Title 46—Shipping--Volume 1
PART 15—MANNING REQUIREMENTS
§ 15.101   Purpose of regulations.
The purpose of this part is to set forth uniform minimum requirements for the manning of vessels. In general, they implement, interpret, or apply the specific statutory manning requirements in title 46, U.S.C., implement various international conventions which affect merchant marine personnel, and provide the means for establishing the complement necessary for safe operation of vessels.
§ 15.102   Paperwork approval.
(a) This section lists the control numbers assigned by the Office of Management and Budget under the Paper Reduction Act of 1980 (Pub. L. 96-511) for the reporting and recordkeeping requirements in this part.
(b) The following control numbers have been assigned to the sections indicated:
(1) OMB 1625-0079—46 CFR 15.1107.
(2) [Reserved]
§ 15.103   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 the Coast Guard and the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact Coast Guard at: Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing (CG-MMC), U.S. Coast Guard, Stop 7509, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20593-7509, 202-372-1492; website: https://www.dco.uscg.mil/nmc/merchant_mariner_credential/. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations or email fr.inspection@nara.gov. The material may be obtained from:
(b) International Maritime Organization (IMO), 4 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7SR England, phone: +44 (0)20 7735 7611; website: www.imo.org.
(1) The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended, 2011 (STCW Convention); incorporation by reference approved for §§ 15.403, 15.404, 15.1103, 15.1105, and 15.1109.
(2) The Seafarers' Training, Certification and Watchkeeping Code, as amended, 2011 (STCW Code); incorporation by reference approved for § 15.1109.
(3) The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 (SOLAS); incorporation by reference approved for §§ 15.818 and 15.1103.
§ 15.105   General.
(a) The regulations in this part apply to all vessels that are subject to the manning requirements contained in the navigation and shipping laws of the United States, including uninspected vessels (46 U.S.C. 7101-9308).
(b) The navigation and shipping laws state that a vessel may not be operated unless certain manning requirements are met. In addition to establishing a minimum number of officers and rated crew to be carried onboard certain vessels, they establish minimum qualifications concerning MMC endorsements, citizenship, and conditions of employment. It is the responsibility of the owner, charterer, managing operator, Master, or Person in Charge or in command of the vessel to ensure that appropriate personnel are carried to meet the requirements of the applicable navigation and shipping laws and regulations.
(c) Inspected vessels are issued a Certificate of Inspection (COI) which indicates the minimum complement of officers and crew (including Lifeboat Operators) considered necessary for safe operation. The COI complements the statutory requirements but does not supersede them.
(d) Uninspected vessels operating on an international voyage may be issued a safe manning certificate indicating the minimum complement of qualified mariners necessary for safe operation.
(e) The regulations in subpart K of this part apply to seagoing vessels subject to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, as amended (STCW).
(f) Persons serving on any of the following vessels, or any owner or operator of any of these vessels, do not need to meet the requirements of subpart K of this part, because the vessels are exempt from application of STCW:
(1) Fishing vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(12).
(2) Fishing vessels used as fish-tender vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(14).
(3) Barges as defined in 46 U.S.C. 102, including non-self-propelled Mobile Offshore Drilling Units.
(4) Vessels operating exclusively on the Great Lakes or on the inland waters of the U.S. in the Straits of Juan de Fuca or on the Inside Passage between Puget Sound and Cape Spencer.
(5) Pilot vessels engaged on pilotage duty.
(g) Owners and operators, and personnel serving on the following small vessels engaged exclusively on domestic, near-coastal voyages are in compliance with subpart K of this part and are, therefore, not subject to further requirements for the purposes of the STCW Convention:
(1) Small passenger vessels subject to subchapter T or K of this chapter.
(2) Vessels of less than 200 GRT, other than passenger vessels subject to subchapter H of this chapter.
(3) Uninspected passenger vessels (UPVs) as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(42)(B).
(h) Personnel serving on vessels identified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (2) of this section may be issued, without additional proof of qualification, an appropriate STCW endorsement on their MMC when the Coast Guard determines that such an endorsement is necessary to enable the vessel to engage on a single international voyage of a non-routine nature. The STCW endorsement will be expressly limited to service on the vessel or the class of vessels and will not establish qualification for any other purpose.
§ 15.401   Employment and service within restrictions of credential.
(a) A person may not employ or engage an individual, and an individual may not serve, in a position in which an individual is required by law or regulation to hold a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and/or Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), unless the individual holds all credentials required, as appropriate, authorizing service in the capacity in which the individual is engaged or employed, and the individual serves within any restrictions placed on the credential. An individual holding an active MMC issued by the Coast Guard must also hold a valid TWIC issued by the Transportation Security Administration unless the individual is exempt under § 10.203(b)(1) of this subchapter.
(b) A person may not employ or engage an individual, and an individual may not serve in a position in which it is required by law or regulation that the individual hold an MMC endorsed with a national endorsement, as well as a corresponding STCW endorsement for service outside the boundary line.
(c) A person may not employ or engage an individual in a position required to hold an MMC unless that individual maintains a current medical certificate. Medical certificates must be issued and will remain current for the following periods of time, unless otherwise noted on the certificate:
(1) Two years for individuals serving on vessels to which STCW applies unless the mariner is under the age of 18, in which case the maximum period of validity will be 1 year.
(2) Five years for all other mariners.
(d) Each individual referred to in paragraph (a) of this section must hold an MMC that serves as identification, with an appropriate endorsement for the position in which the seafarer serves, and the MMC, along with a valid medical certificate, must be presented to the Master of the vessel at the time of employment or before signing Articles of Agreement.
(e) Each individual below the grades of officer and staff officer employed on any U.S.-flagged merchant vessel of 100 GRT or more must possess a valid MMC issued by the Coast Guard, except as noted below:
(1) Mariners on vessels navigating exclusively on rivers and lakes, except the Great Lakes, as defined in § 10.107 of this subchapter.
(2) Mariners below the rank of officer employed on any non-self-propelled vessel, except seagoing barges and barges to which 46 U.S.C. chapter 37 applies.
(3) Personnel not designated with any safety or security duties onboard casino vessels.
(f) Every person employed on a vessel with dual tonnages (both domestic and international) must hold a credential authorizing service appropriate to the tonnage scheme under which the vessel is manned and operating.
§ 15.403   When credentials for ratings are required.
(a) Every seafarer referred to in this section, when required, must produce a valid MMC with all applicable rating endorsements for the position sought, a valid TWIC unless the mariner is exempt under § 10.203(b)(2) of this subchapter, and a valid medical certificate, to the Master of the vessel at the time of employment or before signing Articles of Agreement. Seafarers who do not possess one of these credentials may be employed at a foreign port or place within the limitations specified in § 15.720.
(b)(1) Every person below the grades of officer and staff officer employed on any U.S.-flagged merchant vessel of 100 GRT or more, except those navigating rivers exclusively and the smaller inland lakes, must possess a valid MMC, along with a valid medical certificate, with all appropriate endorsements for the positions served.
(2) No endorsements are required of any person below the rank of officer employed on any barges except seagoing barges and barges to which 46 U.S.C. chapter 37 applies.
(3) No endorsements are required of any person below the rank of officer employed on any sail vessel of less than 500 net tons while not carrying passengers for hire and while not operating outside the line dividing inland waters from the high seas. 33 U.S.C. 151.
(c) Each person serving as an Able Seafarer-Deck or a Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW) on a seagoing vessel of 500 GT or more must hold an STCW endorsement certifying them as qualified to perform the navigational function at the support level, in accordance with the STCW Convention (incorporated by reference, see § 15.103).
(d) Each person serving as an Able Seafarer-Engine or an RFPEW on a seagoing vessel driven by main propulsion machinery of 1,000 HP/750 kW propulsion power or more must hold an STCW endorsement certifying them as qualified to perform the marine-engineering function at the support level, in accordance with the STCW Convention.
(e) Notwithstanding any other rule in this part, no person subject to this part serving on any of the following vessels needs an STCW endorsement:
(1) Vessels exempted from the application of the STCW Convention, including—
(i) Fishing vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(11)(a);
(ii) Fishing vessels used as fish-tender vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(11)(c);
(iii) Barges as defined in 46 U.S.C. 102, including non-self-propelled mobile offshore-drilling units;
(iv) Vessels operating exclusively on the Great Lakes; or
(v) Pilot vessels engaged in pilotage duty.
(2) Vessels not subject to any obligation under the STCW Convention due to their special operating conditions as small vessels engaged in domestic, near-coastal voyages, including—
(i) Small passenger vessels subject to subchapter T or K of this chapter;
(ii) Vessels of less than 200 GRT (other than passenger vessels subject to subchapter H of this chapter); or
(iii) Uninspected passenger vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(42)(B).
§ 15.404   Requirements for serving onboard a vessel.
(a) Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW). Each person serving as an RFPNW on a seagoing vessel of 500 GT or more, subject to the STCW Convention (incorporated by reference, see § 15.103), must hold an STCW endorsement attesting to their qualifications to perform the navigational function at the support level.
(b) Able Seafarer. Each person serving as a rating as Able Seafarer on a U.S.-flagged vessel must hold an MMC endorsed as Able Seafarer, except that no credential as Able Seafarer is required of any person employed on any tug or towboat on the bays and sounds connected directly with the seas, or on any barges except seagoing barges or tank barges. Each person serving as an Able Seafarer on a seagoing vessel subject to the STCW Convention must also hold an STCW endorsement as Able Seafarer-Deck.
(c) Ratings Forming Part of an Engineering Watch (RFPEW). Each person serving as an RFPEW in a manned engineroom or designated to perform duties in a periodically unmanned engineroom, on a seagoing vessel driven by main propulsion machinery of 1,000 HP/750 kW propulsion power or more, must hold an STCW endorsement attesting to their qualifications to perform the marine-engineering function at the support level.
(d) Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED). (1) The holder of an MMC endorsed with one or more QMED ratings may serve in any unqualified rating in the engine department without obtaining an additional endorsement.
(2) A QMED may serve as a qualified rating in the engine department only in the specific ratings endorsed on their MMC.
(3) Persons serving on vessels subject to the STCW Convention as Junior Engineer, Pump Technician/Machinist, or Electrician/Refrigeration Engineer must also hold an STCW endorsement as Able Seafarer-Engine.
