on which the water depth is 
never more than the length of the painter.
    (4) Vessels operating in fresh water. The survival craft fall 
renewal described in Sec. 199.190(j) is not required if the vessel 
operates on a fresh water route and inspection shows that the falls are 
not damaged by corrosion.

                       Table 199.610(a).--Exemptions for All Vessels in Specified Services                      
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                          Service                               
                                         -----------------------------------------------------------------------
    Section or paragraph in this part                                         Lakes, bays, and                  
                                              Coastwise        Great Lakes         sounds            Rivers     
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
199.60(c): Distress signals.............  Not Exempt        Not Exempt        Exempt            Exempt.         
199.70(a)(3)(iii): Lifebuoys fitted with  Exempt            Exempt            Exempt            Exempt.         
 smoke signals.                                                                                                 
199.70(b)(1)(i): Carriage of additional   (\1\)             (\1\)             (\1\)             (\1\).          
 child-size lifejackets.                                                                                        
199.70(b)(4)(i): Lifejacket lights......  (\2\)             (\2\)             Exempt            Exempt.         
199.70(b)(4)(ii): Lifejacket whistles...  Exempt            Exempt            Exempt            Exempt.         
199.70(c): Immersion suits for rescue     Not Exempt        Not Exempt        Exempt            Exempt.         
 boat crew members.                                                                                             
199.70(c)(4)(ii): Immersion suit          Exempt            Exempt            Exempt            Exempt.         
 whistles.                                                                                                      
199.100(c)(1): Requirements for person-   Not Exempt        Not Exempt        Not Exempt        Exempt.         
 in-charge of survival craft.                                                                                   
199.100(d): Designation of second-in-     (\3\)             (\3\)             (\3\)             Exempt.         
 command of survival craft.                                                                                     
199.100(f): Embarkation ladders at        (\4\)             (\4\)             (\4\)             (\4\).          
 launching stations.                                                                                            
199.130(a)(4): Survival craft             Not Exempt        Not Exempt        Exempt            Exempt.         
 embarkation position.                                                                                          
199.170: Line-throwing appliance........  Not Exempt        Exempt            Exempt            Exempt.         
199.510: EPIRB requirement..............  (\5\)             (\6\)             Exempt            Exempt.         
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:                                                                                                          
(\1\) Exempt if the vessel does not carry persons smaller than the lower size limit of the lifejackets carried. 
(\2\) Exempt if the vessel is a ferry or has no overnight accommodations.                                       
(\3\) Exempt if the survival craft has a carrying capacity of less than 40 persons.                             
(\4\) Exempt if the distance is less than 3 meters (10 feet) from the embarkation deck to the water with the    
  vessel in its lightest seagoing operating condition.                                                          
(\5\) Exempt if the vessel is a cargo vessel under 300 tons gross tonnage and operates on a route no more than 3
  nautical miles from shore.                                                                                    
(\6\) Exempt if the vessel operates on a route no more than 3 nautical miles from shore.                        

    (b) Passenger vessels. In addition to the exemptions in paragraph 
(a) of this section, passenger vessels operating in coastwise; Great 
Lakes; lakes, bays, and sounds; and rivers service are exempt from 
requirements in subparts A through E of this part as specified in table 
199.610(b) of this section.

                    Table 199.610(b).--Exemptions for Passenger Vessels in Specified Services                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                     Service                                    
  Section or paragraph in this  --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              part                                                         Lakes, bays, and                     
                                      Coastwise           Great Lakes           sounds              Rivers      
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
199.203: Marshalling of          Not Exempt           Exempt              Exempt              Exempt.           
 liferafts.                                                                                                     
199.211(b): Lights on lifebuoys  (\1\)                (\1\)               (\1\)               (\1\)             
199.212(a): Carriage of          Exempt               Exempt              Exempt              Exempt.           
 additional five percent                                                                                        
 lifejackets.                                                                                                   
199.214: Immersion suits and     Not Exempt           Not Exempt          Exempt              Exempt.           
 thermal protective aids in                                                                                     
 lifeboats.                                                                                                     
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note:                                                                                                           
\1\ Exept if the length of vessel is under 60 meters (197 feet) and there are self-igniting lights attached to  
  at least one-half the required lifebuoys.                                                                     

    (c) Cargo vessels. In addition to the exemptions in paragraph (a) 
of this section, cargo vessels operating in coastwise; Great Lakes; 
lakes, bays, and sounds; and rivers service are exempt from 
requirements in subparts A

[[Page 25334]]

through E of this part as specified in table 199.610(c) of this 
section.

