Title 46—Shipping--Volume 1
PART 160—LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT
§ 160.133-13   Approval inspections and tests for prototype release mechanisms.
(a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted in accordance with § 160.133-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the prototype release mechanism, and the approval inspections and tests required under this section.
(b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval tests required under this section.
(c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must—
(1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required under this section will take place, and such notification must be in sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
(2) Arrange a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;
(3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or testing is performed on release mechanisms or their component parts and materials for the purpose of—
(i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the prototype—
(A) Conforms with the plans reviewed under § 160.133-9 of this subpart;
(B) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified in the plans reviewed under § 160.133-9 of this subpart; and
(C) When welding is part of the construction process, is constructed by the welding procedure and materials as per the plans reviewed under § 160.133-9 of this subpart and the welders are appropriately qualified;
(ii) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;
(iii) Witnessing tests; and
(iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests; and
(4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the production of release mechanisms, together with records identifying the lot or serial numbers of the release mechanisms in which such materials were used.
(d) Tests —(1) Prototype release mechanism readiness. All tests must be conducted on a complete release mechanism.
(2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype release mechanism of each design must pass each of the tests described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.321(89), part 1, paragraph 6.9 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.133-5 of this subpart) applicable to davit-launched or free-fall lifeboats. Tests must be conducted in accordance with these paragraphs of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.321(89),Part 1, with the following modifications—
(i) Visual inspection. Each release mechanism must be visually inspected to confirm—
(A) Compliance with this subpart;
(B) Conformance with the examined plans; and
(C) Ease of operation and maintenance;
(ii) Operation. Operation of the off-load control, for a davit-launched boat, must be tested to confirm that the release lever cannot be shifted to release the boat in either the full load or light load condition. For a free-fall boat, the operation of the hook release must be demonstrated using both activation systems and may be tested without launching the boat;
(iii) Tensile tests. The release mechanism hook assembly and supporting structure must be tensile tested in a jig built to load the hook assembly in the same way it would be loaded when installed in a boat. The hook assembly will be approved for a maximum of one-sixth of the highest load applied without failure;
(iv) Universal joints. This test is required if the release mechanism employs universal joints to transmit the release power from the control to the hook release. One of each type and size of universal joint must be set up in a jig with the angles of leads set at 0 (zero), 30, and 60 degrees, respectively. A torque of 540 Nm (400 ft lb) must be applied. This torque must be applied with the connecting rod secured beyond the universal and with the lever arm in the horizontal position. There must be no permanent set, or undue stress, as a result of this test; and
(v) Hydraulic controls. If the release mechanism includes a fluid power and control system, a test of the hydraulic controls must be conducted in accordance with 46 CFR 58.30-35.
(e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a release mechanism identical in construction to smaller and larger release mechanisms that have successfully completed the tests. However, stress calculations in accordance with § 160.133-9(b)(3) of this subpart must still be submitted. Tests associated with release mechanism components that have already been accepted by the Commandant are not required to be repeated.
(f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
(g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for review—
(1) The prototype approval test report containing the same information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.133-5 of this subpart). The report must include a signed statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as permitted under paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the testing, indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its results; and
(2) The final plans of the release mechanism as built. The plans must include the instructions for training and maintenance described in §§ 160.133-19 and 160.133-21 of this subpart, respectively.
(h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant, will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.
§ 160.133-15   Production inspections, tests, quality control, and conformance of release mechanisms.
(a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, and oversight required by this section. Production inspections and tests of release mechanisms must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
(b) Manufacturer's responsibility. The manufacturer must—
(1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all production release mechanisms are produced to the same standard, and in the same manner, as the prototype release mechanism approved by the Commandant. The manufacturer's quality control personnel must not work directly under the department or person responsible for either production or sales;
(2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;
(3) Submit to the Commandant, a yearly report that contains the following—
(i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each release mechanism constructed;
(ii) The name of the representative of the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section); and
(iii) Serial number and model of the lifeboat or rescue boat in which the release mechanism is installed, if known;
(4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the construction of the release mechanism are in accordance with plans approved under § 160.133-13(h) of this subpart;
(5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where materials are stored for the release mechanism, work or testing is performed on release mechanism or their component parts and materials, or records are retained to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section, for the purpose of—
(i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;
(ii) Witnessing tests; or
(iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests; and
(6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e) of this section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the release mechanisms are being made in accordance with the approved plans approved under § 160.133-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements of this subpart.
(c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records of all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date of termination of approval of each release mechanism. The records must include—
(1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this subpart, and each document listed in § 160.133-5 of this subpart;
(2) A copy of the approved plans, documentation, and certifications;
(3) A current certificate of approval for each approved release mechanism;
(4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved release mechanisms, together with records identifying the serial numbers of the release mechanisms in which such materials were used;
(5) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
(6) Records of welder certificates, training, and qualifications;
(7) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
(8) The serial number of each production release mechanism, along with records of its inspections and tests carried out under this section; and
(9) The original purchaser of each release mechanism and the vessel on which it was installed, if known.
(d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, the inspections and tests under paragraph (e) of this section for each Coast Guard-approved release mechanism to be installed on a U.S.-flagged vessel. If the manufacturer also produces release mechanisms for approval by other maritime safety administrations, the inspections may be coordinated with inspection visits for those administrations.
(e) Production inspections and tests. Each finished release mechanism must be visually inspected. The manufacturer must develop and maintain a visual inspection checklist designed to ensure that all applicable requirements have been met.
§ 160.133-17   Marking and labeling.
(a) Each hook body of a release mechanism must be marked with a plate or label permanently affixed in a conspicuous place readily accessible for inspection and sufficiently durable to withstand continuous exposure to environmental conditions at sea for the life of the release mechanism.
(b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other languages.
(c) The plate or label must contain the—
(1) Manufacturer's name and model identification;
(2) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype or production tests;
(3) Serial number of the release mechanism;
(4) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
(5) Month and year of manufacture;
(6) Safe working load of the release mechanism; and
(7) Word “SOLAS.”
§ 160.133-19   Operating instructions and information for the ship's training manual.
(a) Each release mechanism must have instructions and information for the ship's training manual that use the symbols from IMO Res. A.760(18) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.133-5 of this subpart) to describe the location and operation of the release mechanism.
(b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.
(c) The release mechanism manufacturer must make the instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of this section available—
(1) In English to purchasers of release mechanisms approved by the Coast Guard; and
(2) In the form of an instruction placard providing simple procedures and illustrations for operation of the release mechanism. The placard must be not greater than 36 cm (14 in) by 51 cm (20 in), and must be made of durable material and suitable for display inside a lifeboat and rescue boat and/or near launching appliances on vessels.
§ 160.133-21   Operation and maintenance instructions.
(a) Each release mechanism must have operation and maintenance instructions that—
(1) Follows the general format and content specified in IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.133-5 of this subpart); and
(2) Includes a checklist for use in monthly, external visual inspections of the release mechanism.
(b) The release mechanism manufacturer must make the manual required by paragraph (a) of this section available in English to purchasers of a release mechanism approved by the Coast Guard.
(c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.
§ 160.133-23   Procedure for approval of design, material, or construction change.
(a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and § 160.133-13(h) of this subpart must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any production release mechanism. The manufacturer must submit any such change following the procedures set forth in § 160.133-9 of this subpart, but documentation on items that are unchanged from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and § 160.133-13(h) of this subpart need not be resubmitted.
(b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a prototype release mechanism with each change described in paragraph (a) of this section must be made and tested according to the procedures for new approvals in §§ 160.133-9 through 160.133-13 of this subpart.
(c) Determinations of equivalence of design, material, or construction will be made by the Commandant only.
§ 160.135-1   Scope.
This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for seeking Coast Guard approval of a lifeboat.
§ 160.135-3   Definitions.
In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart), in this subpart, the term:
Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.
Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) means a composite structural material formed by electrical-grade glass fibers in Coast Guard accepted catalyst activated resin.
Full load means the weight of the complete lifeboat including all required equipment, provisions, fuel, and the number of persons for which it is approved. This is also known as the “condition B” weight.
Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
Light load means the weight of the complete lifeboat empty and does not include fuel, required equipment, or the equivalent weight of persons. This is also known as the “condition A” weight.
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The “cognizant OCMI” is the OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
Positive Stability means the condition of a lifeboat such that when it is displaced a small amount in any direction from upright, it returns on its own to the position before displacement.
SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended.
§ 160.135-5   Incorporation by reference.
(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email typeapproval@uscg.mil or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the following paragraphs of this section.
(b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA, 19428-2959.
(1) ASTM A 36/A 36M-08, Standard Specification for Carbon Structural Steel, (approved May 15, 2008), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-15 (“ASTM A 36”).
(2) ASTM A 276-08a, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM A 276”).
(3) ASTM A 313/A 313M-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Spring Wire, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM A 313”).
(4) ASTM A 314-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Billets and Bars for Forging, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM A 314”).
(5) ASTM A 653/A 653M-08, Standard Specification for Steel Sheet, Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) or Zinc-Iron Alloy-Coated (Galvannealed) by the Hot-Dip Process, (approved July 15, 2008), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7, 160.135-11, and 160.135-15 (“ASTM A 653”).
(6) ASTM B 127-05 (Reapproved 2009), Standard Specification for Nickel-Copper Alloy (UNS N04400) Plate, Sheet, and Strip, (approved October 1, 2009), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM B 127”).
(7) ASTM B 209-07, Standard Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Sheet and Plate, (approved August 1, 2007), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM B 209”).
(8) ASTM D 638-08, Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics, (approved April 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“ASTM D 638”).
(9) ASTM D 790-07e1, Standard Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materials, (approved September 1, 2007), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“ASTM D 970”).
(10) ASTM D 2584-08, Standard Test Method of Ignition Loss for Cured Reinforced Resins, (approved May 1, 2008), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-11 and 160.135-15 (“ASTM D 2584”).
(11) ASTM D 4029-09, Standard Specification for Finished Woven Glass Fabrics, (approved January 15, 2009), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“ASTM D 4029”).
(12) ASTM F 1166-07, Standard Practice for Human Engineering Design for Marine Systems, Equipment, and Facilities, (approved January 1, 2007), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-13 (“ASTM F 1166”).
(c) General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202, 703-605-5400.
(1) Federal Standard 595C, Colors Used in Government Procurement, (January 16, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“FED-STD-595C”).
(2) [Reserved]
(d) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://www.imo.org/.
(1) IMO Resolution A.658(16), Use and Fitting of Retro-Reflective Materials on Life-Saving Appliances, (adopted October 19, 1989), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“IMO Res. 658(16)”).
(2) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements, (adopted November 4, 1993), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-19 (“IMO Res. A.760(18)”).
(3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), pages 7-71 (“IMO LSA Code”), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-3, 160.135-7, and 160.135-13.
(4) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances, pages 79-254 (“IMO Revised recommendation on testing”), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7, 160.135-13, and 160.135-15.
(5) MSC/Circular 980, Standardized life-saving Appliance Evaluation and Test Report Forms, (February 13, 2001), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-13 (“IMO MSC Circ. 980”).
(6) MSC.1/Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, (May 26, 2006), IBR approved for § 160.135-21 (“IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205”).
(7) MSC/Circ. 1006, Guidelines on Fire Test Procedures for Acceptance of Fire-Retardant Materials for the Construction of Lifeboats, June 18, 2001; IBR approved for § 160.135-7(b).
(e) International Organization for Standardization (ISO): ISO Central Secretariat [ISO Copyright Office], Case Postale 56, CH-1211 Geneve 20, Switzerland.
(1) ISO 527-1:1993(E), Plastics—Determination of tensile properties, part 1: General Principles, First Edition (June 15, 1993), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“ISO 527”).
(2) ISO 1172:1996(E), Textile-glass-reinforced plastics—Prepregs, moulding compounds and laminates—Determination of the textile-glass and mineral-filler content—Calcination methods, Second Edition (December 15, 1996), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-11 and 160.135-15 (“ISO 1172”).
(3) ISO 14125:1998(E), Fibre-reinforced plastic composites—Determination of flexural properties, First Edition (March 1, 1998), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“ISO 14125”).
(f) Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
(1) A-A-55308, Commercial Item Description, Cloth And Strip, Laminated Or Coated, Vinyl Nylon Or Polyester, High Strength, Flexible, (May 13, 1997), IBR approved for §§ 160.135-7 and 160.135-15. (“A-A-55308”).
(2) MIL-C-19663D, Military Specification, Cloth, Woven Roving, For Plastic Laminate, (August 4, 1988), IBR approved for § 160.135-7 (“MIL-C-19663D”).
(3) MIL-P-17549D(SH), Military Specification, Plastic Laminates, Fibrous Glass Reinforced, Marine Structural, (August 31, 1981), IBR approved for § 160.135-11 (“MIL-P-17549D(SH)”).
(4) MIL-R-21607E(SH), Military Specification, Resins, Polyester, Low Pressure Laminating, Fire-Retardant, (May 25, 1990), IBR approved for § 160.135-11,
§ 160.135-7   Design, construction, and performance of lifeboats.
(a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a lifeboat, a manufacturer must comply with, and each lifeboat must meet, the requirements of the following—
(1) IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) applicable to the type of lifeboat;
(2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1/6 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) applicable to the type of lifeboat;
(3) 46 CFR part 159; and
(4) This subpart.
(b) Each lifeboat must meet the following requirements:
(1) Design. (i) Each lifeboat, other than a totally enclosed lifeboat, must be designed to be operable by persons wearing immersion suits.
(ii) Each lifeboat should be designed following standard human engineering practices described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Design limits should be based on a range from the fifth percentile female to the ninety-fifth percentile male values for critical body dimensions and functional capabilities as described in ASTM F 1166. The dimensions for a person wearing an immersion suit correspond to the arctic clothed dimensions of ASTM F 1166.
(2) Visibility from operator's station. (i) The operator's station must be designed such that the operator, when seated at the control station, has visibility 360 degrees around the lifeboat, with any areas obstructed by the lifeboat structure or its fittings visible by moving the operator's head and torso.
(ii) The operator, while still being able to steer and control the speed of the lifeboat, must be able to see the water—
(A) Over a 90 degree arc within 3 m (9 ft, 10 in) of each side of the lifeboat;
(B) Over a 30 degree arc within 1 m (3 ft, 3 in) of each side of the lifeboat; and
(C) Within 0.5 m (1 ft, 8 in) of the entrances designated for recovering persons from the water.
(iii) In order to see a person in the water during recovery or docking operations, a hatch must be provided so that the operator can stand with his or her head outside the lifeboat for increased visibility, provided the operator can still steer and control the speed of the lifeboat.
(3) Construction. Each major rigid structural component of each lifeboat must be constructed of steel, aluminum, Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP), or materials accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or superior.
(i) General. Metals in contact with each other must be either galvanically compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. Provisions must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening resulting from differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of parts, galvanic corrosion, or other incompatibilities.
(ii) Steel. Sheet steel and plate must be low carbon, commercial quality, either corrosion resistant or galvanized as per ASTM A 653, coating designation G90 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Structural steel plates and shapes must be carbon steel as per ASTM A 36 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart), or an equivalent or superior steel accepted by the Commandant. All steel products, except corrosion resistant steel, must be galvanized to provide high quality zinc coatings suitable for the intended service life in a marine environment. Corrosion resistant steel must be a type 302 stainless steel per ASTM A 276, ASTM A 313 or ASTM A 314 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) or another corrosion resistant stainless steel of equal or superior corrosion resistant characteristics.
(iii) Aluminum. Aluminum and aluminum alloys must conform to ASTM B 209 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) and be high purity for good marine corrosion resistance, free of iron, and containing not more than 0.6 percent copper.
(iv) Fiber Reinforced Plastic.
(A) Resin. Any resin used for the hull, canopy, hatches, rigid covers, and enclosures for the engine, transmission, and engine accessories, must be fire retardant according to IMO MSC/Circ. 1006 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5)
(B) Glass reinforcement. Any glass reinforcement used must have good laminated wet strength retention and must meet the appropriate specification in this paragraph. Glass cloth must be a finished fabric woven from “E” electrical glass fiber yarns meeting ASTM D 4029 commercial style designation 1564 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Woven roving must conform to MIL-C-19663D (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Other glass materials equivalent or superior in strength, design, wet out, and efficiency will be given consideration on specific request to the Commandant.
(C) Laminate. All exposed surfaces of any finished laminate must present a smooth finish, and there must be no protruding surface fibers, open voids, pits, cracks, bubbles, or blisters. The laminate must be essentially free from resin-starved or overimpregnated areas, and no foreign matter must remain in the finished laminate. The entire laminate must be fully cured and free of tackiness, and must show no tendency to delaminate, peel, or craze in any overlay. The laminate must not be released from the mold until a Barcol hardness reading of not less than 40-55 is obtained from at least 10 places on the non-gel coated surface, including all interior inner and outer hull surfaces and built-in lockers. The mechanical properties of the laminate must meet the requirements for a Grade 3 laminate as specified in Table I of MIL-P-17549D(SH) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Other grades will be given consideration on specific request to the Commandant.
(4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the Commandant, a classification society recognized by the Commandant in accordance with 46 CFR 8.220, the U.S. Navy, or the national body where the lifeboat is constructed or the national body's designated recognized organization. Only electrodes intended for use with the material being welded may be used. All welds must be checked using appropriate non-destructive tests.