(e) Lifeboat Operator. Every person assigned duties as a Lifeboat Operator must hold a credential attesting to such proficiency. Persons serving on vessels subject to the STCW Convention must also hold an STCW endorsement in Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats other than Fast Rescue Boats (PSC).
(f) Lifeboat Operator-Limited. Every person assigned duties onboard a vessel that is not required to carry lifeboats and is required to employ a Lifeboat Operator must hold an endorsement as either Lifeboat Operator or Lifeboat Operator-Limited. Persons serving on vessels subject to the STCW Convention must also hold an STCW endorsement in Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats other than Lifeboats and Fast Rescue Boats-Limited (PSC-Limited).
(g) Fast Rescue Boats. Every person engaged or employed in a position requiring Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats must hold an endorsement attesting to such proficiency.
(h) Entry level. Every person employed in a rating other than Able Seafarer or QMED on a U.S. flagged vessel on which MMCs are required must hold an MMC endorsed as Wiper, Ordinary Seafarer, Steward's Department, or Steward's Department Food Handler (F.H.).
(i) Person in Charge of Medical Care. Every person designated to take charge of medical care onboard vessels subject to the STCW Convention must hold an MMC endorsed as Person in Charge of Medical Care.
(j) Medical First-aid Provider. Every person designated to provide medical first aid onboard vessels subject to the STCW Convention must hold an MMC endorsed as Medical First-aid Provider or a deck or engineer officer endorsement.
(k) GMDSS Radio Operator or Maintainer. Every person responsible for the operation or shipboard maintenance of GMDSS radio equipment onboard vessels subject to the STCW Convention must hold an MMC endorsed as GMDSS Radio Operator or GMDSS Radio Maintainer, as appropriate.
§ 15.405   Familiarity with vessel characteristics.
Each credentialed crewmember must become familiar with the relevant characteristics of the vessel appropriate to their duties and responsibilities prior to assuming those duties and responsibilities. As appropriate, these may include, but are not limited to, general arrangement of the vessel, maneuvering characteristics, proper operation of the installed navigation equipment, proper operation of firefighting and lifesaving equipment, stability and loading characteristics, emergency duties, and main propulsion and auxiliary machinery, including steering gear systems and controls.
§ 15.410   Credentialed individuals for assistance towing vessels.
Every assistance towing vessel must be under the direction and control of an individual holding an MMC authorizing them to engage in assistance towing under the provisions of § 11.482 of this subchapter.
§ 15.415   [Reserved]
§ 15.501   Certificate of inspection.
(a) The certificate of inspection (COI) issued by an Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI), to a vessel required to be inspected under 46 U.S.C. 3301 specifies the minimum complement of officers and crew necessary for the safe operation of the vessel.
(b) The manning requirements for a particular vessel are determined by the OCMI after consideration of the applicable laws, the regulations in this part, and all other factors involved, such as: emergency situations, size and type of vessel, installed equipment, proposed routes of operation including frequency of port calls, cargo carried, type of service in which employed, degree of automation, use of labor saving devices, and the organizational structure of the vessel.
§ 15.505   Changes in the certificate of inspection.
All requests for changes in manning as indicated on the COI must be sent to—
(a) The Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) who last issued the COI; or
(b) The OCMI conducting the inspection, if the request is made in conjunction with an inspection for certification.
§ 15.510   Right of appeal.
Any person directly affected by a decision or action taken under this part, by or on behalf of the Coast Guard, may appeal in accordance with subpart 1.03 of this chapter.
§ 15.515   Compliance with certificate of inspection.
(a) Except as provided by § 15.725, no vessel may be navigated unless it has in its service and onboard the crew complement required by the COI.
(b) Any time passengers are embarked on a passenger vessel, the vessel must have the crew complement required by the COI, whether the vessel is underway, at anchor, made fast to shore, or aground. However, the Master may allow reduced crew for limited or special operating conditions subject to the approval of the OCMI.
(c) No vessel subject to inspection under 46 U.S.C. 3301 will be navigated unless it is under the direction and control of an individual who holds an appropriate officer endorsement on their MMC.
§ 15.520   Mobile offshore drilling units (MODUs).
(a) The requirements in this section for MODUs supplement other requirements in this part.
(b) The OCMI determines the minimum number of officers and crew (including Lifeboat Operators) required for the safe operation of inspected MODUs. In addition to other factors listed in this part, the specialized nature of the MODU is considered in determining the specific manning levels.
(c) An officer endorsement on an MMC as Offshore Installation Manager (OIM), Barge Supervisor (BS), or Ballast Control Operator (BCO) authorizes service only on MODUs. An endorsement as OIM is restricted to the MODU type and mode of operation specified on the credential.
(d) When underway, a self-propelled MODU, other than a drillship, must be under the command of an individual who holds an MMC endorsed as Master and OIM. When not underway, such a vessel must be under the command of an individual holding the appropriate OIM credential.
(e) A drillship must be under the command of an individual who holds an MMC officer endorsement as Master. When a drillship is on location, or is maintaining its position with a dynamic positioning system, the individual in command must hold an MMC with Master and OIM officer endorsements.
(f) A non-self-propelled MODU must be under the command of an individual who holds an MMC officer endorsement as OIM.
(g) An individual serving as Mate on a self-propelled surface unit when underway, other than a drillship, must hold an appropriate MMC endorsed as Mate and BS or BCO. When not underway, such a vessel may substitute an individual holding the appropriate BS or BCO endorsement for the Mate, if permitted by the cognizant OCMI.
(h) An individual holding an MMC officer endorsement as BS is required on a non-self-propelled surface unit other than a drillship.
(i) An individual holding an MMC officer endorsement as BS may serve as BCO.
(j) The OCMI issuing the MODU's COI may authorize the substitution of Chief or Assistant Engineer-MODU for Chief or Assistant Engineer, respectively, on self-propelled or propulsion-assisted surface units, except drillships. The OCMI may also authorize the substitution of Assistant Engineer-MODU for Assistant Engineer on drillships.
(k) Requirements in this part concerning Radar Observers do not apply to non-self-propelled MODUs.
(l) A surface MODU underway or on location, when afloat and equipped with a ballast control room, must have that ballast control room manned by an individual holding an MMC officer endorsement authorizing service as BCO.
§ 15.525   Additional manning requirements for tank vessels.
Parts 31 and 35 of this subchapter contain additional manning requirements applicable to tank vessels.
§ 15.530   Large passenger vessels.
(a) The owner or operator of a U.S.-flagged large passenger vessel must ensure that any non-resident alien holding a Coast Guard-issued MMC described in part 12, subpart H of this subchapter is provided the rights, protections, and benefits of the International Labor Organization's Merchant Shipping (Minimum Standards) Convention of 1976.
(b) On U.S-flagged large passenger vessels, non-resident aliens holding a Coast Guard-issued MMC described in part 12, subpart H of this subchapter—
(1) May only be employed in the steward's department on the vessel(s) specified on the MMC or accompanying Coast Guard letter under § 12.811 of this subchapter;
(2) May only be employed for an aggregate period of 36 months of actual service on all authorized U.S.-flagged large passenger vessels combined, under § 12.811 of this subchapter;
(3) May not perform watchstanding, engine room duty watch, or vessel navigation functions, under § 12.811 of this subchapter; and
(4) May perform emergency-related duties only if, under § 12.811 of this subchapter—
(i) The emergency-related duties do not require any other rating or endorsement, except Lifeboat Operator as specified in § 12.811 of this subchapter;
(ii) The non-resident alien has completed familiarization and Basic Training, as required in § 15.1105;
(iii) The non-resident alien, if serving as a Lifeboat Operator, has the necessary Lifeboat Operator's endorsement; and
(iv) The non-resident alien has completed the training for crewmembers on passenger ships performing duties involving safety or care for passengers, as required in part 12, subpart I of this subchapter.
(c) No more than 25 percent of the total number of ratings on a U.S.-flagged large passenger vessel may be aliens, whether admitted to the United States for permanent residence or authorized for employment in the United States as non-resident aliens.
(d) The owner or operator of a U.S.-flagged large passenger vessel employing non-resident aliens holding Coast Guard-issued MMCs described in part 12, subpart H of this subchapter must—
(1) Retain custody of all non-resident alien MMCs for the duration of employment, under § 12.811 of this subchapter; and
(2) Return all non-resident alien MMCs to the Coast Guard upon termination of employment, under § 12.811 of this subchapter.
(e) The owner or operator of a U.S.-flagged large passenger vessel employing non-resident aliens holding Coast Guard-issued MMCs described in part 12, subpart H of this subchapter is subject to the civil penalty provisions specified in 46 U.S.C. 8103(f), for any violation of this section.
§ 15.535   Towing vessels.
(a) Applicability. Except as provided in this paragraph (a), the requirements in this section apply to a towing vessel subject to subchapter M of this chapter. Vessels subject to this section must also meet the requirements in § 15.515(c). A towing vessel at least 8 meters (26 feet) in length, measured from end to end over the deck (excluding sheer), that is not subject to subchapter M must meet the requirements in paragraph (b) of this section if it is—
(1) A seagoing towing vessel of 300 gross tons or more subject to the provisions of subchapter I of this chapter;
(2) A vessel inspected under other subchapters of this chapter that may perform occasional towing; or
(3) A public vessel as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101.
(b) Towing vessels 8 meters or more in length. Every towing vessel of at least 8 meters (26 feet) in length, measured from end to end over the deck (excluding sheer), must be under the direction and control of a person holding a MMC endorsed as Master or Mate (Pilot) of Towing Vessels or as Master or Mate of vessels of greater than 200 gross register tons, holding a completed Towing Officer Assessment Record signed by a designated examiner indicating that the officer is proficient in the operation of towing vessels upon the appropriate route.
(c) Towing Vessels of Any Length on the Lower Mississippi River. In addition to the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section, any towing vessel operating in the pilotage waters of the Lower Mississippi River must be under the control of an officer who holds either a First-Class Pilot's endorsement for that route, or MMC officer endorsement for the Western Rivers, or who meets the requirements of either paragraph (c)(1) or (2) of this section, as applicable.
