[Federal Register Volume 62, Number 182 (Friday, September 19, 1997)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 49308-49356]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 97-24572]



[[Page 49307]]

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Part II





Department of Transportation





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Coast Guard



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46 CFR Parts 90, 98, et al.



Offshore Supply Vessels; Final Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 62, No. 182 / Friday, September 19, 1997 / 
Rules and Regulations

[[Page 49308]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Coast Guard

46 CFR Parts 90, 98, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 134, 
170, 174, and 175

[CGD 82-004 and CGD 86-074]
RIN 2115-AA77


Offshore Supply Vessels

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: In an interim rule published on November 16, 1995, the Coast 
Guard established a complete set of regulations (a new subchapter L) 
applicable to new offshore supply vessels (OSVs), including liftboats. 
This rule adopts the interim rule as final with a number of changes, 
and brings OSVs under a single, consistent regulatory regime.

DATES: This final rule becomes effective on October 20, 1997. OSVs 
certificated before March 15, 1996, may either comply with these 
regulations in their entirety or continue to comply with, and be 
certificated under, current regulations and policy. The Director of the 
Federal Register has approved as of November 16, 1995, the 
incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the 
regulations.

ADDRESSES: Unless otherwise indicated, documents referred to in this 
preamble are available for inspection or copying at the office of the 
Executive Secretary, Marine Safety Council (G-LRA/3406), U.S. Coast 
Guard Headquarters, 2100 Second Street SW., room 3406, Washington, DC 
20593-0001 between 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday through Friday, except 
Federal holidays. The telephone number is (202) 267-1477.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: James M. Magill, Office of Operating 
and Environmental Standards (G-MSO-2), Room 1208c, U.S. Coast Guard 
Headquarters, 2100 Second Street SW., Washington, DC 20593-0001. The 
telephone number is (202) 267-1181.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Regulatory History

    On February 14, 1983, the Coast Guard published the first of two 
ANPRMs (48 FR 6636; CGD 82-004) in order to provide the public with an 
early opportunity to comment on a preliminary draft of the 
comprehensive set of requirements for inspection and certification 
applicable to new offshore supply vessels (OSVs). The Coast Guard 
received 24 comment letters addressing various technical aspects of the 
proposal. Many of the recommendations from those comments were 
incorporated into the subsequent notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) 
discussed below.
    On April 16, 1987, the Coast Guard published the second ANPRM (52 
FR 12439), which asked for specific information to help the Coast Guard 
in developing specialized regulations for self-elevating OSVs 
(liftboats). Many of the recommendations contained in the 14 comment 
letters received by the Coast Guard were incorporated into the 
subsequent NPRM discussed below.
    On May 9, 1989, the Coast Guard published an NPRM (54 FR 20006). 
The original comment period was scheduled to end on September 6, 1989, 
but on August 31, 1989, it was extended until December 6, 1989 (54 FR 
36040). Included with the extension of the comment period was notice of 
a public hearing on the proposed rule. The hearing took place at New 
Orleans, Louisiana on September 13, 1989. The Coast Guard received 20 
letters containing a total of 194 comments on various technical aspects 
of the proposed rule. Many of the recommendations from those comments 
were incorporated into the interim rule.
    On November 16, 1995, the Coast Guard published an interim rule, 
with a request for comments, entitled ``Offshore Supply Vessels'' in 
the Federal Register (60 FR 57630). No public hearing was requested, 
and none was held. On February 28, 1996, the Coast Guard published a 
notice in the Federal Register reopening the comment period until March 
31, 1996 (61 FR 7425). The Coast Guard received 8 letters containing a 
total of 330 comments on the interim rule. Many of the recommendations 
from those comments were incorporated into this final rule.

Background and Purpose

    Conventional OSVs have traditionally provided a wide range of 
supply and support to offshore industries extracting oil and minerals. 
Although these vessels historically operated almost exclusively in the 
Gulf of Mexico, they now operate worldwide.
    Self-elevating OSVs, commonly known as liftboats, are more 
specialized in their service. These vessels have built-in jacking-
systems which allow them to be ``jacked up'' above the ocean's surface 
and to become, in effect, stationary platforms for a temporary period. 
Once jacked up, these vessels render specific service, such as 
maintenance and construction, to adjacent offshore structures. New 
liftboats should enjoy a wider and less restrictive scope of operation 
than those certificated before the effective date of this final rule 
due to the structural strength and stability standards contained in 
this final rule.
    The most significant aspect of the new 46 CFR, subchapter L, is its 
consolidation of requirements for OSVs. Prior to implementation of 
these regulations, existing OSVs had been inspected and certified under 
a number of regulations depending on their age and tonnage, such as 46 
CFR subchapter I (Cargo and Miscellaneous Vessels) or subchapter T 
(Small Passenger Vessels). This led to uncertainty and inconsistency. 
Implementation of a new subchapter L removes this uncertainty and 
inconsistency by consolidating existing standards and policy into a 
single subchapter.
    The requirements of the new subchapter L contained in the interim 
rule became effective on March 15, 1996. This final rule adopts the 
interim rule with a number of changes brought about primarily by the 
comments to the interim rule. This final rule applies to new OSVs 
contracted for after the effective date of these regulations and to 
OSVs that undergo major conversions after the effective date of these 
regulations. It also applies to existing OSVs, including pre-1979 OSVs, 
if the owners of these OSVs wish.
    These regulations contain many changes to previous regulations and 
policies governing conventional OSVs, and include first-time 
regulations for previously uninspected liftboats. Many of the 
requirements in this final rule are similar to corresponding 
requirements in subchapters I and T.

Associated Regulatory Projects

    Since the publication of the OSV interim rule, another interim rule 
entitled ``Lifesaving Equipment'' was published in the Federal Register 
(61 FR 25272; May 20, 1996). The latter interim rule governed 
lifesaving systems for OSVs, including liftboats, in 46 CFR part 133. 
Part 133 on lifesaving systems, which is part of subchapter L and of 
this interim rule, became effective on October 1, 1996. The final rule 
on lifesaving equipment should be published in the near future and 
should coincide closely with the publication of this final rule.
    On February 13, 1990, the Coast Guard published an NPRM entitled 
``Stability Design and Operational Regulations'' (55 FR 5120). On 
September 11, 1992, it published the final rule (57 FR 41812). 
Stability and operational requirements from that rule have been adopted 
here in Secs. 131.220 (e), (f), and (g); 131.513; and 131.620(d). Both 
final rules incorporate, for inspected vessels, recently adopted

[[Page 49309]]

amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at 
Sea, 1974, as amended (SOLAS), and seek to reduce the potential for 
vessels to capsize because of defective designs or operations.
    On December 18, 1996, the Coast Guard published a final rule 
entitled ``Offshore Supply Vessels; Alternative Tonnage'' (61 FR 
66613). That rule, which was strictly interpretive, became effective on 
December 18, 1996, and established an alternative upper limit on 
tonnage for OSVs based on the International Convention Measurement 
System. That rule amended the definition of OSV in 46 CFR 125.160, and 
this final rule now employs the amended definition.

Discussion of Comments and Changes

    The Coast Guard thanks the many interested parties who submitted 
comment letters to the public docket. It received 8 letters, containing 
330 comments. These comments provided very useful information and 
afforded valuable assistance to the completion of this final rule. The 
Coast Guard evaluated all comments, and incorporated many of their 
recommendations into the final rule.
    This section discusses the comments received and the Coast Guard's 
response to them. It is divided into two subsections. The first 
discusses comments and changes regarding the specific CFR sections, and 
the second discusses nonspecific comments concerning issues related to 
this rulemaking. This preamble does not discuss non-substantive or 
editorial comments.

Comments and Changes Relating to Specific CFR Sections

    Comments and changes to each section of the interim rule are 
discussed within the following paragraphs, and the paragraphs are 
numbered in the order of their appearance in the interim rule.

1. 46 CFR 90.05-20(a)

    Two comments suggested that the words ``the keel of which was laid 
(or that was at a similar stage of construction)'' should be 
substituted for the words ``contracted for'' so that a physical event, 
rather than a commercial event, would be available to gauge the 
applicability of grandfathering. These comments also pointed out that 
many OSV owners construct their own vessels, and that, therefore, a 
contract may not exist. Most owners will have a contract for the 
construction of their OSVs; hence the wording ``contracted for'' 
remains. However, wording to the effect of ``the keel of which was 
laid'' has been added to fix an alternative date of applicability for 
those owners who build their own OSVs.
    One comment requested that the reference to 500 gross tons in 
Sec. 90.05-20(a) be deleted since, by definition, OSVs are less than 
500 gross tons. Lower limits on tonnage are necessary in this section, 
however, because only existing OSVs of 100 gross tons or more and less 
than 500 gross tons are inspected under subchapter I--not OSVs between 
15 and 100 gross tons.
    One comment suggested that the wording in Sec. 90.05-20(a) be 
clarified since it implied that no OSV would be grandfathered 
regardless of the build date. The Coast Guard agrees, and has revised 
this section to distinguish between the rules that apply to existing 
OSVs and those that apply to new OSVs.

2. 46 CFR 90.10-40

    The definition of ``Offshore supply vessel'' in Sec. 90.10-40(a) 
has been changed to include the amendments of the December 18, 1996 
interpretative rule ``Offshore Supply Vessels; Alternate Tonnage'' (61 
FR 66613), similar to that in Secs. 125.160 and 175.400. Two comments 
suggested adding ``the keel of which was laid'' to Sec. 90.10-40 (b) 
and (c). The Coast Guard agrees, and has made this change. One comment 
expressed confusion as to whether or how subchapter L would be applied 
to existing OSVs and liftboats when undergoing modifications. The Coast 
Guard agrees that the rules do not adequately address modifications to 
existing vessels. Consequently, the definition of a new OSV in 
Sec. 90.10-40(c) has been revised to include a vessel that undergoes a 
major conversion after March 15, 1996. The definition of a ``major 
conversion'', which appears in 46 U.S.C. 2101(14a), has been added to 
Sec. 125.160. If the modification to the vessel constitutes a major 
conversion, then the entire vessel must be reviewed and inspected as a 
new vessel.

3. 46 CFR 98.31- 5, 10 and 15

    Two comments pointed out that subpart 98.31 should still apply to 
existing OSVs and should be reinstated. The Coast Guard agrees and has 
reinstated subpart 98.31, but has revised the applicability in 
Sec. 98.31-5 to apply only to existing vessels.

4. 46 CFR 125.100

    One comment requested clarification on the scope of major 
conversions. The Coast Guard's internal guidance for determining what 
amounts to a major conversion appears in NVIC 10-81, chapter 1. The 
comment also recommended that, in the case of an existing vessel that 
undergoes a major conversion, subchapter L should apply only to the 
sections of the OSV that are altered. The Coast Guard disagrees and 
states that if a modification constitutes a major conversion, then the 
complete vessel must be reviewed and inspected as a new vessel.
    Sections 125.100 (a) and (b) have been revised to include such 
wording as ``the keel of which was laid,'' similar to that added in 
Sec. 90.05-20(a). A new paragraph (e) has also been added to clarify 
the term ``vessel that was contracted for''; it is similar to 
Sec. 90.05-5 of this chapter pertaining to cargo or miscellaneous 
vessels.

5. 46 CFR 125.110

    Three comments indicated that Sec. 125.110 did not address the 
carriage of Grade-C flammable liquids in integral tanks. The carriage 
of Grade-C flammable liquids is allowed on a case-by-case basis with 
approval of the Commandant (G-MSE) under Sec. 125.110(a).

6. 46 CFR 125.110(b) (1) and (2)

    Two comments suggested the removal of the 20 percent deadweight 
restriction on the carriage of Grade-D and Grade-E combustible liquids 
in integral tanks because it imposes an unnecessary disadvantage on 
U.S.-flagged OSVs compared to foreign-flagged OSVs, which are governed 
by International Maritime Organization (IMO) Resolution A.673(16), 
Guidelines for the Transport and Handling of Limited Amounts of 
Hazardous and Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk on Offshore Supply 
Vessels. They pointed out that, under IMO Resolution A.673(16), 40 
percent deadweight was permitted. The Coast Guard does permit the 
carriage of greater than 20 percent deadweight of Grade-D and Grade-E 
combustible liquids in integral tanks on a case-by-case basis with 
approval of the Commandant under Sec. 125.110(a).

7. 46 CFR 125.110(c)

    Two comments thought that the carriage of liquids of Grade B and 
lower in fixed independent tanks on deck should be permitted without 
limit. The Coast Guard permits the carriage of greater than 20 percent 
deadweight of liquids of Grade B and lower in fixed independent tanks 
on deck under Sec. 125.120(a) with the approval of the Commandant (G-
MSE).

[[Page 49310]]

8. 46 CFR 125.120(b)

    Two comments thought that the 20-percent deadweight restriction on 
the carriage of noxious liquid substances (NLSs) imposed an unnecessary 
disadvantage on U.S.-flagged OSVs as against foreign-flagged OSVs, 
which are governed by IMO Resolution A.673(16). They pointed out that, 
under IMO Resolution A.673(16), 40 percent deadweight was permitted, 
and recommended that IMO Resolution A.673(16) be adopted and used as an 
appropriate regulation under Sec. 125.120. The Coast Guard does not 
agree that the adoption of IMO Resolution A.673(16) is appropriate, 
because it is too severe for typical OSVs operating in U.S. waters and 
the language of the guidelines is imprecise. The Coast Guard does 
permit the carriage of greater than 20 percent deadweight of NLS, with 
the approval of the Commandant (G-MSE), under Sec. 125.120(a). The 
Coast Guard will also consider certificating vessels built to IMO 
Resolution A.673(16), on a case-by-case basis, with the approval of the 
Commandant (G-MSE), under Sec. 125.120(a).

9. 46 CFR 125.140

    Two comments suggested that, for clarity, the text in Sec. 92.01-5 
of this chapter should be substituted for this section. The Coast Guard 
has revised this section to make it similar to Sec. 92.01-5.

10. 46 CFR 125.160

    Two comments questioned the use of ``Accommodation'' in the 
singular. They pointed out that all seven spaces listed in the 
definition should count as accommodations. The Coast Guard agrees and 
has revised this definition.
    Two comments also suggested that ``Quarters'' be replaced by 
``Berthing spaces,'' as the latter better describes the use of the 
space in question. The Coast Guard recognizes that the term 
``quarters'' is a well used and accepted term in the marine industry 
and has appropriately defined the term in this section.
    Four comments thought that the definition for ``Crane'' was too 
broad and might encompass stores cranes, boat davits, and other lifting 
appliances. The comments asked that the definition be revised to 
exclude material-handling gear for general ship's service. The Coast 
Guard agrees, and has revised the definition to exclude such gear.
    Two comments concerned the definition of ``Damp or Wet Space.'' 
This definition has been deleted since it is not used in this final 
rule.
    Two comments suggested punctuation changes to the definition of 
``Offshore Worker.'' The Coast Guard agrees with this suggestion and 
has removed the commas after ``master'' and ``crew.''
    The definition of ``Offshore supply vessel'' in Sec. 125.160 has 
been changed to include the amendments brought about by the December 
18, 1996 interpretative rule ``Offshore Supply Vessels; Alternate 
Tonnage'' (61 FR 66613).
    The Coast Guard has realized that definitions of ``New offshore 
supply vessel'', ``Existing offshore supply vessel'', and ``Major 
conversion'' should have been included in subchapter L. Consequently, 
definitions identical to those in Sec. 90.10-40(b) and (c) have been 
included in Sec. 125.160 for ``New offshore supply vessel'' and 
``Existing offshore supply vessel''. The definition of ``Major 
conversion'' has also been included, which is similar to that in 46 
U.S.C. 2101(14a).

11. 46 CFR 125.180

    Two comments questioned the incorporation by reference of 
classification society rules. They argued that such practice may impose 
an undue burden on OSV owners who otherwise would not elect to 
``class'' their vessels. The incorporation by reference of 
classification society rules does not mean that owners have to class 
their vessels. It is a procedure used by Federal agencies to regulate 
by reference to material already published and available elsewhere. It 
reduces the redundancy and bulk of the Federal Register and the CFR. An 
owner may elect not to class an OSV, but must use those rules as 
criteria where required by this subchapter.

12. 46 CFR 126.100

    Two comments requested that the language in Sec. 126.100 be 
replaced by that in Sec. 91.25-50 of subchapter I. They pointed out 
that the standard should not be the inspector's determination as to 
``suitability for intended service,'' but rather his or her 
determination of the ``safety and seaworthiness'' of the vessel. The 
Coast Guard agrees that the language in Sec. 91.25-50 is more standard 
and suitable, and has changed the language in Sec. 126.100 to be 
similar to that in Sec. 91.25-50.

13. 46 CFR 126.110(b)(1)

    Two comments requested that the language in Sec. 126.110(b)(1) be 
replaced by that in Sec. 91.30-1 of subchapter I. They pointed out that 
Sec. 91.30-1 requires only that the survey after an accident ensure 
that repairs or renewals are effectively made, but does not require the 
inspector's determination as to what repairs or renewals must be made. 
The Coast Guard agrees and has revised the language in 
Sec. 126.110(b)(1) to be similar to that used in Sec. 91.30-1.

14. 46 CFR 126.120(a)

    Two comments requested that the language in Sec. 126.120(a) be 
replaced by that in Sec. 91.05-1 of subchapter I. The comments pointed 
out that a Certificate of Inspection (COI) not complied with is not the 
same as one ``that is about to expire or has expired.'' The Coast Guard 
agrees that, for consistency, the language in the subchapters should be 
similar, and has revised the language in Sec. 126.120(a) to be similar 
to that used in Sec. 91.05-1.

15. 46 CFR 126.140(a)

    Two comments recommended that Sec. 126.140 allow the cognizant 
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) to accept an ``Under-Water 
Inspection in Lieu of Drydocking'' (UWILD) for the intermediate 
drydocking. The Coast Guard accepts UWILDs in certain situations and by 
special approval of the Commandant (G-MSE), such as for mobile offshore 
drilling units (MODUs) under 46 CFR 107.265 and 107.267. This 
acceptance has been granted primarily because these vessels are so 
large that few drydocks are available to accommodate them. OSVs, 
including liftboats, are not so large as to present a problem for 
normal drydocking. Consequently, the recommendation has not been 
adopted.

16. 46 CFR 126.140(b)

    Two comments pointed out that the requirement in Sec. 126.140(b), 
to notify the cognizant OCMI when the OSV is drydocked for any reason, 
may be burdensome for the owner as well as the cognizant OCMI. They 
said that crewboats under 100 gross tons change out propellers 24 hours 
a day and that the cognizant OCMI or his representative may not always 
be available. This requirement is similar to that in 46 CFR 176.600(f) 
for subchapter T. If there is propeller damage, there may be other 
underwater damage; the cognizant OCMI, therefore, needs to be appraised 
of the extent of any damage.

17. 46 CFR 126.150

    Two comments suggested that Sec. 126.150(c) should be revised to 
allow repair work or alterations to begin upon oral approval of the 
cognizant OCMI, prior to the submission of approved drawings. It is a 
misunderstanding that repair work or alterations are permitted under 
subchapter I without advance approval of a cognizant OCMI under 
Sec. 91.45-1(b). One comment added that often, in order to get a repair 
completed

[[Page 49311]]

in a timely fashion, work must start before a drawing can be completed 
or approved. The Coast Guard disagrees. The clear intent of Sec. 91.45-
1(b) is that drawings of alterations should be approved before work is 
started, and that drawings will not be needed if deemed unnecessary by 
the cognizant OCMI. Approval of drawings before work begins is of 
paramount importance, because any work done that does not match the 
approved drawings may have to be redone, with added expense and delay 
in the vessel's return to service. The Coast Guard encounters many 
instances of owners proceeding with non-emergency repairs or 
alterations before they obtain the approval of the cognizant OCMI and 
incurring rework and added expense. This paragraph remains unchanged 
apart from a sentence to give the OCMI the flexibility to determine 
whether drawings may not be necessary.

18. 46 CFR 126.160(c)(1)

    Two comments urged that the second sentence of Sec. 126.160(c)(1) 
be revised to exclude the phrase ``upon the recommendation of the 
contractor and the owner or operator of the OSV.'' The Coast Guard 
disagrees. The parties involved with the work being performed (the 
contractor, owner, or operator) must be comfortable with the person 
used in place of the certified marine chemist and, therefore, allowed 
some say in who is selected as a replacement.

19. 46 CFR 126.170

    Three comments pointed out that Sec. 126.170 imposes limits on the 
number of offshore workers permitted on liftboats. They explained that 
frequently liftboats are used as work platforms for construction and 
maintenance operations, and must be able to provide unspecified 
accommodations for industrial personnel when liftboats are in the 
elevated mode. The Coast Guard does not agree that liftboats that are 
certificated under this subchapter and that are in the elevated mode 
should be permitted to accommodate an unspecified number of offshore 
workers. In either the elevated or afloat mode, the total number of 
offshore workers accommodated cannot be greater than 36 as permitted 
under Sec. 174.205. The fact that the vessel is in the elevated mode is 
not a valid argument for providing accommodations for a larger number 
of persons. Since, in the event of a storm, the liftboat may have to 
leave the site quickly and move to a harbor of safe refuge, the loading 
and stability of the vessel in the elevated mode must always be such 
that the vessel will meet the afloat-stability criteria. Changing of 
the elevated loading condition to meet the afloat stability criteria is 
not permitted, as a storm may develop quickly leaving no time for a 
change of loading.
    However, if the permanent accommodation stated on the COI is less 
than 36, the cognizant OCMI may, on a case-by-case basis, permit the 
use of additional temporary quarters for offshore workers up to a total 
of 36 (not counting the crew quarters), in order to augment the 
permanent accommodation, provided the vessel is designed to meet the 
damaged stability requirements for more than 16 persons in 
Sec. 174.205. The cognizant OCMI will make the judgment on the number 
of additional temporary quarters permitted, taking into consideration 
such things as the need for extra lifesaving equipment and the effects 
on stability of the added quarters. If a liftboat is intended to carry 
more than 36 offshore workers, the vessel cannot be certificated under 
subchapter L, and must be certificated and meet the rules of an 
appropriate vessel class under this chapter.
    Two comments suggested that Sec. 126.170(a) should permit the 
cognizant OCMI to raise the maximum number of offshore workers, given a 
vessel's compliance with other regulatory criteria, such as lifesaving 
equipment and stability. Subchapter L already permits the carriage of 
up to 36 offshore workers if a vessel meets more stringent damaged 
stability criteria. For Subchapter L to permit the carriage of even 
more offshore workers, other than in an emergency, would present a risk 
unacceptable to the Coast Guard, because subchapter L is less stringent 
than prior regulations in other respects. For example, new subchapter L 
allows the carriage of unlimited amounts of fuel for transfer to the 
platforms.