                                          Table 199.610(c).--Exemptions for Cargo Vessels in Specified Services                                         
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                           Service                                                      
                                   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Section or paragraph in this part                                                                             Lakes, Bays, and                         
                                            Oceans                 Coastwise              Great Lakes               Sounds                 Rivers       
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
199.70(a)(3)(ii): Lights on         Not exempt              (\1\)                   (\1\)                   (\1\)                  (\1\)                
 lifebuoys.                                                                                                                                             
199.80(b): Muster list............  (\2\)                   (\2\)                   (\2\)                   (\2\)                  (\2\)                
199.262(a): Rescue boats..........  (2,3)                   (\3\)                   (\3\)                   (\3\)                  (\3\)                
199.273: Immersion suits..........  Not exempt              Not exempt              Not exempt              Exempt                 Exempt               
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:                                                                                                                                                  
\1\ Exempt if the length of vessel is under 30 meters (99 feet).                                                                                        
\2\ Exempt if the vessel is under 500 tons gross tonnage.                                                                                               
\3\ Exempt if--(i) the OCMI determines the vessel is arranged to allow a helpless person to be recovered from the water.                                
 (ii) recovery of the helpless person can be observed from the navigating bridge; and                                                                   
 (iii) the vessel does not regularly engage in operations that restrict its maneuverability.                                                            

Sec. 199.620  Alternatives for all vessels in a specified service.

    (a) General. Vessels operating in oceans; coastwise; Great Lakes; 
lakes, bays, and sounds; and rivers service may comply with alternative 
requirements to subparts A through E of this part as described in this 
section for the services specified in table 199.620(a) of this section.

                                                       Table 199.620(a).--Alternative Requirements for All Vessels in a Specified Service                                                       
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                Service and reference to alternative requirement section or paragraph                                           
 Section or paragraph in this part  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                 Oceans                         Coastwise                     Great Lakes               Lakes, Bays and Sounds                 Rivers           
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
199.70(a): Lifebuoy approval series  199.620(b) 1..................  199.620(b) 1..................  199.620(b)...................  199.620(b)...................  199.620(b).                  
199.70(b): Lifejacket approval       199.620(c) 2..................  199.620(c) 2..................  199.620(c)...................  199.620(c)...................  199.620(c).                  
 series.                                                                                                                                                                                        
199.70(b)(1): Number of lifejackets  No Alternative................  199.620(d)....................  199.620(d)...................  199.620(d)...................  199.620(d).                  
 carried.                                                                                                                                                                                       
199.70(b)(4)(i): Lifejacket light    No Alternative................  199.620(e)....................  199.620(e)...................  Not Applicable...............  Not Applicable.              
 approval series.                                                                                                                                                                               
199.110(f): Embarkation ladder.....  199.620(f)....................  199.620(f)....................  199.620(f)...................  199.620(f)...................  199.620(f).                  
199.130(b): Survival craft stowage   No Alternative................  No Alternative................  199.625(g)...................  199.625(g)...................  199.625(g).                  
 position.                                                                                                                                                                                      
199.170: Line-throwing appliance     199.620(h) 2..................  199.620(h) 3..................  Not Applicable...............  Not Applicable...............  Not Applicable.              
 approval series.                                                                                                                                                                               
199.201(a)(2) or .261(a)(2):         199.620(l) 4..................  199.620(l)....................  199.620(l)...................  199.620(l)...................  199.620(l).                  
 Inflatable liferaft equipment.                                                                                                                                                                 
199.175: Lifeboat, rescue boat, and  199.620(i) 4..................  199.620(i)....................  199.620(j)...................  199.620(j)...................  199.620(j).                  
 rigid liferaft equipment.                                                                                                                                                                      
199.201(a)(2) and 199.261: Liferaft  No Alternative................  199.620(k)....................  199.620(k)...................  199.620(k)...................  199.620(k).                  
 approval series.                                                                                                                                                                               
199.510: EPIRB requirement.........  199.620(m)(1).................  199.620(m)(1).................  199.620(m)...................  Not Applicable...............  Not Applicable.              
199.190(c): Spares and repair        199.620(n)....................  199.620(n)....................  199.620(n)...................  199.620(n)...................  199.620(n).                  
 equipment.                                                                                                                                                                                     
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:                                                                                                                                                                                          
1 Alternative applies if lifebuoy is orange.                                                                                                                                                    
2 Alternative applies only to cargo vessels that are less than 500 tons gross tonnage.                                                                                                          
3 Alternative applies to cargo vessels that are less than 500 tons gross tonnage and to all passenger vessels.                                                                                  
4 Alternative applies to passenger vessels limited to operating no more than 50 nautical miles from shore.                                                                                      