(5) Lifeboat buoyancy. (i) The buoyancy material must be accepted by the Commandant as meeting the performance requirements of the IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, 6.2.2 to 6.2.7, with a density of 32 ±8 kg/m 3 (2 ±0.5 lb/ft 3 ). The buoyancy foam or lifeboat manufacturer must certify the results of the testing to IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, 6.2.2 to 6.2.7 and submit those results to the Commandant. A list of accepted buoyancy foams may be obtained from the Commandant upon request and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
(ii) All voids in the hull and canopy required to provide buoyancy for positive stability and self righting must be completely filled with Coast Guard accepted buoyancy material.
(6) Engines. (i) In order to be accepted by the Commandant, any compression ignition engine fitted to an approved lifeboat must meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency emission requirements in 40 CFR part 89, part 94, or part 1042, as applicable, and have reports containing the same information as recommended by MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) certified and witnessed by a U.S. Coast Guard inspector or an independent laboratory.
(ii) A hydraulic system, if used to start the engine, must be in accordance with 46 CFR part 58, subpart 58.30, with hose and fittings in accordance with 46 CFR part 56, subpart 56.60, except that—
(A) Push-on type fittings such as Aeroquip 1525-X, 25156-X, and FC332-X are not permitted; and
(B) The length of nonmetallic flexible hose is limited to 760 mm (30 in). Longer, nonmetallic flexible hoses may be allowed in emergency steering systems at the discretion of the Commandant.
(iii) If a hand pump is provided, or if the engine has a manual starting system, adequate space must be provided for the hand pump or hand start operation.
(7) Fuel system. (i) The fuel system must meet 46 CFR 56.50-75(b) and, except as specified in this paragraph, the fuel tank must meet 46 CFR 58.50-10.
(ii) Tanks constructed with—
(A) Aluminum must be at least 5 mm (0.20 in) thick of ASTM B 209 or 5086 alloy;
(B) Nickel-copper must be at least 0.9 mm (0.0375 in) thick of ASTM B 127 hot-rolled sheet or plate;
(C) Steel or iron must be at least 1.9 mm (0.0747 in) thick. Diesel tanks of steel or iron must not have interior galvanizing;
(D) Fiberglass reinforced plastic must be at least 5 mm (0.187 in) thick; be sealed against porosity by at least one ply of chopped strand mat; be reinforced in the way of tank openings; be fitted with corrosion-resistant fittings; have each joint at the top of the tank; and have each joint bonded and through-bolted; or
(E) Roto-molded plastic must be at least 5 mm thick; must meet the requirements of 33 CFR 183.510 (a), (b), and (e) regardless of tank capacity; must be able to pass all static pressure tests as required in 33 CFR 183.510 at a minimum pressure of 5 psi; and be fitted with corrosion-resistant fittings.
(iii) Each fuel tank over 0.75 m (30 in) long must be baffled at intervals not exceeding 0.45 m (18 in).
(iv) A fuel level indicator must be provided for each fuel tank.
(v) Any fuel tank vent piping must be at least 6 mm (0.25 in) outside diameter tubing.
(vi) A shut-off valve must be provided at the fuel tank and must not be provided at the fuel pump. The valve must be clearly labeled. The position of the valve must be clearly indicated by a permanent marking inside the lifeboat. The marking must be an arrow pointing in the direction of the valve, and the words “Fuel Shut-Off Valve” must be in a color that contrasts with their background. The marking must be legible to a person within the vicinity of the engine.
(8) Starting system batteries. Any battery fitted in a totally enclosed lifeboat must be stored in a sealed compartment with exterior venting. If the lifeboat has more than one engine, then only one starting battery is required per engine.
(9) Exhaust. Engine exhaust must be routed away from bilge and potential oil drips. Any paint used on engines, manifolds, or exhaust must not give off fumes when heated. All exhaust lagging must be non-absorbent.
(10) Propeller guard. Each propeller on a lifeboat must be fitted with a propeller guard with a maximum opening of 76 mm (3 in) on all sides on which a person is likely to be exposed.
(11) Control and steering station. The operator's control and steering station must have complete lifeboat lowering and launching, hook release, engine throttle, steering controls, and if applicable, an air system and water spray system.
(i) The throttle must be a continuous manual control and must be able to be set and locked at any position.
(ii) The control and steering station must be designed and laid out in accordance with ASTM F 1166 sections 9 and 10, so that controls and displays are unambiguous, accessible, and easy to reach and use from the operator's normal seated position, while wearing an immersion suit or a lifejacket.
(iii) Each control, gauge, or display must be identified by a marking posted on, above, or adjacent to the respective item. Each control must operate in a logical manner and be marked with an arrow to show direction of movement of control which will cause an increased response. Each gauge must be marked with the normal operating range and indicate danger or abnormal conditions. Each marking must be permanent and weatherproof.
(iv) Gauges, and audio and visual alarms must be provided to monitor at least the following parameters—
(A) Coolant temperature, for a liquid cooled engine;
(B) Oil pressure, for an engine with an oil pump;
(C) Tachometer, for an engine not provided with over-speed protection; and
(D) State of charge, or rate of charge, for each rechargeable engine starting power source.
(12) Hull drain plug. The position of each drain plug must be clearly indicated by a permanent marking inside the lifeboat. The marking must be an arrow pointing in the direction of the plug, and the words “Drain Plug” must be 76 mm (3 in) high and have letters of a color that contrast with their background. The marking must be clearly visible to a person within the vicinity of the drain plug.
(13) Remote steering. The procedure to change over from remote to local steering must be simple, not require the use of tools, and be clearly posted. There must be sufficient clear space to install, operate, remove, and stow the removable tiller arm. The tiller arm and its connection to the rudder stock must be of sufficient strength so that there is no slippage or bending of the tiller arm. Rudder stops or other means must be provided to prevent the rudder from turning too far on either side.
(14) Lifelines. Buoyant lifelines must be of ultraviolet resistant material.
(15) Rails provided as handholds. Rails provided as handholds to cling when the lifeboat is overturned must extend for half the length of the lifeboat on both sides of the hull, and the clearance between the rail and hull must also be at least 38 mm (1.5 in). The rails must be attached to the hull below the chine or turn of the bilge, must be faired to prevent any fouling, and not project beyond the widest part of the lifeboat.
(16) Storage compartments and collection and storage of rainwater. (i) Each storage compartment must be supported and secured against movement. It must have adequate hand access for removing and storing the required equipment, provisions, or water, and for cleaning the inside of the compartment.
(ii) The rain water collecting device may be incorporated into the design of the canopy or may be a separate unit to be mounted outside the lifeboat. The device must have a projected horizontal area of at least 1 m 2 (10.7 ft 2 ) collection area and be designed to function unattended.
(iii) Provision must be made to continue to collect water in the storage compartment while drawing water to fill a cup. The compartment must have a means of drainage and adequate access to allow filling the graduated drinking cup required to be carried as part of the lifeboat equipment.
(17) Release mechanism. Each release mechanism must be identified at the application for approval of the prototype lifeboat and must be approved under 46 CFR part 160, subpart 160.133. The release lever or control in the lifeboat must be red in color, and the area immediately surrounding the control must be a sharply contrasting light color. An illustrated operating instruction plate or placard showing the correct off-load and emergency on-load release procedure and recovery procedure must be posted so that it is visible and legible from the helmsman's normal operating position. The plate or placard must be corrosion resistant and weatherproof and must be marked with the word “Danger”.
(18) Painter release. Any painter release must be located such that the lifeboat operator can readily release the painter from the operator's control and steering station.
(19) Canopy lamp. Any exterior lifeboat position-indicating light must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 161.101.
(20) Manually-controlled interior light. Any interior light must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 161.101.
(21) Lifeboat equipment. Each lifeboat must be designed to accommodate and carry the equipment as specified in 46 CFR 199.175.
(22) Oars. Oars are not required on a lifeboat with more than one engine, provided one engine can be operated while the other is disabled.
(23) Bilge pump. Each lifeboat that is not automatically self-bailing must be fitted with a manual bilge pump that meets the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(2). Each such lifeboat with a capacity of 100 persons or more must carry an additional manual bilge pump or an engine-powered bilge pump.
(24) Exterior color. The primary color of the exterior of the canopy and interior of partially enclosed lifeboats visible from the air must be a highly visible color equivalent to vivid reddish orange color number 12197 of FED-STD-595C (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart), or a durable fluorescent color of a similar hue.
(25) Self-contained air supply system and fire protection system operating instructions. Each compressed gas air cylinder must meet the requirements in 46 CFR 147.60. The cylinders must be accessible for removal and charging in place. Water-resistant instructions for starting the water spray and air supply, if fitted, must be provided and mounted in a conspicuous place near the system controls.
(26) Navigating lights. Each lifeboat must have navigation lights that are in compliance with the applicable sections of the International and Inland Navigation Rules and meet 46 CFR 111.75-17.
(27) Retroreflective material. The exterior of each lifeboat and its canopy must be marked with Type II retroreflective material approved under 46 CFR part 164, subpart 164.018. The arrangement of the retroreflective material must comply with IMO Res. A.658(16) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart).
(28) Permanently attached foldable canopy. For a partially enclosed lifeboat, the foldable canopy cloth material must meet the specifications for Type II, Class 1 requirements of A-A-55308 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart), or be accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or superior.
(29) Labels and notices. Any labels, caution and danger notices, and operating, maintenance, or general instructions, must be in accordance with ASTM F 1166, Section 15, in terms of format, content, lettering size and spacing, color, and posted location. They must be illustrated with symbols in accordance with IMO Res. A.760(18) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart), as applicable. Information and instruction plates, not specifically mentioned in this section, must not be posted in the vicinity of the control and steering station without prior approval from the Commandant. Identification label plates, if required, must be posted on or above the component or equipment to be identified.
(c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and materials will be made by the Commandant only.
§ 160.135-9   Preapproval review.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the Commandant must conduct the preapproval review, required by this section, in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
(b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a lifeboat, the manufacturer must submit an application to the Commandant meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval review. To meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the manufacturer must submit—
(1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other documentation submitted, with each document identified by number, title, revision issue, and date;
(2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal dimensions;
(3) Seating arrangement plan, including a dimensioned seat form to scale;
(4) A complete material list, with each material referenced to a U.S. national standard or, if a copy is provided in English, an equivalent international standard;
(5) Plans for carriage and, in detail, stowage of equipment;
(6) Hull, canopy, and critical parts lay-up schedule for a Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) lifeboat;
(7) Hull and canopy construction drawings, including particulars of joints, welds, seams, and other fabricating details;
(8) Weights and thickness of each major FRP structural component, including the hull, canopy, and inner liners, before outfitting;
(9) Specification and identification of materials such as steel, aluminum, resin, foam, fiberglass, cloth, and plastic used in the lifeboat's manufacture;
(10) Fabrication details for each major structural component, including details of each welded joint;
(11) Lines plans;
(12) Propulsion system specifications and arrangement and installation drawings;
(13) Steering system drawings and specifications;
(14) Release mechanism installation drawings and the mechanism's Coast Guard approval number;
(15) Air and water spray systems drawings and specifications, if installed;
(16) Plans for critical subassemblies;
(17) Hydraulic systems drawings and specifications, if installed;
(18) Electrical system schematics and specifications;
(19) Stability data, including righting arm curves in the light and loaded condition for both intact and flooded stability;
(20) Drawings of all signs and placards, showing actual inscription, format, color, size, and location on the lifeboat;
(21) Complete data pertinent to the installation and use of the proposed lifeboat, including the light load (condition A) and full load (condition B) weights;
(22) Specifications for the required launching ramp length and angle, and the height of free-fall lifeboat installation above the water;
(23) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in §§ 160.135-19 and 160.135-21 of this subpart;
(24) A description of the quality control procedures and record keeping that will apply to the production of the lifeboat, which must include but is not limited to—
(i) The system for checking material certifications received from suppliers;
(ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
(iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication, seams, and joints, including welding inspection procedures; and
(iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of fabrication to assure that the approved lifeboat complies with the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
(25) Full details of any other unique capability;
(26) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the lifeboat complies with the requirements of this subpart;
(27) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including the name and address of any subcontractors, where the lifeboat will be constructed; and
(28) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the duties prescribed in §§ 160.135-11 and 160.135-15 of this subpart.
(c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review required by this section so long as the preapproval review is conducted in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
(d) Plan quality. The plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under this section must—
(1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and designations for configuration control;
(2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this section in sufficient detail to show that the lifeboat meets the construction requirements of this subpart;
(3) Accurately depict the proposed lifeboat;
(4) Be internally consistent;
(5) Be legible; and
(6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of this section, include the independent laboratory's attestation that the plans meet the quality requirements of this section.
(e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or construction, and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly indicated as such in the plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under this section.
(f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not comply with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.
§ 160.135-11   Fabrication of prototype lifeboats for approval.
(a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted in accordance with § 160.135-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the prototype lifeboat as set forth in this section.
(b) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, and oversight required by this section. Prototype inspections and tests of a lifeboat must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional prototype tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
(c) Fabrication of a lifeboat must proceed in the following sequence:
(1) The manufacturer must arrange for an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (b) of this section) to inspect, test, and oversee the lifeboat during its fabrication and prepare an inspection and test report meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-11.
(2) The independent laboratory must make such inspections as are necessary to determine that the prototype is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified in the plans reviewed under § 160.135-9 of this subpart. By conducting at least one inspection during its construction, the independent laboratory must determine the prototype lifeboat conforms with those plans by inspecting—
(i) Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Construction. (A) FRP components of each prototype lifeboat outer hull and any FRP inner hull or liner components that are bonded or bolted to the outer hull must have a layup made of unpigmented clear resins so that details of construction are visible for inspection. Test panels representative of each prototype layup must be tested in accordance with MIL-P-17549D(SH) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). If an accepted MIL-R-21607E(SH) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) Grade B resin is used for the prototype lifeboat, additives for fire retardancy must not be used so that the laminate is translucent for inspection purposes. Any prototype test lifeboat with Grade B resins will not be marked in accordance with § 160.135-17 of this subpart for use as a production lifeboat regardless of the outcome of the performance tests. Whichever accepted resin the manufacturer decides to use for the prototype lifeboat, the same resin must be used in the production lifeboats.
(B) The hull, canopy, and major structural laminates of each prototype FRP lifeboat must be tested for resin content, ultimate flexural strength, and tensile strength. The test samples must be cut out from the prototype lifeboat, or be laid up at the same time, using the same procedures and by the same operators as the laminate used in the lifeboat. The number of samples used for each test, and the conditions and test methods used, must be as per the applicable test specified in this paragraph. The resin content must be determined as per ASTM D 2584 or ISO 1172 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). The flexural ultimate strength must be determined by ASTM D 790 method I (test condition “A”, flatwise, dry) or the corresponding ISO 14125 test method (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). The tensile strength, lengthwise, must be determined as per ASTM D 638 or ISO 527 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart).
(C) Each major FRP component, such as the hull, canopy, and inner liner(s), of each prototype FRP lifeboat must be examined and weighed after it is completed but before it is assembled. If the lifeboat is constructed by the spray lay-up technique, the hull and canopy thicknesses must be measured using ultrasonic or equivalent techniques;
(ii) Steel construction. Steel sheet and plate used for the hull, floors, and other structural components of a prototype steel lifeboat must meet the bend tests requirement specified under ASTM A 653 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) after galvanizing or other anti-corrosion treatment has been applied. This may be demonstrated through a supplier's certification papers or through witnessing actual tests;
(iii) Coated cloth for partially enclosed lifeboats. Cloth material used in the construction of each prototype lifeboat must be confirmed to have met the requirements specified under § 160.135-7(b)(28) of this subpart. This may be demonstrated through a supplier's certification papers or through witnessing actual tests;
(iv) Welding. Structural components of each prototype lifeboat joined by welding must be welded by the welding procedures and materials as per the plans reviewed under § 160.135-9 of this subpart and by welders appropriately qualified;
(v) Buoyancy foam. Each major subassembly of a prototype lifeboat, such as the hull with liner and canopy with liner, must be weighed after the buoyancy foam is installed and before it is further assembled;
(vi) Installation of the propulsion system;
(vii) Installation of the steering system; and
(viii) Installation of the water spray fire-protection and air support system(s), if fitted.
(3) The independent laboratory must submit the inspection report to the Commandant.
§ 160.135-13   Approval inspections and tests for prototype lifeboats.
(a) After the Commandant notifies the manufacturer that the prototype lifeboat is in compliance with the requirements of § 160.135-11 of this subpart, the manufacturer may proceed with the prototype approval inspections and tests required under this section. The prototype lifeboat, the construction of which was witnessed under § 160.135-11 of this subpart, must be used for the tests in this section.
(b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval tests required under this section.
(c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must—
(1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required under this section will take place, and such notification must be in sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
(2) Arrange a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;
(3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or testing is performed on lifeboats or their component parts and materials for the purpose of—
(i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the prototype is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified in the plans reviewed under § 160.135-9 of this subpart and the inspection report under § 160.135-11 of this subpart;
(ii) Assuring that the quality assurance program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;
(iii) Witnessing tests; and
(iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or test; and
(4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the production of lifeboats, together with records identifying the lot or serial numbers of the lifeboats in which such materials were used.