20. 46 CFR 126.170(a)

    Two comments suggested that crewboats should be permitted to carry 
as many as 100 offshore workers, provided the boats meet the additional 
requirements of Sec. 171.080(d)(3), and still be considered OSVs. The 
Coast Guard does not agree with this suggestion. Vessels carrying more 
than 36 offshore workers cannot be certificated under subchapter L, 
because, under Sec. 126.170(a), an OSV is restricted to the carriage of 
no more than 36 offshore workers. Consequently, crewboats carrying 36 
or more offshore workers may not be certificated under subchapter L, 
but must be certificated as small passenger vessels under subchapter T 
or K.

21. 46 CFR 126.230(b)

    Two comments asked whether a vessel converted from another service 
(such as a freight vessel converted to an OSV) would require inspection 
under subchapter L. They recommended that an existing vessel, 
constructed prior to March 15, 1996, but subject to a ``change of 
service'' modification or alteration, be permitted to retain its status 
as an existing vessel within the scope of subchapter I or T. The Coast 
Guard agrees in part with this recommendation. If an existing vessel 
was converted or subject to a ``change of service,'' such as from 
freight vessel to OSV prior to March 15, 1996, it does not have to 
comply with subchapter L. Rather, it would have to, at the owner's 
discretion, comply with either the regulations in effect at that time 
(subchapter I or T), or the new subchapter L. If a vessel changes from 
another service to OSV or undergoes a major conversion on or after 
March 15, 1996, it must be reviewed and inspected as a new OSV under 
subchapter L. Major conversion and major or minor alteration are 
discussed in 46 CFR 90.10-40 (b) and (c), and 46 CFR 125.100. For 
clarity, Sec. 126.230(b) substitutes ``undergoing a major conversion'' 
for ``being * * * converted.''

22. 46 CFR 126.350(b)(2)

    One comment requested clarification regarding the manual test 
required on hydraulic steering systems in Sec. 126.350(b)(2). The 
comment pointed out that many OSVs of less than 100 gross tons do not 
have the capability for manual operation and asked if the intention of 
the Coast Guard was to require a design change. Some servo-type power 
hydraulic steering systems have a manual operation that can meet the 
requirement in Sec. 130.140(b)(15) or serve as the auxiliary means of 
steering. The wording in Sec. 126.350(b)(2) has been revised to clarify 
that this test is required only if the system is fitted for manual 
operation.

23. 46 CFR 126.350(b)(3)

    Two comments pointed out that subpart 94.35 did not address rescue 
boats and that Sec. 126.350(b)(3) should not refer to rescue boats. On 
May 20, 1996, the Coast Guard published an interim rule entitled 
``Lifesaving Equipment'' (61 FR 25272) that removed 46 CFR part 94 in 
its entirety, and placed tests and inspections of lifesaving equipment 
into part 133 (Lifesaving Systems) of subchapter L. At present, the 
initial inspection of lifesaving appliances, including rescue

[[Page 49312]]

boats, is addressed in Sec. 133.45(a) and Sec. 126.350(b)(3) has been 
removed.

24. 46 CFR 126.430

    Two comments requested that the wording in the first paragraph of 
Sec. 126.430 concerning ``fit for its intended use'' be changed to be 
similar to that in Sec. 126.100. The Coast Guard agrees and has made 
this change.

25. 46 CFR 126.530(a)

    Three comments argued that Sec. 126.530 should not exclude 
liftboats from the alternative midperiod examination provisions 
permitted for conventional hull form OSVs of less than 400 gross tons. 
One comment also recommended that OSVs of 400 gross tons or more be 
included in the alternative midperiod examination provision.
    On January 25, 1990, the Coast Guard published alternative 
provisions for reinspection of OSVs of less than 400 gross tons in 
foreign ports (55 FR 2522). These provisions were subsequently 
incorporated into the interim rule for OSVs and are now incorporated 
into this final rule as Sec. 126.530. The Coast Guard initially 
excluded liftboats from the alternative midperiod examination 
provisions based on their casualty record, which was significantly 
worse than conventional hull form OSVs. In addition, the Coast Guard 
needed to gain experience with liftboat inspections, and was not aware 
of any U.S.-flag liftboats presently working overseas. However, a re-
evaluation of the casualty record of liftboats from 1990 to 1995 has 
concluded that the casualty record for liftboats is about equal to that 
of conventional hull form OSVs. Consequently, the Coast Guard has 
decided that liftboats should be given the same opportunity for 
alternative midperiod inspection as conventional OSVs, and has deleted 
the words ``except a liftboat'' from Sec. 126.530(a) to allow liftboats 
to participate in the alternative provisions for reinspection of OSVs 
of less than 400 gross tons in foreign ports.
    Because the Coast Guard does not have the statutory authority to 
delegate authority over certificates under the International Oil 
Pollution Prevention (IOPP) to third parties, OSVs of 400 gross tons or 
more can not be included in the alternative midperiod inspection.

26. 46 CFR 127.110

    The Coast Guard has found it unnecessary for certain plans to be 
submitted for approval under Sec. 127.110 (a) and (b). Consequently, 
paragraphs (a)(4) and (b)(3) through (b)(6) of Sec. 127.110 have been 
deleted. There is no added value for Marine Safety Center or OCMI plan 
review of these plans, as they can be handled during initial inspection 
by the Coast Guard marine inspector. Section 127.110(a)(1) has been 
changed to indicate that specifications are to be submitted for 
information only as the Coast Guard does not approve specifications. 
Section 127.110(a)(3) has been changed to indicate that the safety plan 
(fire-control plan) is to be submitted for OCMI review and approval. 
This plan is not technical in nature and basically requires the marine 
inspector to verify that the firefighting equipment on the vessel is as 
depicted on the plan, and meets the Coast Guard regulations.

27. 46 CFR 127.210(a)

    Two comments suggested that the phrase ``equivalent to those'' be 
inserted in the first sentence between ``rules'' and ``established.'' 
The Coast Guard does not agree, because Sec. 127.210(b) already permits 
the use of an approved alternative classification society, or any other 
established standard.

28. 46 CFR 127.220(d)

    Two comments said that the A-60 class construction for bulkheads 
and decks required in Sec. 127.220(d) would impose an undue economic 
burden on aluminum crewboats. The comments recommended adding a 
paragraph to allow aluminum crewboats to meet the requirements of 
subchapter T. Crewboats do not have to meet the requirements of 
subchapter L: They may be certificated under subchapter T or K. 
Therefore, this section is unchanged.

29. 46 CFR 127.240(a)

    Four comments pointed out that the two means of escape required by 
Sec. 127.240(a) would require all sizes of compartments, including 
small closets and deck lockers, to have two means of escape. The 
comments recommended that spaces with an area of 46.5 square meters 
(500 square feet) or less require only one means of escape. The Coast 
Guard agrees that a restriction on the size of a compartment requiring 
two means of escape is needed. A new section, Sec. 127.240(l), has been 
added to allow one means of escape from spaces with a maximum area and 
greatest dimension of less than 28 square meters (300 square feet) and 
6 meters (20 feet), respectively. The 28 square meter (300 square feet) 
area restriction is similar to that in Sec. 92.10-35 of subchapter I. 
However, the Coast Guard has determined that whether a space should 
require two means of escape should depend on dimensions as well as on 
area. Therefore, it prohibits long narrow spaces without two means of 
escape, irrespective of their areas. Accordingly, the 6 meter (20 feet) 
restriction on the maximum dimension was also included in new 
Sec. 127.240(l).
    Three comments urged that windows and portholes should be permitted 
to serve as secondary means of escape. The Coast Guard disagrees. The 
crew and offshore workers may be wearing immersion suits, making escape 
through windows and portholes awkward if not impossible. However, the 
Coast Guard has added Sec. 127.240(m) to allow the cognizant OCMI the 
latitude to accept other means of escape if the level of safety is not 
diminished.

30. 46 CFR 127.240(h)

    One comment requested a minimum dimension be provided for the width 
of the passageways or stairways in Sec. 127.240(h), similar to that 
provided in subchapter I. The Coast Guard is moving away from 
prescriptive regulations towards a goal-oriented approach. Goal-
oriented requirements allow the designer to satisfy a safety goal in 
different ways as technology changes. The safety of the vessel is the 
responsibility of the owner and cannot always be described by 
prescriptive regulations. The Coast Guard has articulated a goal 
relative to the width, but the final width must be determined by the 
designer and owner. However, paragraph (i) requires interior stairways, 
other than those in machinery or cargo spaces, to be not less than 28 
inches wide.

31. 46 CFR 127.240(k)

    Four comments suggested that vertical ladders be permitted as 
access to the pilot house because, on small OSVs (less than 100 gross 
tons), inclined ladders were virtually impossible to use due to space 
limitations. The Coast Guard agrees that vertical ladders should be 
permitted as access to the pilot house and to other house tops not 
normally manned and used only as weather protection and has revised 
Sec. 127.240(k) to reflect this change.

32. 46 CFR 127.270(a)

    Two comments requested that ``quarters'' be replaced by ``berthing 
spaces,'' similar to the suggestion in Sec. 125.160. The Coast Guard 
does not agree, for the reasons set forth in response to the comments 
on Sec. 125.160.

33. 46 CFR 127.270(c) (2) & (3)

    Three comments were confused by the description of the location of 
the vertical ladders in Secs. 127.270(c)(2) and 127.270(c)(3). This 
confusion is understandable since language from the

[[Page 49313]]

NPRM was excluded from the interim rule. In any case, the Coast Guard 
has decided to drop the requirements in Secs. 127.270(c)(2) and 
127.270(c)(3) of the interim rule. These requirements were added after 
the ANPRM, and endeavored to link damaged stability with means of 
escape from damaged compartments. The Coast Guard has decided to drop 
any criteria linking damaged stability with providing means of escape 
from a damaged flooding compartment. A new Sec. 127.270(c)(2) has been 
added that is similar to that in the ANPRM, and in Sec. 92.20-10(a) of 
subchapter I. This permits an exception to Sec. 127.270(b), provided 
that the damaged stability requirements in Sec. 174.205 are met and 
that the deck head is not below the deepest load waterline.

34. 46 CFR 127.270(e)

    Two comments stated that the wording of Sec. 127.270(e) implies 
that accommodations for crew and offshore workers are to be separated. 
The comments suggested deleting the words ``for crew members or 
offshore workers.'' The Coast Guard did not intend to imply that the 
accommodations of crew and offshore workers should be separated and has 
revised this paragraph to adopt the recommendation.

35. 46 CFR 127.270(f)

    Two comments stated that Sec. 127.270(f) should permit access 
openings to fuel tanks. The comments pointed out that access to fuel 
tanks is needed during drydock and hull survey, and that access to 
double bottom fuel tanks located under accommodations may not be 
practicable any place other than in the accommodations. The comments 
recommended deleting the words ``access openings'' from this paragraph. 
The Coast Guard agrees in part, and has revised this paragraph to 
permit access openings to fuel tanks in accommodations, except in 
sleeping quarters. Manholes to fuel tanks in sleeping quarters would be 
disruptive to the crew and could potentially expose them to noxious 
fumes. A new paragraph banning access openings in sleeping quarters has 
been added as Sec. 127.270(g). The material in the original 
Sec. 127.270(g), as stated in the interim rule, has been redesignated 
as Sec. 127.270(h).

36. 46 CFR 127.270(g)

    Four comments argued that Sec. 127.270(g), which requires separate 
accommodations for crew and offshore workers, is impracticable and 
unnecessary. The Coast Guard agrees in part. Accommodations for crew 
and offshore workers may be shared except for sleeping quarters. If the 
crew and offshore workers shared sleeping quarters, the crew's normal 
sleeping patterns could be interrupted by the offshore workers. Section 
127.270(g), redesignated as Sec. 127.270(h), has been revised to 
require that only the quarters of the crew and the offshore workers be 
separated.

37. 46 CFR 127.280(a)(1)

    Two comments stated that there is no practical reason to limit the 
number of berths in a stateroom to four. The Coast Guard disagrees. 
Limiting the number of crew in a stateroom to four, limits the amount 
of sleep disruptions.

38. 46 CFR 127.280(b)(1)

    Two comments suggested that a seating width criteria should be 
included. The Coast Guard agrees and has added a seating width of 400 
millimeters (18 inches).
    One comment thought that Secs. 127.280(b) (1) and (2) required OSVs 
that carry offshore workers aboard for more than 24 hours to provide 
both fixed seating and berthing. This is not the case. Berths are 
required for offshore workers only when aboard for more than 24 hours. 
To accommodate offshore workers on a voyage of less than 24 hours, the 
aggregate of available berths and fixed seating may be used to equal 
the number aboard.

39. 46 CFR 127.280(d)

    One comment thought that Sec. 127.280(d) required ``A'' class 
bulkheads between accommodations for the crew members and those of the 
offshore workers. To clarify, Sec. 127.280(d) requires ``A'' class 
bulkheads only between machinery spaces and accommodations for either 
the crew or the offshore workers.

40. 46 CFR 127.280(e)

    Two comments asked whether the cognizant OCMI would separately 
stipulate the number of offshore workers permitted for a ``less than'' 
and ``over'' 24-hour voyage. The cognizant OCMI will stipulate on the 
COI the number of offshore workers permitted to be carried for both the 
``less than 24 hours'' voyage and the ``over 24 hours'' voyage.

41. 46 CFR 127.420

    One comment stated that the requirements for window and portlight 
strength were vague and should be removed and addressed later in an 
NVIC. The Coast Guard disagrees. Section 127.420 is a non-prescriptive 
regulation allowing the designer discretion to vary conditions and 
routes of the vessel.

42. 46 CFR 127.440

    Four comments objected to the requirement that covers over windows 
and portlights be able to be removed or opened from the inside. They 
suggested that this section be removed, or at least revised to apply 
only to those windows or portlights designated as means of escape. The 
Coast Guard agrees in part. This section was added in the interim rule 
based on comments and recommendations by the National Transportation 
Safety Board (NTSB), which cited the case concerning the capsizing and 
sinking of the liftboat M/V TITAN on June 29, 1989. The vessel capsized 
to starboard in less than 1 minute and trapped four persons inside. 
They were not able to escape because their only means of escape, galley 
and mess room windows, were covered with protective metal plates 
secured from the outside. They were able to break the glass of the 
windows and could have escaped had it not been for the protective 
coverings. The Coast Guard agrees with the NTSB recommendation that 
these lives might have been saved if the covers could have been removed 
from the inside. The Coast Guard has revised this section so that it 
does not apply to small windows and portholes through which escape is 
not possible anyway, and has added a sentence that assumes that the 
glass in fixed windows can be broken, giving access to the outside.

43. 46 CFR 128.130(a)(9)

    Section 128.130(a)(9) has been revised to clarify that only ship's 
service and emergency electrical-generation systems and their 
auxiliaries vital to the vessel's survivability and safety, constitute 
vital systems. Ship service and emergency systems, not vital to the 
vessel's survivability and safety are not vital systems.

44. 46 CFR 128.220(b)

    Two comments pointed out that some OSV builders may opt to use non-
ferrous piping materials, such as copper nickel (Cu-Ni) or glass 
reinforced piping (GRP), for salt-water piping systems. They 
recommended that the words ``and if ferrous'' be added after 
``material'' in the first sentence to clarify that the requirement for 
galvanization applies to ferrous piping material. The Coast Guard 
agrees and has made this change.

45. 46 CFR 128.240(b)

    Two comments stated that acceptance by the Coast Guard of non-
standard hydraulic or pneumatic components

[[Page 49314]]

would raise concerns regarding legal exposure and may increase the cost 
of constructing an OSV. The Coast Guard does not agree. This 
requirement permits the use of non-standard hydraulic or pneumatic 
components only as an alternative; components complying with subchapter 
F (Marine Engineering) will be accepted. The Coast Guard is endeavoring 
to cooperate with industry to accept non-Coast Guard approved 
components, provided they meet an equivalent standard of safety.

46. 46 CFR 128.410

    Two comments requested that ``self-contained'' be defined so as to 
eliminate confusion between the owner or builder and the cognizant 
OCMI. This requirement is meant to apply only to an air-conditioning or 
refrigeration unit designed and built as a single, self-contained unit.

47. 46 CFR 128.420(d)

    Two comments requested that non-metallic flexible connections be 
permitted to serve as connections at the end of the non-metallic 
flexible hose used for keel-cooler connections to machinery, rather 
than metallic hose clamps. The Coast Guard agrees to the use of non-
metallic hose-clamps but not to that of flexible connections, provided 
they can withstand vibration and high temperatures and do not become 
brittle. This section is modified to allow the use of non-metallic hose 
clamps, and a new paragraph (4) is added to address vibration, high 
temperature, and brittleness.

48. 46 CFR 129.320(a)

    Section 129.320(a) has been revised to exempt submersible pump 
motors from its requirements.

49. 46 CFR 129.330

    One comment pointed out that the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) 
rules and the Coast Guard regulations in Sec. 111.30-1 require 915 
millimeters (36 inches) of working space in front of switchboards, but 
the interim rule required only 610 millimeters (24 inches). The Coast 
Guard based the 610-millimeter dimension on the fact that OSVs are 
smaller than cargo vessels and are more limited in space. Also, the 
switchboards are not as large as on cargo vessels. The 24-inch 
dimension is a minimum dimension, and does not prevent the designer 
from leaving more working space if needed. The Coast Guard's new 
interim rule for small passenger vessels (subchapters T and K) also 
requires only 610 millimeters (24 inches) of working space in front of 
switchboards. As previously stated, the Coast Guard is endeavoring to 
attain uniformity between these two rulemakings in areas where uniform 
treatment is warranted; thus, the 24-inch dimension remains unchanged.
    The Coast Guard has revised the inaccessible restriction in this 
paragraph for clarity and to make it the same as the new subchapter T 
and K regulations.

50. 46 CFR 129.350(b)

    Two comments expressed concern that this paragraph could be 
interpreted to mean that batteries must be located at the highest level 
of the vessel, and suggested that a specific distance above the bilge, 
460 millimeters (18 inches), be used as an acceptable height. The 
intent of the regulation was to require that batteries be located as 
high above the bilge as possible. Additional wording has been added to 
the paragraph to clarify this.

51. 46 CFR 129.350(g)

    One comment asked whether it was the intent of this regulation to 
require fuses for engine-start batteries. This section requires fuses 
only on the leads of batteries that distribute power to lighting, 
motor, and appliance circuits.

52. 46 CFR 129.390(d)

    Two comments requested that this paragraph be modified to allow an 
OSV power source and shore power to operate simultaneously to prevent 
``blackout'' when transferring power between the OSV's power source and 
the shore power. The Coast Guard agrees in part and has revised 
Sec. 129.390(d) to permit momentary paralleling of the OSV power and 
the shore base power in cases where the system devices have this 
capability. However, the Coast Guard supports paragraph (d) as written 
for circuit breakers not designed for momentary paralleling, because 
prohibiting paralleling of the shore and OSV power sources will prevent 
problems due to improper phase sequencing and synchronizing.

53. 46 CFR 129.395

    Two comments stated that providing a separate circuit with 
overcurrent protection at the switchboard for all radios would add 
undue complexity to the main switchboard. They pointed out that most 
radio installations are powered by batteries charged from the pilot 
house lighting panel circuit. The Coast Guard agrees in part and has 
revised this section so that only one radio installation needs to be 
powered by an entirely independent feeder circuit with overcurrent 
protection.

54. 46 CFR 129.560

    Section 129.560 has been changed to reflect that not all OSVs need 
to carry an engine-order telegraph, provided the propulsion plant is 
controlled only from the wheelhouse.

55. 46 CFR 130.110

    Two comments stated that the requirement for a fixed means of 
communication between the pilothouse and the auxiliary steering station 
for OSVs of less than 100 gross tons was unnecessary. The Coast Guard 
does not agree. When the main steering fails and auxiliary steering is 
being operated from a location without outside vision, it is imperative 
that the auxiliary steering operator be instructed by someone in a 
location with complete surrounding vision, such as the pilothouse.

56. 46 CFR 130.120(a)(2)

    Two comments stated that Sec. 130.120(a)(2) would impose additional 
requirements and would not be practicable for any OSV, let alone one 
under 100 gross tons. As stated in the interim rule, each OSV must have 
a means, at each propulsion engine, of readily disabling the 
propulsion-control system to permit local operation. It is imperative 
that engine control be ``locked out'' from the pilothouse and only 
local control be permitted when maintenance or adjustments are being 
performed to the engine. This is necessary to ensure that inadvertent 
operations are not engaged at the pilothouse controls, which might 
cause injury when a mechanic is working on the engine. The new interim 
rule for small passenger vessels subchapter T, at Sec. 184.620(a)(1), 
has a requirement similar to that in Sec. 130.120(a)(1). This paragraph 
remains unchanged.

57. 46 CFR 130.120(d)

    Two comments suggested that this paragraph be deleted to avoid 
unnecessary redundancy. For safety reasons, however, this requirement 
is necessary to ensure that a failure in the propulsion control system 
will not cause the OSV to accelerate and move forward or aft 
uncontrollably into a fixed platform or pier. This paragraph has been 
modified. It now only requires the system be designed so that failure 
of an easily replaceable component of the propulsion engine will not 
cause the engine to overspeed or the pitch of the propeller to 
increase. This modification is in line with Coast Guard requirements 
for other similar vessels.

58. 46 CFR 130.130

    Two comments recommended that the requirements in this section be 
replaced

[[Page 49315]]

by the old ones of subpart 182.30 for small passenger vessels. Subpart 
182.30 has since been revised, and is now replaced by subpart F of the 
new subchapter T. The requirements in Sec. 130.130 are similar to those 
in subpart F. Therefore, this section is unchanged.