    (b) Lifebuoy approval series. As an alternative to a lifebuoy 
approved under approval series 160.150, vessels may carry a lifebuoy 
approved under approval series 160.050.
    (c) Lifejackets approval series. As an alternative to a lifejacket 
meeting the approval requirements in Sec. 199.70, vessels may carry a 
lifejacket approved under approval series 160.002, 160.005, 160.055, or 
160.077.
    (d) Lifejacket quantity. Vessels may carry lifejackets as follows:
    (1) If lifejackets are stowed in cabins, staterooms, or berthing 
areas that are readily accessible to each watch or work station, the 
requirement in Sec. 199.70(b)(2)(iv) to have lifejackets at each watch 
or work station need not be met.
    (2) If the vessel carries lifejackets that are designated extended-
size, then the number of child-size lifejackets carried to meet 
Sec. 199.70(b)(1)(i) may be reduced. To take the reduction in child-
size lifejackets, extended-size lifejackets having the same lower size 
limit must be substituted for all of the required adult lifejackets. 
The number of child-size lifejackets required depends on the lower size 
limit of the extended-size lifejackets and is calculated by any one of 
the following formulas where PC is the number of child-size lifejackets 
expressed as a percentage of the number

[[Page 25335]]

of lifejackets required under Sec. 199.70(b)(1):
    (i) PC=LS4.1, where LS equals the lower size limit 
expressed in kilograms.
    (ii) PC=LS9, where LS equals the lower size limit expressed 
in pounds.
    (iii) PC=(LS-81)7.6, where LS equals the lower size limit 
expressed in centimeters.
    (iv) PC=(LS-32)3, where LS equals the lower size limit 
expressed in inches.
    (e) LIfejacket light approval series. As an alternative to lights 
approved under approval series 161.112, vessels may use lights for 
lifejackets and immersions suits approved under series 161.012. 
Chemiluminescent-type lifejacket lights approved under approval series 
161.012 are not permitted on vessels certificated to operate on waters 
where water temperature may drop below 10  deg.C (50  deg.F).
    (f) Embarkation ladder. An embarkation ladder may be a chain ladder 
approved under approval series 160.017.
    (g) Survival craft stowage positions. Vessels having widely 
separated accommodation and service spaces may have, as an alternative 
to the requirements of Sec. 199.130(b), all required lifeboats and 50 
percent of the required liferafts stowed as close as possible to the 
accommodation and service space that normally holds the greatest number 
of persons, with the remainder of the liferafts stowed as close as 
possible to each other accommodation and service space.
    (h) Line-throwing appliance approval series. As an alternative to a 
line-throwing appliance that meets the requirements in Sec. 199.170, 
vessels may carry a line-throwing appliance approved under approval 
series 160.031, which may have an auxiliary line that is at least 150 
meters (500 feet).
    (i) Lifeboat, rescue boat, and rigid liferaft equipment; oceans and 
coastwise. Lifeboats, rescue boats, and rigid liferafts may carry the 
equipment specified in table 199.175 of this part for vessels on a 
short international voyage.
    (j) Lifeboat, rescue boat, and rigid liferaft equipment; other 
services. As an alternative to meeting the survival craft equipment 
requirements of Sec. 199.175, a vessel may carry the equipment 
specified in table 199.620(j) of this section under the vessel's 
category of service. Each item in the table has the same description as 
in Sec. 199.175.