(d) Tests. (1) Prototype lifeboat readiness. All tests must be conducted on a completely outfitted lifeboat, including fixed equipment such as compass, searchlight, and navigating lights. Loose equipment may be substituted by weights.
(2) Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) prototype lifeboat lay-up. For the prototype of each design of an FRP lifeboat, the lay-up must be made of unpigmented resins and clear gel coat.
(3) Fuel tank. Each non-portable fuel tank must be tested by a static head above the tank top of 3 m (10 ft) of water without showing any leaks or signs of permanent distortion.
(4) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype lifeboat of each design must pass each of the tests for davit-launched or free-fall lifeboats, as applicable, described in the IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, paragraphs 6.1 through 6.17 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Tests must be conducted in accordance with these paragraphs of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1, with the following modifications:
(i) Fire retardancy/release mechanism and engine tests (Paragraphs 1/6.2, 6.9, 6.10, 6.14). The tests in the following IMO Revised recommendation on testing paragraphs may be accomplished independent of the lifeboat, and may be considered completed and need not be repeated if the tests have been previously shown to meet the necessary requirements—
(A) Paragraph 6.2;
(B) Paragraphs 6.9.3 through 6.9.6;
(C) Paragraph 6.10.2 through 6.10.6; and
(D) Paragraphs 6.14.6 through 6.14.8.
(ii) Lifeboat overload test (Paragraph 1/6.3). For a davit launched lifeboat, the overload test must be conducted with the lifeboat suspended from the lifting hooks. During this test, the canopy of a free-fall lifeboat must not deform so as to harm any potential occupants.
(iii) Impact test (Paragraph 1/6.4). The rigid vertical surface must not be displaced or deformed as a result of the test.
(iv) Lifeboat seating space test (Paragraph 1/6.7). The average mass of persons used to test the lifeboat seating space must be determined by weighing as a group or individually. Each person must wear an inherently buoyant SOLAS lifejacket with at least 150 N of buoyancy or a Coast Guard-approved lifejacket approved under approval series 160.155. For other than a totally enclosed lifeboat, the operator(s) must demonstrate that the lifeboat can be operated while wearing a Coast Guard approved, insulated-buoyant immersion suit approved under approval series 160.171. The Commandant will give consideration to requests to test at, and designate lifeboats for, a heavier occupant weight than that stated in the IMO LSA Code, Chapter IV (incorporated by reference, § 160.135-5 of this subpart).
(v) Flooded stability test (Paragraph 1/6.8). Any materials used to raise the test weights representing the lifeboat occupants above the seat pan must be at least as dense as fresh water.
(vi) Lifeboat operational test, Operation of engine (Paragraph 1/6.10.1). For the 4-hour lifeboat maneuvering period, the lifeboat must not (except for a short period to measure towing force and to demonstrate towing fixture durability) be secured, and must be run through its full range of speeds and full range of all controls throughout the period.
(vii) Survival recovery test (Paragraph 1/6.10.8). The recovery demonstration must show that no more than two crewmembers are required to recover a helpless person of ninety-fifth percentile by weight described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) while the crewmembers and helpless person are each wearing a lifejacket.
(viii) Flooded capsizing test (Paragraph 1/6.14.3-.5). For any lifeboat also approved as a rescue lifeboat, the lifeboat must return to an upright position and, without undue delay, the crew must be able to use the lifeboat again as a lifeboat.
(ix) Fire test (Paragraph 1/6.16.4). The locations where temperatures are measured along with the rationale for the proposed locations must be provided to the Commandant for approval prior to the testing.
(x) Water spray tests (Paragraph 1/6.16.9). The delivery rate of water, or the sprayed water film thickness over the lifeboat, must be at least equivalent to that used to achieve passing results for the fire test. Full coverage must be obtained without the need to rock the lifeboat or induce wetting by wiping or applying any agent.
(xi) Measuring and evaluating acceleration forces (Paragraph 1/6.17.5). For free-fall lifeboats, the selection, placement, and mounting of the accelerometers along with the rationale for the proposed selection, placement, and mounting must be provided to the Commandant for approval prior to the testing.
(xii) Evaluation acceleration forces with the dynamic response model (Paragraph 1/6.17.9). For free-fall lifeboats only, sections 6.17.9 thru 6.17.12 must be used along with the displacement limits for lifeboats in Table 2 under “Evaluation with the dynamic response model”.
(5) Visual inspection. Each lifeboat must be visually inspected to confirm—
(i) Compliance with this subpart;
(ii) Conformance with plans reviewed under § 160.135-9 of this subpart; and
(iii) Ease of operation and maintenance.
(e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a lifeboat identical in construction to smaller and larger lifeboats that have successfully completed the tests. Tests associated with lifeboat components that have already been approved by the Commandant are not required to be repeated.
(f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
(g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for review—
(1) The prototype approval test report containing the same information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). The report must include a signed statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as permitted by paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the testing, indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its results; and
(2) The final plans of the lifeboat as built. The plans must include—
(i) The instructions for training and maintenance described in §§ 160.135-19 and 160.135-21 of this subpart; and
(ii) The final version of the plans required under § 160.135-9 of this subpart.
(h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under paragraph (g) of this section, and if satisfactory to the Commandant, will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.
§ 160.135-15   Production inspections, tests, quality control, and conformance of lifeboats.
(a) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, and oversight required by this section. Production inspections and tests of lifeboats must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional production tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
(b) Manufacturer's responsibility. The manufacturer must—
(1) Institute a quality control procedure to ensure that all production lifeboats are produced to the same standard, and in the same manner, as the prototype lifeboat approved by the Commandant. The manufacturer's quality control personnel must not work directly under the department or person responsible for either production or sales;
(2) Schedule and coordinate with the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) to ensure that all tests are performed as described in this section;
(3) Submit to the Commandant, a yearly report that contains the following—
(i) Serial number and date of final assembly of each lifeboat constructed;
(ii) Name of the representative of the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section); and
(iii) Name of the vessel and company receiving the lifeboat, if known; and
(4) Ensure that the arrangement and materials entering into the construction of the lifeboat are in accordance with plans approved under § 160.135-13(h) of this subpart;
(5) Allow an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) access to any place where materials are stored for the lifeboat, work or testing is performed on lifeboats or their component parts and materials, or records are retained to meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section, for the purpose of—
(i) Assuring that the quality control program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;
(ii) Witnessing tests; or
(iii) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests; and
(6) Ensure that the independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (a) of this section) conducts the inspections and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (e)(2) of this section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the lifeboats are being made in accordance with the plans approved under § 160.135-13(h) of this subpart and the requirements of this subpart.
(c) Recordkeeping. The manufacturer must maintain records in accordance with 46 CFR 159.007-13. The manufacturer must keep records of all items listed in this section for at least 5 years from the date of termination of approval of each lifeboat. The records must include—
(1) A copy of this subpart, other CFR sections referenced in this subpart, and each applicable document listed in § 160.135-5 of this subpart;
(2) A copy of approved plans, documentation, and certifications;
(3) A current certificate of approval for each approved lifeboat;
(4) Affidavits, certificates, or invoices from the suppliers identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved lifeboats, together with records identifying the serial numbers of the lifeboats in which such materials were used;
(5) Start and finish date and time of the lay-up of each major Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) component such as the hull, canopy, and inner liner and the names of the operator(s);
(6) Start and finish date and time of pouring of foam-in-place rigid buoyancy foam, and name of operator(s);
(7) Records of all structural welding and name of operator(s);
(8) Records of welder certificates, training and qualifications;
(9) Date and results of calibration of test equipment and the name and address of the company or agency that performed the calibration;
(10) The serial number of each production lifeboat, along with records of its inspections and tests carried out under this section; and
(11) The original purchaser of each lifeboat and the vessel on which it was installed, if known.
(d) Independent laboratory responsibility. The independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, the inspections and tests under paragraph (e) of this section for each Coast Guard-approved lifeboat to be installed on a U.S.-flagged vessel. If the manufacturer also produces lifeboats for approval by other maritime safety administrations, the inspections may be coordinated with inspection visits for those administrations.
(e) Production inspections and tests. Each approved lifeboat must be inspected and tested in accordance with each of the following procedures:
(1) In-process inspections and tests. Each production lifeboat must be examined during lay-up of the hull to verify that the lay-up conforms to the approved drawings. Each FRP major component, such as the hull, canopy, and inner liner, must be examined and weighed after it is completed but before assembled. If the lifeboat is constructed by the spray lay-up technique, the hull and canopy thicknesses must be measured using ultrasonic or equivalent techniques. Laboratory tests of laminates must be conducted at this time. Test samples must be cut out from the lifeboat itself or be laid up at the same time, using the same procedures and by the same operators as the laminate used in the lifeboat. The number of samples used for each test, and the conditions and test methods used, must be as described in the applicable test specified in this paragraph.
(i) Weight. The weight of each FRP section, such as hull, canopy, and inner liner, must be within 10 percent of similar sections of the prototype lifeboat. These weights must be the bare laminate weights. Backing plates that are molded into the laminate may be included.
(ii) Thickness. The average thickness of each section of sprayed-up laminate must be within 20 percent of the corresponding sections of the prototype.
(iii) Resin content. Laminate samples from the hull, canopy, and inner liners must be tested in accordance with ASTM D 2584 or ISO 1172 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). The resin content must be within 8 percentage points of the prototype results. If the resin content does not comply, flexural ultimate strength and tensile tests in paragraph (e)(1)(iv) of this section must be conducted.
(iv) Flexural ultimate strength and tensile tests. Each laminate sample from each major component, such as hull and liner, that does not comply with the resin content requirement in paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this section, and from each component of every fifth production lifeboat, must be subjected to the flexural ultimate strength and tensile strength tests as described in § 160.135-11(c)(2)(i)(B) of this subpart. The values must be at least 90 percent of the prototype results.
(v) Buoyancy material. If block foam buoyancy material is used, each piece must be weighed after it is cut and shaped to make sure that the correct amount of foam is installed. If foamed-in-place buoyancy material is used, a separate sample of the foam must be poured, and used to make a density determination after it has set. The density must be 32 ±8 kg/m 3 (2 ±0.5 lb/ft 3 ).
(vi) Steel sheet and plate. Steel sheet and plate for the hull, floors, and other structural components must meet ASTM A 36 and ASTM A 653 as applicable (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). Non-corrosive resistant steel must meet the coating mass and bend tests requirement specified under ASTM A 653. Compliance for this paragraph can be ascertained through supplier's certification papers or through conducting actual tests.
(vii) Cloth. The cloth material used for the construction of each partially enclosed lifeboat must meet the material specification of A-A-55308 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart). This compliance can be ascertained through supplier's certification papers or through witnessing actual tests.
(viii) Fuel tank. Each fuel tank must be tested by a static head above the tank top of 3 m (10 ft) of water without showing any leaks or signs of permanent distortion.
(ix) Welding. It must be determined that structural components joined by welding was performed by welders who are appropriately qualified and that the welding procedure and materials are as per the plans approved under § 160.135-13(h) of this subpart.
(2) Post assembly tests and inspections. The finished lifeboat must be visually inspected inside and out. The manufacturer must develop and maintain a visual inspection checklist designed to ensure that all applicable requirements have been met and the lifeboat is equipped in accordance with approved plans. Each production lifeboat of each design must pass each of the tests described in the IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 2, section 5.3 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart).
§ 160.135-17   Marking and labeling.
(a) Each lifeboat must be marked with a plate or label permanently affixed to the hull in a conspicuous place readily accessible for inspection and sufficiently durable to withstand continuous exposure to environmental conditions at sea for the life of the lifeboat.
(b) The plate or label must be in English, but may also be in other languages.
(c) The plate or label must contain the—
(1) Name and address of the manufacturer;
(2) Manufacturer's model identification;
(3) Name of the independent laboratory that witnessed the prototype or production test and inspections;
(4) Serial number of the lifeboat;
(5) U.S. Coast Guard approval number;
(6) Month and year of manufacture;
(7) Material of hull construction;
(8) Number of persons for which the lifeboat is approved;
(9) Light load and full load (condition A and condition B weight); and
(10) Word “SOLAS.”
§ 160.135-19   Operating instructions and information for the ship's training manual.
(a) Each lifeboat must have instructions and information for the ship's training manual that use the symbols from IMO Res. A.760(18) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart) to describe the location and operation of the lifeboat.
(b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.
(c) The lifeboat manufacturer must make the instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of this section available—
(1) In English to purchasers of a lifeboat approved by the Coast Guard; and
(2) In the form of an instruction placard providing simple procedures and illustrations for operation of the lifeboat. The placard must be not greater than 36 cm (14 in) by 51 cm (20 in), and must be made of durable material and suitable for display near installations of lifeboats on vessels.
§ 160.135-21   Operation and maintenance instructions.
(a) Each lifeboat must have operation and maintenance instructions that—
(1) Follow the general format and content specified in MSC.1 Circ. 1205 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.135-5 of this subpart); and
(2) Include a checklist for use in monthly, external visual inspections of the lifeboat.
(b) The lifeboat manufacturer must make the manual required by paragraph (a) of this section available in English to purchasers of a lifeboat approved by the Coast Guard.
(c) The operation and maintenance instructions required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for survival craft and rescue boats, and their launching systems.
§ 160.135-23   Procedure for approval of design, material, or construction change.
(a) Each change in design, material, or construction from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and § 160.135-13(h) of this subpart must be approved by the Commandant before being used in any production lifeboat. The manufacturer must submit any such change following the procedures in § 160.135-9 of this subpart, but documentation on items that are unchanged from the plans approved under 46 CFR 159.005-13 and § 160.135-13(h) of this subpart need not be resubmitted.
(b) Unless determined by the Commandant to be unnecessary, a prototype lifeboat with each change described in paragraph (a) of this section must be made and tested according to the procedures for new approvals in §§ 160.135-9 through 160.135-13 of this subpart.
(c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and materials will be made by the Commandant only.
§ 160.151-1   Scope.
This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for approval by the Coast Guard of inflatable liferafts. This subpart does not apply to any inflatable liferaft approved by the Commandant before November 10, 2011, so long as the liferaft satisfies the annual servicing requirements set forth in 46 CFR 160.151-57.
§ 160.151-3   Definitions.
In this subpart, the term:
Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The “cognizant OCMI” is the OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
Servicing means periodic inspection, necessary repair, and repacking by a servicing facility approved by the Coast Guard. Requirements for periodic inspection and repair of inflatable liferafts approved by the Coast Guard are described in §§ 160.151-35 through 160.151-57.
SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended by the International Maritime Organization through the 1988 (GMDSS) amendments, dated 9 November 1988.
SOLAS A Liferaft means a liferaft that meets the requirements of this subpart for an inflatable liferaft complying with SOLAS and equipped with a SOLAS A equipment pack.
SOLAS B Liferaft means a liferaft that meets the requirements of this subpart for an inflatable liferaft complying with SOLAS and equipped with a SOLAS B equipment pack.
§ 160.151-5   Incorporation by reference.
(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email typeapproval@uscg.mil or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the following paragraphs of this section.
(b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA, 19428-2959.
(1) ASTM F 1014-02 (Reapproved 2007), Standard Specification for Flashlights on Vessels, (approved May 1, 2007), IBR approved for § 160.151-21 (“ASTM F 1014”).
(2) [Reserved]
(c) General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202, 703-605-5400.
(1) Federal Standard 595C, Colors Used in Government Procurement, (January 16, 2008), IBR approved for §§ 160.151-15 and 160.151-17 (“FED-STD-595C”).
(2) [Reserved]
(d) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://www.imo.org /.
(1) IMO Resolution A.657(16), Instructions for Action in Survival Craft, (adopted October 1989), IBR approved for § 160.151-21 (“IMO Res. A.657(16)”).
(2) IMO Resolution A.658(16), Use and Fitting of Retro-Reflective Materials on Life-Saving Appliances, (adopted October 19, 1989), IBR approved for § 160.151-15 (“IMO Res. A.658(16)”).
(3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), pages 7-71 (“IMO LSA Code”), IBR approved for §§ 160.151-7, 160.151-15, 160.151-17, 160.151-21, 160.151-29, and 160.151-33.
(4) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances, pages 79-254 (“IMO Revised recommendation on testing”), IBR approved for §§ 160.151-21, 160.151-27, 160.151-29, 160.151-31, and 160.151-57.
(5) Annex 7 to MSC 87/26, Report of the Maritime Safety Committee on its Eighty-Seventh Session, “Resolution MSC.293(87), Adoption of Amendments to the International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code,” (adopted May 21, 2010), IBR approved for §§ 160.151-7, 160.151-15, 160.151-17, 160.151-21, 160.151-29, and 160.151-33 (“Resolution MSC.293(87)”).
(6) Annex 9 to MSC 87/26, Report of the Maritime Safety Committee on its Eighty-Seventh Session, “Resolution MSC.295(87), Adoption of Amendments to the Revised Recommendation on Testing of Life-Saving Appliances (Resolution MSC.81(70)),” (adopted May 21, 2010), IBR approved for §§ 160.151-21, 160.151-27, 160.151-29, 160.151-31, and 160.151-57 (“Resolution MSC.295(87)”).