59. 46 CFR 130.140(b)(9)

    Two comments stated that this paragraph did not adequately address 
the varied steering system technologies currently in use aboard OSVs. 
Because a single rule cannot address all the new technologies being 
developed, the Coast Guard will accept any fittings, material, or 
equipment, that provide an equivalent level of safety under 
Sec. 125.170.

60. 46 CFR 130.140(c)

    Two comments suggested modifying Sec. 130.140(c) by replacing the 
words ``one set of piping'' with ``a common piping system'', so as to 
eliminate the perception that separate piping might be implied for the 
pumps, helm, and cylinders. The Coast Guard agrees that this change 
would help clarify that a single piping system is acceptable for the 
pumps, helm, and cylinders, and has incorporated this change.

61. 46 CFR 130.230

    In an effort to facilitate obtaining the required equipment and 
reduce the burden on the industry, the Coast Guard is moving toward 
accepting readily available equipment which is designed and used for 
purposes similar to those for which the Coast Guard has developed 
specific requirements. Consequently, the Coast Guard no longer performs 
type approval of self-contained breathing apparatus under 46 CFR part 
160, subpart 160.011.
    Paragraph (a) of Sec. 130.230 has been revised to require each 
self-contained breathing apparatus to be approved by the National 
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). This should make 
it easier to obtain the required self-contained breathing apparatus. 
Paragraph (d) of the interim rule has been deleted, and the old 
paragraph (e) changed to the new paragraph (d).
    Two comments requested that the Coast Guard permit the self-
contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) that is part of the fireman's 
outfit required in part 133 (Lifesaving Systems) to serve as the SCBA 
required by this section. A fireman's outfit containing a SCBA is not 
required in part 133, but may be fitted as an extra if the owner 
wishes. This paragraph has been revised to clarify that a SCBA, if 
fitted, may be used to meet the requirements of this section.

62. 46 CFR 130.240

    One comment considered the incorporation of ABS Rules for anchors 
and chains excessive for domestic service because OSVs operating in the 
U.S. Gulf of Mexico are not subject to extreme weather conditions such 
as that in the North Sea. The Coast Guard does not agree. Hurricanes 
aside, the U.S. Gulf of Mexico can have thunderstorms with 60 to 70 
mile per hour (mph) winds making it necessary for OSVs to have proper 
mooring equipment for emergencies. ABS Rules pertaining to length are 
necessary because OSVs, when moored or anchored close to offshore fixed 
platforms, are in dangerous surroundings. For example, storms often 
create a high risk for collisions between OSVs and offshore fixed 
platforms. OSVs may, however, comply with rules from other 
classification societies instead of ABS Rules, upon approval of the 
Commandant (G-MSE).
    Three comments considered ABS Rules for anchors and chains 
excessive and impractical for OSVs of less than 100 gross tons. They 
requested that OSVs of 100 or less gross tons be permitted to meet the 
anchor and rope requirements of subchapter T. The Coast Guard agrees 
that for small vessels of less than 100 gross tons, the ABS 
requirements may be excessive and that the requirements of subchapter T 
are adequate. Section 130.240 has been revised and applies only to OSVs 
of 100 or more gross tons. A new section, Sec. 130.250, has been added 
and applies only to OSVs of less than 100 gross tons.

63. 46 CFR 130.410(c)

    Two comments considered Sec. 130.410(c) excessive and suggested 
that periodic safety tests similar to those in Sec. 61.40-6 be applied 
instead. The Coast Guard agrees in part. The responsibility to conduct, 
at periodic intervals, tests to confirm that automated systems continue 
to operate in a safe, reliable manner is the responsibility of the 
master and owner; additional regulations are not necessary. Section 
130.410(c) has been deleted, and nothing has been added.

64. 46 CFR 130.460(a)(4)

    Two comments suggested that the ``bilge alarm'' requirement of this 
paragraph be relocated to a general service alarm section. Section 
130.460(a) requires visible and audible alarms to be installed in the 
pilothouse. They may be located in other panels, one of which may be a 
general service alarm panel, provided it is in the pilothouse.

65. 46 CFR 131.220(g)

    Two comments requested that the draft-indicating system required by 
Sec. 131.220(g) be deleted because OSVs are not commonly fitted with 
such devices. Although OSVs are not generally fitted with draft-
indicating systems, all vessels must be designed so that draft marks 
may be read at sea in order to calculate the vessel's displacement and 
stability condition in an emergency. If draft marks are obscured, 
restricting determination of the draft from the weather deck or another 
easily accessible location, then an alternative reliable means of 
reading the drafts must be fitted.

66. 46 CFR 131.330

    Two comments stated that it may not be practical for the master of 
an OSV to personally ``prepare and post'' placards and suggested that 
this section be revised to indicate that ``durable emergency 
instruction placards shall be posted in conspicuous locations.'' 
Although it is the master's responsibility to see that the placards are 
prepared and posted, it is not necessary that he or she personally 
perform the task; he or she may delegate the task to another member of 
the crew.

67. 46 CFR Part 131--Operations. Subpart D--Sufficiency and Supervision 
of Crew of Survival Craft

    Two comments requested that subpart D be deleted in its entirety 
and that operational requirements be included in part 133 (Lifesaving 
Systems). Although part 133 contains the general and specific 
requirements for lifesaving equipment, such as the number and design 
criteria of survival craft, it does not address operational 
requirements. The Coast Guard contends that the operational 
requirements for survival craft are properly located within subpart D.

68. 46 CFR 131.510

    Two comments stated that Sec. 131.510 did not seem warranted and 
requested that it be removed. The Coast Guard disagrees. It is 
important that the drafts be recorded when leaving port because draft 
is one of the main parameters of the stability condition required by 
Sec. 131.513. It is also important that the position of the loadline 
markings with respect to the waterline be recorded to verify that the 
vessel is not loaded deeper than the permitted loadline draft. 
Additionally, these recordings are necessary for accident 
investigations.

69. 46 CFR 131.513

    Two comments stated that the requirements of Sec. 131.513 were not

[[Page 49316]]

warranted. Section 131.513 is included because of its similarity to 
requirements in Sec. 97.15-7 of subchapter I (Cargo and Miscellaneous 
Vessels), Sec. 35.20-7 of subchapter D (Tank Vessels), and Sec. 109.227 
of subchapter I-A (Mobile Offshore Drilling Units), all of which were 
promulgated by the Coast Guard under a final rule entitled ``Stability 
Design and Operational Regulations (57 FR 41812; September 11, 1992). 
This final rule amended stability design and operational regulations 
for inspected vessels to incorporate recent amendments to the 
International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as 
amended (SOLAS).

70. 46 CFR 131.530(d)(4)

    Two comments stated that the inflation of a liferaft on a 4-month 
interval is not practical and suggested instead that a drill for those 
liferafts be completed prior to their inspection dates. The Coast Guard 
disagrees. It is important that training be performed so crew members 
are knowledgeable in the use of davit-launching inflatable liferafts. 
The regulation allows a training raft to be used instead of the 
vessel's own liferafts and also allows some leeway in when the 
inflation and lowering must be done. Training intervals coinciding with 
the reinspection of the vessel's liferafts can be used.

71. 46 CFR 131.545(e)

    Two comments stated that this paragraph should not require OSVs in 
transit to carry 200 percent of lifeboats and rigid liferafts on board 
while maintaining or repairing primary lifeboats and liferafts as in 
Sec. 94.10-10(a) for vessels of 500 gross tons and over. Rather the 
comments suggested that this paragraph require the carriage of 100 
percent of lifeboats and rigid liferafts as in Sec. 94.10-10(b) for 
vessels of less than 500 gross tons. The Coast Guard agrees and has 
changed this paragraph accordingly.

72. 46 CFR 131.580

    The Coast Guard has modified Sec. 131.580(a) to allow new 
inflatable liferafts and buoyant apparatus to be two years old before 
the first servicing is required.
    Two comments questioned the requirement in Sec. 131.580(e), that 
``each repair, except an emergency repair made aboard an OSV'', must be 
made at servicing facilities approved by the Commandant (G-MSE). The 
comments stated that routine repairs of inflatable rescue boats made 
aboard OSVs by the crew are common industry practice. They should not 
be. Repairs and maintenance of rescue craft must be performed by 
approved servicing facilities to ensure that qualified personnel, 
familiar with the equipment, make the repairs and use the proper 
manufacturers' parts.

73. 46 CFR 131.730(b)

    Two comments questioned why it was necessary to label each space 
containing work vests, as it is common practice aboard OSVs to stow the 
work vests either in a common area such as the passageway to the 
weather deck or in the staterooms of the individual crew members. The 
Coast Guard has reviewed this requirement and decided that it is not 
necessary to label each space where work vests are stowed since each 
vest must be labeled under Sec. 160.053-5(b); therefore, 
Sec. 131.730(b) has been deleted.

74. 46 CFR 131.855

    This section has been revised to make it align with Sec. 199.176 of 
the Lifesaving Equipment interim rule. The size of the lettering in 
paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) has been removed. The requirement to paint 
the name of the OSV on the oars and paddles has also been removed. 
Paragraph (e) is renamed (d) as old paragraph (d) has been removed. 
Paragraph (c)(1) has been revised to require the number of the boat, 
rather than the number of persons the boat will hold, to be marked on 
the lifeboat and rescue boat.

75. 46 CFR 131.885

    Section 131.885 has been removed as portable magazine chests no 
longer are required by Coast Guard regulations.

76. 46 CFR 131.935

    Two comments stated that the language in Sec. 97.75-1 was 
preferable to that in this section. The Coast Guard agrees. It has 
reverted to language in Sec. 97.75-1, similar to that used in the NPRM.

77. 46 CFR 131.860

    This section, like that of Sec. 131.855, has been revised to make 
it align with Sec. 199.176 of the Lifesaving Equipment interim rule. 
The size of the lettering in paragraphs (a) and (b) has been removed. 
Paragraph (a)(2), concerning the requirements for the number of the 
rigid liferaft, has been removed. Paragraph (a)(3) has now been 
renumbered (a)(2) since old (a)(2) has been removed. Old paragraph (d), 
concerning the requirement to paint the OSV name on the oars and 
paddles, has been removed, and a new paragraph (d) added. New paragraph 
(d) requires rigid liferafts to be marked to show whether they are 
fitted with a ``SOLAS A pack'' or a ``SOLAS B pack''.

78. 46 CFR 131.960

    Two comments stated that the language in Sec. 97.16-1 was 
preferable to that in this section and questioned the need to redraft 
an existing regulation. The Coast Guard agrees. It has reverted to 
language in Sec. 97.16-1, similar to that used in the NPRM.
    One comment understood Sec. 131.960 to require automatic pilot 
controls aboard OSVs. The comment recommended that this section be 
revised to read as follows: ``If a vessel is equipped with an automatic 
pilot and is operating with the automatic pilot in use, the master 
shall ensure * * *.'' To clarify, this section does not require that an 
automatic pilot be fitted aboard OSVs; however, if an automatic pilot 
is voluntarily fitted, it must comply with this section.

79. 46 CFR 132.120

    One comment stated that the requirement for a self-priming, power-
driven fire pump was in excess of requirements contained in subchapter 
I, ABS Rules, SOLAS, and International Association of Classification 
Societies (IACS) and suggested that it be deleted. Subchapter I vessels 
are permitted to carry much less oil (only 20 percent of their 
deadweight) than OSVs under subchapter L (unlimited amount). Unlike 
tank vessels, OSVs require no special or additional firefighting 
equipment. The Coast Guard has determined that self-priming, power-
driven fire pumps are necessary to ensure that primary firefighting 
equipment will function in light of the greater risk of fire due to the 
greater amount of oil on board OSVs.

80. 46 CFR 132.120(g)

    Two comments requested the inclusion of Sec. 95.10-5(f) of 
subchapter I, which allows branch piping to be connected to the fire 
main for other purposes if ``specifically approved by the Commandant.'' 
Currently, Sec. 132.120(g) permits branch lines to be connected to the 
fire main for the purpose of washing decks or anchors. Since, under 
subchapter L, OSVs may now carry both unlimited fuel oil without any 
special firefighting equipment and 36 offshore workers in addition to 
the crew, it is the Coast Guard's opinion that additional branch 
connections to the fire main would increase the probability that the 
fire main would not work when needed to fight a fire. This would 
introduce an unacceptable risk of death or injury to

[[Page 49317]]

the crew and offshore workers. This paragraph remains unchanged.

81. 46 CFR 132.120(k)

    The Coast Guard has added a new paragraph (k) to Sec. 132.120, 
which is similar to Sec. 181.300(e) in subchapter T. This new paragraph 
requires that a fire pump have the capability to be operated either 
from a remote station or locally from the pump itself. This requirement 
was inadvertently omitted from the interim rule.

82. 46 CFR 134.140(a)

    Several comments pointed out that NVIC 8-91 requires steady wind 
speeds of 70 knots for structural design criteria for liftboats while 
Sec. 132.140(a) requires steady wind speeds of 100 knots. The comments 
pointed out that meeting the 100-knot criteria would result in larger 
hulls with heavier legs, thereby, so increasing the cost of a liftboat. 
The Coast Guard agrees that a 100 knot criteria for all structural 
calculations for liftboats in restricted areas of operations is 
excessive. A 70-knot criteria would serve under normal operating 
conditions, and a 100-knot criteria would serve under severe storm 
conditions. This is in line with the requirements for on-bottom 
stability for restricted service in Sec. 174.255(c) and section 3/2.1.2 
of ABS Rules.
    The comments also pointed out that NVIC 8-91 permits a reduction in 
wind speed criteria for leg strength to 50 knots, provided this design 
limitation is highlighted in the operating manual. This reduction in 
NVIC 8-91 was designed to accommodate existing liftboats. However, it 
is inappropriate for new liftboats, because, even ignoring hurricanes, 
the Gulf of Mexico can have thunderstorms with 70 mph winds. This 
paragraph now allows a 70-knot criteria for liftboats in restricted 
areas under normal operating conditions, but requires a 100-knot 
criteria under severe storm conditions.

83. 46 CFR 134.140(a)(3)

    One comment pointed out that the use of an effective-length factor 
(``K'') of not less than 2.0 could be overly conservative, depending on 
the complexity of the design. The Coast Guard agrees that if a detailed 
structural leg analysis is performed, taking into account all factors 
such as hull and sea bed fixity, a ``K'' factor of less than 2.0 may be 
used. This paragraph has been revised to allow the use of a ``K'' 
factor of less than 2.0, provided that both a detailed structural leg 
analysis is performed and prior approval has been granted by the 
Commandant (G-MSE).

84. 46 CFR 134.170(b)

    The Coast Guard added items (15) and (16) to Sec. 134.170(b) since 
they were inadvertently omitted from the interim rule. They are not 
additional or new requirements as they are required to be produced 
elsewhere in the regulations; they are needed for the master's use 
while calculating the vessel's stability.

85. 46 CFR 134.180(b)

    Two comments pointed out that Sec. 56.60-25(c) restricts the use of 
non-metallic hoses to lengths of 760 millimeters (30 inches), which is 
insufficient for fire pump suction lines outside the hull when a 
liftboat is in the jacked-up mode. The comments requested that this 
paragraph be revised to permit the use of non-metallic hoses with 
lengths greater than 760 millimeters (30 inches) outside the hull. The 
Coast Guard agrees and has revised paragraph (c) to permit the use of 
non-metallic hoses outside the hull in unlimited lengths.

86. 46 CFR 174.185(f)

    One comment pointed out that this paragraph did not allow the 
righting arms of an OSV to be calculated using the fixed trim method 
although this method has been used for calculating the righting arms 
for OSVs for decades. The NPRM proposed allowing the righting arms 
values to be calculated using either the constant trim or the fixed 
trim method. This final rule allows the use of the two alternative 
methods as proposed in the NPRM, by revising Sec. 174.185(f) and adding 
paragraph (g).

87. 46 CFR 174.195

    One comment stated that meeting the requirement to keep ventilation 
trunks, above the main deck, inboard at least 760 millimeters (30 
inches) from the vessel's side would be difficult and expensive. The 
comment suggested that this section be revised to allow ventilation 
trunks above the main deck to be located outboard of 760 millimeters 
(30 inches) from the vessel's side. The Coast Guard acknowledges that 
cargo space increases as the trunks are located outboard of 760 
millimeters (30 inches); however, the added damaged stability criteria 
for OSVs requires a side penetration of 760 millimeters (30 inches) 
from baseline upwards without limit. Any trunk outboard of 760 
millimeters (30 inches) would, if damaged, cause flooding into the 
machinery space. For this reason, all trunks must be inboard of the 760 
millimeters (30 inches) line from the vessel's side.

88. 46 CFR 174.200 and 174.205

    The Coast Guard received several comments from owners, industry, 
and designers concerning the damaged stability requirements in 
Secs. 174.200 and 174.205 of the interim rule. It was stated that these 
sections are confusing and unclear as to the different requirements 
applicable between OSVs carrying 16 or less offshore workers and OSVs 
carrying more than 16 offshore workers. Although the Coast Guard agrees 
that the layout and presentation of the two sections could be revised 
for clarity, it contends that the requirements are sound. The layout 
and presentation of the damaged stability requirements has been revised 
by applying Sec. 174.200 to all OSVs and applying Sec. 174.205 only to 
OSVs carrying more than 16 offshore workers. A new Sec. 174.207, 
stating the damaged stability criteria applicable to both sections, has 
also been added.

89. 46 CFR 174.200

    One comment asked whether it was the intent of the interim rule to 
require a damaged stability analysis with the machinery space flooded. 
As stated in Sec. 174.205(c) and Table 174.205(b) of the interim rule 
(Table 174.207(a) of the final rule), the permissible transverse extent 
of damage is 760 millimeters (30 inches). Therefore, if the machinery 
space has longitudinal wing bulkheads reaching at least 760 millimeters 
(30 inches) inboard from the outside shell, then the analysis need not 
consider damage to the complete machinery space, only damage to the 
wing spaces need be considered. Bottom damage inboard of these wing 
bulkheads is also not required.
    A separate comment asked whether it was the intent of the interim 
rule to consider damage to a watertight bulkhead within a single 
machinery space rather than damage to a watertight bulkhead between two 
machinery spaces. To clarify, if a single machinery space has 
additional transverse bulkheads within its boundary transverse 
bulkheads, such as transverse bulkheads within outside wing spaces, 
then consider only the space between these bulkheads to be damaged. 
However, the bulkheads must be spaced far enough apart to comply with 
the longitudinal extent of damage stated in Table 174.205(b)of the 
interim rule (Table 174.207(a) of the final rule). If there are two 
machinery spaces with transverse watertight bulkheads spaced farther 
apart than the longitudinal extent of damage, then do not consider the 
bulkhead between them to be damaged.

[[Page 49318]]

90. 46 CFR 174.205(b)

    One comment pointed out that the vertical extent of damage in Table 
174.205(b) of the interim rule (Table 174.207(a) of the final rule) was 
in excess of IMO Resolution A.469, Guidelines for the Design and 
Operations of Offshore Supply Vessels. The comment argued that if ``it 
is the goal of this subchapter to eliminate an unwarranted differential 
between domestic rules and international standards,'' the criteria for 
OSVs carrying over 16 offshore workers should follow the guidelines in 
IMO Resolution A.469. Item 4 of the preamble to Resolution A.469, 
Guidelines for the Design and Construction of Offshore Supply Vessels, 
states ``Provisions for offshore supply vessels carrying more than 12 
industrial personnel are not included in these Guidelines.'' Subchapter 
L facilitates the carriage of 36, not 12, offshore workers and some of 
its criteria may be proportionally more stringent than that in IMO 
A.469. Since the IMO guidelines are written for less than 12 industrial 
personnel there is no unwarranted differential.

91. 46 CFR 175.400 (46 CFR 175.10-40 of the Interim Rule)

    Due to the changes brought about by the interim rule on subchapter 
T, the section number has been changed to Sec. 175.400. The definition 
of ``Offshore supply vessel (OSV)'' in Sec. 175.400 has been changed to 
include the amendments of the December 18, 1996 interpretative rule 
``Offshore Supply Vessels; Alternate Tonnage'' (61 FR 66613), similar 
to the change in Sec. 125.160. The definitions constituting ``Existing 
OSV'' and ``New OSV'' are identical to their counterparts in 
Secs. 90.10-40 (b) and (c), and 125.160.

General Comments

    Three comments discussed the Coast Guard's intention to use metric 
units in this final rule and recommended keeping British units, since 
they are customary within the OSV industry. The Coast Guard agrees in 
part. The final rule uses the ``soft metric'' conversion, in which the 
metric values appear first followed by the British system equivalent.
    Many comments requested the inclusion of crew boats within 
subchapter L, and suggested requirements for crew boats different from 
those for OSVs. During the development of subchapter L, the Coast Guard 
received comments requesting the increase of the maximum number of 
offshore workers that an OSV may carry from 16 to 36. This final rule 
permits an OSV to carry 36 offshore workers in addition to the crew, 
provided additional damaged stability requirements are met. Previously, 
under 46 U.S.C. sections 2101 (22) and (35), an OSV could not be a 
passenger-carrying vessel, but because it was necessary for OSVs to 
carry 36 offshore workers, Congress changed the definition of 
``passenger'' so as not to include offshore workers. The Passenger 
Vessel Safety Act of 1993 contains the new definition. However, OSVs 
may not carry ``passengers'' or more than 36 offshore workers. Crew 
boats carrying either ``passengers'' or more than 36 offshore workers 
will not be certificated as OSVs; and therefore, must be certificated 
as small passenger vessels under subchapters T or K.
    As addressed under ``Associated Regulatory Projects'', the Coast 
Guard published, on December 18, 1996, an interpretative rule entitled 
``Offshore Supply Vessels; Alternate Tonnage''. This rule established 
the use of a tonnage system under 46 U.S.C. 14302 based on the 
International Convention on Tonnage Measurement (convention 
measurement) as an alternative to the national tonnage system under 46 
U.S.C. 14502 (regulatory measurement). However, in order to expedite 
the rulemaking, the Coast Guard established only an alternate tonnage 
for the maximum size OSV of 6,000 gross tons. The Coast Guard is 
considering a supplemental rulemaking to establish intermediate tonnage 
thresholds, and additional standards for the potentially larger OSVs.

Incorporation by Reference

    The Director of the Federal Register has approved the material in 
Sec. 125.180 for incorporation by reference under 5 U.S.C. 552 and 1 
CFR part 51. Copies of the material are available from the sources 
listed in that section.