                                                       Table 199.620(j).--Survival Craft Equipment                                                      
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 Great Lakes                 Lakes, bays and sounds                   Rivers            
 Item                                                 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  No.                        Item                                   Rigid      Rescue                Rigid      Rescue                Rigid      Rescue 
                                                        Lifeboat   liferaft     boat     Lifeboat   liferaft     boat     Lifeboat   liferaft     boat  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.....  Bailer \1\...................................          1          1          1          1          1          1  .........  .........  .........
2.....  Bilge pump \2\...............................          1  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........
3.....  Boathook.....................................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
4.....  Bucket \3\...................................          1  .........          1          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........
9.....  Fire extinguisher............................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
12....  Flashlight...................................          1          1          1  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........
13....  Hatchet......................................          2  .........  .........          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........
15....  Instruction card.............................  .........          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........          1  .........
18....  Ladder.......................................          1  .........          1  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........
20....  Oars, units \4\ \5\..........................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
        Paddles......................................  .........          2  .........  .........          2  .........  .........          2  .........
21....  Painter......................................          2          1          1          1          1          1          1          1          1
23....  Pump \6\.....................................  .........  .........          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........          1
26....  Repair kit \6\...............................  .........  .........          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........          1
27....  Sea anchor...................................          1          2          1  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........
28....  Searchlight..................................          1  .........          1  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........
31....  Signal, hand flare...........................          6          6  .........          6          6  .........  .........  .........  .........
32....  Signal, parachute flare......................          4          4  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........
33....  Skates and fenders\7\........................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
34....  Sponge \6\...................................  .........          2          2  .........          2          2  .........  .........  .........
35....  Survival instructions........................          1          1  .........          1          1  .........  .........  .........  .........
38....  Tool kit.....................................          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........          1  .........  .........
39....  Towline \8\..................................          1  .........          1          1  .........          1          1  .........          1
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:                                                                                                                                                  
\1\ Each liferaft approved for 13 persons or more must carry two of these items.                                                                        
\2\ Not required for boats of self-bailing design.                                                                                                      
\3\ Not required for inflated or rigid-inflated rescue boats.                                                                                           
\4\ Oars not required on a free-fall lifeboat; a unit of oars means the number of oars specified by the boat manufacturer.                              
\5\ Rescue boats may substitute buoyant paddles for oars, as specified by the manufacturer.                                                             
\6\ Not required for a rigid rescue boat.                                                                                                               
\7\ Required if specified by the manufacturer.                                                                                                          
\8\ Required only if the lifeboat is also the rescue boat.                                                                                              

    (k) Liferaft approval series. As an alternative to liferafts that 
meet the requirements in Secs. 199.201(a) and 199.261(a), vessels may--
    (1) Carry inflatable liferafts approved under approval series 
160.051; and
    (2) Have liferafts with a capacity less than six persons.
    (1) Inflatable liferaft equipment. As an alternative to the SOLAS A 
Pack, vessels may have a SOLAS B Pack for each inflatable liferaft.
    (m) EPIRB requirements. As an alternative to EPIRBs that meet the 
requirements in Sec. 199.510, vessels may have the following:
    (1) Until February 1, 1999, a Coast Guard-approved Class A EPIRB 
manufactured after October 1, 1988, and installed on the vessel on or 
before October 1, 1996.
    (2) Until February 1, 1999, two Class C EPIRBs installed on the 
vessel on or before October 1, 1996. Class C EPIRBs must be installed--
    (i) In a weathertight enclosure;
    (ii) In a readily accessible location;
    (iii) One on each side of the vessel;

[[Page 25336]]

    (iv) If the vessel has two or more widely separated deckhouses, at 
separate deckhouses; and
    (v) At or near a principal embarkation station.
    (n) Spare parts and repair equipment. As an alternative to carrying 
spare parts and repair equipment as required in Sec. 199.190(c), a 
vessel need not carry spare parts and repair equipment if it operates 
daily out of a shore base where spare parts and repair equipment are 
available.


Sec. 199.630  Alternatives for passenger vessels in a specified 
service.

    (a) In addition to the alternatives for certain requirements in 
Sec. 199.620, passenger vessels operating in oceans; coastwise; Great 
Lakes; lakes, bays, and sounds; and rivers service may comply with 
alternative requirements to subparts A through C of this part as 
described in this section for the services specified in table 
199.630(a) of this section.

                                                    Table 199.630(a).--Alternative Requirements for Passenger Vessels in a Specified Service                                                    
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                Service and reference to alternative requirement section or paragraph                                           
 Section or paragraph in this part -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                Oceans                       Coastwise                      Great Lakes               Lakes, bays, and sounds                 Rivers            
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
199.60(c): Distress signals.......  No Alternative...............  No Alternative...............  199.630(b)....................  Not Applicable................  Not Applicable.               
199.201(b): Number and type of      199.630(c) \1\...............  199.630(c) or 199.630(d) \2\.  199.630(c) or 199.630(d) \2\    199.630(c) or 199.630(d) or     199.630(c) or 199.630(d) or   
 survival craft carried.                                                                           or 199.630(e) or 199.630(f)     199.630(e) or 199.630(f) \2\    199.630(e) or 199.630(f) or  
                                                                                                   \2\ or 199.630(g) \2\ \3\ or    or 199.630(g) \2\ \3\ or        199.630(g) or 199.630(h). \4\
                                                                                                   199.630(h) \4\.                 199.630(h) \4\.                                              
199.202: Rescue boat approval       No Alternative...............  No Alternative...............  No Alternative................  199.630(i) \5\................  199.630(i).                   
 series.                                                                                                                                                                                        
19.203: Marshalling of liferafts..  No Alternative...............  199.630(j)...................  Not Applicable................  Not Applicable................  Not Applicable.               
1992.211(a): Quantity of lifebuoys  No Alternative...............  199.630(k)...................  199.630(k)....................  199.630(k)....................  199.630(k).                   
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:                                                                                                                                                                                          
(1) Alternative applies if the vessel operates on a route no more than 50 nautical miles from shore.                                                                                            
(2) Alternative applies if the vessel is a ferry or has no overnight accommodations.                                                                                                            
(3) Alternative applies during periods of the year the vessel operates in warm water.                                                                                                           
(4) Alternative applies if the vessel operates in shallow water not more than 3 miles from shore where the vessel cannot sink deep enough to submerge the topmost deck.                         
(5) Alternative applies if the vessel operates on sheltered lakes or harbors.                                                                                                                   