(e) International Standards Organization (ISO): ISO Central Secretariat [ISO Copyright Office], Case Postale 56, CH 1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland.
(1) ISO 15738:2002(E), Ships and marine technology—Gas inflation systems for inflatable life-saving appliances, First Edition (February 1, 2002), IBR approved for § 160.151-15 (“ISO 15738”).
(2) ISO 17339:2002(E), Ships and marine technology—Sea anchors for survival craft and rescue boats, First Edition (November 15, 2002), IBR approved for § 160.151-21 (“ISO 17339”).
(3) ISO 18813:2006(E), Ships and marine technology—Survival equipment for survival craft and rescue boats, First Edition (April 1, 2006), IBR approved for § 160.151-21 (“ISO 18813”).
(f) Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robins Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
(1) MIL-C-17415F, Military Specification, Cloth, Coated, and Webbing, Inflatable Boat and Miscellaneous Use, (May 31, 1989), IBR approved for § 160.151-15 (“MIL-C-17415F”).
(2) [Reserved]
§ 160.151-7   Construction of inflatable liferafts.
Except as specified in this subpart, each SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferaft must meet the requirements of Chapter III of SOLAS and the IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart). To be approved under this subpart, inflatable liferafts must be constructed in accordance with the following provisions of the IMO LSA Code:, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87):
(a) IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) Chapter I/1.2, General requirements for life-saving appliances; and
(b) IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) Chapter IV/4.2, Inflatable liferafts.
§ 160.151-9   Independent laboratory.
Tests and inspections that this subpart requires to be conducted by an independent laboratory must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under subpart 159.010 of part 159 of this chapter to perform such tests and inspections. A list of accepted laboratories is available from the Commandant.
§ 160.151-11   Approval procedure.
(a) A manufacturer seeking approval of an inflatable liferaft must comply with the procedures in part 159, subpart 159.005, of this chapter and in this section.
(b) A manufacturer seeking approval of an inflatable liferaft must submit an application to the Commandant meeting the requirements of § 159.005-5 of this chapter for preapproval review. To meet the requirements of § 159.005-5(a)(2) of this chapter, the manufacturer shall submit—
(1) General-arrangement drawing including principal dimensions;
(2) Seating-arrangement plan;
(3) Plans for subassemblies;
(4) Plans for carriage and, in detail, stowage of equipment;
(5) Plans for the inflation system;
(6) Plans for the outer container;
(7) Plans for any lifting shackle or ring, including diameter in cross-section, used for connecting the suspension tackle of a davit-launched inflatable liferaft to the automatic disengaging device used for its hoisting and lowering;
(8) Other drawing(s) necessary to show that the inflatable liferaft complies with the requirements of this subpart;
(9) Description of methods of seam and joint construction;
(10) Samples and identification of each material used in the buoyancy chambers, floor, and canopy, including the identity of their manufacturers, and segments of each type of seam made from such materials; and
(11) Complete data pertinent to the installation and use of the proposed inflatable liferaft, including the maximum proposed height of its installation above the water, and the maximum length of the sea painter installed in the inflatable liferaft.
§ 160.151-13   Fabrication of prototype inflatable liferafts for approval.
If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted in accordance with § 160.151-11 is satisfactory to the Commandant, fabrication of a prototype inflatable liferaft must proceed in the following sequence:
(a) The manufacturer shall arrange for an independent laboratory to inspect the liferaft during its fabrication and prepare an inspection report meeting the requirements of § 159.005-11 of this chapter. The independent laboratory shall conduct at least one inspection during layup of the buoyancy tubes of the liferaft, at least one inspection of the finished liferaft when fully inflated, and as many other inspections as are necessary to determine that the liferaft—
(1) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified in the plans;
(2) Passes the applicable inspections and tests required by § 160.151-31; and
(3) Conforms with the manufacturer's plans.
(b) The manufacturer shall submit the independent laboratory's inspection report to the Commandant for review.
(c) If, after review of the inspection report of the independent laboratory, the Commandant notifies the manufacturer that the liferaft is in compliance with the requirements of this subpart, the manufacturer may proceed with the approval tests required under §§ 160.151-27 and 160.151-29.
(d) The manufacturer shall notify the cognizant OCMI of where the approval tests required under §§ 160.151-27 and 160.151-29 will take place and arrange with the OCMI a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed.
(e) The manufacturer shall admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or testing is performed on inflatable liferafts or their component parts and materials for the purpose of—
(1) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;
(2) Witnessing tests; and
(3) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests.
(f) The manufacturer shall make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the production of inflatable liferafts, together with records identifying the lot numbers of the liferafts in which such materials were used.
(g) On conclusion of the approval testing, the manufacturer shall comply with the requirements of § 159.005-9(a)(5) of this chapter by submitting the following to the Commandant:
(1) The report of the prototype testing prepared by the manufacturer. The report must include a signed statement by the Coast Guard inspector who witnessed the testing, indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its results.
(2) The final plans of the liferaft as built. The plans must include—
(i) The servicing manual described in § 160.151-37;
(ii) The instructions for training and maintenance described in §§ 160.151-59 and 160.151-61, respectively;
(iii) The final version of the plans required under § 160.151-11(b), including—
(A) Each correction, change, or addition made during the construction and approval testing of prototypes;
(B) Sufficient detail to determine that each requirement of this subpart is met;
(C) Fabrication details for the inflatable liferaft, including details of the method of making seams and joints; and
(D) Full details of the inflation system.
(3) A description of the quality-control procedures that will apply to the production of the inflatable liferaft. These must include—
(i) The system for checking material certifications received from suppliers;
(ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
(iii) The method for checking quality of seams and joints; and
(iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of fabrication to assure that the approved liferaft complies with the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart.
§ 160.151-15   Design and performance of inflatable liferafts.
To satisfy the requirements of the regulations of SOLAS and the IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart), each inflatable liferaft must meet the following requirements of this section:
(a) Workmanship and materials (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter I/1.2.1). Each liferaft must be constructed of the following types of materials meeting MIL-C-17415E (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart, or materials accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or superior and be capable of withstanding the prototype tests specified in 160.151-27 of this subchapter.
(b) Seams (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter I/1.2.2.1). Each seam must be at least as strong as the weakest of the materials joined by the seam. Each seam must be covered with tape where necessary to prevent lifting of and damage to fabric edges.
(c) Protection from cold inflation-gas (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) Chapter I/1.2.2.1). Each inflatable compartment must be provided with a protective liner or baffling arrangement at the inflation-gas inlet, or other equally effective means to prevent damage from exposure to cold inflation-gas.
(d) Compatibility of dissimilar materials (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter I/1.2.2.4). Where dissimilar materials are combined in the construction of a liferaft, provisions must be made to prevent loosening or tightening due to differences in thermal expansion, freezing, buckling, galvanic corrosion, or other incompatibilities.
(e) Color (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter I/1.2.2.6). The primary color of the exterior of the canopy must be vivid reddish orange (color number 12197 of FED-STD-595C (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart)), or a fluorescent color of a similar hue.
(f) Retroreflective material (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter I/1.2.2.7). Each inflatable liferaft must be marked with Type I retroreflective material approved under part 164, subpart 164.018, of this chapter as complying with SOLAS. The arrangement of the retroreflective material must comply with IMO Res. A.658(16) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart).
(g) Towing attachments (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.1.4) Each towing attachment must be reinforced strongly enough to withstand the towing strain, and marked to indicate its function.
(h) Weight (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.2.2). The weight of the liferaft including its container and equipment may not exceed 185 kg (407.8 lb), unless the liferaft is intended for launching into the water directly from its stowed position using an inclined or hand-tilted rack, or is served by a launching appliance approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.163.
(i) Lifelines (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.3.1). Each lifeline must be made of nylon tubular webbing with a minimum diameter of 14 mm (9/16-inch), rope with a minimum diameter of 10 mm ( 3/8 -inch), or equivalent. Each lifeline-attachment patch must have a minimum breaking strength of 1.5 kN (350 lb) pull exerted perpendicular to the base of the patch. Each bight of an exterior lifeline must be long enough to allow the lifeline to reach to the waterline of the liferaft when it is afloat.
(j) [Reserved]
(k) Painter system (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.6.1). The painter protruding from the liferaft container must be inherently resistant, or treated to be resistant, to deterioration from sunlight and salt spray, and resistant to absorption and wicking of water.
(l) Inflation cylinders (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.2.3). Each compressed-gas inflation cylinder within the liferaft must meet the requirements of § 147.60 of this chapter, and be installed so that—
(1) Slings and reinforcements of sufficient strength retain the inflation cylinders in place when the liferaft is dropped into the water from its stowage height and during inflation; and
(2) The painter and the inflation cylinders of the liferaft are linked to start inflation when the painter is pulled by one person exerting a force not exceeding 150 N (34 lb).
(m) Inflation systems (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.2.3). Gas inflation systems, including gas-cylinder valves; gas-cylinder operating heads; high-pressure hose assemblies; and pressure relief, inflation/deflation, and non-return/transfer valves; must be certified as complying with the requirements of ISO 15738 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart).
(n) Boarding ladders (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.4.2). The steps of each boarding ladder must provide a suitable foothold.
(o) Canopy lamps (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.3.3). The exterior and interior liferaft canopy lamps must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 161.101.
(p) Containers (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.6.1). Each container for packing liferafts—
(1) Must include a telltale made with a seal-and-wire, or equivalent, method for indicating whether the liferaft has been tampered with or used since packing;
(2) Must be designed so that the liferaft breaks free of the container when inflation is initiated, without the need to manually open or remove any closing arrangement;
(3) Must have an interior surface smooth and free from splinters, barbs, or rough projections;
(4) Must be of rigid construction where the liferaft is intended for float-free launching or for exposed stowage on deck;
(5) If rigid, must be designed to facilitate securing the inflatable liferaft to a vessel to permit quick release for manual launching;
(6) If constructed of fibrous-glass-reinforced plastic, must be provided with a means to prevent abrasion of the liferaft fabric, such as by using a gel-coated interior finish of the container, enclosing the liferaft in an envelope of plastic film, or equivalent means; and
(7) Except as provided in paragraph (o)(4) of this section, may be of fabric construction. Each container of fabric construction must be made of coated cloth, include carrying handles and drain holes, and be adaptable to stowage and expeditious removal from lockers and deck-mounted enclosures adjacent to liferaft-launching stations. The weight of a liferaft in a fabric container including its container and equipment may not exceed 100 kg (220 lb).
§ 160.151-17   Additional requirements for design and performance of SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts.
To satisfy the requirements of the indicated regulations of SOLAS and IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart), each SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferaft must be manufactured in accordance with §§ 160.151-7 and 160.151-15, and must comply with the following additional requirements:
(a) Stability (the IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.5). (1) Each liferaft with a capacity of more than 8 persons must have a waterplane of circular or elliptical shape. A hexagonal, octagonal, or similar outline approximating a circular or elliptical shape is acceptable.
(2) Each liferaft manufactured under this subpart must have water-containing stability appendages on its underside to resist capsizing from wind and waves. These appendages must meet the following requirements:
(i) The total volume of the appendages must not be less than 220 liters (7.77 ft 3 ) for liferafts approved to accommodate up to 10 persons. The volume of an appendage is calculated using the bottom of the lowest opening in an appendage as the height of the appendage, and by deducting the volume of any objects inside the appendage. No opening designed to close as water is forced out of an appendage is an opening for the purpose of this calculation.
(ii) The total volume of the appendages for liferafts approved to accommodate more than 10 persons must be not less than 20 × N liters (0.706 × N ft 3 ), where N = the number of persons for which the liferaft is approved.
(iii) The appendages must be securely attached and evenly distributed around the periphery of the exterior bottom of the liferaft. They may be omitted at the locations of inflation cylinders.
(iv) The appendages must consist of at least two separate parts so that damage to one part will permit at least half of the required total volume to remain intact.
(v) Openings in or between the appendages must be provided to limit the formation of air pockets under the inflatable liferaft.
(vi) The appendages must be designed to deploy underwater when the liferaft inflates, and to fill to at least 60 percent of their capacity within 25 seconds of deployment. If weights are used for this purpose, they must be of corrosion-resistant material.
(vii) The primary color of the appendages must be vivid reddish orange (color number 12197 of FED-STD-595C (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart)), or a fluorescent color of a similar hue.
(b) Boarding ramp (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.4.1). The boarding ramp must have sufficient size and buoyancy to support one person weighing 100 kg (220 lb), sitting or kneeling and not holding onto any other part of the liferaft.
§ 160.151-21   Equipment required for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts.
To obtain Coast Guard approval, the equipment in each SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferaft must meet the following specific requirements when complying with the indicated regulations of SOLAS and the IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart):
(a) Heaving line (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.1). The buoyant heaving line must have a breaking strength of not less than 1.1 kN (250 lb), and must be attached to the inflatable liferaft near the entrance furthest from the painter attachment.
(b) Jackknife (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.2). Each folding knife must be a jackknife meeting the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(16).
(c) Bailer ((IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.3 and ISO 18813 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart)). Each bailer must have a volume of at least 2 L (125 in 3 ).
(d) Sponge (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.4). Each sponge must have a volume of at least 750 cm 3 (48 in 3 ) when saturated with water.
(e) Sea anchors (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.5 and ISO 17339 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart)). Sea anchors without the swivels may be used if, during the towing test, a sea anchor of their design does not rotate when streamed. The sea anchors need not have the tripping lines if, during the towing test, a sea anchor of their design can be hauled in by one person. Sea anchors must be attached to the raft at a position so as to orient the primary entrance away from the seas as far as practicable while still allowing the sea anchor to be retrieved by a person inside the raft.
(f) Paddles (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.6 and ISO 18813). The paddles must be at least 1.2 m (4 ft) long and must be of the same size and type as used to pass the maneuverability test in paragraph 1/5.10 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart).
(g) Tin-opener (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.7 and ISO 18813). Each sharp part of a tin-opener must have a guard.
(h) First-aid kit (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.8). Each first-aid kit must meet the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(10).
(i) Whistle (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.9 and ISO 18813). The whistle must be a ball-type or multi-tone whistle of corrosion-resistant construction.
(j) Rocket parachute flare (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.10). Each rocket parachute flare must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.136.
(k) Hand flare (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.11). Each hand flare must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.121.
(l) Buoyant smoke signal (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.12). Each buoyant smoke signal must be of the floating type approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.122.
(m) Electric torch (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.13). The waterproof electric torch must be a Type I or Type III flashlight constructed and marked in accordance with ASTM F 1014 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart). Three-cell-size flashlights bearing Coast Guard approval numbers in the 161.008 series may continue to be used as long as they are serviceable.
(n) Radar reflector (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.14). The radar reflector may be omitted if the outside of the container of the inflatable liferaft includes a notice near the “SOLAS A” or “SOLAS B” marking indicating that no radar reflector is included.
(o) Signalling mirror (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.15). Each signalling mirror must meet the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(19).
(p) Lifesaving signals (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.16). If not provided on a waterproof card or sealed in a transparent waterproof container, the table of lifesaving signals may be provided as part of the instruction manual.
(q) Fishing tackle (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.17). The fishing tackle must meet the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(11).
(r) Food rations (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.18). The food rations must meet the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(22).
(s) Drinking water (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.19). Emergency drinking water must meet the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(40). The desalting apparatus or reverse osmosis desalinator must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.058.
(t) Drinking cup (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.20 and ISO 18813). The drinking cup must be graduated in ounces or milliliters or both.
(u) Anti-seasickness medicine (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.21 and ISO 18813). The anti-seasickness medicine must include instructions for use and be marked with an expiration date.
(v) Survival instructions (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.22 and ISO 18813). The instructions on how to survive in a liferaft must—
(1) Be waterproof;
(2) Whatever other language or languages they may be in, be in English;
(3) Meet the guidelines in IMO Res. A.657(16) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart); and
(4) Be suspended in a clear film envelope from one of the arch tubes of the canopy.
(w) Instructions for immediate action (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.23). The instructions for immediate action must—
(1) Be waterproof;
(2) Whatever other language or languages they may be in, be in English;
(3) Meet the guidelines in IMO Res. A.657(16);
(4) Explain both the noise accompanying the operation of any provided pressure-relief valves, and the need to render them inoperable after they complete venting; and
(5) Be suspended from the inside canopy, so they are immediately visible by survivors on entering the inflatable liferaft. They may be contained in the same envelope with the instructions on how to survive if the instructions for immediate action are visible through both faces of the envelope.
(x) Thermal protective aid (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.1.5.1.24). Each thermal protective aid must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.174.
(y) Repair outfit (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.9.1.1 and ISO 18813). The repair outfit must include—
(1) Six or more sealing clamps or serrated conical plugs, or a combination of the two;
(2) Five or more tube patches at least 50 mm (2 in) in diameter (the Commandant will consider self-adhesive patches per ISO 18813 as an alternative); and
(3) A roughing tool, if necessary to apply the patches.
(z) Pump or bellows (IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.9.1.2). The pump or bellows must be manually operable and arranged to be capable of inflating any part of the inflatable structure of the liferaft.