Metric (SI) Conversion

    This final rule has been revised to include metric units using the 
International System of Units (SI), with the exception of nautical 
miles and knots. The metric value is immediately followed, in 
parenthesis, by the British value, throughout the rule.

Assessment

    This final rule is a significant regulatory action under section 
3(f) of Executive Order 12866 and has been reviewed by the Office of 
Management and Budget under that Order. It requires an assessment of 
potential costs and benefits under section 6(a)(3) of that Order. It is 
significant under the regulatory policies and procedures of the 
Department of Transportation (44 FR 11040, February 26, 1979). An 
Assessment is available in the docket for inspection and copying 
ADDRESSES. A summary of the Assessment follows.
    As of April 1996, according to the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety 
Management System (MSMS) databases, there were 584 OSVs certificated, 
407 of which were of 100 or more gross tons. In evaluating the effect 
of this final rule, the Coast Guard considered all costs and benefits 
of this final rule in present value dollars.
    The direct monetary benefits determined for this rule have been 
based upon the dollar values from casualty reports associated with 
causal factors for OSV (including liftboat) casualties occurring from 
1985 to 1995, combined with the costs saved on requirements that have 
been relaxed in the regulation. This final rule will eliminate 
requirements that create an unwarranted differential between domestic 
rules and international standards.
    The regulatory changes made by this final rule will reduce the 
burden of compliance and therefore the cost of this rulemaking. Because 
the cost reductions are not considered significant, these were not 
included in the regulatory evaluation addendum adopted as final.
    For conventional OSVs and liftboats, the Coast Guard estimates that 
the 11-year undiscounted costs attributable to compliance with this 
rule will total $91,281,190. The 11-year present-value costs, 
discounted at 7 percent, will total $62,226,174. Annually, the one-time 
costs for newly-built conventional OSVs of less than 100 gross tons are 
estimated at $760,320, based on 16 newly-built OSVs per year. For each 
OSV of less than 100 gross tons, the additional cost to comply with 
subchapter L requirements is estimated at $47,520. Annually, the one-
time costs for newly-built conventional OSVs of more than 100 gross 
tons are estimated at $3,137,970, based on 37 newly-built OSVs per 
year. For each OSV of more than 100 gross tons, the additional cost to 
comply with subchapter L therefore the cost of this rulemaking. Because 
the cost reductions are not considered requirements is estimated at 
$84,810.
    Requirements for liftboats associated with this final rule include 
the following:
    1. Submittal of plans to the Coast Guard.
    2. Preparation and submittal of a comprehensive operating manual to 
the Coast Guard.

[[Page 49319]]

    3. Design and construction of a fail-safe jacking-system.
    4. Piping for fire-main suction while the liftboat is elevated.
    5. Compliance with stricter requirements for lifesaving equipment.
    6. Compliance with engineering costs associated with leg design.
    7. Compliance with engineering costs associated with intact and 
damaged stability.
    Annually, the one-time costs for newly-built liftboats of less than 
100 gross tons are estimated at $1,430,000, based on 13 newly-built 
liftboats per year. For each liftboat of less than 100 gross tons, the 
additional cost to comply with subchapter L requirements is estimated 
at $110,000. Annually, the one-time costs for newly-built liftboats of 
100 or more gross tons are estimated at $2,970,000, based on 9 newly-
built liftboats per year. For each liftboat of 100 or more gross tons, 
the additional cost to comply with subchapter L requirements is 
estimated at $330,000.
    New liftboats would enjoy some benefits due to the acceptance of 
comments to the interim rule, such as the allowance of 70-knot wind 
criteria in the calculation of stability, and accepting smaller anchors 
and chains for vessels of 100 gross tons and less. These cost 
reductions have not been included in the regulatory assessment, as they 
are minor and in some cases unquantifiable.
    It should be noted that the benefit estimates in this evaluation 
reflect certain simplifying assumptions that could be relaxed to 
provide more refined estimates. The subchapter L damage estimates 
(Appendix IV) reflect actual dollar values (1985-95) in the year of 
occurrence. They have not been inflated to reflect current (1997) 
dollar values. In addition, the aggregate benefit estimates implicitly 
assume the regulation would be 100 percent effective in reducing 
damages, deaths, and injuries of the kind that were incurred during 
1985-95. Changes in these two assumptions would tend to raise and 
lower, respectively, the benefit estimates in this document.
    It should also be noted that even if the rules were only 75 percent 
effective in reducing or eliminating the casualties of the type 
incurred during 1985-95, the rule would be cost-beneficial in that 
present value benefits would exceed present value costs.
    The benefits, comprised of net cost savings attributable to the 
final rule combined with dollar values from casualties related to 
causal factors of OSVs and liftboats will total $144,818,410. The 11-
year present value of the benefits will total $98,722,372. This figure 
reflects a 7-percent discount to 1996 of the projected future estimated 
benefits of this final rule.
    The cost-benefit ratio attributable to the final rule is 
$62,226,174 of costs and $98,722,372 of benefits, which equates to 
$1.59 of benefits for each dollar of cost.

Small Entities

    Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), the 
Coast Guard considered whether this final rule will have a significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. ``Small 
entities'' include small businesses, not-for-profit organizations that 
are independently owned and operated are not dominant in their fields, 
and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 50,000. No 
comments submitted to the public docket addressed small entities.
    Whenever possible, requirements have been adjusted to the size of 
the vessel and, in some cases, a relaxation of requirements for smaller 
vessels (less than 100 gross tons) has been offered. Due to the 
flexibility of requirements in these rules and the reduction of 
regulatory burden, small entities involved in the building or ownership 
of OSVs should not be adversely affected by these rules and may 
experience increases in business opportunities.
    Independent ownership of OSVs, by approximately 70 corporate 
persons, accounts for about 14 percent of existing conventional OSVs. 
The Coast Guard does not anticipate individual ownership of more than 
20 new conventional OSVs. This figure comes from the assumption that 
those 20 will likewise account for about 14 percent of the anticipated 
140 new conventional OSVs built within the next 3 years. Marginal, one-
time, out-of-pocket expense for initial construction will not exceed 
2.5 percent, as previously discussed, even if operational improvements 
in safety or flexibility are not realized.
    Individual ownership of liftboats, by five corporate persons, 
accounts for about 2 percent of existing liftboats. The Coast Guard 
does not anticipate the individual ownership of more than one new 
liftboat. This figure comes from the assumption that they would 
likewise account for about 2 percent of the anticipated new liftboats 
built within the next 11 years. Marginal, one-time, out-of-pocket 
expense for initial construction will not exceed 10 percent even if 
operational improvements in safety or flexibility are not realized.
    The Coast Guard anticipates that the additional expenses for 
initial construction would not exceed 2.5 percent, even if the 
operational flexibility or safety improvements for this regulation were 
not implemented. In the case of liftboats, the additional construction 
costs would be approximately 5 percent of the estimated initial 
construction cost for newbuilts. There are no recurring costs to 
liftboat operators based upon these regulations. Therefore, the Coast 
Guard certifies under section 605(b) of the Regulatory Flexibility Act 
(5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) that this final rule will not have a significant 
economic impact on a number of small entities.

Assistance for Small Entities

    In accordance with section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory 
Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-121), the Coast Guard 
will provide assistance to small entities to determine how this 
proposed rule applies to them. If you are a small business and need 
assistance understanding the provisions of the proposed rule, please 
contact Mr. James M. Magill, Vessel and Facility Operating Standards 
Division (G-MSO-2), U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters, 2100 Second Street, 
SW., Washington, DC 20593-0001, (202) 267-1082.

Collection of Information

    This final rule contains collection-of-information requirements. 
The Coast Guard has submitted the requirements to the Office of 
Management and Budget (OMB) for review under section 3504(h) of the 
Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), and OMB has approved 
them. The section numbers are--

126.120
126.140
126.150
126.160
126.230
126.240
126.260
126.270
126.320
126.330
126.420
126.510
126.530
127.100
127.110
127.210
128.120
128.210
128.220
128.240
129.220
129.320
129.375
130.130
130.330

[[Page 49320]]

130.480
131.110
131.210
131.220
131.230
131.310
131.320
131.330
131.340
131.350
131.505
131.510
131.515
131.520
131.525
131.530
131.535
131.545
131.550
131.565
131.570
131.590
131.610
131.620
131.630
131.730
131.805
131.810
131.815
131.820
131.825
131.830
131.835
131.840
131.845
131.850
131.855
131.860
131.865
131.870
131.875
131.880
131.885
131.890
131.893
131.896
131.899
131.930
 131.945
131.950
131.955
132.110
132.130
132.210
132.220
132.360
 134.130
134.140
134.160
134.170
174.210
174.255

    The corresponding OMB approval number is OMB Control Number 2115-
0592. The Streamlined Inspection Program notice of proposed rulemaking 
(CGD 96-055) currently under development will be revising this 
information collection to implement technical corrections and to 
incorporate new information requirements.

Federalism

    The Coast Guard has analyzed this final rule under the principles 
and criteria contained in Executive Order 12612, and has determined 
that this final rule does not have sufficient implications for 
federalism to warrant the preparation of a Federalism Assessment.

Environment

    The Coast Guard considered the environmental impact of this final 
rule and concluded that, under paragraph 2.B.2 of Commandant 
Instruction M16475.1B, the rule is categorically excluded from further 
environmental documentation. This final rule is a matter of editorial 
and procedural changes and of manning, documentation, admeasurement, 
inspection, and equipping of vessels within the meaning of 
subparagraphs (a) and (d) of 2.B.2.34(e) of Commandant Instruction 
M16475.1B, and clearly has no environmental impact. A ``Categorical 
Exclusion Determination'' is available in the docket for inspection or 
copying where indicated under ADDRESSES.

Compatibility With International Standards

    The Coast Guard has adopted a policy to evaluate current and new 
rules and, as far as possible, to eliminate requirements that create an 
unwarranted differential between domestic rules and corresponding 
responsible international standards. The Coast Guard has, accordingly, 
compared this final rule to corresponding international standards. The 
Coast Guard has determined that this final rule does not unnecessarily 
establish requirements in excess of international standards.

List of Subjects

46 CFR Part 90

    Administrative practice and procedures, Authority delegation, Cargo 
vessels, Hazardous materials transportation, Marine safety, Offshore 
supply vessels, Oil and gas exploration, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 98

    Cargo vessels, Hazardous materials transportation, Marine safety, 
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Water pollution control.

46 CFR Part 125

    Administrative practice and procedures, Authority delegation, 
Hazardous materials transportation, Incorporation by reference, Marine 
safety, Offshore supply vessels, Oil and gas exploration, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 126

    Authority delegation, Hazardous materials transportation, Marine 
safety, Offshore supply vessels, Oil and gas exploration, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 127

    Authority delegation, Hazardous materials transportation, Marine 
safety, Offshore supply vessels, Oil and gas exploration, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 128

    Hazardous materials transportation, Main and auxiliary machinery, 
Marine safety, Offshore supply vessels, Oil and gas exploration, 
Vessels.

46 CFR Part 129

    Electric power, Hazardous materials transportation, Marine safety, 
Offshore supply vessels, Oil and gas exploration, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 130

    Hazardous materials transportation, Marine safety, Offshore supply 
vessels, Oil and gas exploration, Vessels, Vessel control and 
automation.

46 CFR Part 131

    Hazardous materials transportation, Marine safety, Navigation 
(water), Offshore supply vessels, Oil and gas exploration, Operations, 
Penalties, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 132

    Fire prevention, Hazardous materials transportation, Marine safety, 
Offshore supply vessels, Oil and gas exploration, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 134

    Hazardous materials transportation, Marine safety, Offshore supply 
vessels, Oil and gas exploration, Provisions for liftboats, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 170

    Hazardous materials transportation, Marine safety, Offshore supply 
vessels, Oil and gas exploration, Stability, Vessels.

46 CFR Part 174

    Hazardous materials transportation, Marine safety, Offshore supply 
vessels, Oil and gas exploration, Stability, Vessels.

[[Page 49321]]

46 CFR Part 175

    Administrative practice and procedures, Authority delegation, 
Hazardous materials transportation, Marine safety, Offshore supply 
vessels, Oil and gas exploration, Passenger vessels, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

    For the reasons set out in the preamble, the Coast Guard adopts the 
interim rule amending 46 CFR parts 90, 98, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 
130, 131, 132, 134, 170, 174, and 175 which was published at 60 FR 
57630, Nov. 16, 1995 with the following changes:

PART 90--GENERAL PROVISIONS

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

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

    2. Revise Sec. 90.05-20 to read as follows:


Sec. 90.05-20  Applicability to offshore supply vessels.

    (a) Existing offshore supply vessels as defined by Sec. 90.10-
40(b), if they are of 100 or more but of less than 500 gross tons, are 
subject to inspection under this subchapter. New offshore supply 
vessels as defined by Sec. 90.10-40(c), are subject to inspection under 
subchapter L of this chapter.
    (b) Each offshore supply vessel permitted grandfathering under 
paragraph (a) of this section must complete construction and have a 
Certificate of Inspection by March 16, 1998.
    3. Revise Sec. 90.10-40 to read as follows:


Sec. 90.10-40  Offshore supply vessels.

    (a) An offshore supply vessel is a vessel that is propelled by 
machinery other than steam, that is of 15 gross tons and less than 500 
gross tons (as measured under the Standard, Dual, or Simplified 
Measurement System under part 69, subpart C, D, or E, of this chapter) 
or is less than 6,000 gross tons (as measured under the Convention 
Measurement System under part 69, subpart B, of this chapter) and that 
regularly carries goods, supplies or equipment in support of 
exploration, exploitation, or production of offshore mineral or energy 
resources.
    (b) An existing offshore supply vessel is one contracted for, or 
the keel of which was laid, before March 15, 1996.
    (c) A new offshore supply vessel is one--
    (1) That was contracted for, or the keel of which was laid, on or 
after March 15, 1996; or
    (2) That underwent a major conversion initiated on or after March 
15, 1996.

PART 98--SPECIAL CONSTRUCTION, ARRANGEMENT, AND OTHER PROVISIONS 
FOR CERTAIN DANGEROUS CARGOES IN BULK

    4.-5. The authority citation for part 98 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1903; 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3703; 49 U.S.C. App. 
1804; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 
1.46.

    6. Add subpart 98.31, consisting of Secs. 98.31-5, 98.31-10, and 
98.31-15, to read as follows:

Subpart 98.31--Control of Pollution From NLS Cargoes on Oceangoing 
Offshore Supply Vessels


Sec. 98.31-5  Applicability.

    This subpart applies to each offshore supply vessel contracted for, 
or the keel of which was laid, before March 15, 1996, that is 
oceangoing as defined in 33 CFR 151.05(j) and that carries noxious 
liquid substances (NLSs) as defined in Sec. 153.2 of this chapter in 
bulk, including carriage in portable tanks.


Sec. 98.31-10  Certificate of inspection and NLS certificate 
endorsements.

    (a) The Coast Guard issues the endorsed Certificate of Inspection 
or NLS Certificate required by Sec. 98.31-15 for every vessel under 
this subpart to carry NLSs if the vessel--
    (1) Has the Cargo Record Book prescribed in Sec. 153.490(a)(1) of 
this chapter; and
    (2) Unless it discharges no NLS residues as defined in Sec. 153.2 
of this chapter to the sea, meets the requirements in Secs. 153.470 
through 153.491 of this chapter.
    (b) Each vessel under this subpart that does not meet the 
requirements in Secs. 153.470 through 153.491 of this chapter must have 
a statement on its Certificate of Inspection or NLS Certificate stating 
that the vessel is prohibited from discharging NLS residues to the sea.


Sec. 98.31-15  Operating requirements.

    No person may operate a vessel that carries a bulk liquid cargo of 
NLS unless the vessel--
    (a) Has on board a Certificate of Inspection and, if it is a vessel 
making a foreign voyage, an NLS Certificate endorsed under Sec. 98.31-
10 with the name of the NLS cargo;
    (b) Discharges no NLS residues to the sea unless the vessel meets--
    (1) The equipment requirements in Sec. 98.31-10(a)(2); and
    (2) The operating requirements prescribed for oceangoing ships 
carrying NLSs in Secs. 153.901, 153.903, 153.909, and 153.1100 through 
153.1132 of this chapter.
    7. Revise parts 125 through 132, and part 134 to read as follows:

Subchapter L--Offshore Supply Vessels

PART 125--GENERAL

Sec.
125.100  Applicability.
125.110  Carriage of flammable or combustible liquid cargoes in 
bulk.
125.120  Carriage of noxious liquid substances in bulk.
125.130  Carriage of packaged hazardous materials.
125.140  Loadlines.
125.150  Lifesaving systems.
125.160  Definitions.
125.170  Equivalents.
125.180  Incorporation by reference.
125.190  Right of appeal.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 3307; 49 U.S.C. App. 1804; 49 
CFR 1.46.


Sec. 125.100  Applicability.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraph (c) of this section, this 
subchapter applies to each offshore supply vessel (OSV) of United 
States flag contracted for, or the keel of which was laid, on or after 
March 15, 1996.
    (b) Each OSV contracted for, or the keel of which was laid, before 
March 15, 1996, must be constructed and inspected to comply with--
    (1) The regulations in effect until March 15, 1996 (46
    CFR subchapter I or subchapter T, as appropriate), as they existed 
at the time of construction; or
    (2) The regulations in this subchapter.
    (c) Each OSV permitted grandfathering under paragraph (b)(1) of 
this section must complete construction and have a Certificate of 
Inspection by March 16, 1998.
    (d) Certain regulations in this subchapter apply only to limited 
categories of OSVs. Specific statements of applicability appear at the 
beginnings of those regulations.
    (e) As used in this subchapter, the term ``vessels contracted for'' 
refers not only to the contracting for the construction of a vessel, 
but also to the contracting for a major alteration to a vessel, the 
contracting for the conversion of a vessel to an offshore supply vessel 
or liftboat, and the changing of service or route of a vessel if such 
changing increases or modifies the general requirements for the vessel 
or increases the hazards to which it might be subjected.

    Note: Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular 8-91, ``Initial 
and Subsequent

[[Page 49322]]

Inspection of Uncertificated Existing Offshore Supply Vessels, 
Including Liftboats'', contains guidance on how to apply the 
regulations in 46 CFR subchapters I and T to OSVs.


Sec. 125.110  Carriage of flammable or combustible liquid cargoes in 
bulk.

    (a) Except as provided by this section, no OSV may carry flammable 
or combustible liquid cargoes in bulk without the approval of the 
Commandant (G-MSE).
    (b) An OSV may carry the following in integral tanks:
    (1) Grade-D combustible liquids listed by Sec. 30.25-1 of this 
chapter, in quantities not to exceed 20 percent of the vessel's 
deadweight, except that the vessel may carry drilling fluids and excess 
fuel oil, Grade-E as well as Grade-D, without limit.
    (2) Grade-E combustible liquids listed by Sec. 30.25-1 of this 
chapter, in quantities not to exceed 20 percent of the vessel's 
deadweight, except that the vessel may carry drilling fluids and excess 
fuel oil, Grade-D as well as Grade-E, without limit.
    (c) An OSV may carry the following in fixed independent tanks on 
deck: Grade-B and lower-grade flammable and combustible liquids listed 
by Sec. 30.25-1 of this chapter, in quantities not to exceed 20 percent 
of the vessel's deadweight.
    (d) An OSV may carry hazardous materials in portable tanks, in 
compliance with part 64 and subpart 98.30 of this chapter. A portable 
tank may be filled or discharged aboard the vessel if authorized by an 
endorsement on the vessel's Certificate of Inspection.


Sec. 125.120  Carriage of noxious liquid substances in bulk.

    (a) Except as provided by this section, no OSV may carry a noxious 
liquid substance (NLS) in bulk without the approval of the Commandant 
(G-MSO).
    (b) An OSV may carry in integral and fixed independent tanks NLSs 
listed by Sec. 153.2 of this chapter, in quantities not to exceed 20 
percent of the vessel's deadweight.
    (c) Each OSV carrying NLSs in bulk in integral tanks or fixed 
independent tanks must--
    (1) Meet the definition of oceangoing in 33 CFR 151.05;
    (2) Have a Certificate of Inspection or NLS Certificate (issued by 
the Coast Guard) endorsed with the name of the NLS cargo; and
    (3) Have the Cargo Record Book prescribed in Sec. 153.490(a)(1) of 
this chapter.
    (d) An OSV that does not meet the equipment requirements in 
Secs. 153.470 through 153.491 of this chapter may not discharge NLS 
residues to the sea. The vessel's Certificate of Inspection or NLS 
Certificate will contain this restriction.
    (e) Each OSV that discharges NLS residues to the sea must meet--
    (1) The equipment requirements in Secs. 153.470 through 153.491 of 
this chapter; and
    (2) The operating requirements in Secs. 153.901, 153.903, 153.909, 
and 153.1100 of this chapter.


Sec. 125.130  Carriage of packaged hazardous materials.

    An OSV may carry packaged hazardous materials, or hazardous 
materials in portable tanks, if the materials are prepared, loaded, and 
stowed in compliance with 49 CFR parts 171 through 179, as applicable.


Sec. 125.140  Loadlines.

    For an OSV assigned a loadline, see subchapter E (Load Lines) of 
this chapter, for special requirements on strength, loadline markings, 
closure of openings, and the like.


Sec. 125.150  Lifesaving systems.

    Lifesaving appliances and arrangements must comply with part 133 of 
this subchapter.


Sec. 125.160  Definitions.