    (b) As an alternative to distress signals that meet the 
requirements of Sec. 199.60, vessels may carry at least 12 hand red 
flare distress signals approved under approval series 160.021 or 
160.121.
    (c) As an alternative to the lifeboat capacity requirements of 
Sec. 199.201(b)(1)(i), vessels may carry lifeboats with an aggregate 
capacity sufficient to accommodate not less than 30 percent of the 
total number of persons on board. These lifeboats must be equally 
distributed, as far as practicable, on each side of the vessel.
    (d) As an alternative to the survival craft requirements of 
Sec. 199.201(b), vessels may carry inflatable buoyant apparatus having 
an aggregate capacity, together with the capacities of any lifeboats, 
rescue boats, and liferafts carried on board sufficient to, accommodate 
the total number of persons on board. These inflatable buoyant 
apparatus must--
    (1) Be served by launching appliances or marine evacuation systems 
evenly distributed on each side of the vessel if the embarkation deck 
is more than 3 meters (10 feet) above--
    (i) The waterline under normal operating conditions; or
    (ii) The equilibrium waterline after the vessel is subjected to the 
assumed damage and subdivision requirements in part 171 of this 
chapter;
    (2) Be stowed in accordance with the requirements of Secs. 199.130 
(a) and (c); and
    (3) Be equipped in accordance with the requirements in table 
199.640(j) of this part.
    (e) As an alternative to the survival craft requirements of 
Sec. 199.201(b), vessels may carry--
    (1) Liferafts having an aggregate capacity, together with the 
capacities of any lifeboats carried on board, sufficient to accommodate 
the total number of persons on board that are served by launching 
appliances or marine evacuation systems evenly distributed on each side 
of the vessel; and
    (2) In addition to the liferafts required in paragraph (e)(1) of 
this section, additional liferafts that have an aggregate capacity 
sufficient to accommodate at least 10 percent of the total number of 
persons, or equal to the capacity of the largest single survival craft 
on the vessel, whichever is the greater. The additional liferafts are 
not required to be stowed in accordance with Sec. 199.130(c), but they 
must be served by at least one launching appliance or marine evacuation 
system on each side of the vessel.
    (f) As an alternative to the survival craft requirements of 
Sec. 199.201(b), vessels must have a safety assessment approved by the 
local OCMI that addresses the following:
    (1) The navigation and vessel safety conditions within the vessel's 
planned operating area including--
    (i) The scope and degree of the risks or hazards to which the 
vessel will be subject during normal operations;
    (ii) The existing vessel traffic characteristics and trends, 
including traffic volume; the sizes and types of vessels involved; 
potential interference with the flow of commercial traffic; the 
presence of any unusual cargoes; and other similar factors;
    (iii) The port and waterway configuration and variations in local 
conditions of geography, climate, and other similar factors; and
    (iv) Environmental factors.
    (2) A comprehensive shipboard safety management and contingency 
plan that is tailored to the particular vessel, is easy to use, is 
understood by vessel management personnel both on board and ashore, is 
updated regularly, and includes--
    (i) Guidance to assist the vessel's crew in meeting the demand of 
catastrophic vessel damage;

[[Page 25337]]