(1) Moving tank or hazardous material barges. To operate a towing vessel with tank barges or a tow of barges carrying hazardous material regulated under subchapter N or O of this chapter, the officer in charge of the towing vessel must have completed at least 12 round trips over this route as an observer, with at least 3 of those trips during hours of darkness, and must provide evidence to the Coast Guard upon request that at least 1 of the 12 round trips occurred within the last 5 years.
(2) Moving uninspected barges or no barges. To operate a towing vessel without barges or a tow of uninspected barges, the officer in charge of the towing vessel must have completed at least 4 round trips over this route as an observer, with at least 1 of those trips during hours of darkness, and must provide evidence to the Coast Guard upon request that at least 1 of the 4 round trips occurred within the last 5 years.
§ 15.601   General.
The following sections of subparts F, G, and H of this part contain provisions concerning manning of uninspected vessels; §§ 15.701, 15.705, 15.710, 15.720, 15.730, 15.801, 15.805, 15.810, 15.820, 15.825, 15.840, 15.850, 15.855, 15.905, 15.910, and 15.915.
§ 15.605   Credentialed operators for uninspected passenger vessels.
Each uninspected passenger vessel (UPV) must be under the direction and control of an individual credentialed by the Coast Guard, as follows:
(a) Every UPV of 100 GRT or more, as defined by 46 U.S.C. 2101(53)(A), must be under the command of an individual holding an MMC endorsed as Master. When navigated, it must be under the direction and control of a credentialed Master, Pilot, or Mate.
(b) Every self-propelled UPV as defined by 46 U.S.C. 2101(53)(B) must be under the direction and control of an individual holding an MMC endorsed as or equivalent to an Operator of an Uninspected Passenger Vessel (OUPV).
(c) Personnel serving on UPVs engaged on international voyages must meet the requirements of subpart K of this part.
§ 15.610   Master and Mate (Pilot) of uninspected towing vessels.
(a) The requirements in this section apply to towing vessels, except for—
(1) Towing vessels that are subject to subchapter M in accordance with § 136.105 of this subchapter;
(2) Towing vessels that are seagoing and 300 gross or more tons subject to the provisions of subchapter I of this chapter;
(3) Towing vessels that are inspected under other subchapters of this chapter that may perform occasional towing; and
(4) Towing vessels that are public vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101.
(b) Except as provided in this paragraph, every towing vessel of at least 8 meters (26 feet) in length, measured from end to end over the deck (excluding sheer), must be under the direction and control of a person holding an MMC officer endorsement as Master or Mate (Pilot) of Towing Vessels, or as Master or Mate of vessels of greater than 200 GRT, holding either an endorsement on their MMC for towing vessels or a completed Towing Officer Assessment Record (TOAR) signed by a designated examiner indicating that the officer is proficient in the operation of towing vessels. This requirement does not apply to any vessel engaged in assistance towing.
(c) Any towing vessel operating in the pilotage waters of the Lower Mississippi River must be under the control of an officer meeting the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section who holds either a First-Class Pilot's endorsement for that route or MMC officer endorsement for the Western Rivers, or who meets the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section and meets the requirements of either paragraph (c)(1) or (2) of this section as applicable:
(1) To operate a towing vessel with tank barges, or a tow of barges carrying hazardous materials regulated under subchapters N or O of this chapter, an officer in charge of the towing vessel must have completed 12 roundtrips over this route as an observer, with at least three of those trips during hours of darkness, and provide evidence to the Coast Guard that at least one of the 12 roundtrips was completed within the last 5 years.
(2) To operate a towing vessel without barges, or a tow of uninspected barges, an officer in charge of the towing vessel must have completed at least four round trips over this route as an observer, with at least one of those trips during hours of darkness, and provide evidence to the Coast Guard that at least one of the four roundtrips was within the last 5 years.
§ 15.701   Officers Competency Certificates Convention, 1936.
(a) This section implements the Officers Competency Certificates Convention, 1936 (see 46 U.S.C. 8304), and applies to each vessel documented under the laws of the United States navigating seaward of the Boundary Lines in part 7 of this chapter, except:
(1) A public vessel;
(2) A wooden vessel of primitive build, such as a dhow or junk;
(3) A barge; or
(4) A vessel of less than 200 gross tons.
(b) The Master, Mates and engineers on any vessel to which this section applies must hold an MMC officer endorsement to serve in that capacity issued by the Coast Guard under parts 10 and 11 of this subchapter.
(c) A vessel to which this section applies, or a foreign flagged vessel to which the Officers Competency Certificates Convention applies, may be detained by a designated official until that official is satisfied that the vessel is in compliance with the Convention. Designated official includes Coast Guard officers, Coast Guard petty officers and officers or employees of the Customs and Border Protection Service.
(d) Whenever a vessel is detained, the owner, charterer, managing operator, agent, Master, or individual in charge may appeal the detention within 5 days under the provisions of § 2.01-70 of this chapter.
§ 15.705   Watches.
(a) 46 U.S.C. 8104 applies to the establishment of watches aboard certain U.S. vessels. The establishment of adequate watches is the responsibility of the vessel's Master. The Coast Guard interprets the term “watch” to be the direct performance of vessel operations, whether deck or engine, where such operations would routinely be controlled and performed in a scheduled and fixed rotation. The performance of maintenance or work necessary to the vessel's safe operation on a daily basis does not in itself constitute the establishment of a watch. The minimum safe manning levels specified in a vessel's COI or other safe manning document take into consideration routine maintenance requirements and ability of the crew to perform all operational evolutions, including emergencies, as well as those functions which may be assigned to persons in watches.
(b) Subject to exceptions, 46 U.S.C. 8104 requires that when a Master of a seagoing vessel of more than 100 GRT establishes watches for the officers, sailors, and Oilers, “the personnel shall be divided, when at sea, into at least three watches and shall be kept on duty successively to perform ordinary work incidental to the operation and management of the vessel.” Solely for the purposes of this part, the Coast Guard interprets “sailors” to mean those members of the deck department other than officers, whose duties involve the mechanics of conducting the ship on its voyage, such as helmsman (wheelsman), lookout, etc., and which are necessary to the maintenance of a continuous watch. The term “sailors” is not interpreted to include Able Seafarers and Ordinary Seafarers not performing these duties.
(c)(1) Subject to exceptions, 46 U.S.C. 8104(g) permits the officers and crew members to be divided into two watches when at sea and engaged on a voyage of less than 600 miles on the following categories of vessels—
(i) Towing vessel;
(ii) Offshore supply vessel, except as provided by paragraph (c)(2) of this section; or
(iii) Barge.
(2) Paragraph (c)(1) of this section applies to an OSV of at least 6,000 GT ITC (500 GRT if GT ITC is not assigned), as defined in § 125.160 of this subchapter, if the individuals engaged on the vessel are in compliance with the work hours and rest period requirements in § 15.1111.
(d) Subject to exceptions, 46 U.S.C. 8104(h) permits a Master or Mate (Pilot) operating a towing vessel that is at least 8 meters (26 feet) in length measured from end to end over the deck (excluding sheer) to work not more than 12 hours in a consecutive 24-hour period except in an emergency. The Coast Guard interprets this, in conjunction with other provisions of the law, to permit Masters or Mates (Pilots) serving as operators of towing vessels that are not subject to the provisions of the Officers' Competency Certificates Convention, 1936 (see 46 U.S.C. 8304), to be divided into two watches regardless of the length of the voyage.
(e) Fish processing vessels are subject to various provisions of 46 U.S.C. 8104 concerning watches, including—
(1) For fish processing vessels that entered into service before January 1, 1988, the following watch requirements apply to the officers and deck crew:
(i) If more than 5,000 GRT—three watches.
(ii) If more than 1,600 GRT and not more than 5,000 GRT—two watches.
(iii) If not more than 1,600 GRT—no watch division specified; or
(2) For fish processing vessels that entered into service after December 31, 1987, the following watch requirements apply to the officers and deck crew:
(i) If more than 5,000 GRT—three watches.
(ii) If not more than 5,000 GRT and having more than 16 individuals onboard, primarily employed in the preparation of fish or fish products—two watches.
(iii) If not more than 5,000 GRT and having not more than 16 individuals onboard, primarily employed in the preparation of fish or fish products—no watch division specified.
(f) Properly manned uninspected passenger vessels of at least 100 GRT—
(1) Which are underway for no more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period, and which are adequately moored, anchored, or otherwise secured in a harbor of safe refuge for the remainder of that 24-hour period, may operate with one navigational watch;
(2) Which are underway more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period, must provide a minimum of a two-watch system;
(3) In no case may the crew of any watch work more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period, except in an emergency.
§ 15.710   Working hours.
In addition to prescribing watch requirements, 46 U.S.C. 8104 sets limitations on the working hours of credentialed officers and crew members, prescribes certain rest periods, and prohibits unnecessary work on Sundays and certain holidays when the vessel is in a safe harbor. It is the responsibility of the Master or Person in Charge to ensure that these limitations are met. However, under 46 U.S.C. 8104(f), the Master or other credentialed officer can require any part of the crew to work when, in their judgment, they are needed for:
(a) Maneuvering, shifting berth, mooring, unmooring;
(b) Performing work necessary for the safety of the vessel, or the vessel's passengers, crew, or cargo;
(c) Saving of life onboard another vessel in jeopardy; or,
(d) Performing fire, lifeboat, or other drills in port or at sea.
§ 15.715   Automated vessels.
(a) Coast Guard acceptance of automated systems to replace specific personnel or to reduce overall crew requirements is predicated upon the capabilities of the system, the system's demonstrated and continuing reliability, and a planned maintenance program that ensures continued safe operation of the vessel.
(b) The OCMI considers the capabilities of an automated system in establishing initial manning levels; however, until the system is proven reliable, a manning level adequate to operate in a continuously attended mode will be specified on a vessel's COI. It remains the responsibility of the vessel's Master to determine when a continuous watch is necessary.
§ 15.720   Use of non-U.S.-credentialed personnel.
(a) United States vessels which need to replace one or more persons while on a foreign voyage and outside the jurisdiction of the United States, in order to meet manning requirements, may use non-U.S. credentialed personnel without a TWIC, except for the positions of Master and Radio Officer, until the vessel returns to a port at which in the most expeditious manner replacements who are citizens of the United States can be obtained.