    Each term defined elsewhere in this chapter for a particular class 
of vessel applies to this subchapter unless a different definition is 
given in this section. As used by this subchapter--
    Accommodations includes spaces such as at least the following:
    (1) A space used as a messroom.
    (2) A lounge.
    (3) A sitting area.
    (4) A recreation room.
    (5) Quarters.
    (6) A toilet space.
    (7) A shower room.
    Anti-exposure suit means a protective suit designed for use by 
rescue boat crews and marine evacuation system parties.
    Approval series means the first six digits of a number assigned by 
the Coast Guard to approved equipment. Where approval is based on a 
subpart of subchapter Q of this chapter, the approval series 
corresponds to the number of the subpart. A listing of approved 
equipment, including all of the approval series, is published 
periodically by the Coast Guard in Equipment Lists (COMDTINST M16714.3 
series), available from the Superintendent of Documents.
    Approved means approved by the Commandant, unless otherwise 
defined.
    Bulkhead deck means the uppermost deck to which transverse 
watertight bulkheads and the watertight shell extend.
    Coast Guard District Commander or District Commander means an 
officer of the Coast Guard designated by the Commandant to command 
activities of the Coast Guard within a Coast Guard district described 
by 33 CFR part 3, whose duties include the inspection, enforcement, and 
administration of laws for the safety and navigation of vessels. 
Coastwise refers to a route not more than 20 nautical miles offshore on 
any of the following waters:
    (1) Any ocean.
    (2) The Gulf of Mexico.
    (3) The Caribbean Sea.
    (4) The Gulf of Alaska.
    (5) The Bering Sea.
    (6) Such other, similar waters as may be designated by the District 
Commander.
    Combustible liquid means the same as in subpart 30.10 of this 
chapter.
    Commandant means the Commandant of the Coast Guard or an authorized 
staff officer at Coast Guard headquarters designated by Sec. 1.01-05 of 
this chapter.
    Commanding Officer, Marine Safety Center, means an officer of the 
Coast Guard designated by the Commandant to command activities of the 
Coast Guard within the Marine Safety Center, whose duties include 
review of plans for commercial vessels to ensure compliance with 
applicable laws and standards.
    Crane means a revolving, gantry-mounted, or other type of fixed 
lifting device used for lifting or moving equipment or supplies. It 
does not include material handling equipment used for general ship's 
service, such as lifeboat davits, chain falls, come-alongs, or the 
like.
    Crew means all persons carried on board the OSV to provide 
navigation and maintenance of the OSV, its machinery, systems, and 
arrangements essential for propulsion and safe navigation or to provide 
services for other persons on board.
    Deadweight means, when measured in water of specific gravity 1.025, 
the difference in long tons between--
    (1) The displacement of the vessel on even trim at ``lightweight'' 
as defined by subpart F of part 170 of this chapter; and
    (2) The displacement of the vessel on even trim at the deepest load 
waterline.
    Embarkation ladder means the ladder provided at survival craft 
embarkation stations to permit safe access to survival craft after 
launching.
    Embarkation station means the place where a survival craft is 
boarded.
    Existing offshore supply vessel is one contracted for, or the keel 
of which was laid, before March 15, 1996.
    Flammable liquid means the same as in Sec. 30.10-22 of this 
chapter.

[[Page 49323]]

    Float-free launching means that method of launching a survival 
craft or lifesaving appliance whereby the craft or appliance is 
automatically released from a sinking vessel and is ready for use.
    Gas-free means free from dangerous concentrations of flammable or 
toxic gases.
    Hazardous material means the same as in Sec. 153.2 of this chapter.
    Immersion suit means a protective suit that reduces loss of body 
heat of a person wearing it in cold water.
    Inflatable appliance means an appliance that depends upon nonrigid, 
gas-filled chambers for buoyancy and that is normally kept uninflated 
until ready for use.
    Inflated appliance means an appliance that depends upon nonrigid, 
gas-filled chambers for buoyancy and that is kept inflated and ready 
for use at all times.
    International voyage means a voyage between a country to which the 
International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as 
amended (SOLAS 74/83) applies and a port outside that country.
    Jacking system means any type of mechanical (including hydraulic) 
or electrical system used for elevating a liftboat.
    Launching appliance or launching arrangement means the method or 
devices for transferring a survival craft or rescue boat from its 
stowed position to the water. For a launching arrangement using a 
davit, the term includes the davit, winch, and falls.
    Length, relative to a vessel, means the length listed on the 
vessel's certificate of documentation or the ``registered length'' as 
defined by Sec. 69.53 of this chapter.
    Lifejacket means a flotation device approved as a life preserver or 
lifejacket.
    Liftboat means an OSV with movable legs capable of raising its hull 
above the surface of the sea.
    Major conversion means a conversion of a vessel that, as determined 
by the Commandant--
    (1) Substantially changes the dimensions or carrying capacity of 
the vessel;
    (2) Changes the type of vessel;
    (3) Substantially prolongs the life of the vessel; or
    (4) Otherwise so changes the vessel that it is essentially a new 
vessel.
    Marine evacuation system means an appliance designed to rapidly 
transfer large numbers of persons from an embarkation station by means 
of a passage to a floating platform for subsequent embarkation into 
associated survival craft, or directly into associated survival craft.
    Marine inspector means any person authorized by the Officer in 
Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI), to perform duties concerning the 
inspection, enforcement, and administration of laws for the safety and 
navigation of vessels.
    Muster station means the place where the crew and offshore workers 
assemble before boarding a survival craft.
    New offshore supply vessel is one--
    (1) Contracted for, or the keel of which was laid, on or after 
March 15, 1996; or
    (2) Which underwent a major conversion that was initiated on or 
after March 15, 1996.
    Novel lifesaving appliance or arrangement means one that has new 
features not fully covered by the provisions of this part but that 
provides an equal or higher standard of safety.
    Noxious liquid substance or NLS means the same as in Sec. 153.2 of 
this chapter.
    Ocean refers to a route more than 20 nautical miles offshore on any 
of the following waters:
    (1) Any ocean.
    (2) The Gulf of Mexico.
    (3) The Caribbean Sea.
    (4) The Gulf of Alaska.
    (5) The Bering Sea.
    (6) Such other, similar waters as may be designated by the District 
Commander.
    OCMI means the same as Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection.
    Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection means any person of the Coast 
Guard so designated by the Commandant, to be in charge of an inspection 
zone for the performance of duties concerning the inspection, 
enforcement, and administration of laws for the safety and navigation 
of vessels.
    Offshore supply vessel means a vessel that--
    (1) Is propelled by machinery other than steam;
    (2) Does not meet the definition of a passenger-carrying vessel in 
46 U.S.C. 2101(22) or 46 U.S.C. 2101(35);
    (3) Is more than 15 but less than 500 gross tons (as measured under 
the Standard, Dual, or Simplified Measurement System under part 69, 
subpart C, D, or E, of this chapter) or is less than 6,000 gross tons 
(as measured under the Convention Measurement System under part 69, 
subpart B, of this chapter); and
    (4) Regularly carries goods, supplies, individuals in addition to 
the crew, or equipment in support of exploration, exploitation, or 
production of offshore mineral or energy resources.
    Offshore worker means an individual carried aboard an OSV and 
employed in a phase of exploration, exploitation, or production of 
offshore mineral or energy resources served by the vessel; but it does 
not include the master or a member of the crew engaged in the business 
of the vessel, who has contributed no consideration for carriage aboard 
and is paid for services aboard.
    OSV means the same as offshore supply vessel. 
    Quarters means any space where sleeping accommodations are 
provided.
    Rescue boat means a boat designed to rescue persons in distress and 
to marshal survival craft.
    Restricted service means service in areas within 12 hours of a 
harbor of safe refuge or in areas where a liftboat may be jacked up to 
meet the 100-knot-wind severe-storm criteria of Sec. 174.255(c) of this 
chapter.
    Seagoing condition means the operating condition of the OSV with 
the personnel, equipment, fluids, and ballast necessary for safe 
operation on the waters where the OSV operates.
    Survival craft means a craft capable of sustaining the lives of 
persons in distress from the time of abandoning the OSV on which the 
persons were originally carried. The term includes lifeboats, 
liferafts, buoyant apparatus, and lifefloats, but does not include 
rescue boats.


Sec. 125.170  Equivalents.

    A substitution for fittings, materials, equipment, arrangements, 
calculations, information, or tests required by this subchapter may be 
accepted by the cognizant OCMI; by the Commanding Officer, Marine 
Safety Center; by the District Commander; or by the Commandant, if the 
substitution provides an equivalent level of safety.


Sec. 125.180  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain materials are incorporated by reference into this 
subchapter with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register in 
compliance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any 
edition other than the one listed in paragraph (b) of this section, the 
Coast Guard must publish notice of change in the Federal Register and 
the material must be available to the public. All approved materials 
are on file for inspection at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 
North Capitol Street NW., suite 700, Washington, DC, and at the U.S. 
Coast Guard, Office of Operating and Environmental Standards, 2100 
Second Street SW., Washington, DC 20593-0001, and are available from 
the sources indicated in paragraph (b) of this section.
    (b) The materials approved for incorporation by reference in this

[[Page 49324]]

subchapter, and the sections affected, are as follows:


American Bureau of Shipping (ABS):                                                                              
    Two World-Trade Center, 106th Floor, New York, NY                                                           
     10048                                                                                                      
    Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 61  127.210                                             
     Meters (200 Ft) in Length (1983).                                                                          
    Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels (1995)..  127.210; 129.360                                    
    Rules for Building and Classing Aluminum Vessels        127.210                                             
     (1975).                                                                                                    
    Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore         133.140; 133.150                                    
     Drilling Units (1994).                                                                                     
American National Standards Institute (ANSI):                                                                   
    11 West 42nd St., New York, NY 10036                                                                        
    B 31.1-1986, Code for Pressure Piping, Power Piping...  128.240                                             
    Z 26.1-1977 (including 1980 Supplement), Safety Code    127.430                                             
     for Safety Glazing Materials for Glazing Motor                                                             
     Vehicles Operating on Land Highways.                                                                       
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME):                                                                
    345 East 47th St., New York, NY 10027                                                                       
    Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section I, Power        128.240                                             
     Boilers, July 1989 with 1989 addenda.                                                                      
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM):                                                              
    1916 Race St., Philadelphia, PA 19103                                                                       
    D93-80, Standard Test Methods for Flash Point by        128.310                                             
     Pensky-Martens Closed Tester.                                                                              
American Yacht and Boat Council, Inc. (AYBC):                                                                   
    3069 Solomon's Island Rd., Edgewater, MD 21037-1416                                                         
    A-3-1993, Galley Stoves...............................  129.550                                             
    A-7-1970, Recommended Practices and Standards Covering  129.550                                             
     Boat Heating Systems.                                                                                      
    E-1-1972, Bonding of Direct-Current Systems...........  129.120                                             
    E-8-1994, Alternating-Current (AC) Electrical Systems   129.120                                             
     on Boats.                                                                                                  
    E-9-1990, Direct-Current (DC) Electrical Systems on     129.120                                             
     Boats.                                                                                                     
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE):                                                       
    345 E. 47th St., New York, NY 10017                                                                         
    No. 45-1977, Recommended Practice for Electric          129.340                                             
     Installations on Shipboard.                                                                                
International Maritime Organization (IMO):                                                                      
    Publications Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1                                                       
     7SR, England                                                                                               
    Resolution A.520(13), Code of Practice for the          133.40                                              
     Evaluation, Testing and Acceptance of Prototype Novel                                                      
     Life-saving Appliances and Arrangements, dated 17                                                          
     November 1983.                                                                                             
    Resolution A.658(16), ``Use and Fitting of Retro-       131.855; 131.875; 133.70                            
     Reflective Materials on Life-saving Appliances'',                                                          
     dated 20 November 1989.                                                                                    
    Resolution A.760(18), ``Symbols Related to Life-Saving  131.875; 133.70; 133.90                             
     Appliances and Arrangements'', dated 17 November 1993.                                                     
    International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea  126.170                                             
     (SOLAS), Consolidated Edition, 1992.                                                                       
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):                                                                    
    1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269-9101                                                                  
    NFPA 70, National Electrical Code, 1993 Edition.......  129.320; 129.340; 129.370                           
    NFPA 306, Control of Gas Hazards on Vessels, 1993       126.160                                             
     Edition.                                                                                                   
    NFPA 1963, Fire Hose Connections, 1993 Edition........  132.130                                             
    NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers,      132.350                                             
     1994 Edition.                                                                                              
    NFPA 302--Fire Protection Standard for Pleasure and     129.550                                             
     Commercial Motor Craft, 1994 Edition.                                                                      
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL):                                                                           
    333 Pfingsten Rd., Northbrook, IL 60062                                                                     
    UL 19-1992, Lined Fire Hose and Hose Assemblies.......  132.130                                             
    UL 486A-1992, Wire Connectors and Soldering Lugs for    129.340                                             
     Use with Copper Conductors.                                                                                
    UL 489-1995, Molded-Case Circuit Breakers and Circuit-  129.380                                             
     Breaker Enclosures.                                                                                        
    UL 57-1976, Electric Lighting Fixtures................  129.410                                             
    UL 595-1991, Marine-Type Electric Lighting Fixtures...  129.410                                             
    UL 1570-1995, Fluorescent Lighting Fixtures...........  129.410                                             
    UL 1571-1995, Incandescent Lighting Fixtures..........  129.410                                             
    UL 1572-1995, High Intensity Discharge Lighting         129.410                                             
     Fixtures.                                                                                                  
    UL 1573-1995, Stage and Studio Lighting Units.........  129.410                                             
    UL 1574-1995, Track Lighting Systems..................  129.410                                             
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sec. 125.190  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 from the 
decision or action in compliance with subpart 1.03 of this chapter.

PART 126--INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION

Subpart A--General

Sec.
126.100  Inspector not limited.
126.110  Inspection after accident.
126.120  Permit to proceed to another port for repairs.
126.130  Cranes.
126.140  Drydocking.
126.150  Repairs and alterations.
126.160  Tests and inspections during repairs or alterations, or 
during riveting, welding, burning, or other hot work.
126.170  Carriage of offshore workers.
126.180  Carriage of passengers.

Subpart B--Certificate of Inspection

126.210  When required.
126.220  Description.
126.230  How to obtain or renew.
126.240  Posting.
126.250  Period of validity.
126.260  Temporary Certificate.
126.270  Amendment.

[[Page 49325]]

Subpart C--Initial Inspection

126.310  Prerequisite to Certificate of Inspection.
126.320  When made.
126.330  Plans.
126.340  Scope.
126.350  Specific tests and inspections.

Subpart D--Inspection for Certification

126.410  Prerequisite to reissuance of Certificate of Inspection.
126.420  When made.
126.430  Scope.
126.440  Lifesaving equipment.
126.450  Fire-extinguishing equipment.
126.460  Tanks for dry bulk cargo.
126.470  Marine-engineering systems.

Subpart E--Reinspection

126.510  When made.
126.520  Scope.
126.530  Alternative midperiod examination.

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306; 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); E.O. 12777, 3 CFR, 
1991 Comp., p. 351; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--General


Sec. 126.100  Inspector not limited.

    Nothing in this part shall be construed as limiting the inspector 
from making such tests or inspections as he deems necessary to be 
assured of the safety and seaworthiness of the vessel.


Sec. 126.110  Inspection after accident.

    (a) The owner or operator of an OSV shall make the vessel available 
for inspection by a marine inspector--
    (1) Each time an accident occurs, or a defect is discovered that 
affects--
    (i) The safety of the vessel; or
    (ii) The effectiveness or completeness of its lifesaving, fire-
fighting, or other equipment; or
    (2) Whenever any important repairs or renewals are made.
    (b) The inspection is to ensure that--
    (1) The necessary repairs or renewals have been effectively made;
    (2) The material and workmanship used to accomplish the repairs or 
renewals are satisfactory; and
    (3) The OSV complies with the regulations in this subchapter.


Sec. 126.120  Permit to proceed to another port for repairs.

    (a) The cognizant OCMI may issue a permit to proceed to another 
port for repair if in the judgment of this OCMI the vessel can complete 
the trip safely even though the Certificate of Inspection has expired 
or is about to expire.
    (b) A ``Permit to Proceed to another Port for Repairs'', Form CG-
948, will be issued by the cognizant OCMI to the owner, operator, or 
master of the OSV and states the conditions under which the vessel may 
proceed to another port. The Permit will be issued only upon the 
written application of the owner, operator, or master, and only after 
the surrender of the vessel's Certificate of Inspection to the 
cognizant OCMI.
    (c) The Permit will state on its face the conditions under which it 
is issued and whether the OSV may carry cargo, goods, supplies, 
equipment, or offshore workers.
    (d) The Permit must be readily available aboard the OSV.


Sec. 126.130  Cranes.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraph (b) of this section, cranes, if 
installed, must comply with Secs. 107.258 through 107.260, 108.601, 
109.437, 109.439, 109.521, 109.525, and 109.527 of this chapter.
    (b) The manufacturer of a crane may have tests and inspections 
conducted in compliance with Sec. 107.259 of this chapter, if the 
surveyor conducting them for the American Bureau of Shipping or the 
International Cargo Gear Bureau certifies their conduct as required by 
Sec. 107.259(c) of this chapter.


Sec. 126.140  Drydocking.

    (a) Unless one or more extensions are authorized by the Commandant 
(G-MOC), each OSV must be placed in drydock or hauled out for 
examination twice each 5 years with no interval between examinations 
exceeding 3 years.
    (b) The owner or operator shall notify the cognizant OCMI whenever 
the OSV is drydocked for any reason. This OCMI, upon notification, will 
determine whether to assign a marine inspector to examine the 
underwater hull of the vessel.
    (c) The internal structural members of an OSV must be examined at 
the same intervals required for drydocking by paragraph (a) of this 
section.
    (d) At each drydocking required by paragraph (a) of this section, 
for an OSV of 100 or more gross tons, a tailshaft survey must be 
conducted as required by Sec. 61.20-15 of this chapter.
    (e) At each drydocking required by paragraph (a) of this section, 
for an OSV of less than 100 gross tons, the propeller or tailshaft must 
be drawn for examination if the cognizant OCMI deems drawing it 
necessary.


Sec. 126.150  Repairs and alterations.

    (a) Except in an emergency, no repairs or alterations to the hull 
or machinery, or to equipment that affects the safety of the OSV, may 
be made without notice to the cognizant OCMI in the inspection zone 
where the repairs or alterations are to be made. When the repairs or 
alterations have been made, notice must be given to this OCMI as soon 
as practicable.
    (b) When emergency repairs or alterations have been made as 
permitted under paragraph (a) of this section, the master, owner, or 
operator must notify this OCMI as soon as practicable after the 
emergency.
    (c) Except as provided by paragraphs (b) and (e) of this section, 
drawings of repairs or alterations must be approved, before work 
starts, by the cognizant OCMI or, when necessary, by the Commanding 
Officer, Marine Safety Center (CO, MSC). Drawings will not be needed if 
deemed unnecessary by this OCMI or by the CO, MSC.
    (d) When the cognizant OCMI deems inspection necessary, the repairs 
or alterations must be inspected by a marine inspector.
    (e) Submission of drawings is not required for repairs in kind, but 
the applicable drawings approved under subpart A of part 127 of this 
subchapter must be made available to the marine inspector upon request.


Sec. 126.160  Tests and inspections during repairs or alterations, or 
during riveting, welding, burning, or other hot work.

    (a) NFPA 306 must be used as a guide in conducting the examinations 
and issuances of certificates required by this section.
    (b) Until an examination has determined that work can proceed 
safely, no riveting, welding, burning, or other hot work may commence.
    (c) Each examination must be conducted as follows:
    (1) At any port or site inside the United States or its territories 
and possessions, a marine chemist certified by the NFPA must make the 
examination. If the services of such a chemist are not reasonably 
available, the cognizant OCMI, upon the recommendation of the 
contractor and the owner or operator of the OSV, may authorize another 
person to make the examination. If this indicates that a repair or 
alteration, or hot work, can be undertaken safely, the person 
performing the examination shall issue a certificate, setting forth the 
spaces covered and any necessary conditions to be met, before the work 
starts. These conditions must include any requirements necessary to 
maintain safe conditions in the spaces covered and must include any 
necessary further examinations and certificates. In particular the 
conditions must include precautions necessary to eliminate or minimize 
hazards caused by protective coatings or by cargo residues.
    (2) At any port or site outside the United States or its 
territories and possessions, where the services of a certified marine 
chemist or other person

[[Page 49326]]

authorized by the cognizant OCMI are not reasonably available, the 
master, owner, or operator of the vessel shall make the examination and 
a proper entry in the OSV's logbook.
    (d) The master shall obtain a copy of each certificate issued by 
the person making the examination described in paragraph (c)(1) of this 
section. The master, through and for the persons under his control, 
shall maintain safe conditions aboard the OSV by full observance of 
each condition to be met, listed in the certificate issued under 
paragraph (c)(1) of this section.


Sec. 126.170  Carriage of offshore workers.

    (a) Offshore workers may be carried aboard an OSV in compliance 
with this subchapter. The maximum number of offshore workers authorized 
for carriage will be endorsed on the vessel's Certificate of 
Inspection; but in no case will the number of offshore workers 
authorized for carriage exceed 36.
    (b) No more than 12 offshore workers may be carried aboard an OSV 
certificated under this subchapter when on an international voyage, 
unless the vessel holds a valid passenger-ship-safety certificate (Form 
CG-968) issued in compliance with the International Convention for the 
Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended (SOLAS 74/83).


Sec. 126.180  Carriage of passengers.

    No passengers as defined by 46 U.S.C. 2101(21)(B) may be carried 
aboard an OSV except in an emergency.

Subpart B--Certificate of Inspection


Sec. 126.210  When required.

    Except as provided by Secs. 126.120 and 126.260, no OSV may be 
operated without a valid Certificate of Inspection.


Sec. 126.220  Description.

    The Certificate of Inspection issued to an OSV specifies the 
vessel, the route it may travel, the minimum manning it requires, the 
minimum fire-extinguishing and lifesaving equipment it must carry, the 
maximum number of offshore workers and of total persons it may carry, 
the name of its owner and operator, and such other conditions as the 
cognizant OCMI may determine.


Sec. 126.230  How to obtain or renew.

    (a) A builder, owner, master, or operator may begin to obtain or to 
renew a Certificate of Inspection by submitting an ``Application for 
Inspection of U.S. Vessel,'' Form CG-3752, to the OCMI of the marine 
inspection zone in which the inspection is to be made. Form CG-3752 is 
available from any Marine Safety or Marine Inspection Office of the 
U.S. Coast Guard.
    (b) The application for initial inspection of an OSV being newly 
constructed or undergoing a major conversion must be submitted before 
the start of construction or conversion.
    (c) The construction, arrangement, and equipment of each OSV must 
be acceptable to the cognizant OCMI for the issuance of the initial 
Certificate of Inspection. Acceptance depends on the information, 
specifications, drawings, and calculations available to this OCMI, and 
on the successful completion of the initial inspection for 
certification.
    (d) A Certificate of Inspection is renewed by the issuance of a new 
Certificate of Inspection.
    (e) The condition of the OSV and its equipment must be acceptable 
to the cognizant OCMI for the renewal of the Certificate of Inspection. 
Acceptance depends on the condition of the vessel as found at the 
periodic inspection for certification.