    (ii) Procedures to mobilize emergency response teams;
    (iii) Procedures for moving passengers from the vessel's spaces to 
areas protected from fire and smoke, to embarkation areas, and off the 
vessel. The procedures must address provisions for passengers with 
physical or mental impairments;
    (iv) Lifts of external organizations that the vessel's operator 
would call for assistance in the event of an incident;
    (v) Procedures for establishing and maintaining communications on 
board the vessel and with shoreside contacts; and
    (vi) Guidance on theoretical, practical, and actual simulation 
training that includes the personnel or organizations identified in the 
plan so they can practice their roles in the event of an incident.
    (g) As an alternative to the survival craft requirements of 
Sec. 199.201(b), vessels may carry inflatable buoyant apparatus having 
an aggregate capacity, together with the capacities of any lifeboats, 
rescue boats and liferafts carried on board, sufficient to accommodate 
67 percent of the total number of persons on board. These inflatable 
buoyant apparatus must meet the arrangement requirements of 
Secs. 199.630 (d)(1) through (d)(3).
    (h) A vessel need not comply with the requirements for survival 
craft in Sec. 199.201(b) if the vessel operates--
    (1) On a route that is in shallow water not more than 3 miles from 
shore and the vessel cannot sink deep enough to submerge the topmost 
deck; or
    (2) Where the cognizant OCMI determines that survivors can wade 
ashore.
    (i) As an alternative to the rescue boat required in Sec. 199.202, 
vessels may carry a rescue boat meeting the requirements of part 160, 
subpart 160.056 of this chapter if it is equipped with a motor and 
meets the following:
    (1) The towline for the rescue boat must be at least the same size 
and length as the rescue boat painter.
    (2) The rescue boat must meet the embarkation, launching, and 
recovery arrangement requirements in Secs. 199.160 (b) through (f). The 
OCMI may allow deviations from the rescue boat launching requirements 
based on the characteristics of the boat and the conditions of the 
vessel's route.
    (j) As an alternative to the requirements of Sec. 199.203(a), a 
vessel that meets the subdivision requirements in Sec. 171.068 of this 
chapter may meet the requirements of Sec. 199.203(b).
    (k) Vessels carrying lifebuoys may carry--
    (1) The number of lifebuoys specified in table 199.630(k) of this 
section instead of the number required in Sec. 199.199.211; and
    (2) If the vessel carries less than four lifebuoys, at least two 
with a self-igniting light attached to the lifebuoy. A buoyant lifeline 
may be fitted to one of the lifebuoys with a self-igniting light.

              Table 199.630(k).--Requirements for Lifebuoys             
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Minimum 
              Length of vessel in meters (feet)                number of
                                                               lifebuoys
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under 30 (98)................................................          3
30 (98) and under 60 (196)...................................          4
60 (196) and under 90 (297)..................................          5
90 (297) and under 120 (393).................................         12
120 (393) and under 180 (590)................................         18
180 (590) and under 240 (787)................................         24
240 (787) and over...........................................         30
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sec. 199.640  Alternatives for cargo vessels in a specified service.

    (a) In addition to the alternatives for certain requirements in 
Sec. 199.620, cargo vessels operating in oceans; coastwise; Great 
Lakes; lakes, bays, and sounds; and rivers service may comply with 
alternative requirements to subparts A, B, and D of this part as 
described in this section for the services specified in table 
199.640(a) of this section.

                                                       Table 199.640(a)--Alternative Requirements for Cargo Vessels in a Specified Service                                                      
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                       Service or reference to alternative requirement section                                                  
 Section or paragraph in this part -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                Oceans                       Coastwise                      Great Lakes               Lakes, bays, and sounds                 Rivers            
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
199.60(c): Distress signals.......  199.640(b) \1\...............  199.640(b) \1\...............  199.640(b) \1\ or 199.630(b)..  Not Applicable................  Not Applicable.               
199.261: Number and type of         199.640(c) \6\...............  199.640(c) \6\...............  199.640(c) \2\ or 199.640(d)    199.640(c) \2\ or 199.640(d)    199.640(c) or 199.640(d) or   
 survival craft carried.                                                                           or 199.640(e) \3\ or            or 199.640(e) \3\ or            199.640(e) \3\ or            
                                                                                                   199.640(f) \4\.                 199.640(f) \4\.                 199.640(f).\4\               
199.262: Rescue boat substitution.  No Alternative...............  199.640(g)...................  199.640(g)....................  199.640(g) or 199.640(h) \5\..  199.640(g) or 199.640(h).     
199.271: Lifebuoy quantity........  No Alternative...............  199.640(i)...................  199.640(i)....................  199.640(i)....................  199.640(i).                   
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:                                                                                                                                                                                          
\1\ Alternative applies to vessels less than 150 tons gross tonnage that do not carry passengers or persons in addition to the crew.                                                            
\2\ Alternative applies to cargo vessels less than 85 meters in length, tank vessels less than 500 tons gross tonnage, and nonself-propelled vessels.                                           
\3\ Alternative applies during periods of the year that the vessel operates in warm water.                                                                                                      
\4\ Alternative applies if the vessel operates in shallow water not more than 3 miles from shore where the vessel cannot sink deep enough to submerge the topmost deck.                         
\5\ Alternative applies if the vessel operates on sheltered lakes or harbors.                                                                                                                   
\6\ Alternative applies to vessels less than 500 tons gross tonnage.                                                                                                                            