(b) The citizenship requirements of 46 U.S.C. 8103(a) and (b) and the TWIC requirement of 46 U.S.C. 70105 are waived, except for the requirement that the Master must be a U.S. citizen holding a TWIC, with respect to the following vessels:
(1) A U.S.-documented offshore supply vessel (OSV) (as that term is defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(19)) that is operating from a foreign port; and
(2) A U.S.-documented mobile offshore drilling unit (MODU) (as that term is defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(15a)) that is operating beyond the water above the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf.
(c) The waiver provided in paragraph (b) of this section does not apply to any vessel operating in water above the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf (as that term is defined in 43 U.S.C. 1331(a)).
(d) The Master must assure that any replacements of crewmembers by non-U.S. citizens made in accordance with this section will be with an individual who holds a credential that required experience, training, and other qualifications equivalent to the U.S. credential required for the position and that the person possesses or will possess the training required to communicate to the extent required by § 15.730.
(e) Non-U.S.-credentialed officers serving onboard vessels subject to STCW must hold a “Certificate attesting recognition” in accordance with part 11, subpart J of this subchapter. A mariner may serve for a period not to exceed 3 months onboard the vessel while the Coast Guard is processing their application for such a certificate.
§ 15.725   Sailing short.
Whenever a vessel is deprived of the service of a member of its complement, and the Master or Person in Charge is unable to find appropriate credentialed personnel to man the vessel, the Master or Person in Charge may proceed on the voyage, having determined the vessel is sufficiently manned for the voyage. A report of sailing short must be filed with the OCMI having cognizance for inspection in the area in which the vessel is operating, or the OCMI within whose jurisdiction the voyage is completed. The report must explain the cause of each deficiency and be submitted within 12 hours after arrival at the next port. The actions of the Master or Person in Charge in such instances are subject to review and it must be shown the vacancy was not due to the consent, fault or collusion of the Master or other individuals specified in 46 U.S.C. 8101(e). A civil penalty may be assessed against the Master or Person in Charge for failure to submit the report.
§ 15.730   Language requirements.
(a) The provisions of 46 U.S.C. 8702 relating to language apply generally to vessels of at least 100 GRT except:
(1) Vessels operating on rivers and lakes except the Great Lakes;
(2) A manned barge except a seagoing barge or a barge to which chapter 37 of 46 U.S.C. applies;
(3) A fishing vessel, fish tender vessel, whaling vessel, or yacht;
(4) A sailing school vessel with respect to sailing school instructors and sailing school students;
(5) An oceanographic research vessel with respect to scientific personnel;
(6) A fish processing vessel which entered into service before January 1, 1988, and is not more than 1,600 GRT or which entered into service after December 31, 1987, and has not more than 16 individuals onboard primarily employed in the preparation of fish or fish products; and
(7) All fish processing vessels with respect to those personnel primarily employed in the preparation of fish or fish products or in a support position not related to navigation.
(b) 46 U.S.C. 8702(b) requires that onboard vessels departing U.S. ports 75 percent of the crew in each department onboard is able to understand any order spoken by the officers.
(c) The words able to understand any order spoken by the officers relates to any order to a member of the crew when directing the performance of that person's duties and orders relating to emergency situations such as used for response to a fire or in using lifesaving equipment. It is not expected that a member of the deck department understand terminology normally used only in the engineroom or vice versa.
(d) Whenever information is provided to the Coast Guard that a vessel fails to comply with the specified language requirements the Coast Guard investigates the allegation to determine its validity. In determining if an allegation is factual, the Coast Guard may require a demonstration by the officers and crew that appropriate orders are understood. The demonstration will require that orders be spoken to the individual members of the crew by the officers in the language ordinarily and customarily used by the officers. The orders must be spoken directly by the officer to the crew member and not through an interpreter. Signs, gestures, or signals may not be used in the test. The Coast Guard representative will specify the orders to be given and will include not only daily routine but orders involving emergencies, either of a departmental or of a general nature. This test will be conducted, if possible, at a time reasonably in advance of the vessel's departure, to avoid delays.
§ 15.801   General.
The OCMI will determine the specific manning levels for vessels required to have certificates of inspection by part B of subtitle II of title 46 U.S.C. The Masters or individuals in command of all vessels, whether required to be inspected under 46 U.S.C. 3301 or not, are responsible for properly manning vessels in accordance with the applicable laws, regulations, and international conventions.
§ 15.805   Master.
(a) There must be an individual holding an appropriate valid MMC with endorsement as Master in command of each of the following vessels:
(1) Every self-propelled, seagoing documented vessel of 200 GRT and over.
(2) Every self-propelled inspected vessel;
(3) Every inspected passenger vessel;
(4) Every inspected small passenger vessel; and
(5) Every towing vessel of at least 8 meters (26 feet) or more in length must be in command of a Master of Towing Vessels, or a mariner holding an MMC endorsed as Master of inspected, self-propelled vessels greater than 200 GRT holding either—
(i) A completed Towing Officer's Assessment Record (TOAR), bearing the signature of a Designated Examiner and stating that the Examiner found the candidate proficient; or
(ii) A License or MMC endorsed for Master of Towing Vessels.
(6) Every uninspected passenger vessel of at least 100 GRT.
(7) Every uninspected passenger vessel engaged on an international voyage.
(b) On vessels subject to STCW, the individual meeting the requirement of this section must also hold an STCW endorsement as Master with the appropriate tonnage for the vessel which he or she is operating, except as noted in § 15.105(g) for vessels on domestic near-coastal voyages.
(c) Every vessel documented under the laws of the United States, other than a vessel with only a recreational endorsement, must be under the command of a U.S. citizen.
§ 15.810   Mates.
(a) The OCMI determines the minimum number of Mates required for the safe operation of inspected vessels.
(b) The minimum number of mariners holding an MMC officer endorsement as Mate required to be carried on every inspected, self-propelled, seagoing and Great Lakes vessel, and every inspected, seagoing, passenger vessel must not be less than the following, except when reductions are authorized under paragraph (e) of this section:
(1) Vessels of 1,000 GRT or more (except MODUs)—three Mates (except when on a voyage of less than 400 miles from port of departure to port of final destination—two Mates).
(2) MODUs of 1,000 GRT or more:
(i) Three Mates when on a voyage of more than 72 hours.
(ii) Two Mates when on a voyage of more than 16 but not more than 72 hours.
(iii) One Mate when on a voyage of not more than 16 hours.
(3) Vessels of 100 GRT or more but less than 1,000 GRT—two Mates (except vessels of at least 100 but less than 200 GRT on voyages which do not exceed 24 hours in duration—one Mate).
(4) All vessels of less than 100 GRT—one Mate (except vessels on voyages not exceeding 12 hours in duration may, if the OCMI determines it to be safe, be operated without Mates).
(5) An offshore supply vessel of 100 GRT (100 GT ITC if GRT is not assigned) or more, but less than 6,000 GT ITC (500 GRT if GT ITC is not assigned) as defined in § 125.160 of this subchapter—one credentialed Mate (except when on a voyage of at least 600 miles—two credentialed Mates). A voyage includes the accrued distance from port of departure to port of arrival and does not include stops at offshore points.
(6) An offshore supply vessel of at least 6,000 GT ITC (500 GRT if GT ITC is not assigned) as defined in § 125.160 of this chapter—two credentialed Mates provided that the OSV meets the requirements in § 15.1111 (except when on a voyage of more than 600 miles—three credentialed Mates). A voyage includes the accrued distance from the vessel's port of departure to the vessel's port of arrival. Stops at offshore points or facilities do not constitute separate voyages; stops at offshore points or facilities are included in the total accrued distance between the vessel's port of departure and the vessel's port of arrival.
(c) An individual in charge of the navigation or maneuvering of a self-propelled, uninspected, documented, seagoing vessel of 200 GRT or over must hold an appropriate MMC authorizing service as Mate.
(d) Each Person in Charge of the navigation or maneuvering of a towing vessel of at least 8 meters (26 feet) in length must satisfy the requirements of § 15.805(a)(5) or hold an MMC authorizing service as either—
(1) Mate (Pilot) of Towing Vessels; or
(2) Mate of inspected self-propelled vessels greater than 200 GRT within any other restrictions on the officer's MMC, holding either—
(i) A completed TOAR bearing the signature from a Designated Examiner (DE) and stating that the DE found the candidate proficient; or
(ii) An MMC with officer endorsement for towing vessels.
(e) The OCMI may increase the minimum number of Mates indicated in paragraph (b) of this section where they determine that the vessel's characteristics, route, or other operating conditions create special circumstances warranting an increase.
(f) The Commandant will consider reductions to the number of Mates required by this section when special circumstances allowing a vessel to be safely operated can be demonstrated.
(g) On vessels subject to STCW, the individual meeting the requirement of this section must also hold an STCW endorsement as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch with the appropriate tonnage for the vessel which they are operating, except as noted in § 15.105 (g) for vessels on domestic near-coastal voyages.
§ 15.812   Pilots.
(a) Except as specified in paragraph (f) of this section, the following vessels, not sailing on register, when underway on the navigable waters of the United States, must be under the direction and control of an individual qualified to serve as Pilot under paragraph (b) or (c) of this section, as appropriate:
(1) Coastwise seagoing vessels propelled by machinery and subject to inspection under 46 U.S.C. Chapter 33, and coastwise seagoing tank barges subject to inspection under 46 U.S.C. Chapter 37.
(2) Vessels that are not authorized by their COI to proceed beyond the Boundary Line established in part 7 of this chapter, are in excess of 1,600 GRT propelled by machinery, and are subject to inspection under 46 U.S.C. Chapter 33.
(3) Vessels operating on the Great Lakes, that are propelled by machinery and subject to inspection under 46 U.S.C. Chapter 33, or are tank barges subject to inspection under 46 U.S.C. Chapter 37.
(b) The following individuals may serve as a Pilot on a vessel subject to paragraph (a) of this section, when underway on the navigable waters of the United States that are designated areas:
(1) An individual holding a valid MMC officer endorsement as First-Class Pilot, operating within the restrictions of their credential, may serve as Pilot on any vessel to which this section applies.