(aa) Plugs for pressure-relief valves. Plugs for rendering pressure-relief valves inoperable must be provided in any liferaft fitted with such valves, unless the valves are of a type that can be rendered inoperable without separate plugs. If provided, plugs for pressure-relief valves must be usable with hands gloved in an immersion suit, and must either float or be secured to the liferaft by a lanyard.
§ 160.151-25   Additional equipment for inflatable liferafts.
The manufacturer may specify additional equipment to be carried in inflatable liferafts if the equipment is identified in the manufacturer's approved drawings and if the packing and inspection of the equipment is covered in the servicing manual. Any such additional equipment for which performance or approval standards are prescribed in this part or in 47 CFR part 80 must comply with those standards.
§ 160.151-27   Approval inspections and tests for inflatable liferafts.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, to satisfy the testing requirements of: IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), part 1, paragraphs 5.1 through 5.15; paragraph 5.16 for a davit-launched inflatable liferaft; and paragraph 5.17, a prototype inflatable liferaft of each design submitted for Coast Guard approval must meet the additional specific requirements and tests specified in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section.
(b) The Commandant may waive certain tests for a liferaft identical in construction to a liferaft that has successfully completed the tests, if the liferafts differ only in size and are of essentially the same design.
(c) Tests must be conducted in accordance with the indicated paragraphs of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), except:
(1) Jump test (Paragraph 1/5.2). One-half of the jumps must be with the canopy erect, and the remainder with the canopy furled or deflated. If a “suitable and equivalent mass” is used, it must be equipped with the shoes described in paragraph 1/5.2.1 of Resolution A.689(17), and arranged so the shoes strike the liferaft first.
(2) Mooring-out test (Paragraph 1/5.5). Initial inflation may be with compressed air.
(3) Loading and seating test (Paragraph 1/5.7). For a liferaft not intended for use with a launching or embarkation appliance, the persons used to determine seating capacity shall wear insulated buoyant immersion suits rather than lifejackets.
(4) Boarding test (Paragraph 1/5.8). This test must be performed using each boarding ramp or boarding ladder which is installed on the liferaft.
(5) Canopy-closure test (Paragraph 1/5.12). This test is required only for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts. For a davit-launched liferaft, any opening near the lifting eye should be sealed during the test to prevent the ingress of water. The water accumulated within the liferaft at the end of the test must not exceed 4 L (1 gallon).
(6) Detailed inspection (Paragraph 1/5.14). The independent laboratory's inspection of the prototype liferaft under § 160.151-13(a) satisfies the requirements of paragraph 1/5.14.
(7) Davit-launched liferafts—strength test (Paragraph 1/5.16.1). The calculation of combined strength of the lifting components must be based on the lesser of—
(i) The lowest breaking strength obtained for each item; or
(ii) The component manufacturer's ultimate strength rating.
(d) The boarding ramp on each liferaft equipped with one must be demonstrated capable of supporting one person weighing 100 kg (220 lb), sitting or kneeling and not holding onto any other part of the liferaft.
§ 160.151-29   Additional approval tests for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts.
To verify compliance with the requirements of IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.3.5 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart), the following test must be conducted for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts in addition to those required by § 160.151-27 and IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart:
(a) Test of filling time for stability appendages. A representative sample of each type and size of stability appendage to be fitted to a liferaft must be tested as follows:
(1) The appendage must be attached to a testing jig similar in material and construction to the appendage's intended location on a liferaft. The method of attachment must be the same as used on a liferaft. The appendage and jig must be attached to a scale capable of recording peak readings, and suspended over a pool of calm water. The dry weight must be recorded.
(2) The appendage and jig must then be quickly lowered into the water until the appendage is completely submerged. When the appendage has been in the water for 25 seconds, it must be smoothly lifted completely out of the water, and the peak weight after the appendage is removed from the water recorded.
(3) The difference in weights measured according to paragraphs (a) (1) and (2) of this section must be at least 60 percent of the appendage's volume, calculated in accordance with § 160.151-17(a)(2)(i).
(b) [Reserved]
§ 160.151-31   Production inspections and tests of inflatable liferafts.
(a) Production inspections and tests of inflatable liferafts must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007, and with those of this section.
(b) Each liferaft approved by the Coast Guard must be identified with unique lot and serial numbers as follows:
(1) Each lot must consist of not more than 50 liferafts of the same design and carrying capacity.
(2) A new lot must begin whenever the liferafts undergo changes of design, material, production method, or source of supply for any essential component.
(3) The manufacturer may use a running-lot system, whereby the fabrication of the individual liferafts of a lot occurs over an extended interval under an irregular schedule. Each running lot must comprise not more than 10 liferafts of the same design and carrying capacity. Each running-lot system must be in accordance with a procedure proposed by the manufacturer and approved by the Commandant.
(4) Unless a lot is a running lot, each lot must consist of liferafts produced under a process of continuous production.
(c) Among the records required to be retained by the manufacturer under 46 CFR 159.007-13 , are affidavits or invoices from the suppliers identifying all essential materials used in the production of approved liferafts, together with the lot numbers of the liferafts constructed with those materials.
(d) Each approved liferaft must pass each of the inspections and tests described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), part 2, paragraphs 5.1.3 through 5.1.6 inclusive, (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart) and prescribed by paragraphs (e) through (g) of this section. For a davit-launched liferaft, these tests must be preceded by the test described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), part 2, paragraph 5.2.
(e) The test described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), Paragraph 2/5.1.5, must be conducted under the following conditions:
(1) The test must last 1 hour, with a maximum allowable pressure drop of 5 percent after compensation for changes in ambient temperature and barometric pressure.
(2) For each degree Celsius of rise in temperature, 0.385 kPa must be subtracted from the final pressure reading (0.031 psig per degree Fahrenheit). For each degree Celsius of drop in temperature, 0.385 kPa must be added to the final pressure reading (again, 0.031 psig per degree Fahrenheit).
(3) For each mm of mercury of rise in barometric pressure, 0.133 kPa must be added to the final temperature-corrected pressure reading (0.049 psig per 0.1 inch of mercury). For each mm of mercury of drop in barometric pressure, 0.133 kPa must be subtracted from the final temperature-corrected pressure reading (again, 0.049 psig per 0.1 inch of mercury). Corrections for changes in ambient barometric pressure are necessary only if a measuring instrument open to the atmosphere, such as a manometer, is used.
(f) One liferaft from each lot of fewer than 30 liferafts, and two from each lot of 30 to 50 liferafts, must pass the test described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), part 2, paragraphs 5.1.1 and 5.1.2. If any liferaft fails this test—
(1) The reason for the failure must be determined;
(2) Each liferaft in the lot must be examined for the defect and repaired if reparable, or scrapped if irreparable; and
(3) The lot test must be repeated, including random selection of the liferaft or liferafts to be tested. If any liferafts from the lot have left the place of manufacture, they must be recalled for examination, repair, and testing as necessary; or else the required actions must take place at an approved servicing facility.
(g) The manufacturer shall arrange for inspections by an accepted independent laboratory at least once in each calendar quarter in which production of liferafts approved by the Coast Guard takes place. The time and date of each inspection must be selected by the independent laboratory, to occur when completed liferafts are in the manufacturing facility and others are under construction. The manufacturer shall ensure that the inspector from the independent laboratory—
(1) Conducts the inspection and witnesses the tests required by paragraph (f) of this section, and further conducts a visual inspection to verify that the liferafts are being made in accordance with the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
(2) Examines the records of production inspections and tests for liferafts produced since the last inspection by an independent laboratory to verify that each required inspection and test has been carried out satisfactorily;
(3) Conducts a design audit on at least one liferaft approved by the Coast Guard each year. If possible, different models of liferafts must be examined in the design audit from year to year. To retain Coast Guard approval, the manufacturer shall demonstrate to the inspector during each design audit that—
(i) Each part used in the liferaft matches the part called for by the approved plans;
(ii) Each part and subassembly are of the materials and components indicated on the approved plans or their bills of materials; and
(iii) Each critical dimension is correct as shown either by measurement or by proper fit and function in the next-higher assembly.
(h) The manufacturer must notify the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) whenever final production inspections and tests are to be performed so that the OCMI may assign a marine inspector to the factory to witness the applicable tests and to ensure that the quality assurance program of the manufacturer is satisfactory.
§ 160.151-33   Marking and labeling.
(a) Whatever other languages they may be in, markings required on each inflatable liferaft and its container must be in English.
(b) The markings required on the liferaft container under IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.6.3 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart) must be on a plate or label sufficiently durable to withstand continuous exposure to environmental conditions at sea for the life of the liferaft. In addition, the container must be marked with the—
(1) Manufacturer's model identification; and
(2) U.S. Coast Guard approval number.
(c) In addition to the markings required on the inflatable liferaft under IMO LSA Code, as amended by Resolution MSC.293(87), Chapter IV/4.2.7.1, the liferaft must be marked with the—
(1) Manufacturer's model identification;
(2) Lot number; and
(3) U.S. Coast Guard approval number.
§ 160.151-35   Servicing.
(a) Inspection and repair. Inflatable liferafts carried under the regulations in this chapter, and in chapter I of title 33 CFR, must be inspected periodically by a servicing facility approved by the Coast Guard, repaired as necessary, and repacked. Requirements for periodic inspection and repair of liferafts approved by the Coast Guard appear in §§ 160.151-37 through 160.151-57.
(b) Manufacturer's requirements. To retain Coast Guard approval of liferafts, the manufacturer must:
(1) Prepare a servicing manual or manuals complying with § 160.151-37 to cover each model and size of liferaft that the manufacturer produces. The manual or manuals must be submitted to the Commandant for approval.
(2) At least once each year, issue a list of revisions to the manual or manuals, and issue a list of bulletins affecting the manual or manuals, that are in effect.
(3) Make available to each servicing facility approved by the Coast Guard the manual or manuals, the revisions, the bulletins, the plans, and any unique parts and tools that may be necessary to service the liferaft. The plans may be either the manufacturing drawings, or special plans prepared especially for use by servicing technicians. They may be incorporated into the manual or manuals.
(4) Have a training program complying with § 160.151-39 for the certification of servicing technicians.
(5) Notify the OCMI for the zone in which the servicing facility is located whenever the manufacturer becomes aware of servicing at approved facilities that is not in accordance with the requirements of this subpart, or aware of falsification by an approved facility of records required by this subpart.
(c) A manufacturer of liferafts not approved by the Coast Guard may establish servicing facilities approved by the Coast Guard for such liferafts in the United States if the manufacturer meets the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section.
§ 160.151-37   Servicing manual.
(a) The servicing manual must provide instructions on performing the following tasks:
(1) Removing the inflatable liferaft from the container for testing without damaging the liferaft or its contents.
(2) Examining the liferaft and its container for damage and wear including deteriorated structural joints and seams.
(3) Determining the need for repairs.
(4) Performing each repair which can be made by a servicing facility.
(5) Identifying repairs that the manufacturer must perform.
(6) Determining when liferaft equipment must be replaced.
(7) Conducting tests required by § 160.151-57.
(8) Repacking the liferaft.
(9) Changing the maximum height of stowage of the liferaft by changing the length of the painter.
(10) Special equipment limitations or packing instructions, if any, necessary to qualify the liferaft for a particular height of stowage.
(11) Changing the service of the liferaft by changing the contents of the equipment pack.
(12) Proper marking of the liferaft container, including approval number, persons' capacity, maximum height of stowage, service (equipment pack), and expiration date of servicing.
(13) A list of parts for—
(i) Survival equipment;
(ii) Compressed-gas cylinders;
(iii) Inflation valves;
(iv) Relief valves; and
(v) Repair equipment.
(14) The necessary pressures for each size of approved liferaft for conducting the “Necessary Additional Pressure” test required by § 160.151-57(k).
(b) Each revision to a servicing manual, and each bulletin, that authorizes the modification of a liferaft, or that affects the compliance of a liferaft with any requirement under this subpart, must be submitted to and approved by the Commandant. Other revisions and bulletins need not be approved, but a copy of each must be submitted to the Commandant when issued.
(c) Each manual provided under this section must bear the original signature of a representative of the manufacturer attesting that it is a true copy of the manual approved by the Commandant.
§ 160.151-39   Training of servicing technicians.
(a) The training program for certification of servicing technicians must include—
(1) Training and practice in packing an inflatable liferaft, repairing buoyancy tubes, repairing inflation-system valves, and other inspections and operations described in the approved servicing manual;
(2) An evaluation at the end of the training to determine whether each trainee has successfully completed the training; and
(3) Issuance of a certificate of competence to each technician who successfully completes the training.
(b) The manufacturer shall maintain refresher training for recertification of previously trained servicing technicians. This training must include—
(1) Checking the performance of the technicians in the inspections and operations described in the manual;
(2) Retraining of the technicians in inspections and operations for which they are deficient;
(3) Training and practice in new inspections and operations;
(4) An evaluation at the end of the training to determine whether or not each trainee has successfully completed the training; and
(5) Issuance of a certificate of competence to each technician who successfully completes the training.
(c) Each time the manufacturer holds a course for servicing technicians who will perform servicing on liferafts approved by the Coast Guard, the manufacturer shall notify the cognizant OCMI sufficiently in advance to allow, at the option of the OCMI, for a Coast Guard inspector or inspectors to travel to the site where the training is to occur.
§ 160.151-41   Approval of servicing facilities.
(a) To obtain and maintain Coast Guard approval as an “approved servicing facility” for a particular manufacturer's inflatable liferafts, a facility must meet the requirements, and follow the procedures, of this section.
(b) The owner or operator of a servicing facility desiring Coast Guard approval shall apply to the cognizant OCMI. The application must include—
(1) The name and address of the facility;
(2) The name(s) of its competent servicing technician(s);
(3) Identification of the manufacturer(s) of the liferafts the facility will service; and
(4) Any limits or special conditions that should apply to the approval of the facility.
(c) The owner or operator of the servicing facility shall arrange for an inspection with the OCMI to whom the owner or operator applied under paragraph (b) of this section. A currently trained servicing technician shall successfully demonstrate the complete service to each make and type of liferaft for which approval as a servicing facility is sought, in the presence of a Coast Guard inspector or of a third-party inspector accepted by the OCMI, or such technician shall present evidence of having performed such service at the time of initial or refresher training. The service must include:
(1) Removing the liferaft from the container for testing without damaging the liferaft or its contents;
(2) Examining the liferaft and its container for damage and wear;
(3) Determining the need for repairs;
(4) Determining whether equipment must be replaced;
(5) Conducting the tests required by § 160.151-57;
(6) Repacking the liferaft;
(7) Inflating the fully packed liferaft using its inflation mechanism; and
(8) Repairing a leak in a main buoyancy chamber, and subjecting the repaired chamber to the Necessary Additional Pressure test described in § 160.151-57(k). This repair may be done on a liferaft that actually needs it, on one condemned, or on an inflatable chamber fabricated of liferaft material specifically for this purpose. (An otherwise serviceable liferaft should not be damaged for this purpose.)
(d) Whenever servicing of liferafts takes place, each servicing facility must allow Coast Guard inspectors or third-party inspectors accepted by the OCMI access to the place where the servicing occurs.
(e) Each servicing facility must employ at least one servicing technician who has successfully completed the manufacturer's training described in § 160.151-39 (a) or (b), including training in the servicing of davit-launched liferafts if the facility will service these. The training must have been completed within the preceding—
(1) 12 months for the facility to obtain its approval to service the liferafts of a particular manufacturer; or
(2) 36 months for the facility to retain approval to service the liferafts of a particular manufacturer.
§ 160.151-43   Conditions at servicing facilities.
(a) Each facility must maintain a room to service inflatable liferafts that—
(1) Is clean;
(2) Is fully enclosed;
(3) Has enough space to service the number of liferafts likely to be present for service at one time;
(4) Has a ceiling high enough to hold and allow overturning of a fully inflated liferaft of the largest size to be serviced, or is furnished with an equally efficient means to facilitate the inspection of bottom seams;
(5) Has a smooth floor that will not damage a liferaft, can be easily cleaned, and is kept clean and free from oil, grease, and abrasive material;
(6) Is well lit but free from direct sunlight;
(7) Is arranged to maintain an even temperature and low humidity in each area where liferafts are pressure tested, including by mechanical air-conditioning equipment in climates where it is necessary;
(8) Is arranged so that stored liferafts are not subjected to excessive loads and, if stacked one directly on top of another, does not have them stacked more than two liferafts high;
(9) Is efficiently ventilated but free of drafts; and
(10) Is a designated no-smoking area.
(b) In addition to the room required by paragraph (a) of this section, each facility must maintain areas or rooms for storage of liferafts awaiting servicing, repair, or delivery; for repair and painting of reinforced plastic containers; for storage of pyrotechnics and other materials, such as spare parts and required equipment; and for administrative purposes.
§ 160.151-45   Equipment required for servicing facilities.