    (b) Vessels of less than 150 tons gross tonnage that do not carry 
persons other than the crew, may carry, as an alternative to distress 
signals that meet the requirements of Sec. 199.60, six hand red flare 
distress signals approved under approval series 160.021 and six hand 
orange smoke distress signals approved under approval series 160.037.
    (c) As an alternative to the survival craft requirements of 
Secs. 199.261(b), (c), or (d), vessels may carry one or more liferafts 
with an aggregate capacity sufficient to accommodate the total number 
of persons on board. The liferafts must be--
    (1) Readily transferable for launching on either side of the 
vessel; or
    (2) Supplemented with additional liferafts to bring the total 
capacity of the liferafts available on each side of the vessel to at 
least 100 percent of the total

[[Page 25338]]

number of persons on board. If additional liferafts are provided and 
the rescue boat required under Sec. 199.262 is also a lifeboat, its 
capacity may be included in meeting the aggregate capacity requirement.
    (d) As an alternative to the survival craft requirements in 
Secs. 199.261 (b), (c), or (d), vessels may carry one or more totally 
enclosed lifeboats with an aggregate capacity sufficient to accommodate 
the total number of persons on board and one or more liferafts with an 
aggregate capacity sufficient to accommodate the total number of 
persons on board. This combination of survival craft must meet the 
following:
    (1) The aggregate capacity of the lifeboats and liferafts on each 
side of the vessel must be sufficient to accommodate the total number 
of persons on board.
    (2) If the survival craft are stowed more than 100 meters (328 feet 
from either the stem or the stern of the vessel, an additional liferaft 
must be carried and stowed as far forward or aft as is reasonable and 
practicable. The requirement for the liferaft to float free under 
Sec. 199.290(b) does not apply to a liferaft under this paragraph, 
provided the liferaft is arranged for quick manual release.
    (e) As an alternative to the survival craft requirements in 
Secs. 199.261 (b), (c), or (d), during periods of the year the vessel 
operates in warm water, a vessel may carry lifefloats with an aggregate 
capacity sufficient to accommodate the total number of people on board. 
The lifefloat launching arrangement, stowage, and equipment must meet 
the requirements in Sec. 199.640(j).
    (f) A vessel need not comply with the requirements for survival 
craft in Secs. 199.261 (b), (c), or (d) if the vessel operates--
    (1) On a route that is in shallow water not more than 3 miles from 
shore and where the vessel cannot sink deep enough to submerge the 
topmost deck; or
    (2) Where the cognizant OCMI determines that survivors can wade 
ashore.
    (g) As an alternative to the rescue boat requirement in 
Sec. 199.262(a), vessels may carry a motor-propelled workboat or a 
launch that meets all the embarkation, launching, and recovery 
arrangement requirements in Secs. 199.160 (b) through (f). The OCMI may 
allow deviations from the rescue boat launching requirements based on 
the characteristics of the boat and the conditions of the vessel's 
route.
    (h) An an alternative to the rescue boat requirement in 
Sec. 199.262, vessels may carry a rescue boat meeting the requirements 
of part 160, subpart 160.056 of this chapter if the rescue boat is 
equipped with a motor and meets the following:
    (1) The towline for the rescue boat must be at least the same size 
and length as the rescue boat painter.
    (2) The rescue boat must meet the embarkation, launching, and 
recovery arrangement requirements in Secs. 199.160 (b) through (f). The 
OCMI may allow deviations from the rescue boat launching requirements 
based on the characteristics of the boat and the conditions of the 
vessel's route.
    (i) As an alternative to the number of lifebuoys required in 
Sec. 199.271, vessels may carry--
    (1) If the vessel is self-propelled, the number of lifebuoys 
specified in table 199.640(i) of this section; or
    (2) If the vessel is non self-propelled, one lifebuoy on each end 
of the vessel.