(2) An individual holding a valid MMC officer endorsement as Master or Mate, employed aboard a vessel within the restrictions of their credential, may serve as Pilot on a vessel of not more than 1,600 GRT propelled by machinery, described in paragraphs (a)(1) and (3) of this section, provided they—
(i) Are at least 21 years old;
(ii) Are able to show current knowledge of the waters to be navigated, as required in § 11.713 of this subchapter; and
(iii) Provide evidence of completing a minimum of four roundtrips over the route to be traversed while in the wheelhouse as watchstander or observer. At least one of the roundtrips must be made during the hours of darkness if the route is to be traversed during darkness.
(3) An individual holding a valid MMC officer endorsement as Master, Mate, or operator employed aboard a vessel within the restrictions of their credential, may serve as Pilot on a tank barge or tank barges totaling not more than 10,000 GRT/GT, described in paragraphs (a)(1) and (3) of this section, provided they -
(i) Are at least 21 years old;
(ii) Are able to show current knowledge of the waters to be navigated, as required in § 11.713 of this subchapter;
(iii) Have a current physical examination in accordance with the provisions of § 11.709 of this subchapter;
(iv) Have at least 6 months of service in the deck department on towing vessels engaged in towing operations; and
(v) Provide evidence of completing a minimum of 12 roundtrips over the route to be traversed, as an observer or under instruction in the wheelhouse. At least three of the roundtrips must be made during the hours of darkness if the route is to be traversed during darkness.
(c) An individual holding a valid MMC officer endorsement as Master, Mate, or operator, employed aboard a vessel within the restrictions of their credential, may serve as a Pilot for a vessel subject to paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) of this section, when underway on the navigable waters of the United States that are not designated areas of pilotage waters, provided they—
(1) Are at least 21 years old;
(2) Are able to show current knowledge of the waters to be navigated, as required in § 11.713 of this subchapter; and
(3) Have a current physical examination in accordance with the provisions of § 11.709 of this subchapter.
(d) In any instance in which the qualifications of a person satisfying the requirements for pilotage through the provisions of this subpart are questioned by the Coast Guard, the individual must, within a reasonable time, provide the Coast Guard with documentation proving compliance with the applicable portions of paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section
(e) Federal pilotage requirements contained in paragraphs (a) through (d) of this section are summarized in the following two quick reference tables
(1) Table 1 to § 15.812(e)(1) provides a guide to the pilotage requirements for inspected, self-propelled vessels.
Table 1 to § 15.812( e )(1)—Quick Reference Table for Federal Pilotage Requirements for U.S.-Inspected, Self-Propelled Vessels, Not Sailing on Register
1 One roundtrip within the past 60 months.
2 If the route is to be traversed during darkness, one of the four roundtrips must be made during darkness.
(2) Table 2 to § 15.812(e)(2) provides a guide to the pilotage requirements for tank barges.
Table 2 to § 15.812( e )(2)—Quick Reference Table for Federal Pilotage Requirements for U.S.-Inspected Tank Barges, Not Sailing on Register
1 One roundtrip within the past 60 months.
2 Annual physical exam does not apply to an individual who will serve as a Pilot of a tank barge of less than 1,600 GRT.
3 If the route is to be traversed during darkness, three of the 12 roundtrips must be made during darkness.
(f) In Prince William Sound, Alaska, coastwise seagoing vessels over 1,600 GRT and propelled by machinery and subject to inspection under 46 U.S.C. Chapter 37 must—
(1) When operating from 60°49′ north latitude to the Port of Valdez, be under the direction and control of an individual holding a or MMC endorsed as Pilot who—
(i) Is operating under the authority of an MMC;
(ii) Holds a License issued by the State of Alaska; and
(iii) Is not a crewmember of the vessel; and
(2) Navigate with either two credentialed deck officers on the bridge or an individual holding a or MMC endorsed as Pilot, when operating south of 60°49′ north latitude and in the approaches through Hinchinbrook Entrance and in the area bounded—
(i) On the West by a line 1 mile west of the western boundary of the Traffic Separation Scheme
(ii) On the East by 146°00′ West longitude;
(iii) On the North by 60°49′ North latitude; and
(iv) On the South by that area of Hinchinbrook Entrance within the territorial sea bounded by 60°07′ North latitude and 146°31.5′ West longitude.
§ 15.815   Radar Observers.
(a) Each person in the required complement of deck officers, including the Master, on inspected vessels of 300 GRT or over which are radar equipped, must hold an endorsement as Radar Observer.
(b) Each person who is employed or serves as Pilot in accordance with Federal law onboard radar-equipped vessels of 300 GRT or over must hold an endorsement as Radar Observer.
(c) Each person having to hold an MMC officer endorsement under 46 U.S.C. 8904(a) for employment or service as Master or Mate onboard a towing vessel of 8 meters (26 feet) or more in length must, if the vessel is equipped with radar, hold an endorsement as Radar Observer.
(d) Until July 22, 2024, a person may satisfy the requirements in paragraph (a), (b), or (c) by having immediately available a valid course completion certificate from an appropriate Coast Guard-approved or accepted radar course that was issued within the previous 5 years.
§ 15.816   Automatic radar plotting aids (ARPA).
Every person in the required complement of deck officers, including the Master, on seagoing vessels equipped with automatic radar plotting aids (ARPA), except those vessels listed in § 15.105(f) and (g), must hold an appropriate STCW endorsement valid for vessels equipped with ARPA.
§ 15.817   Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) Radio Operator.
Every person in the required complement of deck officers, including the Master, on seagoing vessels equipped with a GMDSS, except those vessels listed in § 15.105(f) and (g), must provide evidence of a valid STCW endorsement as GMDSS Radio Operator.
§ 15.818   Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) At-sea Maintainer.
Every person employed or engaged to maintain GMDSS equipment at sea, when the service of a person so designated is used to meet the maintenance requirements of SOLAS Regulation IV/15 (incorporated by reference, see § 15.103), must provide documentary evidence that they are competent to maintain GMDSS equipment at sea.
§ 15.820   Chief Engineer.
(a) There must be an individual holding an MMC endorsed as Chief Engineer or other credential authorizing service as Chief Engineer employed onboard the following mechanically propelled inspected vessels:
(1) Seagoing or Great Lakes vessels of 200 GRT and over;
(2) Offshore supply vessels of more than 200 GRT;
(3) Inland (other than Great Lakes) vessels of 300 GRT or more, if the OCMI determines that an individual with a license or the appropriate MMC officer endorsement responsible for the vessel's mechanical propulsion is necessary.
(b) On vessels subject to STCW, the individual meeting the requirement of this section must also hold an STCW endorsement as Chief Engineer with the appropriate propulsion power for the vessel upon which they are operating, except as noted in § 15.105(g) for vessels on domestic near-coastal voyages.
(c) An individual engaged or employed to perform the duties of Chief Engineer on a mechanically propelled, uninspected, seagoing, documented vessel of 200 GRT or more must hold an appropriately endorsed MMC authorizing service as a Chief Engineer.
§ 15.825   Engineers.
(a) An individual in charge of an engineering watch on a mechanically propelled, seagoing, documented vessel of 200 GRT or more, other than an individual described in § 15.820, must hold an appropriately endorsed MMC authorizing service as an Assistant Engineer.
(b) On vessels subject to STCW, the individual meeting the requirement of this section must also hold an STCW endorsement as Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch with the appropriate propulsion power for the vessel upon which they are operating, except as noted in § 15.105(g) for vessels on domestic near-coastal voyages.
(c) An offshore supply vessel of at least 6,000 GT ITC (500 GRT if GT ITC is not assigned) as defined in § 125.160 of this chapter, for which the Coast Guard has accepted the use of automated systems to replace specific personnel pursuant to subpart 62.50 of this chapter, must carry at least one credentialed Assistant Engineer, in addition to the individual described in § 15.820.
(d) The OCMI determines the minimum number of credentialed engineers required for the safe operation of inspected vessels.
§ 15.830   Radio Officers.
Radio Officers are required on certain merchant vessels of the United States. The determination of when a Radio Officer is required is based on the Federal Communications Commission requirements as found in 47 CFR parts 13 and 80.
§ 15.835   Staff officers.
Staff officers, when carried, must be registered as specified in part 11 of this subchapter.
§ 15.840   Able Seafarers.
(a) With certain exceptions, 46 U.S.C. 8702 applies to all vessels of at least 100 GRT. At least 65 percent of the deck crew of these vessels, excluding individuals serving as officers, must be Able Seafarers. For vessels permitted to maintain a two-watch system, the percentage of Able Seafarers may be reduced to 50 percent.
(b) Able Seafarers are rated as: Unlimited, Limited, Special, OSV, Sail, and Fishing Industry, under the provisions of part 12 of this subchapter. 46 U.S.C. 7312 specifies the categories of Able Seafarers ( i.e., Unlimited, Limited, etc.) necessary to meet the requirements of 46 U.S.C. 8702.
(c) On vessels subject to STCW, the individual meeting the requirement of this section must also hold an STCW endorsement as Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW) or Able Seafarer-Deck (according to § 15.404(a) and (b)), except as noted in § 15.105 (g) for vessels on domestic near-coastal voyages.
(d) It is the responsibility of the Master or Person in Charge (PIC) to ensure that the Able Seafarers in the service of the vessel meet the requirements of 46 U.S.C. 7312 and 8702.
§ 15.845   Lifeboat Operators.
(a) The number of Lifeboat Operators required for a vessel is specified in part 199 of this chapter; however, on vessels not equipped with lifeboats, a Lifeboat Operator may be replaced by a Lifeboat Operator-Limited.
(b) On vessels subject to STCW, the individual meeting the requirement of this section must also hold an STCW endorsement for Proficiency in Survival Craft, except as noted in § 15.105 (g) for vessels on domestic near-coastal voyages.
§ 15.850   Lookouts.
(a) The requirements for the maintenance of a proper lookout are specified in Rule 5 of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 (33 U.S.C. 1602(c)), and Rule 5 of the Inland Navigational Rules Act of 1980 (33 CFR part 83). Lookout is a function to be performed by a member of a navigational watch.
(b) On vessels subject to STCW, the individual meeting the requirement of this section must also hold at least an STCW deck endorsement as Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW), except as noted in § 15.105(g) for vessels on domestic near-coastal voyages.