Sec. 126.240  Posting.

    The Certificate of Inspection must be framed under glass or other 
suitable transparent material and posted in a conspicuous place aboard 
the OSV so that each page is visible.


Sec. 126.250  Period of validity.

    (a) A Certificate of Inspection is valid for 2 years.
    (b) A Certificate of Inspection may be suspended and withdrawn or 
revoked by the cognizant OCMI at any time for noncompliance with the 
requirements of this subchapter or other applicable laws.


Sec. 126.260  Temporary Certificate.

    If necessary to prevent delay of the OSV, a ``Temporary Certificate 
of Inspection,'' Form CG-854, containing information listed by 
Sec. 126.220 may be issued pending the issuance and delivery of the 
regular Certificate of Inspection. A Temporary Certificate must be 
carried in the same manner as the regular Certificate.


Sec. 126.270  Amendment.

    (a) An amended Certificate of Inspection may be issued at any time 
by any OCMI. The amended Certificate of Inspection replaces the 
original, but the expiration date remains the same as that of the 
original. An amended Certificate of Inspection may be issued to 
authorize and record a change in the dimensions, gross tonnage, owner, 
operator, manning, offshore workers permitted, route permitted, 
conditions of operations, equipment, or the like from that specified in 
the current Certificate of Inspection.
    (b) A request for an amended Certificate of Inspection must be made 
to the cognizant OCMI by the owner or operator of the vessel at any 
time there is a change in the character of a vessel or in its route, 
equipment, ownership, operation, or similar factors specified in its 
current Certificate of Inspection.
    (c) The cognizant OCMI may require an inspection before issuing an 
amended Certificate of Inspection.

Subpart C--Initial Inspection


Sec. 126.310  Prerequisite to Certificate of Inspection.

    The initial inspection is a prerequisite to the issuance of the 
original Certificate of Inspection.


Sec. 126.320  When made.

    (a) No initial inspection occurs until after receipt of the written 
application of the owner or builder of the vessel to the OCMI in whose 
zone the vessel is located. The application must be on Form CG-3752, 
``Application for Inspection of U.S. Vessel.''
    (b) The initial inspection occurs at a time and place agreed to by 
the party requesting the inspection and by the cognizant OCMI. The 
owner or the builder, or a representative of either, must be present 
during the inspection.


Sec. 126.330  Plans.

    Before construction starts, the owner, operator, or builder shall 
develop plans indicating the proposed arrangement and construction of 
the vessel. (The list of plans to be developed and the required 
disposition of these plans appears in part 127 of this subchapter.)


Sec. 126.340  Scope.

    The initial inspection normally consists of a series of inspections 
conducted during the construction of the vessel. This inspection 
determines whether the vessel was built to comply with developed plans 
and in compliance with applicable law. Items normally included in this 
inspection are all the items listed in Sec. 126.430 and in addition the 
marine inspector verifies that the arrangement of the vessel conforms 
to the approved plans, that acceptable material is used in the 
construction of the vessel, and that the workmanship meets required 
standards for marine construction. The owner or builder shall make the 
vessel available for inspection at each stage of construction specified 
by the cognizant OCMI.


Sec. 126.350  Specific tests and inspections.

    (a) The applicable tests and inspections set forth in subpart D of 
this part must be made during the initial inspection.

[[Page 49327]]

    (b) The following specific tests and inspections must also be 
conducted in the presence of the marine inspector:
    (1) Installation of piping for gaseous fixed fire-extinguishing 
(see Sec. 95.15-15 of this chapter).
    (2) Hydraulic steering-systems. If fitted with manual operation, 
these systems must be tested in the manual mode, with the hydraulic 
pumps secured, for smooth, efficient operation by one person.

Subpart D--Inspection for Certification


Sec. 126.410  Prerequisite to reissuance of Certificate of Inspection.

    An inspection for certification is a prerequisite to the reissuance 
of a Certificate of Inspection.


Sec. 126.420  When made.

    No inspection for certification occurs until after receipt of the 
written application of the owner, builder, master, or operator of the 
vessel by the OCMI in whose zone the vessel is located. The application 
must be on the ``Application for Inspection of U.S. Vessel'', Form CG-
3752.


Sec. 126.430  Scope.

    The inspection for certification is made by a marine inspector to 
determine whether the vessel is in a safe and seaworthy condition. The 
owner or builder shall make the vessel and its equipment available for 
inspection, including the following items:
    (a) Structure.
    (b) Watertight integrity.
    (c) Pressure vessels and their appurtenances.
    (d) Piping.
    (e) Main and auxiliary machinery.
    (f) Steering apparatus.
    (g) Electrical installations.
    (h) Lifesaving equipment.
    (i) Work vests.
    (j) Fire-detecting and fire-extinguishing equipment.
    (k) Pollution-prevention equipment.
    (l) Sanitary condition.
    (m) Fire hazards.
    (n) Verification of validity of certificates required and issued by 
the Federal Communications Commission.
    (o) Lights and signals as required by the applicable navigational 
rules.
    (p) Tests and inspections of cranes in compliance with 
Sec. 126.130.


Sec. 126.440  Lifesaving equipment.

    At each inspection for certification, the tests and inspections 
specified by Sec. 91.25-15 of this chapter must occur in the presence 
of a marine inspector, or as otherwise directed by the cognizant OCMI.


Sec. 126.450  Fire-extinguishing equipment.

    At each inspection for certification, the marine inspector 
determines whether the tests and inspections required by Sec. 132.350 
of this subchapter have been performed.


Sec. 126.460  Tanks for dry bulk cargo.

    The owner shall ensure that tanks for dry bulk cargo that are 
pressure vessels are inspected for compliance with Sec. 61.10-5(b) of 
this chapter.


Sec. 126.470  Marine-engineering systems.

    The inspection procedures for marine-engineering systems contained 
in subchapter F of this chapter apply.

Subpart E--Reinspection


Sec. 126.510  When made.

    (a) Except as provided by Sec. 126.530 of this subpart, at least 
one reinspection must be made of each vessel holding a Certificate of 
Inspection. The owner, master, or operator shall arrange for the 
reinspection between the tenth and fourteenth months of the period for 
which the Certificate of Inspection is valid.
    (b) The owner, master, or operator shall make the vessel available 
for the reinspection at a time and place acceptable to the cognizant 
OCMI, but no written application is necessary.


Sec. 126.520  Scope.

    In general, the reinspection goes into less detail than that 
described by Sec. 126.430 of this part for the inspection for 
certification, unless the cognizant OCMI or marine inspector determines 
that a major change has occurred since the last inspection.


Sec. 126.530  Alternative midperiod examination.

    (a) The owner, master, or operator of an OSV of less than 400 gross 
tons may ask the cognizant OCMI to arrange an alternative midperiod 
examination. The request must go to the cognizant OCMI assigned 
responsibility for inspections in the country in which the vessel is 
operating and will be examined. To qualify for the alternative 
midperiod examination, the vessel must meet the following requirements:
    (1) The request must be in writing and be received by this OCMI 
before the end of the twelfth month of the period for which the 
Certificate of Inspection is valid.
    (2) The vessel is likely to be continuously employed outside of the 
United States during the tenth through the fourteenth month of validity 
of its Certificate of Inspection.
    (b) In determining whether to authorize the alternative midperiod 
examination, this OCMI considers the following:
    (1) Information contained in previous examination reports on 
inspection and drydock, including the recommendation, if any, of the 
then cognizant OCMI for participation in the alternative midperiod 
examination.
    (2) The nature, number, and severity of marine casualties or 
accidents, as defined by Sec. 4.03-1 of this chapter, involving the 
vessel in the 3 years preceding the request.
    (3) The nature, number, and gravity of any outstanding inspection 
requirements for the vessel.
    (4) The owner's or operator's history of compliance and cooperation 
in such alternative midperiod examinations, including:
    (i) The prompt correction of deficiencies.
    (ii) The reliability of previously submitted reports on such 
alternative midperiod examinations.
    (iii) The reliability of representations that the vessel would be, 
and was, employed outside of the United States for the tenth through 
the fourteenth month of validity of its Certificate of Inspection.
    (c) This OCMI provides the applicant with written authorization, if 
any, to proceed with the alternative midperiod examination, including, 
when appropriate, special instructions.
    (d) The following conditions must be met for the alternative 
midperiod examination to be accepted instead of the reinspection 
required by Sec. 126.510 of this subpart:
    (1) The alternative midperiod examination must occur between the 
tenth and fourteenth months of validity of the Certificate of 
Inspection.
    (2) The reinspection must be of the scope detailed by Sec. 126.520 
of this subpart and must be made by the master, owner, or operator of 
the vessel, or by a designated representative of the owner or operator.
    (3) Upon completion of the alternative midperiod examination, the 
person or persons making the examination shall prepare a comprehensive 
report describing the conditions found. This report must contain 
sufficient detail to let this OCMI determine whether the vessel is fit 
for the service and route specified on the Certificate of Inspection. 
This report must include subsidiary reports and receipts documenting 
the servicing of lifesaving and fire-protection equipment, and any 
photographs or sketches necessary to clarify unusual circumstances. 
Each person preparing this report shall sign it and certify that the 
information in it is complete and accurate.

[[Page 49328]]

    (4) Unless the master of the vessel participated in the alternative 
midperiod examination and the preparation of the comprehensive report, 
the master shall review the report for completeness and accuracy. The 
master shall sign the report to indicate review and shall forward it to 
the owner or operator of the vessel, who asked for the examination.
    (5) The owner or operator of a vessel examined under this section 
shall review and submit the comprehensive report, required by paragraph 
(d)(3) of this section, to this OCMI. The report must reach this OCMI 
before the first day of the sixteenth month of validity of the 
Certificate of Inspection. The forwarding letter or endorsement must be 
certified and must contain the following information:
    (i) That the person or persons who made the alternative midperiod 
examination acted on behalf of the vessel's owner or operator.
    (ii) That the report was reviewed by the owner or operator.
    (iii) That the discrepancies noted during the reinspection have 
been corrected, or will be within a stated time.
    (iv) That the owner or operator has sufficient personal knowledge 
of conditions aboard the vessel at the time of the reinspection, or has 
conducted inquiries necessary, to justify forming a belief that the 
report is complete and accurate.
    (e) The form of certification required under this section, for the 
alternative midperiod examination, is as follows:

    I certify that to the best of my knowledge and belief the above 
is complete and accurate.

    (f) Deficiencies and hazards discovered during the alternative 
midperiod examination made pursuant to this section must be corrected 
if practicable, before the submittal of the report to this OCMI in 
compliance with paragraph (d)(5) of this section. Deficiencies and 
hazards not corrected by the time the report is submitted must be noted 
in the report as ``outstanding.'' Upon receipt of a report indicating 
any outstanding deficiency or hazard, this OCMI will inform the owner 
or operator of the OSV in writing of the time allowed to correct each 
deficiency and hazard and of the method for establishing that each has 
been corrected. When any deficiency or hazard remains uncorrected or 
uneliminated after this time allowed, this OCMI will initiate 
appropriate enforcement.
    (g) Upon receipt of the report, this OCMI will evaluate it and 
determine:
    (1) Whether the cognizant OCMI accepts the alternative midperiod 
examination instead of the reinspection required by Sec. 126.510 of 
this subpart.
    (2) Whether the vessel is in satisfactory condition.
    (3) Whether the vessel continues to be reasonably fit for its 
intended service and route.
    (h) This OCMI may require further information necessary for the 
determinations required by this section. He or she will inform the 
owner or operator of the vessel in writing of these determinations.
    (i) If this OCMI, in compliance with paragraph (g) of this section, 
does not accept the alternative midperiod examination instead of the 
reinspection required by Sec. 126.510 of this subpart, he or she will 
require reinspection of the vessel as soon as practicable. He or she 
will inform the owner or operator of the vessel in writing that the 
examination is not acceptable and that a reinspection is necessary. The 
owner, master, or operator shall make the vessel available for the 
reinspection at a time and place agreeable to this OCMI.

PART 127--CONSTRUCTION AND ARRANGEMENTS

Subpart A--Plan Approval

Sec.
127.100  General.
127.110  Plans and specifications required for new construction.
127.120  Procedure for submittal of plans.

Subpart B--Particular Construction and Arrangements

127.210  Structural standards.
127.220  General fire protection.
127.230  Subdivision and stability.
127.240  Means of escape.
127.250  Ventilation for enclosed spaces.
127.260  Ventilation for accommodations.
127.270  Location of accommodations and pilothouse.
127.280  Construction and arrangement of quarters for crew members 
and accommodations for offshore workers.

Subpart C--Rails and Guards

127.310  Where rails required.
127.320  Storm rails.
127.330  Guards in dangerous places.

Subpart D--Construction of Windows, Visibility, and Operability of 
Coverings

127.410  Safety-glazing materials.
127.420  Strength.
127.430  Visibility from pilothouse.
127.440  Operability of window coverings.

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

Subpart A--Plan Approval


Sec. 127.100  General.

    Plans listed by Sec. 127.110 of this subpart must be submitted for 
approval after the owner or builder applies for inspection in 
compliance with Sec. 126.320 of this subchapter.


Sec. 127.110  Plans and specifications required for new construction.

    Each applicant for approval of plans and for an original 
Certificate of Inspection shall submit three copies of the following:
    (a) General.
    (1) Specifications (information only).
    (2) General Arrangement Plans.
    (3) Safety Plan (Fire-Control Plan), for OCMI review and approval.
    (b) Hull structure.
    (1) Midship Section.
    (2) Booklet of Scantling Plans.
    (c) Subdivision and stability. [For plans required for subdivision 
and stability, see subchapter S of this chapter.]
    (d) Marine engineering.
    (1) Piping diagrams of each Class I systems.
    (2) Piping diagrams of the following Class II systems (the 
builder's certification of Class II non-vital piping systems must 
accompany the piping diagrams in compliance with Sec. 128.220(c) of 
this subchapter):
    (i) Systems for fill, transfer, and service of fuel oil.
    (ii) Fire-main and fixed gaseous fire-extinguishing systems.
    (iii) Bilge systems.
    (iv) Ballast systems.
    (v) Fluid-driven power and control systems.
    (vi) Through-hull penetrations and shell connections.
    (vii) Sanitary systems.
    (viii) Vents, sounding tubes, and overflows.
    (ix) Compressed-air systems.
    (3) Steering and steering-control systems.
    (4) Propulsion and propulsion-control systems.
    (5) Piping diagrams of each system containing any flammable, 
combustible, or hazardous liquid including--
    (i) Cargo-oil systems;
    (ii) Systems for combustible drilling-fluid (such as oil-based 
liquid mud); and
    (iii) Cargo-transfer systems for fixed independent or portable 
tanks.
    (e) Electrical engineering.
    (1) For each vessel of less than 100 gross tons, the following 
plans must be submitted:
    (i) Arrangement of electrical equipment (plan and profile) with 
equipment identified as necessary to show compliance with this 
subchapter.
    (ii) Electrical one-line diagram that includes wire types and 
sizes, overcurrent-device rating and setting, and type of electrical-
equipment

[[Page 49329]]

enclosure (drip-proof, watertight, or the like).
    (iii) Switchboard plans required by paragraphs (e) and (f) of 
Sec. 110.25-1 of this chapter.
    (2) For each vessel of 100 or more gross tons, the plans required 
by Sec. 110.25 of this chapter must be submitted.
    (f) Automation. For each vessel of 100 or more gross tons, where 
automated systems are provided to replace specific personnel in the 
control and observation of the propulsion systems and machinery spaces, 
or to reduce the level of crew associated with the engine department, 
the following plans must be submitted:
    (1) Plans necessary to demonstrate compliance with subpart D of 
part 130 of this subchapter.
    (2) Automation-test procedure.
    (3) Operations manual.


Sec. 127.120  Procedure for submittal of plans.

    If a vessel is to be constructed, altered, or repaired, the plans, 
information, and calculations required by this part must be submitted 
to--
    (a) The OCMI in the zone where the vessel is to be constructed, 
altered, or repaired; or
    (b) The Commanding Officer, Marine Safety Center, 400 Seventh 
Street SW., Washington, DC 20590-0001.

Subpart B--Particular Construction and Arrangements


Sec. 127.210  Structural standards.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, 
compliance with the construction and structural rules established by 
the American Bureau of Shipping and incorporated by reference in 
Sec. 125.180 is acceptable for the design and construction of an OSV.
    (b) The current standards of other recognized classification 
societies, or any other established current standard, may also be used 
upon approval by the Commandant (G-MSE).
    (c) If no established current standard for design is used, detailed 
design calculations must be submitted with the plans required by 
Sec. 127.110 of this part.
    (d) The plans required by Sec. 127.110 of this part should specify 
their standard for design.


Sec. 127.220  General fire protection.

    (a) Each vessel must be designed and constructed to minimize fire 
hazards, as far as reasonable and practicable.
    (b) Exhausts of internal-combustion engines, galley uptakes, and 
similar sources of ignition must be kept clear of and insulated from 
woodwork and other combustible matter.
    (c) Paint lockers and similar compartments must be constructed of 
steel or be wholly lined with steel.
    (d) Except as provided by paragraph (e) of this section, when a 
compartment containing the emergency source of electric power, or vital 
components of that source, adjoins a space containing either the ship's 
service generators or machinery necessary for the operation of the 
ship's service generators, each common bulkhead and deck must be of 
``A-60'' Class construction as defined by Sec. 72.05-10 of this 
chapter.
    (e) The ``A-60'' Class construction required by paragraph (d) of 
this section is unnecessary if the emergency source of electric power 
is in a ventilated battery locker that--
    (1) Is located above the main deck;
    (2) Is located in the open; and
    (3) Has no boundaries contiguous with other decks or bulkheads.


Sec. 127.230  Subdivision and stability.

    Each vessel must meet the applicable requirements in subchapter S 
of this chapter.


Sec. 127.240  Means of escape.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraphs (l) and (m) of this section, 
there must be at least two means of escape, exclusive of windows and 
portholes, from each of the following spaces:
    (1) Each space accessible to offshore workers.
    (2) Crew accommodations and each space where the crew may normally 
be employed.
    (b) At least one of the two means of escape must--
    (1) Be independent of watertight doors in bulkheads required by 
part 174 of this chapter to be watertight; and
    (2) Lead as directly to the open deck as practicable.
    (c) The two means of escape required by paragraph (a) of this 
section must be widely separated and, if possible, at opposite ends or 
sides of the space, to minimize the possibility that one incident will 
block both escapes.
    (d) Except as provided by paragraph (e) of this section, a vertical 
ladder ending at a deck scuttle may not be either of the means of 
escape required by paragraph (a) of this section.
    (e) A vertical ladder ending at a deck scuttle may be the second 
means of escape if the--
    (1) Primary means of escape is a stairway or passageway;
    (2) Installation of another stairway or passageway is 
impracticable;
    (3) Scuttle is located where stowed deck cargo could not interfere;
    (4) Scuttle is fitted with a quick-acting release, and with a hold-
back device to hold it open; and
    (5) Scuttle meets the requirements for location, strength, and 
height of coaming in subchapter E of this chapter.
    (f) Each vertical ladder must--
    (1) Have rungs that are--
    (i) At least 410 millimeters (16 inches) long;
    (ii) At most 300 millimeters (12 inches) apart, uniform for the 
length of the ladder; and
    (iii) At least 180 millimeters (7 inches) from the nearest 
permanent object in back of the ladder;
    (2) Have at least 115 millimeters (4\1/2\ inches) of clearance 
above each rung;
    (3) Be made of incombustible materials; and
    (4) Have an angle of inclination with the horizontal, greater than 
70 degrees but not more than 90 degrees.
    (g) No means may be provided for locking any interior door giving 
access to either of the two required means of escape, except that a 
crash door or locking-device, capable of being easily forced in an 
emergency, may be employed if a permanent and conspicuous notice to 
this effect is attached to both sides of the door. A means may be 
provided for locking an exterior door to a deckhouse if the door is--
    (1) Locked only by a key under the control of one of the OSV's 
officers; and
    (2) Always operable from the inside.
    (h) Each passageway or stairway must be wide enough to provide an 
effective means of escape for the number of persons having access to it 
even if each person is wearing a lifejacket. There must be no 
protrusions in the means of escape that could cause injury, ensnare 
clothing, or damage lifejackets.
    (i) No interior stairway, other than within the machinery spaces or 
cargo holds, may be less than 710 millimeters (28 inches) wide. The 
angle of inclination of each stairway with the horizontal must not 
exceed 50 degrees.
    (j) No dead-end passageway, or equivalent, may be more than 13.1 
meters (40 feet) in length.
    (k) Vertical access must be provided between the various weather 
decks by means of vertical or permanently inclined ladders. The angles 
of inclination of the inclined ladders with the horizontal must not 
exceed 70 degrees, except that vertical ladders may be used for access 
to pilot-house tops and other house tops used only for weather 
protection.
    (l) Only one means of escape need be provided from each of the 
spaces stipulated in paragraph (a) of this section, provided the 
maximum area of each space is less than 28 square meters (300 square 
feet) and the maximum dimension (length, breadth, or depth) of

[[Page 49330]]

each space is less than 6 meters (20 feet).
    (m) Alternative means of escape from spaces may be provided if 
acceptable to the cognizant OCMI.


Sec. 127.250  Ventilation for enclosed spaces.

    (a) Each enclosed space within the vessel must be properly vented 
or ventilated. Means must be provided for closing each vent and 
ventilator.
    (b) Means must be provided for stopping each fan in a ventilation 
system serving machinery and cargo spaces and for closing, in case of 
fire, each doorway, ventilator, and annular space around funnels and 
other openings into such spaces.


Sec. 127.260  Ventilation for accommodations.

    (a) Each accommodation space must be adequately ventilated in a 
manner suitable for the purpose of the space.
    (b) Each vessel of 100 or more gross tons must be provided with a 
mechanical ventilation system unless the cognizant OCMI is satisfied 
that a natural system, such as opening windows, portholes, or doors, 
will accomplish adequate ventilation in ordinary weather.


Sec. 127.270  Location of accommodations and pilothouse.