Each servicing facility approved by the Coast Guard must maintain equipment to carry out the operations described in the manufacturer's servicing manual approved in accordance with § 160.151-35(b)(1), including—
(a) A set of plans, as specified in § 160.151-35(b)(3), for each inflatable liferaft to be serviced;
(b) A current copy of this subpart;
(c) A current copy of the manual approved in accordance with § 160.151-35(b)(1), including all revisions and bulletins in effect as indicated on the annual list issued in accordance with § 160.151-35(b)(2);
(d) Hot presses (if applicable);
(e) Safety-type glue pots or equivalents;
(f) Abrasive devices;
(g) A source of clean, dry, pressurized air; hoses; and attachments for inflating liferafts;
(h) A source of vacuum; hoses; and attachments for deflating liferafts;
(i) Mercury manometer, water manometer, or other pressure-measurement device or pressure gauge of equivalent accuracy and sensitivity;
(j) Thermometer;
(k) Barometer, aneroid or mercury;
(l) Calibrated torque-wrench for assembling the inflation system;
(m) Accurate weighing scale;
(n) Repair materials and equipment, and spare parts as specified in the applicable manual, except that items of limited “shelf life” need not be stocked if they are readily available;
(o) A complete stock of the survival equipment required to be stowed in the liferafts, except for items of equipment that are readily available;
(p) A means for load-testing davit-launched liferafts, unless the facility services only non-davit-launched liferafts;
(q) A supply of parts for all inflation components and valves specified in the applicable manual; and
(r) A tool board that clearly indicates where each small tool is stored, or has an equivalent means to make sure that no tools are left in the liferaft when repacked.
§ 160.151-47   Requirements for owners or operators of servicing facilities.
To maintain Coast Guard approval, the owner or operator of each servicing facility approved by the Coast Guard must—
(a) Ensure that servicing technicians have received sufficient information and training to follow instructions for changes and for new techniques related to the inflatable liferafts serviced by the facility, and have available at least one copy of each manufacturer's approved servicing manual, revision, and bulletin;
(b) Calibrate each pressure gauge, mechanically-operated barometer, and weighing scale at intervals of not more than 1 year, or in accordance with the equipment manufacturer's requirements;
(c) Ensure that each liferaft serviced under the facility's Coast Guard approval is serviced by or under the direct supervision of a servicing technician who has completed the requirements of either § 160.151-39 (a) or (b);
(d) Ensure that each liferaft serviced under the facility's Coast Guard approval is serviced in accordance with the approved manual;
(e) Specify which makes of liferafts the facility is approved to service when representing that the facility is approved by the Coast Guard; and
(f) Ensure that the facility does not service any make of liferaft for an inspected vessel of the U.S. or any other U.S.-flag vessel required to carry approved liferafts, unless the facility is approved by the Coast Guard to service that make of liferafts.
§ 160.151-49   Approval of servicing facilities at remote sites.
A servicing facility may be approved for servicing liferafts at a remote site, provided that appropriate arrangements have been made to ensure that each such site meets the requirements of §§ 160.151-41(e), 160.151-43, and 160.151-45. The facility must have a portable assortment of test equipment, spare parts, and replacement survival equipment to accompany the technician doing the servicing. However, if repair of liferafts will not be attempted at a remote site, equipment needed for repair does not need to be available at that site. A facility must be specifically authorized in its letter of approval to conduct servicing at a remote site.
§ 160.151-51   Notice of approval.
If the cognizant OCMI determines that the servicing facility meets the applicable requirements of §§ 160.151-39 through 160.151-47, the OCMI notifies the facility that it is approved and notifies the Commandant. The Commandant issues an approval letter to the servicing facility with copies to the OCMI and to the manufacturer(s) whose liferafts the facility is approved to service. The letter will specify any limits on the approval, and will assign the facility's approval code for use on the inspection sticker required by § 160.151-57(m)(3). The Commandant will maintain a current list of approved facilities.
§ 160.151-53   Notice to OCMI of servicing.
(a) Before servicing an inflatable liferaft under the servicing facility's Coast Guard approval, the owner or operator of the facility must tell the cognizant OCMI for each liferaft to be serviced—
(1) The make and size of the liferaft;
(2) The age of the liferaft; and
(3) Whether the liferaft is due for a five-year inflation test.
(b) The OCMI will inform the servicing facility whether the servicing of the liferaft must be witnessed by an inspector.
(c) If the OCMI requires the servicing of the liferaft to be witnessed by an inspector—
(1) The servicing facility must arrange a schedule with the OCMI that will allow a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the servicing is to occur;
(2) The owner or operator of the servicing facility, by permission of the OCMI, may arrange for the servicing to be witnessed instead by a third-party inspector accepted by the OCMI if a Coast Guard marine inspector is not available in a timely manner; and
(3) The servicing facility must not begin servicing the liferaft until the inspector arrives at the site.
(d) No deviation from servicing-manual procedures may occur without the prior approval of the OCMI. To request the approval of a deviation, the owner or operator of the servicing facility shall notify the OCMI of the proposed deviation from the procedures, and must explain to the OCMI the need for the deviation.
§ 160.151-55   Withdrawal of approval.
(a) The OCMI may withdraw the approval of the servicing facility, or may suspend its approval pending correction of deficiencies, if the Coast Guard inspector or accepted third-party inspector finds that—
(1) The facility does not meet the requirements of §§ 160.151-41 through 160.151-47, or
(2) The servicing is not performed in accordance with § 160.151-57.
(b) A withdrawal of approval may be appealed in accordance with part 1, subpart 1.03, of this chapter.
(c) The OCMI may remove a suspension pending correction of deficiencies if the servicing facility demonstrates that the deficiencies have been corrected.
§ 160.151-57   Servicing procedure.
(a) Each inflatable liferaft serviced by a servicing facility approved by the Coast Guard must be inspected and tested in accordance with paragraphs (b) through (r) of this section, and the manufacturer's servicing manual approved in accordance with § 160.151-35(b)(1).
(b) The following procedures must be carried out at each servicing:
(1) The working-pressure leakage test described in IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87), paragraph 2/5.1.5 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.151-5 of this subpart), must be conducted.
(2) Inflation hoses must be pressurized and checked for damage and leakage as part of the working-pressure leakage test, or in a separate test.
(3) An inflatable floor must be inflated until it is firm, and let stand for one hour. The inflatable floor must still be firm at the end of the hour.
(4) The seams connecting the floor to the buoyancy tube must be checked for slippage, rupture, and lifting of edges.
(5) Each item of survival equipment must be examined, and—
(i) Replaced at the time of servicing if there is less than 6 months remaining before the expiration date; and
(ii) Otherwise, repaired or replaced if it is damaged or unserviceable.
(6) Each battery must be replaced with a fresh one if—
(i) Its expiration date has passed;
(ii) It has no expiration date; or
(iii) It is to return to service in an item of survival equipment, but its measured voltage is less than its rated voltage.
(7) Each power cell for the top and inside canopy lights must be inspected and tested as prescribed in the servicing manual unless it is a battery serviced in accordance with paragraph (b)(6) of this section. Each cell that is tested and found satisfactory may be reinstalled. Each cell that is outdated, is not tested, or fails the test must be replaced.
(8) If the liferaft is equipped with an Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) or a Search and Rescue Transmitter (SART), the EPIRB or SART must be inspected and tested in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. An EPIRB must be tested using the integrated test circuit and output indicator to determine whether it is operative. Each EPIRB or SART not operative must be repaired or replaced.
(9) The manual inflation-pump must be tested for proper operation.
(10) Each damaged, faded, or incorrect instruction label or identification label on the liferaft or its container must be replaced.
(11) Each liferaft must be examined to ensure that it is properly marked with retroreflective material. The arrangement of the retroreflective material must meet the requirements of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87). Damaged or missing retroreflective material must be replaced with Type I material approved under 46 CFR part 164, subpart 164.018, as complying with SOLAS.
(12) Each inflation cylinder must be weighed. If its weight loss exceeds five percent of the weight of the charge, it must be recharged.
(c) When an inflation cylinder is recharged for any reason, the following inflation-head components must be renewed:
(1) The poppet-pin assembly, if any.
(2) Each plastic or elastomeric seal, and each other part that deteriorates with age.
(d) Each recharged inflation cylinder must stand for at least two weeks and be checked for leakage by weighing before being installed in a liferaft. An alternative mechanical or chemical test for fast detection of leakage may be used if the servicing manual approved by the Commandant in accordance with § 160.151-35(b)(1) provides for it.
(e) Each inflation cylinder that requires a hydrostatic test under 49 CFR 180.205 must be tested and marked in accordance with that section.
(f) At every second servicing of a davit-launched liferaft, the launching-load test in paragraph 2/5.2 of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, as amended by Resolution MSC.295(87) must be conducted.
(g) At every fifth annual servicing, before the conduct of the tests and inspections required in paragraphs (b) through (f) of this section, each liferaft must be removed from its container and, while still folded, inflated by the operation of its gas-inflation system.
(h) Each liferaft showing minor leaks during the gas inflation test conducted in accordance with paragraph (g) of this section, may be repaired.
(i) Each liferaft ten or more years past its date of manufacture must be condemned if it leaks extensively, or shows fabric damage other than minor porosity, during the gas inflation test conducted in accordance with paragraph (g) of this section.
(j) After the gas inflation test conducted in accordance with paragraph (g) of this section, the liferaft may be evacuated and refilled with air for the tests in paragraphs (b) through (f) of this section.
(k) At each annual servicing of a liferaft ten or more years past its date of manufacture during which the gas-inflation test in paragraph (g) of this section is not conducted, a “Necessary Additional Pressure” (NAP) test must be conducted. Before the tests and inspections required in paragraphs (b) through (f) of this section are conducted, the NAP test must be completed, using the following procedure:
(1) Plug or otherwise disable the pressure-relief valves.
(2) Gradually raise the pressure to the lesser of 2 times the design working pressure, or that specified in the manufacturer's servicing manual as sufficient to impose a tensile load on the tube fabric of 20 percent of its minimum required tensile strength.
(3) After 5 minutes, there should be no seam slippage, cracking, other defects, or pressure drop greater than 5 percent. If cracking in the buoyancy tubes is audible, accompanied by pressure loss, condemn the liferaft. If it is not, reduce the pressure in all buoyancy chambers simultaneously by enabling the pressure-relief valves.
(l) At each annual servicing of a liferaft 10 or more years past its date of manufacture, the integrity of the seams connecting the floor to the buoyancy tube must be checked by the following procedure, or an equivalent procedure specified in the manufacturer's approved servicing manual:
(1) With the buoyancy tube supported a sufficient distance above the floor of the servicing facility to maintain clearance during the test, a person weighing not less than 75 kg (165 lb) shall walk or crawl around the entire perimeter of the floor of the liferaft.
(2) The seams connecting the floor to the buoyancy tube must then be inspected for slippage, rupture, and lifting of edges.
(m) The servicing facility must complete the following for each liferaft that passes these inspections and tests:
(1) Permanently mark the liferaft on its outside canopy, or on a servicing-record panel on an interior portion of one of its buoyancy tubes near an entrance, with—
(i) The date of the servicing;
(ii) The identification and location of the servicing facility; and
(iii) If applicable, an indication that the special fifth-year servicing was performed.
(2) Permanently and legibly mark on the identification device provided in accordance with § 160.151-17(c), or on the outside canopy of the liferaft, the name, if known, of the vessel on which the raft will be installed or the name, if known, of the vessel owner.
(3) Affix an inspection sticker to the liferaft container or valise. The sticker must be of a type that will remain legible for at least 2 years when exposed to a marine environment, and that cannot be removed without being destroyed. The sticker must be about 100 mm × 150 mm (4 by 6 inches), with the last digit of the year of expiration superimposed over a background color that corresponds to the colors specified for the validation stickers for recreational-boat numbers in 33 CFR 174.15(c), and be marked with the Coast Guard identifying insignia in accordance with the requirements of 33 CFR 23.12. The sticker must also contain the following:
(i) The name of the manufacturer of the liferaft.
(ii) The year and month of expiration determined in accordance with paragraph (n) of this section.
(iii) Identification of the servicing facility, printed on the sticker or indicated on the sticker by punch using an approval code issued by the Commandant.
(n) The expiration date of the servicing sticker is 12 months after the date the liferaft was repacked, except that:
(1) For a new liferaft, the expiration date may be not more than two years after the date the liferaft was first packed, if—
(i) Dated survival equipment in the liferaft will not expire before the sticker expiration date; and
(ii) The liferaft will not be installed on a vessel certificated under SOLAS.
(2) For a liferaft stored indoors, under controlled temperatures (between 0 °C (32 °F) and 45 °C (113 °F)), for not more than 6 months from the date it was serviced or first packed, the expiration date may be extended up to the length of time the liferaft remained in storage.
(3) For a liferaft stored indoors, under controlled temperatures (between 0 °C (32 °F) and 45 °C (113 °F)), for not more than 12 months from the date it was serviced or first packed, the expiration date may be extended up to the length of time the liferaft remained in storage, if the liferaft is opened, inspected, and repacked in a servicing facility approved in accordance with §§ 160.151-49 and 160.151-51. When the liferaft is opened—
(i) The condition of the liferaft must be visually checked and found to be satisfactory;
(ii) The inflation cylinders must be checked and weighed in accordance with paragraph (b)(12) of this section;
(iii) All survival equipment whose expiration date has passed must be replaced; and
(iv) All undated batteries must be replaced.
(o) The servicing facility must remove and destroy the markings of Coast Guard approval on each liferaft condemned in the course of any servicing test or inspection.
(p) The servicing facility must issue a certificate to the liferaft owner or owner's agent for each liferaft it services. The certificate must include—
(1) The name of the manufacturer of the liferaft;
(2) The serial number of the liferaft;
(3) The date of servicing and repacking;
(4) A record of the fifth-year gas-inflation test required in paragraph (g) of this section, whenever that test is performed;
(5) A record of the hydrostatic test of each inflation cylinder required in paragraph (e) of this section, whenever that test is performed;
(6) A record of any deviation from the procedures of the manufacturer's servicing manual authorized by the OCMI in accordance with § 160.151-53(d);
(7) The identification of the servicing facility, including its name, address, and the approval code assigned by the Commandant in accordance with § 160.151-51;
(8) The name, if known, of the vessel or vessel owner receiving the liferaft; and
(9) The date the liferaft is returned to the owner or owner's agent.
(q) The servicing facility must keep a record of each liferaft approved by the Coast Guard that it services for at least five years, and must make those records available to the Coast Guard upon request. Those records must include—
(1) The serial number of the liferaft;
(2) The date of servicing and repacking;
(3) The identification of any Coast Guard or third-party inspector present;
(4) The name, if known, of the vessel or vessel owner receiving the liferaft; and
(5) The date the liferaft is returned to the owner or owner's agent.
(r) The servicing facility must prepare and transmit to the OCMI, at least annually, statistics showing the nature and extent of damage to and defects found in liferafts during servicing and repair. The facility must notify the OCMI immediately of any critical defects it finds that may affect other liferafts.
§ 160.151-59   Operating instructions and information for the ship's training manual.
(a) The liferaft manufacturer shall make operating instructions and information for the ship's training manual available in English to purchasers of inflatable liferafts approved by the Coast Guard, to enable vessel operators to meet SOLAS Chapter III, Regulation 35 (III/35).
(b) The instructions and information required by paragraph (a) of this section may be combined with similar material for hydrostatic releases or launching equipment, and must explain—
(1) Release of the inflatable liferaft from its stowage position;
(2) Launching of the liferaft;
(3) Survival procedures, including instructions for use of survival equipment aboard; and
(4) Shipboard installations of the liferaft.
(c) The operating instructions required by paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section must also be made available in the form of an instruction placard. The placard must be not greater than 36 cm (14 in.) by 51 cm (20 in.), made of durable material and suitable for display near installations of liferafts on vessels, providing simple procedures and illustrations for launching, inflating, and boarding the liferaft.
§ 160.151-61   Maintenance instructions.
(a) The liferaft manufacturer shall make maintenance instructions available in English to purchasers of inflatable liferafts approved by the Coast Guard, to enable vessel operators to meet SOLAS Chapter III, Regulation 36 (III/36).
(b) The maintenance instructions required by paragraph (a) of this section must include—
(1) A checklist for use in monthly, external, visual inspections of the packed liferaft;
(2) An explanation of the requirements for periodic servicing of the liferaft by an approved servicing facility; and
(3) A log for maintaining records of inspections and maintenance.
§ 160.156-1   Scope.
This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for seeking Coast Guard approval of a rescue boat, including a fast rescue boat, complying with SOLAS and the IMO LSA Code, for use on waters other than protected waters as defined in 46 CFR 175.400.
§ 160.156-3   Definitions.
In addition to the definitions in the IMO LSA Code (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart), in this subpart, the term:
Commandant means the Chief of the Lifesaving and Fire Safety Standards Division. Address: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), Attn: Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7509; telephone 202-372-1392 or fax 202-372-1924.
Full load means the weight of the complete rescue boat, including all required equipment, provisions, fuel, and the number of persons for which it is approved. This is also known as the condition “B” weight.
Independent laboratory has the same meaning as 46 CFR 159.001-3. A list of accepted independent laboratories is available from the Commandant and online at http://cgmix.uscg.mil.
Light load means the weight of the complete rescue boat empty and does not include fuel, required equipment, or the equivalent weight of persons. This is also known as the condition “A” weight.