§ 15.855   Cabin watchmen and fire patrolmen.
(a) On vessels carrying passengers at night, the Master or Person in Charge must ensure that a suitable number of watchmen are in the vicinity of the cabins or staterooms and on each deck, to guard against and give alarm in case of fire or other danger.
(b) On a fish processing vessel of more than 100 GRT, there must be a suitable number of watchmen trained in firefighting onboard when hot work is being done, to guard against and give alarm in case of a fire.
(c) For the watchmen described in paragraph (a) of this section, the owner or operator of an uninspected passenger vessel not more than 300 GRT may substitute the use of fire detectors, heat detectors, smoke detectors, and high-water alarms with audible- and visual-warning indicators, in addition to other required safety alarms, only when each of the following conditions are met:
(1) Fire detectors are located in each space containing machinery or fuel tanks per § 181.400(c) of this chapter.
(2) All grills, broilers, and deep-fat fryers are fitted with a grease extraction hood per § 181.425 of this chapter.
(3) Heat and/or smoke detectors are located in each galley, public accommodation space, enclosed passageway, berthing space, and all crew spaces.
(4) High-water alarms are located in each space with a through hull fitting below the deepest load waterline, a machinery space bilge, bilge well, shaft alley bilge, or other space subject to flooding from sea water piping within the space, and a space below the waterline with non-watertight closure such as a space with a non-watertight hatch on the main deck.
(5) Each alarm has an audible- and visual-alarm indicator located at the normal operating station and, if the normal operating position is not continually manned and not navigating underway, in an alternate location that must provide the crew, and may at all times provide the passengers, immediate warning of a hazardous condition.
(6) The vessel is underway for no more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period, and the Master of the vessel has chosen to operate with less than a three-watch system in accordance with § 15.705.
§ 15.860   Tank vessel endorsements.
(a) The OCMI enters on the COI issued to each manned tank vessel subject to the regulations in this chapter the number of crewmembers required to hold valid MMCs with the proper tank vessel endorsement. Table 1 to § 15.860(a) of this section provides the minimum requirements for manned tank vessels. Table 2 to § 15.860(a) of this section provides the tank vessel endorsements required for personnel aboard tankships.
Table 1 to § 15.860( a )—Minimum Requirements for Manned Tank Vessels
1 If only one engineer is required, then only one Tank Vessel-Engineer is required.
2 If the total crew complement is one or two persons, then only one Tank Vessel-PIC is required.
3 If the total crew complement is one or two persons, then only one Tank Vessel-PIC or Tank Barge-PIC is required.
Table 2 to § 15.860( a )—Tank Vessel Endorsements Required for Personnel Aboard Tankships
[Endorsement for the classification of the bulk liquid cargo or residues carried]
(b) For each tankship of more than 5,000 GRT certified for voyages beyond the boundary line as described in part 7 of this chapter—
(1) At least two Tank Vessel-PICs or Restricted Tank Vessel-PICs must be carried;
(2) At least three Tank Vessel-Assistants must be carried; and
(3) At least two Tank Vessel-Engineers must be carried.
(c) For each tankship of 5,000 GRT or less certified for voyages beyond the boundary line, as described in part 7 of this chapter
(1) At least two Tank Vessel-PICs or Restricted Tank Vessel-PICs must be carried; and
(2) At least two Tank Vessel-Engineers must be carried, unless only one engineer is required, in which case at least one Tank Vessel-Engineer must be carried.
(d) For each tankship not certified for voyages beyond the boundary line, as described in part 7 of this chapter, if the total crew complement is—
(1) One or two, at least one Tank Vessel-PIC or Restricted Tank Vessel-PIC must be carried; or
(2) More than two, at least two Tank Vessel-PICs or Restricted Tank Vessel-PICs must be carried.
(e) For each Tank Barge-PIC manned under § 31.15-5 of this chapter, if the total crew complement is—
(1) One or two, at least one Tank Vessel-PIC, restricted Tank Vessel-PIC, Tank Barge-PIC, or Restricted Tank Barge-PIC must be carried; or
(2) More than two, at least two Tank Vessel-PICs, Restricted Tank Vessel-PICs, Tank Barge-PICs, or Restricted Tank Barge-PICs must be carried.
(f) The following personnel aboard each tankship certified for voyages beyond the boundary line, as described in part 7 of this chapter, must hold valid MMCs, endorsed as follows:
(1) The Master and Chief Mate must each hold a Tank Vessel-PIC or Restricted Tank Vessel-PIC endorsement.
(2) The Chief, First Assistant, and cargo engineers must each hold a Tank Vessel-Engineer or Tank Vessel-PIC endorsement.
(3) Each credentialed officer acting as the PIC of a transfer of liquid cargo in bulk must hold a Tank Vessel-PIC or Restricted Tank Vessel-PIC endorsement.
(4) Each officer or crewmember who is assigned by the PIC duties and responsibilities related to the cargo or cargo-handling equipment during a transfer of liquid cargo in bulk, but is not directly supervised by the PIC, must hold a Tank Vessel-Assistant endorsement.
(g) The endorsements required by this section must be for the classification of the liquid cargo in bulk or of the cargo residue being carried.
(h) All individuals serving on tankships certified for voyages beyond the boundary line, as described in part 7 of this chapter, must hold an appropriate STCW endorsement, as follows:
(1) For Tank Vessel-PIC, an STCW endorsement as Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo Operations, Advanced Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations, or Advanced Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations, as appropriate.
(2) For Tank Vessel-Assistant, an STCW endorsement as Basic Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations, or Basic Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations, as appropriate.
(3) For a Tank Barge-PIC, an STCW endorsement as Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo Operations, Advanced Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations, or Advanced Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations, as appropriate, including endorsements with a limitation for non-self-propelled vessels.
(4) For a Tank Vessel-Engineer, an STCW endorsement as Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo Operations, or Advanced Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations, as appropriate, including endorsements with a limitation to maintenance and repair of cargo equipment.
§ 15.865   Qualified Member of the Engine Department.
(a) Every person serving under the authority of a rating endorsement as Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) on any United States vessel requiring QMED must hold an endorsement as QMED.
(b) On vessels subject to STCW, certain seafarers meeting the requirement of this section must also hold either an STCW endorsement as Able Seafarer-Engine or Rating Forming Part of an Engineering Watch (RFPEW) or designated to perform duties in a periodically unmanned engineroom (according to § 15.404(c) and (d)), except as noted in § 15.105(g) for vessels on domestic near-coastal voyages.
§ 15.901   Inspected vessels of less than 100 GRT.
(a) An individual holding an MMC endorsed as Mate or Pilot of inspected, self-propelled vessels of 200 GRT or more is authorized to serve as Master on inspected vessels of less than 100 GRT within any restrictions on the individual's MMC, without further endorsement.
(b) An individual holding an MMC endorsed as Master or Mate of inspected self-propelled vessels is authorized to serve as Master or Mate, respectively, of non-self-propelled vessels other than sail vessels, within any restrictions on the individual's MMC, without further endorsement.
(c) An individual holding an MMC endorsed as Master or Mate of inspected sail vessels is authorized to serve as Master or Mate, respectively, of other non-self-propelled vessels, within any restrictions on the individual's MMC, without further endorsement.
(d) An individual holding an MMC endorsed as Master or Mate of inspected auxiliary sail vessels, is authorized to serve as Master or Mate, respectively, of self-propelled and non-self-propelled vessels, within any restrictions on the individual's MMC, without further endorsement.
§ 15.905   Uninspected passenger vessels.
(a) An individual holding an MMC endorsed as Master or Pilot of an inspected self-propelled vessel is authorized to serve as operator of an uninspected passenger vessel of less than 100 GRT within any restrictions, other than tonnage limitations, on the individual's MMC.
(b) An individual holding an MMC endorsed as a Master or Pilot of an inspected self-propelled vessel is authorized to serve as Master, as required by 46 CFR 15.805(a)(6), of an uninspected passenger vessel of 100 GRT or more within any restrictions, including gross tonnage and route, on the individual's MMC.
(c) An individual holding an MMC endorsed as Mate of an inspected self-propelled vessel (other than Great Lakes, inland, or river vessels of less than 200 GRT) is authorized to serve as Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) of less than 100 GRT within any restrictions, other than tonnage limitations, on the individual's MMC.
§ 15.910   Towing vessels.
No person may serve as a Master or Mate (Pilot) of any towing vessel without meeting the requirements of § 15.805(a)(5) or 15.810(d).
§ 15.915   Engineer officer endorsements.
The following MMC officer endorsements authorize the holder to serve as noted, within any restrictions on the MMC, and as provided by § 15.401:
(a) A Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) endorsement authorizes service as Chief or Assistant Engineer on vessels of less than 500 GT in the following manners:
(1) A DDE limited to vessels of less than 1,000 horsepower or less than 4,000 horsepower may serve only on near-coastal, Great Lakes, or inland waters.
(2) A DDE with no horsepower limitations may serve on any waters.
(3) When serving on a vessel to which STCW applies, the appropriate STCW endorsement must also be held.
(b) A Chief Engineer-Limited endorsement authorizes service as Chief or Assistant Engineer on vessels of any gross tons on inland waters and of less than 1,600 GRT on ocean, near-coastal, or Great Lakes waters.
(c) An Assistant Engineer-Limited endorsement authorizes service on vessels of any gross tons on inland waters and of less than 1,600 GRT on ocean, near-coastal, or Great Lakes waters.
§ 15.1001   General.
Self-propelled vessels engaged in foreign commerce are required to use a Pilot holding a valid MMC with an appropriate endorsement as a First-Class Pilot when operating in the navigable waters of the United States specified in this subpart.
§ 15.1010   California.
The following offshore marine oil terminals located within U.S. navigable waters of the State of California:
(a) Carlsbad, CA. The waters including the San Diego Gas and Electric, Encina Power Plant, lying within an area bounded by a line beginning at latitude 33°10′06″ N, longitude 117°21′42″ W, thence southwesterly to latitude 33°08′54″ N, longitude 117°24′36″ W, thence southwesterly to latitude 33°04′30″ N, longitude 117°21′42″ W, thence northeasterly to latitude 33°05′36″ N, longitude 117°18′54″ W, thence northwesterly along the shoreline to latitude 33°10′06″ N, longitude 117°21′42″ W.