              Table 199.640(i)--Requirements for Lifebuoys              
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Minimum 
              Length of vessel in meters  (feet)                 No. of 
                                                               Lifebuoys
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under 30 (98)................................................          3
30 (98) and under 60 (196)...................................          4
60 (196) and under 100 (328).................................          6
100 (328) and under 150 (492)................................         10
150 (492) and under 200 (656)................................         12
200 (256) and over...........................................         14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (j) Vessels carrying buoyant apparatus, inflatable buoyant 
apparatus, or lifefloats. Vessels carrying buoyant apparatus, 
inflatable buoyant apparatus, or lifefloats must meet the following:
    (1) General. Each buoyant apparatus and inflatable buoyant 
apparatus must be approved under approval series 160.010. Each 
lifefloat must be approved under approval series 160.027.
    (2) Stowage. Each buoyant apparatus, inflatable buoyant apparatus, 
or lifefloat must, in addition to meeting the general stowage 
requirements of Sec. 199.130(a), be stowed as follows:
    (i) Each inflatable buoyant apparatus must meet the liferaft 
stowage requirements in Sec. 199.130(c).
    (ii) Each buoyant apparatus and lifefloat must--
    (A) Meet the liferaft stowage requirements in Secs. 199.130(c) (1), 
(2), (3), (6), and (7); or
    (B) Meet the liferaft stowage requirements in Secs. 199.130(c) (1), 
(2), (3), and (6), and have lashings that can be easily released.
    (iii) A painter must be secured to the buoyant apparatus or 
lifefloat by--
    (A) The attachment fitting provided by the manufacturer; or
    (B) A wire or line that encircles the body of the buoyant apparatus 
or lifefloat, that will not slip off, and that meets the requirements 
of paragraph (4)(iii) of this section.
    (iv) If buoyant apparatus or lifefloats are arranged in groups with 
each group secured by a single painter--
    (A) The combined mass of each group must not exceed 185 kilograms 
(407.8 pounds);
    (B) Each buoyant apparatus or lifefloat must be individually 
attached to the group's single painter by its own painter, which must 
be long enough to allow the buoyant apparatus or lifefloat to float 
without contacting any other buoyant apparatus or lifefloat in the 
group;
    (C) The strength of the float-free link and the strength of the 
group's single painter must be appropriate for the combined capacity of 
the group of buoyant apparatus or lifefloats;
    (D) The group of buoyant apparatus or lifefloats must not be stowed 
in more than four tiers and, when stowed in tiers, the separate units 
must be kept apart by spacers; and
    (E) The group of buoyant apparatus or lifefloats must be stowed to 
prevent shifting with easily detached lashings.
    (3) Marking. Each buoyant apparatus or lifefloat must be marked 
plainly in block capital letters and numbers with the name of the 
vessel and the number of persons approved to use the device as shown on 
its nameplate.
    (4) Equipment. Unless otherwise stated in this paragraph, each 
buoyant apparatus and lifefloat must carry the equipment listed in this 
paragraph and specified for it in table 199.640(j) of this section 
under the vessel's category of service.
    (i) Boathook.
    (ii) Paddle. Each paddle must be at least 1.2 meters (4 feet) long 
and buoyant.
    (iii) Painter. The painter must--
    (A) Be at least 30 meters (100 feet) long, but not less than three 
times the distance from the deck where the buoyant apparatus, 
inflatable buoyant apparatus, or lifefloats are stowed to the vessel's 
waterline with the vessel in its lightest seagoing condition;
    (B) Have a breaking strength of at least 6.7 kiloNewtons (1,500 
pounds-force), or if the capacity of the buoyant apparatus or lifefloat 
is 50 persons or more, have a breaking strength of at least 13.4 
kiloNewtons (3,000 pounds-force);
    (C) If made of a synthetic material, be of a dark color or be 
certified by the

[[Page 25339]]

manufacturer to be resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light;
    (D) Be stowed in such a way that it runs out freely when the 
buoyant apparatus or lifefloat floats away from the sinking vessel; and
    (E) Have a float-free link meeting the requirements of part 160, 
subpart 160.073 of this chapter secured to the end of the painter that 
is attached to the vessel, that is of the proper strength for the size 
and number of the buoyant apparatus or lifefloats attached to the 
float-free link.
    (iv) Self-igniting light. The self-igniting light must be approved 
under approval series 161.010 and must be attached to the buoyant 
apparatus or lifefloat by a 12-thread manila or equivalent lanyard that 
is at least 5.5 meters (18 feet) long.

      Table 199.640(j).--Buoyant Apparatus and Lifefloat Equipment      
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 Lakes, 
                                                     Oceans,     bays,  
 Item                      Item                    coastwise,   sounds, 
  No.                                               and Great     and   
                                                      Lakes      rivers 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
i.....  Boathook \1\.............................           1          1
ii....  Paddles \1\..............................           2          2
iii...  Painter..................................           1          1
iv....  Self-igniting light \2\..................           1  .........
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:                                                                  
\1\ Not required to be carried on buoyant apparatus.                    
\2\ Not required to be carried on buoyant apparatus or life floats with 
  a capacity of 24 persons or less.                                     

[FR Doc. 96-11777 Filed 5-17-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-14-M