    (a) Neither quarters for crew members or offshore workers nor the 
pilothouse may be located forward of the collision bulkhead required by 
Sec. 174.190 of this chapter.
    (b) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, no part of 
any deck with accommodations for crew members or offshore workers may 
be below the deepest load waterline.
    (c) Any deck with accommodations for crew members or offshore 
workers may be below the deepest load waterline if--
    (1) The vessel complies with the damage-stability requirements in 
Sec. 174.205 of this chapter; and
    (2) The deck head of the space is not below the deepest load 
waterline.
    (d) No hawse pipe or chain pipe may pass through accommodations for 
crew members or offshore workers.
    (e) There must be no direct access, except through solid, close-
fitted doors or hatches, between accommodations and chain lockers, 
cargo spaces, or machinery spaces.
    (f) No sounding tubes, or vents from fuel-oil or cargo-oil tanks 
may open into accommodations for crew members or offshore workers, 
except that sounding tubes may open into passageways.
    (g) No access openings from fuel-oil or cargo-oil tanks may open 
into quarters for crew members or offshore workers.
    (h) Quarters for crew members must be separate from and independent 
of those for offshore workers unless the cognizant OCMI approves an 
alternative arrangement.


Sec. 127.280  Construction and arrangement of quarters for crew members 
and accommodations for offshore workers.

    (a) The following requirements apply to quarters for crew members 
on each vessel of 100 or more gross tons:
    (1) Quarters for crew members must be divided into staterooms none 
of which berths more than four members.
    (2) Each stateroom for use by crew members must--
    (i) Have clear headroom of at least 1.9 meters (6 feet, 3 inches); 
and
    (ii) Contain at least 2.8 square meters (30 square feet) of deck 
and at least 6 cubic meters (210 cubic feet) of space for each member 
accommodated. The presence in a stateroom of equipment for use by the 
occupants does not diminish the area or volume of the room.
    (3) There must be at least one toilet, one washbasin, and one 
shower or bathtub for every eight or fewer crew members who do not 
occupy a stateroom to which a private or a semiprivate facility is 
attached.
    (b) The following requirements apply to accommodations for offshore 
workers on each vessel of 100 or more gross tons:
    (1) Each offshore worker aboard must be provided with adequate 
fixed seating. The width of each seat should be at least 460 
millimeters (18 inches). The spacing of fixed seating must be 
sufficient to allow ready escape in case of fire or other emergency. 
The following are minimal requirements:
    (i) Aisles 4.6 meters (15 feet) in length or less must not be less 
than 610 millimeters (24 inches) wide.
    (ii) Aisles more than 4.6 meters (15 feet) in length must not be 
less than 760 millimeters (30 inches) wide.
    (iii) Where the seating is in rows, the distance from seat front to 
seat front must not be less than 760 millimeters (30 inches).
    (2) If the intended operation of a vessel is to carry offshore 
workers aboard for more than 24 hours, quarters for them must be 
provided. Each stateroom for use by them must--
    (i) Berth no more than six workers;
    (ii) Have clear headroom of at least 1.9 meters (6 feet, 3 inches); 
and
    (iii) Contain at least 1.9 square meters (20 square feet) of deck 
and at least 4 cubic meters (140 cubic feet) of space for each worker 
accommodated. The presence in a stateroom of equipment for use by the 
occupants does not diminish the area or volume of the room.
    (3) Toilets and washbasins for use by offshore workers must meet 
the requirements of paragraph (a)(3) of this section.
    (c) Each crew member and offshore worker aboard a vessel of less 
than 100 gross tons must be provided with accommodations of adequate 
size and construction, and with equipment for his or her protection and 
convenience suitable to the size, facilities, and service of the 
vessel.
    (d) For each vessel of 100 or more gross tons, the bulkheads and 
decks separating accommodations for crew members and offshore workers 
from machinery spaces must be of ``A'' Class construction as defined by 
Sec. 92.07-5 of this chapter.
    (e) After reviewing the arrangement drawings required by 
Sec. 127.110 of this part, the cognizant OCMI will determine, and 
record on the vessel's Certificate of Inspection, the number of 
offshore workers that the vessel may carry.

Subpart C--Rails and Guards


Sec. 127.310  Where rails required.

    (a) Each vessel must have permanently installed efficient guard 
rails or bulwarks on decks and bridges. Each rail or bulwark must stand 
at least 1 meter (39-\1/2\ inches) from the deck except that, where 
this height would interfere with the normal operation of the vessel, 
the cognizant OCMI may approve a lesser height.
    (b) At exposed peripheries of the freeboard and superstructure 
decks, each rail must consist of at least three courses, including the 
top. The opening below the lowest course must be no more than 230 
millimeters (9 inches) with courses no more than 380 millimeters (15 
inches) apart. On other decks and bridges each rail must consist of at 
least two courses, including the top, approximately evenly spaced.
    (c) If satisfied that the installation of any rail of the required 
height would be impracticable, the cognizant OCMI may accept hand grabs 
or a rail of a lesser height in its place.


Sec. 127.320  Storm rails.

    Suitable storm rails must be installed in each passageway and at 
the deckhouse sides, including in way of inclined ladders, where 
persons aboard have normal access. They must be installed on both sides 
of passageways which are more than 1.8 meters (6 feet) wide.


Sec. 127.330  Guards in dangerous places.

    Suitable hand covers, guards, or rails must be installed on each 
exposed and

[[Page 49331]]

dangerous place, such as gears of rotating machinery, and hot surfaces.

Subpart D--Construction of Windows, Visibility, and Operability of 
Coverings


Sec. 127.410  Safety-glazing materials.

    Glass and other glazing material used in windows must be material 
that will not break into dangerous fragments if fractured.


Sec. 127.420  Strength.

    Each window or porthole, and its means of attachment to the hull or 
the deckhouse, must be capable of withstanding the maximum expected 
load from wind and waves, due to its location on the vessel's and the 
authorized route of the vessel.


Sec. 127.430  Visibility from pilothouse.

    (a) Windows and other openings at the pilothouse must be of 
sufficient size and properly located to provide adequate view for safe 
operation in any condition.
    (b) Glass or other glazing material used in windows at the 
pilothouse must have a light transmission of at least 70 percent 
according to Test 2 of ANSI Z26.1, ``Code for Safety Glazing Materials 
for Glazing Motor Vehicles Operating on Land Highways,'' and must 
comply with Test 15 of ANSI Z26.1 for Class I Optical Deviation.


Sec. 127.440  Operability of window coverings.

    Any covering or protection placed over a window or porthole that 
could be used as a means of escape must be able to be readily removed 
or opened. It must be possible to open or remove the covering or 
protection without anyone's having to go onto a weather deck. It may be 
necessary to break the glass of a window or porthole before removing or 
opening the covering or protection.

PART 128--MARINE ENGINEERING: EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS

Subpart A--General

Sec.
128.110  Equipment and systems.
128.120  Plan approval.
128.130  Vital systems.

Subpart B--Materials and Pressure Design

128.210  Class II vital systems--materials.
128.220  Class II non-vital systems--materials and pressure design.
128.230  Penetrations of hulls and watertight bulkheads--materials 
and pressure design.
128.240  Hydraulic or pneumatic power and control-materials and 
pressure design.

Subpart C--Main and Auxiliary Machinery

128.310  Fuel.
128.320  Exhaust systems.

Subpart D--Design Requirements for Specific Systems

128.410  Ship's service refrigeration systems.
128.420  Keel-cooler installations.
128.430  Grid-cooler installations.
128.440  Bilge systems.
128.450  Liquid-mud systems.

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

Subpart A--General


Sec. 128.110  Equipment and systems.

    (a) Except as provided by this part, the design, installation, 
testing, and inspection of materials, machinery, pressure vessels, and 
piping must comply with subchapter F of this chapter.
    (b) This part contains requirements for equipment and systems 
commonly found on an OSV. If additional or unique systems, such as for 
low-temperature cargoes, are to be installed, they too must comply with 
subchapter F of this chapter.


Sec. 128.120  Plan approval.

    The plans required by subchapter F of this chapter need not be 
submitted if the plans required by Sec. 127.110(d) of this subchapter 
have been.


Sec. 128.130  Vital systems.

    (a) Vital systems are those systems that are vital to a vessel's 
survivability and safety. For the purpose of this subchapter, the 
following are vital systems:
    (1) Systems for fill, transfer, and service of fuel oil.
    (2) Fire-main systems.
    (3) Fixed gaseous fire-extinguishing systems.
    (4) Bilge systems.
    (5) Ballast systems.
    (6) Steering systems and steering-control systems.
    (7) Propulsion systems and their necessary auxiliaries and control 
systems.
    (8) Systems for transfer and control of cargo, for integral tanks 
or fixed independent tanks, in compliance with Sec. 125.110 of this 
subchapter.
    (9) Ship's service and emergency electrical-generation systems and 
their auxiliaries vital to the vessel's survivability and safety.
    (10) Any other marine-engineering system identified by the 
cognizant OCMI as crucial to the survival of the vessel or to the 
protection of the personnel aboard.
    (b) For the purpose of this subchapter, a system not identified by 
paragraph (a) of this section is a non-vital system.

Subpart B--Materials and Pressure Design


Sec. 128.210  Class II vital systems--materials.

    Except as provided by Secs. 128.230 and 128.240 of this subpart, 
instead of complying with part 56 of this chapter, materials used in 
Class II vital piping-systems may be accepted by the cognizant OCMI or 
the Commanding Officer, Marine Safety Center, if shown to provide a 
level of safety equivalent to materials in subpart 56.60 of this 
chapter.


Sec. 128.220  Class II non-vital systems--materials and pressure 
design.

    (a) Except as provided by Secs. 128.230, 128.240, and 128.320 of 
this subpart, a Class II non-vital piping-system need not meet the 
requirements for materials and pressure design of subchapter F of this 
chapter.
    (b) Piping for salt-water service must be of a corrosion-resistant 
material and, if ferrous, be hot-dip galvanized or be at least of 
extra-heavy schedule in wall thickness.
    (c) Each Class II non-vital piping-system must be certified by the 
builder as suitable for its intended service. A written certificate to 
this effect must be submitted with the plans required by 
Sec. 127.110(d) of this subchapter.
    (d) The cognizant OCMI will review the particular installation of 
each system for the safety hazards identified in paragraphs (a), 
(b)(1), and (c) through (k) of Sec. 56.50-1 of this chapter, and will 
add requirements as appropriate.


Sec. 128.230  Penetrations of hulls and watertight bulkheads-- 
materials and pressure design.

    (a) Each piping penetration, in each bulkhead required by this 
subchapter to be watertight, must meet the requirements for materials 
and pressure design of subchapter F of this chapter.
    (b) Each overboard discharge and shell connection, up to and 
including required shut-off valves, must meet the requirements for 
materials and pressure design of subchapter F of this chapter.


Sec. 128.240  Hydraulic or pneumatic power and control--materials and 
pressure design.

    (a) Each standard piping component (such as pipe runs, fittings, 
flanges, and standard valves) for hydraulic or pneumatic power and 
control systems must meet the requirements for materials and pressure 
design of Sec. 128.110, 128.210, or 128.220 of this part, as 
appropriate.
    (b) Any non-standard hydraulic or pneumatic component (such as 
control valves, check valves, relief valves, and

[[Page 49332]]

regulators) may be accepted by the cognizant OCMI or the Commanding 
Officer, Marine Safety Center, if the component is certified by the 
manufacturer as suitable for marine service and if--
    (1) The component meets each of the requirements for materials and 
pressure design of subparts 56.60 and 58.30 of this chapter and if its 
service is limited to the manufacturer's rated pressure; or
    (2) The service of the component is limited to \1/2\ the 
manufacturer's recommended maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP) or 
\1/10\ the component's burst pressure. Burst-pressure testing is 
described in ANSI B 31.1, Paragraph 104.7.A, and must be conducted to 
comply with Paragraph A-22, Section I, ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel 
Code. Written certification of results of burst-pressure testing must 
be submitted with the plans required by Sec. 127.110(d) of this 
subchapter.

Subpart C--Main and Auxiliary Machinery


Sec. 128.310  Fuel.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraph (b) of this section, each 
internal-combustion engine installed on an OSV, whether for main 
propulsion or for auxiliaries, must be driven by a fuel having a 
flashpoint of not lower than 43  deg.C (110  deg.F) as determined by 
ASTM D93.
    (b) The use of a fuel with a flashpoint of lower than 43  deg.C 
(110  deg.F) must be specifically approved by the Commandant (G-MSE), 
except in an engine for a gasoline-powered rescue boat.


Sec. 128.320  Exhaust systems.

    No diesel-engine exhaust system need meet the material requirements 
in Sec. 58.10-5(d)(1)(i) of this chapter if the installation is 
certified as required by Sec. 128.220(c) of this part.

Subpart D--Design Requirements for Specific Systems


Sec. 128.410  Ship's service refrigeration systems.

    No self-contained unit either for air-conditioning or for 
refrigerated spaces for ship's stores need comply with Sec. 58.20-5, 
58.20-10, 58.20-15, 58.20-20(a), or 58.20-20(b) of this chapter if--
    (a) The unit uses a fluorocarbon refrigerant allowed by part 147 of 
this chapter;
    (b) The manufacturer certifies that the unit is suitable for its 
intended purpose; and
    (c) Electrical wiring meets the applicable requirements in 
subchapter J of this chapter.


Sec. 128.420  Keel-cooler installations.

    (a) Except as provided by this section, each keel-cooler 
installation must comply with Sec. 56.50-96 of this chapter.
    (b) Approved metallic flexible connections may be located below the 
deepest-load waterline if the system is a closed loop below the 
waterline and if its vent is located above the waterline.
    (c) Fillet welds may be used in the attachment of channels and 
half-round pipe sections to the bottom of the vessel.
    (d) Short lengths of approved non-metallic flexible hose fixed by 
metallic or non-metallic hose-clamps may be used at machinery 
connections if--
    (1) The clamps are of a corrosion-resistant material;
    (2) The clamps do not depend on spring tension for their holding 
power; and
    (3) Two of the clamps are used on each end of the hose, except that 
one clamp may be used on an end expanded or beaded to provide a 
positive stop against hose slippage.
    (4) The clamps are resistant to vibration, high temperature, and 
brittleness.


Sec. 128.430  Grid-cooler installations.

    (a) Each hull penetration for a grid-cooler installation must be 
made through a cofferdam or at a seachest and must be provided with 
isolation valves fitted as close to the sea inlet as possible.
    (b) Each grid cooler must be protected against damage from debris 
and grounding by protective guards or by recessing the cooler into the 
hull.


Sec. 128.440  Bilge systems.

    (a) Except as provided by this section, each bilge system must 
comply with Secs. 56.50-50 and 56.50-55 of this chapter.
    (b) If the steering room, engine room, centerline passageway, 
forward machinery space, and compartment containing the dry-mud tanks 
are the only below-deck spaces that must be fitted with bilge suctions, 
the vessel may be equipped to the standards of Secs. 56.50-50 and 
56.50-57 of this chapter applicable to a dry-cargo vessel of less than 
55 meters (180 feet) in length.


Sec. 128.450  Liquid-mud systems.

    (a) Liquid-mud piping systems may use resiliently seated valves of 
Category A to comply with Secs. 56.20-15 and 56.50-60 of this chapter.
    (b) Tanks for oil-based liquid mud must be fitted with tank vents 
equipped with flame screens. Vents must not discharge to the interior 
of the vessel.

PART 129--ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec.
129.100  General.
129.110  Applicability.
129.120  Alternative standards.

Subpart B--General Requirements

129.200  Design, installation, and maintenance.
129.210  Protection from wet and corrosive environments.
129.220  Basic safety.

Subpart C--Power Sources and Distribution Systems

129.310  Power sources.
129.315  Power sources for OSVs of 100 or more gross tons.
129.320  Generators and motors.
129.323  Multiple generators.
129.326  Dual-voltage generators.
129.330  Distribution panels and switchboards.
129.340  Cable and wiring.
129.350  Batteries--general.
129.353  Battery categories.
129.356  Battery installations.
129.360  Semiconductor-rectifier systems.
129.370  Equipment grounding.
129.375  System grounding.
129.380  Overcurrent protection.
129.390  Shore power.
129.395  Radio installations.

Subpart D--Lighting Systems

129.410  Lighting fixtures.
129.420  Branch circuits for lighting on OSVs of 100 or more gross 
tons.
129.430  Navigational lighting.
129.440  Emergency lighting.
129.450  Portable lighting.

Subpart E--Miscellaneous Electrical Systems

129.510  Lifeboat winches.
129.520  Hazardous areas.
129.530  General alarm.
129.540  Remote stopping-systems on OSVs of 100 or more gross tons.
129.550  Power for cooking and heating.
129.560  Engine-order telegraphs.

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

Subpart A--General Provisions


Sec. 129.100  General.

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


Sec. 129.110  Applicability.

    Except as specifically provided in this part, electrical 
installations on OSVs must comply with subchapter J of this chapter.


Sec. 129.120  Alternative standards.

    (a) An OSV of 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length or less may meet the 
following

[[Page 49333]]

requirements of the American Yacht and Boat Council Projects, where 
applicable, instead of Sec. 129.340 of this part:
    (1) E-1, Bonding of Direct Current Systems.
    (2) E-8, AC Electrical Systems on Boats.
    (3) E-9, DC Electrical Systems on Boats.
    (b) An OSV with an electrical installation operating at a potential 
of less than 50 volts may comply with 33 CFR 183.430 instead of 
Sec. 129.340 of this part.

Subpart B--General Requirements


Sec. 129.200  Design, installation, and maintenance.

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


Sec. 129.210  Protection from wet and corrosive environments.

    (a) Electrical equipment used in the following spaces must be drip-
proof:
    (1) A machinery space.
    (2) A space normally exposed to splashing, water wash-down, or 
other wet conditions within a galley, a laundry, or a public washroom 
or toilet room that has a bath or shower.
    (3) Every other space with similar wet conditions.
    (b) Electrical equipment exposed to the weather must be watertight.
    (c) Electrical equipment exposed to corrosive environments must be 
of suitable construction and must be resistant to corrosion.


Sec. 129.220  Basic safety.

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

Subpart C--Power Sources and Distribution Systems


Sec. 129.310  Power sources.

    (a)(1) Each vessel that relies on electricity to power the 
following loads must be arranged so that the loads can be energized 
from at least two sources of electricity:
    (i) Any system identified as a vital system in Sec. 128.130(a) of 
this subchapter.
    (ii) Interior lights.
    (iii) Communication systems.
    (iv) Navigational equipment and lights.
    (v) Fire-protection equipment.
    (2) A vessel with batteries of enough capacity for 3 hours of 
continuous operation to supply the loads specified in paragraph (a)(1) 
of this section, and with a generator or alternator driven by a 
propulsion engine, complies with paragraph (a)(1) of this section.
    (b) Where a generator driven by a propulsion engine is used as a 
source of electrical power, no speed change, throttle movement, or 
change in direction of the propeller shaft of the vessel may interrupt 
power to any of the loads specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this 
section.


Sec. 129.315  Power sources for OSVs of 100 or more gross tons.

    (a) The requirements of this section apply instead of those in 
subpart 111.10 of this chapter.
    (b) If a generator provides electrical power for any system 
identified as a vital system by Sec. 128.130(a) of this subchapter, at 
least two power-generating sets must be provided. At least one set must 
be independent of the main propulsion plant. A generator not 
independent of the main propulsion plant must comply with Sec. 111.10-
4(d) of this chapter. With any one generating set stopped, the 
remaining set or sets must provide the power necessary for the loads 
required by this section.


Sec. 129.320  Generators and motors.

    (a) Each generator and motor, except a submersible-pump motor, must 
be--
    (1) In an accessible space, adequately ventilated and as dry as 
practicable; and
    (2) Mounted above the bilges to avoid damage by splash and to avoid 
contact with low-lying vapors.
    (b) Each generator and motor must be designed for an ambient 
temperature of 50  deg.C (122  deg.F), except that--
    (1) If the ambient temperature, in the space where a generator or 
motor is, does not exceed 40  deg.C (104  deg.F) under normal operating 
conditions, the generator or motor may be designed for an ambient 
temperature of 40  deg.C (104  deg.F); and
    (2) A generator or motor designed for an ambient temperature of 40 
deg.C (104  deg.F) may be used in a location where the ambient 
temperature is 50  deg.C (122  deg.F), if the generator or motor is 
derated to 80 percent of the full-load rating and if the rating or 
setting of the overcurrent devices of the generator or motor is reduced 
accordingly.
    (c) For each generator rated at 50 volts or more, a voltmeter and 
an ammeter used for measuring voltage and current while the generator 
is in operation must be provided. For each alternating-current 
generator, a means for measuring frequency must also be provided. To 
ensure satisfactory operation of each generator, additional control 
equipment and measuring instruments, if needed, must also be provided.
    (d) Each generator must have a nameplate attached to it 
indicating--
    (1) Name of manufacturer, type of generator, and designation of 
frame;
    (2) Output in kilowatts, or horsepower rating;
    (3) Kind of rating (continuous, overload, or other);
    (4) Amperes at rated load, voltage, and frequency;
    (5) Number of phases, if applicable;
    (6) Type of windings, if DC;
    (7) When intended for connection in a normally grounded 
configuration, the grounding polarity; and
    (8) For a generator derated to comply with paragraph (b)(2) of this 
section, the derated capacity.
    (e) Each motor must have attached to it a nameplate containing the 
information required by Article 430 of NFPA 70.


Sec. 129.323  Multiple generators.

    If an OSV uses two or more generators to supply electricity for the 
ship's service loads, to comply with Sec. 129.310(a) of this subpart, 
the following requirements must be met:
    (a) Each generator must have an independent prime mover.
    (b) The circuit breaker of a generator to be operated in parallel 
with another generator must comply with Secs. 111.12-11(f), 111.30-
19(a), and 111.30-25(d) of this chapter.
    (c) The circuit breaker of a generator not to be operated in 
parallel with another generator must be interlocked to prevent that 
generator from being connected to the switchboard simultaneously with 
another.

[[Page 49334]]

Sec. 129.326  Dual-voltage generators.

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


Sec. 129.330  Distribution panels and switchboards.