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) means an officer of the Coast Guard designated as such by the Commandant and who fulfills the duties described in 46 CFR 1.01-15(b). The “cognizant OCMI” is the OCMI who has immediate jurisdiction over a vessel or geographic area for the purpose of performing the duties previously described.
SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended.
§ 160.156-5   Incorporation by reference.
(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at Coast Guard Headquarters and at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the Coast Guard at: Commandant (CG-ENG-4), U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509; or email typeapproval@uscg.mil or visit https://www.dco.uscg.mil/CG-ENG-4/. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The material may be obtained from the sources in the following paragraphs of this section.
(b) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
(1) ASTM A 36/A 36M-08, Standard Specification for Carbon Structural Steel, (approved May 15, 2008), IBR approved for §§ 160.156-7 and 160.156-15 (“ASTM A 36”).
(2) ASTM A 276-08a, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.156-7 (“ASTM A 276”).
(3) ASTM A 313/A 313M-08, (approved October 1, 2008), Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Spring Wire, IBR approved for § 160.156-7 (“ASTM A 313”).
(4) ASTM A 314-08, Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Billets and Bars for Forging, (approved October 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.156-7 (“ASTM A 314”).
(5) ASTM A 653/A 653M-08, Standard Specification for Steel Sheet, Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) or Zinc-Iron Alloy-Coated (Galvannealed) by the Hot-Dip Process, (approved July 15, 2008), IBR approved for §§ 160.156-7, 160.156-11 and 160.156-15 (“ASTM A 653”).
(6) ASTM B 209-07, Standard Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Sheet and Plate, (approved August 1, 2007), IBR approved for § 160.156-7 (“ASTM B 209”).
(7) ASTM D 638-08, Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics, (approved April 1, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.156-11 (“ASTM D 638”).
(8) ASTM D 790-07e1, Standard Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materials, (approved September 1, 2007), IBR approved for § 160.156-11 (“ASTM D 790”).
(9) ASTM D 2584-08, Standard Test Method of Ignition Loss for Cured Reinforced Resins, (approved May 1, 2008), IBR approved for §§ 160.156-11 and 160.156-15 (“ASTM D 2584”).
(10) ASTM D 4029-09, Standard Specification for Finished Woven Glass Fabrics, (approved January 15, 2009), IBR approved for § 160.156-7 (“ASTM D 4029”).
(11) ASTM F 1166-07, Standard Practice for Human Engineering Design for Marine Systems, Equipment, and Facilities, (approved January 1, 2007), IBR approved for §§ 160.156-7 and 160-156-13 (“ASTM F 1166”).
(c) General Services Administration, Federal Acquisition Service, Office of the FAS Commissioner, 2200 Crystal Drive, 11th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202, 703-605-5400.
(1) Federal Standard 595C, Colors Used in Government Procurement, (January 16, 2008), IBR approved for § 160.156-7 “(FED-STD-595C”).
(2) [Reserved]
(d) International Maritime Organization (IMO), Publications Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, + 44 (0)20 7735 7611, http://www.imo.org/.
(1) IMO Resolution A.658(16), Use and Fitting of Retro-Reflective Materials on Life-Saving Appliances, (adopted October 19, 1989), IBR approved for § 160.156-7 (“IMO Res. A.658(16)”).
(2) IMO Resolution A.760(18), Symbols Related to Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements, (adopted November 4, 1993), IBR approved for §§ 160.156-7 and 160.156-19 (“IMO Res. A.760(18)”).
(3) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), pages 7-71 (“IMO LSA Code”), IBR approved for §§ 160.156-3, 160.156-7 and 160.156-13.
(4) Life-Saving Appliances, including LSA Code, 2010 Edition, (2010), Revised recommendation on testing of live-saving appliances, pages 79-254 (“IMO Revised recommendation on testing”), IBR approved for §§ 160.156-7, 160.156-13.
(5) MSC/Circular 980, Standardized Life-saving Appliance Evaluation and Test Report Forms, (February 13, 2001), IBR approved for §§ 160.156-7 and 160.156-13, and 160.156-15 (“IMO MSC Circ. 980”).
(6) MSC.1/Circular 1205, Guidelines for Developing Operation and Maintenance Manuals for Lifeboat Systems, (May 26, 2006), IBR approved for § 160.156-21 (“IMO MSC.1 Circ. 1205”).
(7) MSC/Circ. 1006, Guidelines On Fire Test Procedures For Acceptance Of Fire-Retardant Materials For The Construction Of Lifeboats, June 18, 2001; IBR approved for § 160.156-7.
(e) International Organization for Standardization (ISO): ISO Central Secretariat [ISO Copyright Office], Case Postale 56, CH-1211 Geneve 20, Switzerland.
(1) ISO 527-1:1993(E), Plastics—Determination of tensile properties, Part 1: General Principles, First Edition (June 15, 1993), IBR approved for § 160.156-11 (“ISO 527”).
(2) ISO 1172:1996(E), Textile-glass-reinforced plastics—Prepregs, moulding compounds and laminates—Determination of the textile-glass and mineral-filler content—Calcination methods, Second Edition (December 15, 1996), IBR approved for §§ 160.156-11 and 160.156-15 (“ISO 1172”).
(3) ISO 14125:1998(E), Fibre-reinforced plastic composites—Determination of flexural properties, First Edition (March 1, 1998), IBR approved for § 160.156-11 (“ISO 14125”).
(4) ISO 15372:2000(E), Ships and marine technology—Inflatable rescue boats—Coated fabrics for inflatable chambers, First Edition (December 1, 2002), IBR approved for §§ 160.156-7 and 160.156-15 (“ISO 15372”).
(f) Military Specifications and Standards, Standardization Documents Order Desk, Building 4D, 700 Robins Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19111-5094, https://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/.
(1) MIL-C-19663D, Military Specification, Cloth, Woven Roving, For Plastic Laminate, (August 4, 1988), IBR approved for § 160.156-7 (“MIL-C-19663D”).
(2) MIL-P-17549D(SH), Military Specification, Plastic Laminates, Fibrous Glass Reinforced, Marine Structural, (August 31, 1981), IBR approved for §§ 160.156-7 and 160.156-11 (“MIL-P-17549D(SH)”).
(3) MIL-R-21607E(SH), Military Specification, Resins, Polyester, Low Pressure Laminating, Fire-Retardant, (May 25, 1990), IBR approved for § 160.156-11 (“MIL-R-21607E(SH)”).
(g) Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), 400 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA 15096.
(1) SAE J1527 (Revised JAN93), Marine Fuel Hoses, (February 5, 1993), IBR approved for § 160.156-7 (“SAE J1527”).
(2) [Reserved]
(h) Underwriters Laboratories (UL), 2600 NW., Lake Rd, Camas, WA 98607-8542.
(1) UL 1102, UL Standard for Safety for Nonintegral Marine Fuel Tanks, Fifth Edition (February 4, 1999), IBR approved for § 160.156-7 (“UL 1102”).
(2) UL 1185, Standard for Safety for Portable Marine Fuel Tanks, Fourth Edition (September 26, 1996), IBR approved for § 160.156-7 (“UL 1185”).
§ 160.156-7   Design, construction and performance of rescue boats and fast rescue boats.
(a) To seek Coast Guard approval of a rescue boat, including a fast rescue boat, a manufacturer must comply with, and each rescue boat must meet, the requirements of the following:
(1) IMO LSA Code chapter V (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart);
(2) IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1/7 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart) applicable to the type of rescue boat;
(3) 46 CFR part 159; and
(4) This subpart.
(b) Each rescue boat must meet the following requirements:
(1) Design. (i) Each rescue boat must be designed to be operable by persons wearing immersion suits.
(ii) Each rescue boat should be designed following standard human engineering practices described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart). Design limits should be based on a range from the fifth percentile female to the ninety-fifth percentile male values for critical body dimensions and functional capabilities as described in ASTM F 1166. The dimensions for a person wearing an immersion suit correspond to the arctic-clothed dimensions of ASTM F 1166.
(2) Visibility from operator's station. (i) The operator's station must be designed such that the operator, when seated at the control station, has visibility 360 degrees around the rescue boat, with any areas obstructed by the rescue boat structure or its fittings visible by moving the operator's head and torso.
(ii) The operator, while still being able to steer and control the speed of the rescue boat, must be able to see the water—
(A) Over a 90 degree arc within 3 m (10 ft) of each side of the rescue boat;
(B) Over a 30 degree arc within 1 m (3 ft, 3 in) of each side of the rescue boat; and
(C) Within 0.5 m (1 ft, 8 in) of the entrances designated for recovering persons from the water.
(iii) In order to see a person in the water during recovery or docking operations, a hatch must be provided in fully enclosed rescue boats so that the operator can stand with his or her head outside the rescue boat for increased visibility, provided the operator can still steer and control the speed of the rescue boat.
(3) Construction. Each major rigid structural component of each rescue boat must be constructed of steel, aluminum, or Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP), or materials accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or superior.
(i) General. Metals in contact with each other must be either galvanically compatible or insulated with suitable non-porous materials. Provisions must also be made to prevent loosening or tightening resulting from differences of thermal expansion, freezing, buckling of parts, galvanic corrosion, or other incompatibilities.
(ii) Steel. Sheet steel and plate must be low carbon, commercial quality, either corrosion resistant or galvanized as per ASTM A 653, coating designation G90 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart). Structural steel plates and shapes must be carbon steel as per ASTM A 36 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart), or an equivalent or superior steel accepted by the Commandant. All steel products, except corrosion resistant steel, must be galvanized to provide high quality zinc coatings suitable for the intended service life in a marine environment. Corrosion resistant steel must be a type 302 stainless steel per ASTM A 276, ASTM A 313, or ASTM A 314 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart) or another corrosion resistant stainless steel of equal or superior corrosion resistant characteristics.
(iii) Aluminum. Aluminum and aluminum alloys must conform to ASTM B 209 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart) and be high purity for good marine corrosion resistance, free of iron, and containing not more than 0.6 percent copper.
(iv) Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP).
(A) Resin. Any resin used for the hull, canopy, hatches, rigid covers, and enclosures for the engine, transmission, and engine accessories, must be fire retardant according to IMO MSC/Circ. 1006 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5)
(B) Glass reinforcement. Any glass reinforcement used must have good laminated wet strength retention and must meet the appropriate specification in this paragraph. Glass cloth must be a finished fabric woven from “E” electrical glass fiber yarns meeting ASTM D 4029-09 commercial style designation 1564 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart). Woven roving must conform to MIL-C-19663D (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart). Other glass materials equivalent or superior in strength, design, wet out, and efficiency will be given consideration on specific request to the Commandant.
(C) Laminate. All exposed surfaces of any finished laminate must present a smooth finish, and there must be no protruding surface fibers, open voids, pits, cracks, bubbles, or blisters. The laminate must be essentially free from resin-starved or overimpregnated areas, and no foreign matter must remain in the finished laminate. The entire laminate must be fully cured and free of tackiness, and must show no tendency to delaminate, peel, or craze in any overlay. The laminate must not be released from the mold until a Barcol hardness reading of not less than 40-55 is obtained from at least 10 places on the non-gel coated surface, including all interior inner and outer hull surfaces and built-in lockers. The mechanical properties of the laminate must meet the requirements for a Grade 3 laminate as specified in Table I of MIL-P-17549D(SH) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart). Other grades will be given consideration on specific request to the Commandant.
(4) Welding. Welding must be performed by welders certified by the Commandant, a classification society recognized by the Commandant in accordance with 46 CFR 8.220, the U.S. Navy, or the national body where the rescue boat is constructed or the national body's designated recognized organization. Only electrodes intended for use with the material being welded may be used. All welds must be checked using appropriate non-destructive tests.
(5) Rescue boat buoyancy. (i) The buoyancy material must be accepted by the Commandant as meeting the performance requirements of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1, 6.2.2 to 6.2.7, with a density of 32 ±8 kg/m 3 (2 ±0.5 lb/ft 3 ). The buoyancy foam or rescue boat manufacturer must certify the results of the testing to IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, 6.2.2 to 6.2.7 and submit those results to the Commandant. A list of accepted buoyancy foams may be obtained from the Commandant upon request.
(ii) All voids in the hull and canopy required to provide buoyancy for positive stability and self righting must be completely filled with Coast Guard-accepted buoyancy material.
(iii) Air in the inflated collar of a rigid-hull inflatable rescue boat will not be considered inherently buoyant material for the purposes of meeting the additional 280 N/person requirement of the LSA Code, chapter IV/4.4.4.
(6) Coated fabric. Any coated fabric used in the construction of inflatable chambers on a rescue boat must be shown to have been subjected to the criteria listed in IMO MSC Circ. 980 for Inflation Chamber Characteristics Test (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart) by meeting the requirements of ISO 15372 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart). The color of the finished fabric must be vivid reddish orange color number 12197 of FED-STD-595C (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart), or a durable fluorescent color of a similar hue. Each seam must be at least as strong as the weakest of the materials joined by the seam. Each seam must be covered with tape where necessary to prevent lifting of and damage to fabric edges.
(7) Engines. (i) In order to be accepted by the Commandant, any spark ignition engine fitted to an approved rescue boat must meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency emission requirements in 40 CFR part 91 or part 1045, as applicable, or for a compression ignition engine the requirements in 40 CFR part 89, part 94, or part 1042, as applicable, and have reports containing the same information as recommended by MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart) certified and witnessed by a U.S. Coast Guard inspector or an independent laboratory.
(ii) A hydraulic system, if used to start the engine, must be in accordance with 46 CFR part 58, subpart 58.30, with hose and fittings in accordance with 46 CFR part 56, subpart 56.60 except that—
(A) Push-on type fittings such as Aeroquip 1525-X, 25156-X, and FC332-X are not permitted; and
(B) The length of nonmetallic flexible hose is limited to 760 mm (30 in). Longer nonmetallic flexible hoses may be allowed in emergency steering systems at the discretion of the Commandant.
(iii) If a hand pump is provided, or if the engine has a manual starting system, adequate space must be provided for the hand pump or hand start operation.
(8) Fuel system. (i) The fuel system must meet 46 CFR 56.50-75(b) and, except as specified in this paragraph, the fuel tank must meet 46 CFR 58.50-10.
(ii) The fuel tank and fuel system must be in accordance with paragraph (b)(8)(ii)(A), (B), or (C) of this section, as follows:
(A) Permanently installed fuel systems must meet the requirements in 46 CFR 160.135-7.
(B) Portable fuel systems for outboard engines must meet UL 1185 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart) or equivalent, except that hoses must be Coast Guard Type A per SAE J1527 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart), and hose clamps, primers, filters, and strainers must be successfully tested in accordance with 33 CFR 183.590. Anti-siphon devices must be provided in the fuel system to prevent fuel spillage when the hose is disconnected. Arrangements must be provided to secure the fuel tank in its normal operating position on the rescue boat.
(C) Fuel systems for outboard engines using non-integral, permanently installed fuel tanks must meet the requirements of 33 CFR part 183, subpart J—Fuel Systems. UL 1102 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart) meets these requirements for fuel tanks.
(9) Starting system batteries. Each battery fitted in a totally enclosed rescue boat must be stored in a sealed compartment with exterior venting. If the rescue boat has more than one engine, then only one starting battery is required per engine.
(10) Exhaust. Engine exhaust must be routed away from bilge and potential oil drips. Any paint used on engines, manifolds, or exhaust must not give off fumes when heated. All exhaust lagging must be non-absorbent.
(11) Propeller guard. Each propeller on a rescue boat must be fitted with a propeller guard with a maximum opening of 76 mm (3 in) on all sides on which a person is likely to be exposed.
(12) Control and steering station. Rescue boat starting, maneuvering, and steering controls must be provided at the control and steering station.
(i) The throttle must be a continuous manual control and must be able to be set and locked at any position.
(ii) The control and steering station must be designed and laid out in accordance with ASTM F 1166 sections 9 and 10, so that controls and displays are unambiguous, accessible, and easy to reach and use from the operator's normal seated position, while wearing an immersion suit or a lifejacket.
(iii) Each control, gauge, or display must be identified by a marking posted on, above, or adjacent to the respective item. Each control must operate in a logical manner and be marked with an arrow to show direction of movement of control which will cause an increased response. Each gauge must be marked with the normal operating range and indicate danger or abnormal conditions. Each marking must be permanent and weatherproof.
(iv) Gauges, and audio and visual alarms, must be provided to monitor at least the following parameters on inboard engines—
(A) Coolant temperature, for a liquid cooled engine;
(B) Oil pressure, for an engine with an oil pump;
(C) Tachometer, for an engine not provided with over-speed protection; and
(D) State of charge, or rate of charge, for each rechargeable engine starting power source.
(13) Drain plug. The position of each drain plug must be clearly indicated by a permanent marking inside the rescue boat. The marking must be an arrow pointing in the direction of the plug, and the words “Drain Plug” must be 76 mm (3 in) high and have letters of a color that contrast with their background. The marking must be clearly visible to a person within the vicinity of the drain plug.
(14) Remote steering. The procedure to change over from remote to local steering must be simple, not require the use of tools, and be clearly posted. There must be sufficient clear space to install, operate, remove, and stow the removable tiller arm. The tiller arm and its connection to the rudder stock must be of sufficient strength so that there is no slippage or bending of the tiller arm. Rudder stops or other means must be provided to prevent the rudder from turning too far on either side.