(b) Huntington Beach, CA. The waters including the Golden West Refining Company, Huntington Beach Marine Terminal, lying within an area bounded by a line beginning at latitude 33°39′06″ N, longitude 118°00′0″ W, thence westerly to latitude 33°39′18″ N, longitude 118°05′12″ W, thence southeasterly along a line drawn three nautical miles from the baseline to latitude 33°35′30″ N, longitude 118°00′00″ W, thence easterly to latitude 33°35′30″ N, longitude 117°52′30″ W, thence northwesterly along the shoreline to latitude 33°39′06″ N, longitude 118°00′00″ W.
(c) El Segundo, CA. The waters including the Chevron USA, El Segundo Marine Terminal, lying within an area bounded by a line beginning at latitude 33°56′18″ N, longitude 118°26′18″ W, thence westerly to latitude 33°56′18″ N, longitude 118°30′48″ W, thence southeasterly along a line drawn three nautical miles from the baseline to latitude 33°51′48″ N, longitude 118°27′54″ W, thence easterly to latitude 33°51′48″ N, longitude 118°24′00″ W, thence northwesterly along the shoreline to latitude 33°56′18″ N, longitude 118°26′18″ W.
(d) Oxnard, CA. The waters including the Southern California Edison Company, Mandalay Generating Station, lying within an area bounded by a line beginning at latitude 34°14′12″ N, longitude 119°16′00″ W, thence westerly to latitude 34°14′12″ N, longitude 119°19′36″ W, thence southeasterly along a line drawn three nautical miles from the baseline to latitude 34°09′24″ N, longitude 119°17′20″ W, thence easterly to latitude 34°09′24″ N, longitude 119°13′24″ W, thence northwesterly along the shoreline to latitude 34°14′24″ N, longitude 119°16′00″ W.
(e) Goleta, CA. The waters including the ARCO, Ellwood Marine Terminal, lying within an area bounded by a line beginning at latitude 34°26′12″ N, longitude 119°57′00″ W, thence southerly to latitude 34°22′48″ N, longitude 119°57′00″ W, thence southeasterly along a line drawn three nautical miles from the baseline to latitude 34°21′06″ N, longitude 119°50′30.5″ W, thence northerly to latitude 34°24′18″ N, longitude 119°50′30″ W, thence northwesterly along the shoreline to latitude 34°26′12″ N, longitude 119°57′00″ W.
(f) Gaviota, CA. The waters including the Texaco Trading and Transportation, Gaviota Marine Terminal, lying within an area bounded by a line beginning at latitude 34°28′06″ N, longitude 120°16′00″ W, thence southerly to latitude 34°25′06″ N, longitude 120°16′00″ W, thence easterly along a line drawn three nautical miles from the baseline to latitude 34°25′24″ N, longitude 120°08′30″ W, thence northerly to latitude 34°28′24″ N, longitude 120°08′30″ W, thence westerly along the shoreline to latitude 34°28′06″ N, longitude 120°16′00″ W.
(g) Moss Landing, CA. The waters including the Pacific Gas and Electric Company Power Plant, lying within an area bounded by a line beginning at latitude 36°49′00″ N, longitude 121°47′42″ W, thence westerly to latitude 36°49′00″ N, longitude 121°51′00″ W, thence southerly to latitude 36°47′00″ N, longitude 121°51′00″ W thence easterly to latitude 36°47′00″ N, longitude 121°47′54″ W, thence northerly along the shoreline to latitude 36°49′00″ N, longitude 121°47′42″ W.
(h) Estero Bay, CA. The waters including various moorings, including the Pacific Gas and Electric Company mooring and the two Chevron Oil Company Terminals lying within an area bounded by a line beginning at latitude 36°25′00″ N, longitude 120°52′30″ W, thence westerly to latitude 36°25′00″ N, longitude 120°56′00″ W, thence southerly to latitude 36°22′00″ N, longitude 120°56′00″ W, thence easterly to latitude 36°22′00″ N, longitude 120°52′12″ W, thence northerly along the shoreline to latitude 36°25′00″ N, longitude 120°52′30″ W.
(i) San Luis Obispo Bay, CA. The waters including the Unocal Corporation Avila Terminal and the approaches thereto, lying in an area bounded by a line beginning at latitude 35°09′42″ N, longitude 120°46′00″ W, thence southerly to latitude 35°07′00″ N, longitude 120°46′00″ W, thence easterly to latitude 35°07′00″ N, longitude 120°43′00″ W, thence northerly to latitude 35°10′24″ N, longitude 120°43′00″ W, thence westerly along the shoreline to latitude 35°09′42″ N, longitude 120°46′00″ W.
§ 15.1020   Hawaii.
The following offshore marine oil terminals located within U.S. navigable waters of the State of Hawaii: Barbers Point, Island of Oahu. The waters including the Hawaiian Independent Refinery, Inc. and the Chevron moorings lying within an area bounded by a line bearing 180 degrees true from Barbers Point Light to latitude 21°14.8′N, longitude 158°06.4′W, thence easterly to latitude 21°14.8′N, longitude 158°03.3′W, thence northeasterly to latitude 21°15.6′N, longitude 158°01.1′W, thence northwesterly to latitude 21°18.5′N, longitude 158°02.0′W, thence westerly along the shoreline to latitude 21°17.8′N, longitude 158°06.4′W.
§ 15.1030   New York and New Jersey.
The following U.S. navigable waters located within the States of New York and New Jersey when the vessel is making an intra-port transit, to include, but not limited to, a movement from a dock to a dock, from a dock to an anchorage, from an anchorage to a dock, or from an anchorage to an anchorage, within the following listed operating areas:
(a) East River from Execution Rocks to New York Harbor, Upper Bay;
(b) Hudson River from Yonkers, New York to New York Harbor, Upper Bay;
(c) Raritan River from Grossman Dock/Arsenal to New York Harbor, Lower Bay;
(d) Arthur Kill Channel;
(e) Kill Van Kull Channel;
(f) Newark Bay;
(g) Passaic River from Point No Point to Newark Bay;
(h) Hackensack River from the turning basin to Newark Bay; and
(i) New York Harbor, Upper and Lower Bay.
Note to § 15.1030: “Intra-port transit” as used in this section includes the movement of a foreign-trade vessel inbound from sea from the point where a State-licensed Pilot ceases providing pilotage to another point within the identified areas ( i.e., a dock or anchorage). Likewise, intra-port transit also includes the movement of a foreign-trade vessel outbound to sea from a point within the identified areas ( i.e., a dock or anchorage) to the point where a State-licensed Pilot begins providing pilotage.
§ 15.1040   Massachusetts.
The following U.S. navigable waters located within the State of Massachusetts when the vessel is in transit, but not bound to or departing from a port within the following listed operating areas:
(a) Cape Cod Bay south of latitude 41°48′54″ N;
(b) The Cape Cod Canal; and
(c) Buzzards Bay east of a line extending from the southernmost point of Wilbur Point (latitude 41°34′55″ N longitude 70°51′15″ W) to the easternmost point of Pasque Island (latitude 41°26′55″ N longitude 70°50′30″ W).
§ 15.1050   North Carolina.
(a) The following navigable waters of the United States within the State of North Carolina when the vessel is maneuvering while berthing or unberthing, is approaching or passing through a bridge, or is making any intra-port transit, which transit may include but is not limited to movement from a dock to a dock, from a dock to an anchorage, from an anchorage to a dock, or from an anchorage to an anchorage, within either of the following areas:
(1) The waters of the Cape Fear River from the boundary line established by 46 CFR 7.60 to Latitude 34°16.5′ N.
(2) The waters of the Northeast Cape Fear River from its confluence with the Cape Fear River at Point Peter to Latitude 34°17′ N.
(b) This subpart does not apply to any vessel on the waters specified in paragraph (a) of this section if the laws of the State of North Carolina require a State-licensed Pilot on the vessel.
§ 15.1101   General.
(a) Except as noted in paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) of this section, the regulations in this subpart apply to seagoing vessels as defined in § 10.107 of this subchapter.
(1) The following vessels are exempt from application of the STCW Convention:
(i) Fishing vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(11)(a).
(ii) Fishing vessels used as fish-tender vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(11)(c).
(iii) Barges as defined in 46 U.S.C. 102, including non-self-propelled MODUs.
(iv) Vessels operating exclusively on the Great Lakes or on the inland waters of the U.S., in the Straits of Juan de Fuca, or on the Inside Passage between Puget Sound and Cape Spencer.
(v) Pilot vessels engaged on pilotage duty.
(2) The following small vessels engaged exclusively on domestic, near-coastal voyages are not subject to any obligation for the purposes of the STCW Convention:
(i) Small passenger vessels subject to subchapter T or K of this chapter.
(ii) Vessels of less than 200 GRT (other than passenger vessels subject to subchapter H of this chapter).
(iii) Uninspected passenger vessels as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101(42)(B).
(b) Masters, Mates, and engineers serving on vessels identified in paragraphs (a)(2)(i) and (ii) of this section may be issued, without additional proof of qualification, an appropriate STCW endorsement when the Coast Guard determines that such a document is necessary to enable the vessel to engage on a single international voyage of a non-routine nature. The STCW endorsement will be expressly limited to service on the vessel or the class of vessels and will not establish qualification for any other purpose.
§ 15.1103   Employment and service within the restrictions of an STCW endorsement or of a certificate of training.
(a) Onboard a seagoing vessel of 500 GT or more, driven by main propulsion machinery of 1,000 HP/750 kW propulsion power or more or on an international voyage beyond the boundary line as described in part 7 of this chapter, no person may employ or engage any person to serve, and no person may serve, in a position requiring a person to hold an STCW endorsement, including Master, Chief Mate, Chief Engineer Officer, Second Engineer Officer, Officer of the Navigational or Engineering Watch, or GMDSS Radio Operator, unless the person serving holds an appropriate, valid STCW endorsement issued in accordance with part 11 of this subchapter.
(b) Onboard a seagoing vessel of 500 GT or more, no person may employ or engage any person to serve, and no person may serve, as an RFPNW, except for training, unless the person serving holds an appropriate, valid STCW endorsement issued in accordance with part 12 of this subchapter.
(c) As of January 1, 2017, onboard a seagoing vessel of 500 GT or more, no person may employ or engage any person to serve, and no person may serve, as an Able Seafarer-Deck, except for training, unless the person serving holds an appropriate, valid STCW endorsement issued in accordance with part 12 of this subchapter.
(d) Onboard a seagoing vessel driven by main propulsion machinery of 1,000 HP/750 kW propulsion power or more, no person may employ or engage any person to serve, and no person may serve as an RFPEW, nor may any person be designated to perform duties in a periodically unmanned engineroom, except for training or for the performance of duties of an unskilled nature, unless the person serving holds an appropriate, valid STCW endorsement issued in accordance with part 12 of this subchapter.
(e) As of January 1, 2017, onboard a seagoing vessel driven by main propulsion machinery of 1,000 HP/750 kW propulsion power or more, no person may employ or engage any person to serve, and no person may serve as an Able Seafarer-Engine, except for training, unless the person serving holds an appropriate valid STCW endorsement issued in accordance with part 12 of this subchapter.
(f) Onboard a passenger ship, as defined by the Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended (SOLAS) (incorporated by reference, see § 15.103), on an international voyage, any person serving as Master, Chief Mate, Mate, Chief Engineer, engineer officer, or any person holding an MMC and performing duties relating to safety, cargo handling, or care for passengers, must meet the appropriate requirements of Regulation V/2 of the STCW Convention (incorporated by reference, see § 15.103). These individuals must hold documentary evidence to show they meet these requirements.
(g) Onboard a seagoing vessel required to comply with provisions of the GMDSS in Chapter IV of SOLAS, no person may employ or engage any person to serve, and no person may serve, as the person designated to maintain GMDSS equipment at sea, when the service of a person so designated is used to meet the maintenance requirements of SOLAS Regulation IV/15, which allows for capability of at-sea electronic maintenance to ensure that radio equipment is available for radio communication, unless the person so serving holds documentary evidence that they are competent to maintain GMDSS equipment at sea.
(h) Medical certificate. (1) A person may not employ or engage an individual unless that individual maintains a current medical certificate.
(2) After January 1, 2017, all persons employed or engaged onboard vessels to which STCW applies must hold a medical certificate valid for 2 years unless the mariner is under the age of 18, in which case the maximum period of validity will be 1 year.
(3) If a mariner's medical certificate expires during a voyage, it will remain valid until the next United States port of call, provided that the period after expiration does not exceed 90 days.
§ 15.1105   Familiarization and Basic Training (BT).
(a) Onboard a seagoing vessel to which this subpart applies, no person may assign any person to perform shipboard duties, and no person may perform those duties, unless the person performing them has received—
(1) Training in personal survival techniques as set out in the standard of competence under Regulation VI/1 of the STCW Convention (incorporated by reference, see § 15.103); or
(2) Sufficient familiarization training or instruction that they—
(i) Can communicate with other persons onboard about elementary safety matters and understand informational symbols, signs, and alarm signals concerning safety;
(ii) Know what to do if a person falls overboard; if fire or smoke is detected; or if the fire alarm or abandon-ship alarm sounds;
(iii) Can identify stations for muster and embarkation, and emergency-escape routes;
(iv) Can locate and don life jackets;
(v) Can raise the alarm and knows the use of portable fire extinguishers;
(vi) Can take immediate action upon encountering an accident or other medical emergency before seeking further medical assistance onboard; and
(vii) Can close and open the fire doors, weather-tight doors, and watertight doors fitted in the vessel other than those for hull openings.
(b) Onboard a seagoing vessel to which this subpart applies, no person may assign a shipboard duty or responsibility to any person who is serving in a position that must be filled as part of the required crew complement, and no person may perform any such duty or responsibility, unless they are familiar with it and with all of the vessel's arrangements, installations, equipment, procedures, and characteristics relevant to their routine and emergency duties or responsibilities, in accordance with Regulation I/14 of the STCW Convention.
(c) Onboard a seagoing vessel to which this subpart applies, no person may assign a shipboard duty or responsibility to any person who is serving in a position that must be filled as part of the required crew complement or who is assigned a responsibility on the muster list, and no person may perform any such duty or responsibility, unless the person performing it can produce evidence of having—
(1) Received appropriate approved Basic Training or instruction as set out in the standards of competence under Regulation VI/1 of the STCW Convention, with respect to personal survival techniques, fire prevention and fire-fighting, elementary first aid, and personal safety and social responsibilities; and
(2) Maintained the standard of competence under Regulation VI/1 of the STCW Convention, with respect to personal survival techniques, fire prevention and fire-fighting, elementary first aid, and personal safety and social responsibilities, every 5 years.
(d) Fish-processing vessels in compliance with the provisions of part 28 of this chapter on instructions, drills, and safety orientation are deemed to be in compliance with the requirements of this section on familiarization and Basic Training.
§ 15.1107   Maintenance of merchant mariners' records by owner or operator.
For every credentialed mariner employed on a U.S.-documented seagoing vessel, the owner or operator must ensure that the following information is maintained and readily accessible to those in management positions, including the Master of the vessel, who are responsible for the safety of the vessel, compliance with laws and regulations, and for the prevention of marine pollution:
(a) Experience and training relevant to assigned shipboard duties ( i.e., record of training completed, ship-specific familiarization and of relevant on-the-job experience acquired).
(b) Copies of the mariner's current credentials.
§ 15.1109   Watches.
Except those serving on vessels listed in § 15.105(f) and (g), each Master of a vessel that operates beyond the boundary line, as described in part 7 of this chapter, must ensure observance of the principles concerning watchkeeping set out in Regulation VIII/2 of the STCW Convention and section A-VIII/2 of the STCW Code (both incorporated by reference, see § 15.103).
§ 15.1111   Work hours and rest periods.
(a) Every person assigned duty as Officer in Charge of a Navigational or Engineering Watch, or duty as Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational or Engineering Watch, or designated safety, prevention of pollution, and security duties onboard any vessel that operates beyond the boundary line, as described in part 7 of this chapter, must receive—
(1) A minimum of 10 hours of rest in any 24-hour period; and
(2) 77 hours of rest in any 7-day period.
(b) The hours of rest required under paragraph (a) of this section may be divided into no more than two periods in any 24-hour period, one of which must be at least 6 hours in length, and the interval between consecutive periods of rest must not exceed 14 hours.
(c) The requirements of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section need not be maintained in the case of an emergency or drill or in other overriding operational conditions.
(d) The minimum period of rest required under paragraph (a) of this section may not be devoted to watchkeeping or other duties.
(e) Watchkeeping personnel remain subject to the work-hour limits in 46 U.S.C. 8104 and to the conditions under which crewmembers may be required to work.
(f) The Master must post watch schedules where they are easily accessible. They must cover each affected person under paragraph (a) of this section, and must take into account the rest requirements of this section as well as port rotations and changes in the vessel's itinerary.
(g) Records of daily hours of rest must be maintained onboard the vessel. Each affected person under paragraph (a) of this section must receive a copy of the records pertaining to them, which will be endorsed by the Master or by a person authorized by the Master and by the seafarer.
(h) For every seafarer on call, such as when a machinery space is unattended, the seafarer must have an adequate compensatory rest period if the normal period of rest is disturbed by call-outs to work.
(i) The Master of the vessel may suspend the schedule of hours of rest and require a seafarer to perform any hours of work necessary for the immediate safety of the ship, persons onboard, or cargo, or for the purpose of giving assistance to other ships or persons in distress at sea. As soon as practicable after the situation has been restored, the Master must ensure that any seafarer who has performed work in a scheduled rest period is provided with an adequate period of rest.
(j) In exceptional circumstances, the Master may authorize exceptions from the hours of rest required under paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section provided that:
(1) The hours of rest provided for in paragraph (a)(1) of this section may be divided into no more than three periods, one of which must be at least 6 hours in length, and neither of the other two periods are permitted to be less than one hour in length.
(i) Exceptions to paragraph (a)(1) of this section must not extend beyond two 24-hour periods in any 7-day period; and,
(ii) The intervals between consecutive periods of rest must not exceed 14 hours.
(2) Exceptions to paragraphs (a)(2) and (b) of this section must not be less than 70 hours of rest in any 7-day period.
(3) Exceptions to paragraph (a)(2) of this section are not allowed for more than two consecutive weeks, and the intervals between two periods of exceptions to paragraph (a)(2) must not be less than twice the duration of the longer exception.
§ 15.1113   Security personnel.
(a) Onboard a seagoing vessel of 500 GT or more to which the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code applies, all persons performing duties as Vessel Security Officer (VSO) must hold a valid endorsement as VSO.
(b) Persons who hold an endorsement as VSO will be deemed to satisfy the requirements for vessel personnel with designated security duties in paragraph (c) of this section.
(c) After March 24, 2014, onboard a seagoing vessel of 500 GT or more to which the ISPS Code applies, all personnel with designated security duties must hold a valid endorsement as vessel personnel with designated security duties, or a certificate of course completion or documentary evidence of onboard training from an appropriate Coast Guard-accepted or Coast Guard-approved course meeting the requirements of 33 CFR 104.220.
(d) Persons who hold an endorsement as vessel personnel with designated security duties, or a certificate of course completion or documentary evidence of onboard training from an appropriate Coast Guard-accepted or Coast Guard-approved course for vessel personnel with designated security duties, will be deemed to satisfy the requirements for all other vessel personnel in paragraph (e) of this section.
(e) After March 24, 2014, onboard a seagoing vessel of 500 GT or more to which the ISPS Code applies, all other vessel personnel must hold a valid endorsement in security awareness, or a certificate of course completion from an appropriate Coast Guard-accepted or Coast Guard-approved course, or documentary evidence of onboard training meeting the requirements of 33 CFR 104.225.
(f) After March 24, 2014, onboard a seagoing vessel of 500 GT or more to which the ISPS Code applies, all contractors, whether part-time, full-time, temporary, or permanent, must have knowledge of the requirements in 33 CFR 104.225, through training or equivalent job experience. Vessel owners and operators must maintain records documenting this requirement and produce those records to the Coast Guard upon request.