(15) Lifelines. Buoyant lifelines must be of ultraviolet resistant material.
(16) Rails provided as handholds. Rails provided as handholds on rigid and rigid-inflated rescue boats must extend for half the length of the rescue boat on both sides of the hull, and the clearance between the rail and hull must be at least 38 mm (1.5 in). The rails must be attached to the hull below the chine or turn of the bilge, must be faired to prevent any fouling, and not project beyond the widest part of the rescue boat.
(17) Equipment list. A weatherproof equipment list must be permanently mounted in a conspicuous and prominent location on a stowage locker or compartment, or on inside of canopy. The list must include a stowage plan oriented such that the stowage location of each item of loose equipment is readily apparent.
(18) Release mechanism. Each release mechanism fitted to a rescue boat, including a fast rescue boat, must be identified at the application for approval of the prototype rescue boat and must be approved under subparts 160.133 or 160.170 of this part. The release lever or control must be red in color, and the area immediately surrounding the control must be a sharply contrasting light color. An illustrated operating instruction plate or placard, showing the correct off-load and emergency on-load release procedure and recovery procedure, must be posted so that it is visible and legible from the helmsman's normal operating position. The plate or placard must be corrosion resistant and weatherproof and must be marked with the word “Danger”.
(19) Painter/painter release. Each rescue boat must be fitted with a device to secure the painter near the bow of the rescue boat. The device must be arranged such that the rescue boat does not exhibit unsafe or unstable characteristics when being towed by the ship with the ship underway at 5 knots. A quick-release device must be provided, which allows the painter to be released from inside the rescue boat while under tension. The quick-release handle must be clearly identified by a label.
(20) Canopy lamp. Any exterior rescue boat position-indicating light must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 161.101.
(21) Manually controlled interior light. Any interior light must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 161.101.
(22) Manual bilge pump. Each rescue boat that is not automatically self-bailing must be fitted with a manual bilge pump that meets the requirements in 46 CFR 199.175(b)(2), or an engine-powered bilge pump.
(23) Labels and notices. Any labels, caution and danger notices, and any operating, maintenance, or general instructions, must be in accordance with ASTM F 1166, Section 15, in terms of format, content, lettering size and spacing, color, and posted location. They must be illustrated with symbols in accordance with IMO Res. A.760(18) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart), as applicable. Information and instruction plates, not specifically mentioned in this section, must not be posted in the vicinity of the control and steering station without prior approval from the Commandant. Identification label plates, if required, must be posted on or above the component or equipment to be identified.
(24) Stowage. Each stowage compartment must be supported and secured against movement. It must have adequate hand access for removing and storing the required equipment, and for cleaning the inside of the compartment. There must be sufficient stowage volume to store the equipment required by 46 CFR 199.175.
(25) Rescue boat equipment. The rescue boat must be designed to accommodate and carry the equipment required by 46 CFR 199.175.
(26) Exterior color. The primary color of the exterior of the hull, exterior of any canopy or bow cover, and the interior of a rescue boat not covered by a canopy or bow cover must be a highly visible color equivalent to vivid reddish orange color number 12197 of FED-STD-595C, or a durable fluorescent color of a similar hue.
(27) Navigation light. Each rescue boat must have navigation lights that are in compliance with the applicable sections of the International and Inland Navigation Rules and meet 46 CFR 111.75-17.
(28) Retroreflective material. The exterior of each rescue boat and canopy must be marked with Type II retroreflective material approved under 46 CFR part 164, subpart 164.018. The arrangement of the retroreflective material must comply with IMO Res. A.658(16) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart).
(c) Determinations of equivalence of design, construction, and materials will be made by the Commandant only.
§ 160.156-9   Preapproval review.
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, the Commandant must conduct the preapproval review, required by this section, in accordance with 46 CFR 159.005-5.
(b) Manufacturer requirements. To seek Coast Guard approval of a rescue boat, the manufacturer must submit an application to the Commandant meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5 for preapproval review. To meet the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-5(a)(2), the manufacturer must submit—
(1) A list of drawings, specifications, manuals, and any other documentation submitted, with each document identified by number, title, revision issue, and date;
(2) General arrangement and assembly drawings, including principal dimensions;
(3) Seating-arrangement plan, including a dimensioned seat form to scale;
(4) A complete material list, with each material referenced to a U.S. national standard or, if a copy is provided in English, an equivalent international standard;
(5) Plans for carriage and, in detail, stowage of equipment;
(6) Hull, canopy, and critical parts lay-up schedule for Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) rescue boats, including fast rescue boats;
(7) Hull and canopy construction drawings, including particulars of joints, welds, seams, and other fabricating details;
(8) Weights and thickness of each major FRP structural component, including the hull, canopy, and inner liners, before outfitting;
(9) Specification and identification of materials such as steel, aluminum, resin, foam, fiberglass, coated fabric, and plastic used in the rescue boat's manufacture;
(10) Fabrication details for each major structural component, including details of each welded joint;
(11) Lines plans;
(12) Propulsion system specifications and arrangement and installation drawings;
(13) Steering system drawings and specifications;
(14) Release mechanism installation drawings and the mechanism's Coast Guard approval number;
(15) Plans for critical subassemblies;
(16) Hydraulic systems drawings and specifications, if installed;
(17) Electrical system schematics and specifications;
(18) Stability data, including righting arm curves in the light load and load condition for both intact and flooded;
(19) Drawings of all signs and placards, showing actual inscription, format, color, size, and location on the rescue boat;
(20) Complete data pertinent to the installation and use of the proposed rescue boat, including—
(i) The light load (condition A) and full load (condition B) weights; and
(ii) Complete details of the lifting arrangement to include enough detail for operators of the rescue boat to select a suitable release mechanism approved under subpart 160.133 or 160.170 of this part;
(21) An operation, maintenance, and training manual as described in §§ 160.156-19 and 160.156-21 of this subpart;
(22) A description of the quality control procedures and record keeping that will apply to the production of the rescue boat, which must include but is not limited to—
(i) The system for checking material certifications received from suppliers;
(ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;
(iii) The method for checking quality of fabrication, seams, and joints, including welding inspection procedures; and
(iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of fabrication to assure that the approved rescue boat complies with the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart;
(23) Full details of any other unique capability;
(24) Any other drawing(s) necessary to show that the rescue boat complies with the requirements of this subpart;
(25) The location or address of all manufacturing sites, including the name and address of any subcontractors, where the rescue boat will be constructed; and
(26) The name of the independent laboratory that will perform the duties prescribed in §§ 160.156-11 and 160.156-15 of this subpart.
(c) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the Commandant, an independent laboratory may conduct preapproval review required by this section so long as the preapproval review is conducted in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
(d) Plan quality. The plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under this section must—
(1) Be provided in English, including all notes, inscriptions, and designations for configuration control;
(2) Address each of the applicable items in paragraph (b) of this section in sufficient detail to show that the rescue boat meets the construction requirements of this subpart;
(3) Accurately depict the proposed rescue boat;
(4) Be internally consistent;
(5) Be legible; and
(6) If reviewed by an independent laboratory under paragraph (c) of this section, include the independent laboratory's attestation that the plans meet the quality requirements of this section.
(e) Alternatives. Alternatives in materials, parts, or construction, and each item replaced by an alternative, must be clearly indicated as such in the plans and specifications submitted to the Commandant under this section.
(f) Coast Guard review. If the plans or specifications do not comply with the requirements of this section, Coast Guard review may be suspended, and the applicant notified accordingly.
§ 160.156-11   Fabrication of prototype rescue boats and fast rescue boats for approval.
(a) If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted in accordance with § 160.156-9 of this subpart is satisfactory to the Commandant, the manufacturer may proceed with fabrication of the prototype rescue boat as set forth in this section.
(b) Unless the Commandant directs otherwise, an independent laboratory must perform or witness, as appropriate, inspections, tests, and oversight required by this section. Prototype inspections and tests of a rescue boat must be carried out in accordance with the procedures for independent laboratory inspection in 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.007 and in this section, unless the Commandant authorizes alternative tests and inspections. The Commandant may prescribe additional prototype tests and inspections necessary to maintain quality control and to monitor compliance with the requirements of this subpart.
(c) Fabrication of a rescue boat must proceed in the following sequence:
(1) The manufacturer must arrange for an independent laboratory (or Coast Guard inspector if required under paragraph (b) of this section) to inspect, test, and oversee the rescue boat during its fabrication and prepare an inspection and test report meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-11.
(2) The independent laboratory must make such inspections as are necessary to determine that the prototype is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified in the plans reviewed under § 160.156-9 of this subpart. By conducting at least one inspection during its construction, the independent laboratory must determine the prototype rescue boat conforms with those plans by inspecting—
(i) Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Construction. (A) FRP components of each prototype rescue boat outer hull and any FRP inner hull or liner components that are bonded or bolted to the outer hull must have a layup made of unpigmented clear resins so that details of construction are visible for inspection. Test panels representative of each prototype layup must be tested in accordance with MIL-P-17549D(SH) (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart). If an accepted MIL-R-21607E(SH) Grade B resin is used for the prototype rescue boat, additives for fire retardancy must not be used so that the laminate is translucent for inspection purposes. A prototype test rescue boat with Grade B resins will not be marked in accordance with § 160.156-17 of this subpart for use as a production rescue boat regardless of the outcome of the performance tests. Whichever accepted resin the manufacturer decides to use for the prototype rescue boat, the same resin must be used in the production rescue boats.
(B) The hull, canopy, and major structural laminates of each prototype FRP rescue boat must be tested for resin content, ultimate flexural strength, and tensile strength. The test samples must be cut out from the prototype rescue boat, or be laid up at the same time, using the same procedures and by the same operators as the laminate used in the rescue boat. The number of samples used for each test, and the conditions and test methods used, must be as per the applicable test specified in this paragraph. The resin content must be determined as per ASTM D 2584 or ISO 1172 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart). The flexural ultimate strength must be determined by ASTM D 790 method I (test condition “A”, flatwise, dry) or the corresponding ISO 14125 test method (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart). The tensile strength, lengthwise, must be determined as per ASTM D 638 or ISO 527 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart).
(C) Each major FRP component, such as the hull, canopy, and inner liner(s) of each prototype FRP rescue boat, must be examined and weighed after it is completed but before it is assembled. If the rescue boat is constructed by the spray lay-up technique, the hull and canopy thicknesses must be measured using ultrasonic or equivalent techniques;
(ii) Steel construction. Steel sheet and plate used for the hull, floors, and other structural components of a prototype steel rescue boat must meet the bend tests requirement specified under ASTM A 653 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart) after galvanizing or other anti-corrosion treatment has been applied. This may be demonstrated through supplier's certification papers or through witnessing actual tests;
(iii) Welding. Structural components of each prototype rescue boat joined by welding must be joined by the welding procedures and materials per the plans reviewed under § 160.156-9 of this subpart and by welders appropriately qualified;
(iv) Buoyancy material. If block foam buoyancy material is used, each piece must be weighed after it is cut and shaped to make sure that the correct amount of foam is installed. If foamed-in-place buoyancy material is used, a separate sample of the foam must be poured, and used to make a density determination after it has set. The density must be 32 ±8 kg/m 3 (2 ±0.5 lb/ft 3 ). Each major subassembly such as the hull-with-liner and canopy-with-liner must be weighed after the buoyancy foam is installed and before it is further assembled;
(v) Coated fabric. Coated fabric for inflatable collars used in the construction of each rescue boat must meet the requirements specified under § 160.156-7(b)(3) of this subpart. This may be demonstrated through a supplier's certification papers or through witnessing actual tests;
(vi) Installation of the propulsion system; and
(vii) Installation of the steering system.
(3) The independent laboratory must submit the inspection report to the Commandant.
§ 160.156-13   Approval inspections and tests for prototype rescue boats and fast rescue boats.
(a) After the Commandant notifies the manufacturer that the prototype rescue boat is in compliance with the requirements of § 160.156-11 of this subpart, the manufacturer may proceed with the prototype approval inspections and tests required under this section. The prototype rescue boat, the construction of which was witnessed under § 160.135-11 of this part, must be used for the tests in this section.
(b) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, the Coast Guard must conduct the approval inspections and witness the approval tests required under this section.
(c) Manufacturer requirements. To proceed with approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must—
(1) Notify the Commandant and cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) of where the approval inspections and tests required under this section will take place, and such notification must be in sufficient time to allow making travel arrangements;
(2) Arrange a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed;
(3) Admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or testing is performed on rescue boats or their component parts and materials for the purpose of—
(i) Conducting inspections as necessary to determine that the prototype is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified in the plans reviewed under § 160.156-9, and the inspection report under § 160.156-11, of this subpart;
(ii) Assuring that the quality assurance program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;
(iii) Witnessing tests; and
(iv) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests; and
(4) Make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the production of rescue boats, together with records identifying the lot or serial numbers of the rescue boats in which such materials were used.
(d) Tests. (1) Prototype rescue boat readiness. All tests must be conducted on a completely outfitted rescue boat, including fixed equipment such as a compass, searchlight, and navigating lights. Loose equipment may be substituted by weights.
(2) FRP prototype rescue boat lay-up. For the prototype of each design of an FRP rescue boat, the lay-up must be made of unpigmented resins and clear gel coat.
(3) Fuel tank. Each non-portable fuel tank must be tested by a static head above the tank top of 3 m (10 ft) of water without showing any leaks or signs of permanent distortion.
(4) IMO Revised recommendation on testing. Each prototype rescue boat of each design must pass each of the tests for the applicable hull type described in the IMO Revised recommendation on testing, part 1, section 7 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart). Tests must be conducted in accordance with these paragraphs of IMO Revised recommendation on testing, Part 1, with the following modifications:
(i) Fire retardancy/release mechanism and engine tests (Paragraphs 1/6.2, 6.9, 6.10, 6.14). The tests in the following IMO Revised recommendation on testing paragraphs may be accomplished independent of the rescue boat, and may be considered completed and need not be repeated if the tests have been previously shown to meet the following necessary requirements—
(A) Paragraphs 6.9.3 through 6.9.6;
(B) Paragraphs 6.10.2 through 6.10.6; and
(C) Paragraphs 6.14.6 through 6.14.8.
(ii) Impact test (Paragraph 1/6.4). The rigid vertical surface must not be displaced or deformed as a result of the test.
(iii) Flooded stability test for rigid rescue boats only (Paragraph 1/6.8). Any materials used to raise the test weights representing the rescue boat occupants above the seat pan must be at least as dense as fresh water.
(iv) Rescue boat operational test, operation of engine (Paragraph 1/7.1.5). For the 4-hour rescue boat maneuvering period, the rescue boat must not (except for a short period to measure towing force and to demonstrate towing fixture durability) be secured, and must be run through its full range of speeds and full range of all controls throughout the period.
(v) Survival recovery test (Paragraph 1/6.10.8). The recovery demonstration must show that no more than two crewmembers are required to recover a helpless person of ninety-fifth percentile by weight described in ASTM F 1166 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart) while the crewmembers and helpless person are each wearing a lifejacket.
(vi) Rescue boat seating space test (Paragraph 1/7.1.3). The average mass of persons used to test the rescue boat seating space must be determined by weighing as a group or individually. Each person must wear an inherently buoyant SOLAS lifejacket with at least 150 N of buoyancy or a Coast Guard-approved lifejacket approved under approval series 160.155. The operator(s) must demonstrate that the rescue boat can be operated while wearing a Coast Guard approved, insulated-buoyant immersion suit approved under approval series 160.171. The Commandant will give consideration to requests to test at, and designate rescue boats for, a heavier occupant weight than that stated in the IMO LSA Code, chapter V (incorporated by reference, § 160.156-5 of this subpart).
(5) Visual inspection. Each rescue boat must be visually inspected to confirm—
(i) Compliance with this subpart;
(ii) Conformance with the plans reviewed under § 160.156-9 of this subpart; and
(iii) Ease of operation and maintenance.
(e) Test waiver. The Commandant may waive certain tests for a rescue boat identical in construction to smaller and larger rescue boats that have successfully completed the tests. Tests associated with rescue boat components that have already been approved by the Commandant are not required to be repeated.
(f) At the request of the manufacturer and discretion of the Commandant, an independent laboratory may perform approval inspections and witness approval tests required by this section so long as the inspections and tests are performed and witnessed in accordance with the procedures agreed upon between the independent laboratory and Commandant under 46 CFR part 159, subpart 159.010.
(g) After completion of approval inspections and tests required by this section, the manufacturer must comply with the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) by preparing and submitting to the Commandant for review—
(1) The prototype approval test report containing the same information recommended by IMO MSC Circ. 980 (incorporated by reference, see § 160.156-5 of this subpart). The report must include a signed statement by the Coast Guard inspector (or independent laboratory as permitted by paragraph (f) of this section) who witnessed the testing, indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its results; and
(2) The final plans of the rescue boat as built. The plans must include—
(i) The instructions for training and maintenance described in §§ 160.156-19 and 160.156-21 of this subpart; and
(ii) The final version of the plans required under § 160.156-9 of this subpart.
(h) The Commandant will review the report and plans submitted under paragraph (g) of this section, and, if satisfactory to the Commandant, will approve the plans under 46 CFR 159.005-13.