    (a) Each distribution panel or switchboard must be in a location as 
dry as practicable, accessible, adequately ventilated, and protected 
from falling debris and dripping or splashing water.
    (b) Each distribution panel or switchboard must be totally enclosed 
and of the dead-front type.
    (c) Each switchboard must have nonconductive handrails.
    (d) Each switchboard or main distribution panel must be fitted with 
a dripshield, unless the switchboard or distribution panel is of a type 
mounted deck-to-overhead and is not subject to falling objects or 
liquids from above.
    (e) Each distribution panel and switchboard accessible from the 
rear must be constructed to prevent a person's accidental contact with 
energized parts.
    (f) Working space must be provided around each main distribution 
panel and switchboard of at least 610 millimeters (24 inches) in front 
of the switchboard and, of at least 460 millimeters (18 inches) from 
the nearest bulkhead, stiffener, or frame behind the switchboard. Rear 
access is prohibited when the working space behind the switchboard is 
less than 460 millimeters (18 inches).
    (g) Nonconductive mats or grating must be provided on the deck in 
front of each switchboard and, if the switchboard is accessible from 
the rear, on the deck behind the switchboard.
    (h) Each uninsulated current-carrying part must be mounted on 
noncombustible, nonabsorbent, high-dielectric insulating material.
    (i) Equipment mounted on a hinged door of an enclosure must be 
constructed or shielded so that no person will come into accidental 
contact with energized parts of the door-mounted equipment when the 
door is open and the circuit energized.
    (j) Bus capacity of switchboards and main distribution panels must 
be sized in accordance with Sec. 111.30-19(a) of this chapter. 
Panelboards must have current rating of not less than the feeder-
circuit capacity.


Sec. 129.340  Cable and wiring.

    (a) If individual wires, rather than cables, are used in systems 
operating at a potential of greater than 50 volts, the wire and 
associated conduit must be run in a protected enclosure. The protected 
enclosure must have drain holes to prevent the buildup of condensation.
    (b) Each cable and wire must--
    (1) Have stranded copper conductors with sufficient current-
carrying capacity for the circuit in which it is used;
    (2) Be installed so as to avoid or reduce interference with radio 
reception and compass indication;
    (3) Be protected from the weather;
    (4) Be supported so as to avoid chafing or other damage;
    (5) Be installed without sharp bends;
    (6) Be protected by metal coverings or other suitable means, if in 
areas subject to mechanical abuse;
    (7) Be suitable for low temperature and high humidity, if installed 
in refrigerated compartments;
    (8) Be located outside a tank, unless it supplies power to 
equipment in the tank; and
    (9) Have sheathing or wire insulation compatible with the fluid in 
a tank, when installed to comply with paragraph (b)(8) of this section.
    (c) Cable and wire in power and lighting circuits must be #14 AWG 
or larger. Cable and wire in control and indicator circuits must be #22 
AWG or larger, or be ribbon cable or similar, smaller, conductor-size 
cable recommended by the equipment manufacturer for use in circuits for 
low-power instrumentation, monitoring, or control.
    (d) Cable and wire for power and lighting circuits must--
    (1) Comply with Section 310-13 of the NEC (NFPA 70), except that no 
asbestos-insulated cable or dry-location cable may be used;
    (2) Be listed by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. as UL Boat or UL 
Marine Shipboard cable; or
    (3) Comply with Sec. 111.60-1 of this chapter for cable, and 
Sec. 111.60-11 of this chapter for wire.
    (e) Cable and wire serving vital systems listed in Sec. 128.130(a) 
of this subchapter or serving emergency loads must be routed as far as 
practicable from areas at high risk for fire, such as galleys, 
laundries, and machinery spaces.
    (f) Cable or wire serving duplicated equipment must be separated so 
that a casualty that affects one cable does not affect the other.
    (g) Each connection to a conductor or a terminal part of a 
conductor must be made within an enclosure and--
    (1) Have a pressure-type connector on each conductor;
    (2) Have a solder lug on each conductor;
    (3) Have a splice made with a pressure-type connector to a flexible 
lead or conductor; or
    (4) Be splice-soldered, brazed, or welded to a flexible lead or 
conductor.
    (h) A connector or lug of the set-screw type must not be used with 
a stranded conductor smaller than No. 14 AWG, unless there is a 
nonrotating follower that travels with the set screw and makes pressure 
contact with the conductor.
    (i) Each pressure-type wire connector and lug must comply with UL 
486A. No wire nuts may be used.
    (j) Each terminal block must have terminal screws 6-32 or larger.
    (k) Each wire connector used in conjunction with screw-type 
terminal blocks must be of the captive type such as the ring or the 
flanged-spade type.
    (l) No cable may be spliced in--
    (1) A hazardous location; or
    (2) Another location, except--
    (i) A cable installed in a subassembly may be spliced to a cable 
installed in another subassembly;
    (ii) For a vessel receiving alterations, a cable may be spliced to 
extend a circuit;
    (iii) A cable of large diameter or exceptional length may be 
spliced to facilitate its installation.
    (iv) A cable may be spliced to replace a damaged section of itself 
if, before replacement of the damaged section, the insulation 
resistance of the remainder of the cable is measured, and the condition 
of the insulation is unimpaired.
    (m) All material in a cable splice must be chemically compatible 
with other material in the splice and with the materials in the cable.
    (n) Ampacities for conductors must comply with Section 310-15 of 
the NEC (NFPA 70), or with IEEE Standard 45, as appropriate.
    (o) Each conductor must be sized so that the voltage drop at the 
load terminals does not exceed 10 percent.
    (p) Each metallic covering of armored cable must--
    (1) Be electrically continuous; and
    (2) Be grounded at each end of the run to the--
    (i) Hull (on a metallic vessel); or
    (ii) Common ground plate (on a nonmetallic vessel); and
    (3) Have final sub-circuits grounded at the supply end only.
    (q) Each portable or temporary electric cord or cable must be 
constructed and

[[Page 49335]]

used in compliance with the requirements of Sec. 111.60-13 of this 
chapter for flexible electric cord or cable.


Sec. 129.350  Batteries--general.

    (a) Wherever a battery is charged, there must be natural or induced 
ventilation to dissipate the gases generated.
    (b) Each battery must be located as high above the bilge as 
practicable within the space the battery is located in and be secured 
to protect against shifting due to roll, pitch, and heave motions or 
vibration of the vessel, and free from exposure to splash or spray of 
water.
    (c) Each battery must be accessible for maintenance and removal.
    (d) Each connection to a battery terminal must be made with a 
permanent connector, rather than with spring clips or other temporary 
clamps.
    (e) Each battery must be mounted in a tray lined with, or 
constructed of, lead or other material resistant to damage by the 
electrolyte.
    (f) Each battery charger must have an ammeter connected in the 
charging circuit.
    (g) Unless the battery is adjacent to its distribution panel or 
switchboard that distributes power to the lighting, motor, and 
appliance circuits, the battery leads must have fuses in series with 
and as close as practicable to the battery.
    (h) Each battery used for starting an engine must be located as 
close as possible to the engine or engines served.


Sec. 129.353  Battery categories.

    This section applies to batteries installed to meet the 
requirements of Sec. 129.310(a) for secondary sources of power to vital 
loads.
    (a) Large. A large battery-installation is one connected to a 
battery charger having an output of more than 2 kW, computed from the 
highest possible charging current and rated voltage of the battery 
installed.
    (b) Small. A small battery-installation is one connected to a 
battery charger having an output of 2 kW or less, computed from the 
highest possible charging current and rated voltage of the battery 
installed.


Sec. 129.356  Battery installations.

    (a) Large. Each large battery-installation must be located in a 
locker, room, or enclosed box dedicated solely to the storage of 
batteries. Ventilation must be provided in accordance with Sec. 111.15-
10 of this chapter. Electrical equipment located within the battery 
enclosure must be approved by an independent laboratory for hazardous 
locations of Class I, Division 1, Group B, and must meet subpart 
111.105 of this chapter.
    (b) Small. Each small battery-installation must be located in a 
well-ventilated space and protected from falling objects. No small 
battery-installation may be in a closet, storeroom, or similar space.


Sec. 129.360  Semiconductor-rectifier systems.

    (a) Each semiconductor-rectifier system must have an adequate heat-
removal system to prevent overheating.
    (b) If a semiconductor-rectifier system is used in a propulsion 
system or in another vital system, it must--
    (1) Have a current-limiting circuit;
    (2) Have external overcurrent protection; and
    (3) Comply with Sections 4/5.84.2 and 4/5.84.4 of the ``Rules for 
Building and Classing Steel Vessels'' of the American Bureau of 
Shipping.


Sec. 129.370  Equipment grounding.

    (a) On a metallic vessel each metallic enclosure and frame of 
electrical equipment must be permanently grounded to the hull. On a 
nonmetallic vessel each enclosure and frame of electrical equipment 
must be bonded to each other and to a common ground by a conductor not 
normally carrying current.
    (b) Each metallic case of instruments must be grounded. So must 
each secondary winding of instrument transformers.
    (c) Each equipment grounding conductor must be sized to comply with 
section 250-95 of NEC (NFPA 70).
    (d) Each nonmetallic mast and topmast must have a lightning-ground 
conductor.


Sec. 129.375  System grounding.

    (a) If a grounded distribution system is provided, there must be 
only one connection to ground, regardless of the number of power 
sources. This connection must be at the main switchboard.
    (b) On each metallic vessel, a grounded distribution system must be 
grounded to the hull. On each nonmetallic vessel, the neutral of a 
grounded system must be connected to a common ground plate, except that 
no aluminum grounding conductors may be used.
    (c) On each nonmetallic vessel with a grounded distribution system, 
the common ground plate must have--
    (1) Only one connection to the main switchboard; and
    (2) The connection to itself readily accessible for checking.
    (d) On each nonmetallic vessel with a ground plate provided for 
radio equipment, the plate must be connected to the common ground 
plate.
    (e) Each insulated grounding-conductor of a cable must be 
identified by one of the following means:
    (1) Wrapping of the cable with green braid or green insulation.
    (2) Stripping of the insulation from the entire exposed length of 
the grounding-conductor.
    (3) Marking of the exposed insulation of the grounding-conductor 
with green tape or green adhesive labels.
    (f) No vessel's hull may carry current as a conductor except for--
    (1) An impressed-current cathodic-protection system; or
    (2) A battery system to start an engine.
    (g) No cable armor may be used to ground electrical equipment or 
systems.
    (h) Each receptacle outlet and attachment plug, for a portable 
lamp, tool, or similar apparatus operating at 100 or more volts, must 
have a grounding-pole and a grounding-conductor in the portable cord.


Sec. 129.380  Overcurrent protection.

    (a) Overcurrent protection must be provided for each ungrounded 
conductor, to open the electric circuit if the current reaches a value 
that causes an excessive or dangerous temperature in the conductor or 
its insulation.
    (b) Each conductor of a control, interlock, or indicator circuit, 
such as a conductor for an instrument, pilot light, ground-detector 
light, or potential transformer, must be protected by an overcurrent 
device.
    (c) Each generator must be protected by an overcurrent device set 
at a value not exceeding 115 percent of the generator's full-load 
rating.
    (d) Circuits of control systems for steering gear must be protected 
against short circuit.
    (e) Each feeder circuit for steering gear must be protected by a 
circuit breaker that complies with Secs. 58.25-55(a) and (b) of this 
chapter.
    (f) Each branch circuit for lighting must be protected against 
overcurrent by either fuses or circuit breakers. Neither the fuses nor 
the circuit breakers may be rated at more than 30 amperes.
    (g) Each conductor must be protected in accordance with its 
current-carrying capacity. If the allowable current-carrying capacity 
does not correspond to a standard size of device, the next larger 
overcurrent device may be used, provided it is less than 150 percent of 
the conductor's current-carrying capacity.
    (h) An overcurrent device must be installed to protect each motor

[[Page 49336]]

conductor and control apparatus against overcurrent due to short 
circuit or ground fault. Each overcurrent device must be capable of 
carrying the starting current of the motor.
    (i) An emergency switch must be provided in each normally 
ungrounded main supply conductor from a battery. The switch must be 
accessible from the battery and located as close as practicable to it.
    (j) No grounded conductor of a circuit may be disconnected by a 
switch or circuit breaker unless the ungrounded conductors are all 
simultaneously disconnected.
    (k) A means of disconnect must be provided on the supply side of 
and adjacent to each fuse, to de-energize the fuse for inspection and 
maintenance.
    (l) A way for locking the means of disconnect open must be provided 
unless the means of disconnect for a fused circuit is within sight of 
the equipment that the circuit supplies.
    (m) Each fuse must be of the cartridge type and be listed by 
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or another independent laboratory 
recognized by the Commandant.
    (n) Each circuit breaker must meet UL 489 and be of the manually-
reset type designed for--
    (1) Inverse delay;
    (2) Instantaneous short-circuit protection; and
    (3) Switching duty if the breaker is used as a switch.
    (o) Each circuit breaker must indicate whether it is open or 
closed.


Sec. 129.390  Shore power.

    Each vessel that has an electrical system operating at more than 50 
volts and has provisions for receiving shore power must meet the 
requirements of this section:
    (a) A shore-power-connection box or receptacle must be permanently 
installed at a convenient location.
    (b) A cable connecting the shore-power-connection box or receptacle 
to the switchboard or main distribution panel must be permanently 
installed.
    (c) A circuit breaker must be provided at the switchboard or main 
distribution panel for the shore-power connection.
    (d) The circuit breaker, required by paragraph (c) of this section, 
must be interlocked with the feeder circuit breakers for the vessel's 
power sources to preclude the vessel's power sources and shore power 
from energizing the vessel's switchboard simultaneously, except in 
cases where system devices permit safe momentary paralleling of OSV 
power with shore power.


Sec. 129.395  Radio installations.

    A separate circuit, with overcurrent protection at the switchboard, 
must be provided for at least one radio installation. Additional 
radios, if installed, may be powered from a local lighting power 
source, such as the pilothouse lighting panel, provided each radio 
power source has a separate overcurrent protection device.

Subpart D--Lighting Systems


Sec. 129.410  Lighting fixtures.

    (a) Each globe, lens, or diffuser of a lighting fixture must have a 
high-strength guard or be made of high-strength material, except in 
accommodations, the pilothouse, the galley, or similar locations where 
the fixture is not subject to damage.
    (b) No lighting fixture may be used as a connection box for a 
circuit other than the branch circuit supplying the fixture.
    (c) Each lighting fixture must be installed as follows:
    (1) Each lighting fixture and lampholder must be fixed. No fixture 
may be supported by the screw shell of a lampholder.
    (2) Each pendant-type lighting fixture must be suspended by and 
supplied through a threaded rigid-conduit stem.
    (3) Each tablelamp, desklamp, floorlamp, or similar equipment must 
be so secured in place that it cannot be displaced by the roll, pitch, 
or heave or by the vibration of the vessel.
    (d) Each lighting fixture in an electrical system operating at more 
than 50 volts must comply with UL 595, ``Marine Type Electric Lighting 
Fixtures.'' A lighting fixture in an accommodation space, radio room, 
galley, or similar interior space may comply with UL 57, ``Electric 
Lighting Fixtures,'' UL 1570, ``Fluorescent Lighting Fixtures,'' UL 
1571, ``Incandescent Lighting Fixtures,'' UL 1572, ``High Intensity 
Discharge Lighting Fixtures,'' UL 1573, ``Stage and Studio Lighting 
Units,'' or UL 1574, ``Track Lighting Systems,'' as long as the general 
marine requirements of UL 595 are satisfied.


Sec. 129.420  Branch circuits for lighting on OSVs of 100 or more gross 
tons.

    On each vessel of 100 or more gross tons, each branch circuit for 
lighting must comply with Sec. 111.75-5 of this chapter, except that--
    (a) Appliance loads, electric-heater loads, and isolated small-
motor loads may be connected to a lighting-distribution panelboard; and
    (b) Branch circuits, other than for lighting, connected to the 
lighting-distribution panelboard permitted by paragraph (a) of this 
section may have fuses or circuit breakers rated at more than 30 
amperes.


Sec. 129.430  Navigational lighting.

    (a) Each vessel of less than 100 gross tons and less than 19.8 
meters (65 feet) in length must have navigational lighting in 
compliance with the applicable navigation rules.
    (b) Each vessel of 100 or more gross tons, or 19.8 meters (65 feet) 
or more in length, must have navigational lighting in compliance with 
the applicable navigation rules and with Sec. 111.75-17(d) of this 
chapter.


Sec. 129.440  Emergency lighting.

    (a) A vessel of less than 100 gross tons must have adequate 
emergency lighting fitted along the line of escape to the main deck 
from accommodations and working (machinery) spaces below the main deck.
    (b) The emergency lighting required by paragraph (a) of this 
section must automatically actuate upon failure of the main lighting. 
Unless a vessel is equipped with a single source of power for emergency 
lighting, it must have individual battery-powered lighting that is--
    (1) Automatically actuated upon loss of normal power;
    (2) Not readily portable;
    (3) Connected to an automatic battery-charger; and
    (4) Of enough capacity for 6 hours of continuous operation.


Sec. 129.450  Portable lighting.

    Each vessel must be equipped with at least two operable, portable, 
battery-powered lights. One of these lights must be located in the 
pilothouse, another at the access to the engine room.

Subpart E--Miscellaneous Electrical Systems


Sec. 129.510  Lifeboat winches.

    Each lifeboat winch operated by electric power must comply with 
subparts 111.95 and be approved under approval series in subparts 
160.015 or 160.115 of this chapter.


Sec. 129.520  Hazardous areas.

    (a) No OSV that carries flammable or combustible liquid with a 
flashpoint of below 140  deg.F (60  deg.C), or carries hazardous 
cargoes on deck or in integral tanks, or is involved in servicing 
wells, may have electrical equipment installed in pump rooms, in hose-
storage spaces, or within 3 meters (10 feet) of a source of vapor on a 
weather deck unless the equipment is explosion-proof or intrinsically 
safe under Sec. 111.105-9 or 111.105-11 of this chapter.

[[Page 49337]]

    (b) No electrical equipment may be installed in any locker used to 
store paint, oil, turpentine, or other flammable liquid unless the 
equipment is explosion-proof or intrinsically safe under Sec. 111.105-9 
or Sec. 111.105-11 of this chapter.
    (c) Equipment that is explosion-proof and intrinsically safe must 
comply with subpart 111.105 of this chapter.


Sec. 129.530  General alarm.

    Each vessel must be fitted with a general alarm that complies with 
subpart 113.25 of this chapter.


Sec. 129.540  Remote stopping-systems on OSVs of 100 or more gross 
tons.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraph (b) of this section, each 
vessel must be fitted with remote stopping-systems that comply with 
subpart 111.103 of this chapter.
    (b) The following remote stopping-systems may substitute for remote 
stopping-systems that must comply with subpart 111.103 of this chapter:
    (1) For each propulsion unit, in the pilothouse.
    (2) For each discharge pump for bilge slop or dirty oil, at the 
deck discharge.
    (3) For each powered ventilation system, outside the space 
ventilated.
    (4) For each fuel-oil pump, outside the space containing the pump.
    (5) For each cargo-transfer pump for combustible and flammable 
liquid, at each transfer-control station.
    (c) Remote stopping-systems required by this section may be 
combined.


Sec. 129.550  Power for cooking and heating.

    (a) Equipment for cooking and heating must be suitable for marine 
use. Equipment designed and installed to comply with ABYC Standards A-3 
and A-7 or Chapter 6 of NFPA 302 meets this requirement.
    (b) The use of gasoline for cooking, heating, or lighting is 
prohibited.
    (c) The use of liquefied petroleum gas for cooking, heating, or 
other purposes must comply with subpart 58.16 of this chapter.
    (d) Each electric space-heater must be provided with a thermal cut-
out to prevent overheating.
    (e) Each element of an electric space-heater must be enclosed, and 
the case or jacket of the element made of a corrosion-resistant 
material.
    (f) Each electrical connection for a cooking appliance must be 
drip-proof.


Sec. 129.560  Engine-order telegraphs.

    No OSV need carry an engine-order telegraph, provided the vessel 
meets the requirements of Sec. 113.35-3(d) of this chapter.

PART 130--VESSEL CONTROL, AND MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS

Subpart A--Vessel Control

Sec.
130.110  Internal communications on OSVs of less than 100 gross 
tons.
130.120  Propulsion control.
130.130  Steering on OSVs of less than 100 gross tons.
130.140  Steering on OSVs of 100 or more gross tons.

Subpart B--Miscellaneous Equipment and Systems

130.210  Radiotelegraph and radiotelephone.
130.220  Design of equipment for cooking and heating.
130.230  Protection from refrigerants.
130.240  Anchors and chains for OSVs of 100 or more gross tons.
130.250  Mooring and towing equipment for OSVs of less than 100 
gross tons.

Subpart C--Navigational Equipment

130.310  Radar.
130.320  Electronic position-fixing device.
130.330  Charts and nautical publications.
130.340  Compass.

Subpart D--Automation of Unattended Machinery Spaces

130.400  Applicability.
130.410  General.
130.420  Controls.
130.430  Pilothouse control.
130.440  Communications system.
130.450  Machinery alarms.
130.460  Placement of machinery alarms.
130.470  Fire alarms.
130.480  Test procedure and operations manual.

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

Subpart A--Vessel Control


Sec. 130.110  Internal communications on OSVs of less than 100 gross 
tons.

    Each vessel of less than 100 gross tons equipped with an 
independent auxiliary means of steering, as required by Sec. 130.130(b) 
of this subpart, must have a fixed means of communication between the 
pilothouse and the place where the auxiliary means of steering is 
controlled.


Sec. 130.120  Propulsion control.

    (a) Each vessel must have--
    (1) A propulsion-control system operable from the pilothouse; and
    (2) A means at each propulsion engine of readily disabling the 
propulsion-control system to permit local operation.
    (b) Each propulsion-control system operable from the pilothouse 
must enable--
    (1) Control of the speed of each propulsion engine;
    (2) Control of the direction of propeller-shaft rotation;
    (3) Control of propeller pitch, if a controllable-pitch propeller 
is fitted; and
    (4) Shutdown of each propulsion engine.
    (c) The propulsion-control system operable from the pilothouse may 
constitute the remote stopping-system required by Sec. 129.540 of this 
subchapter.
    (d) Each propulsion-control system, including one operable from the 
pilothouse, must be designed so that no one complete or partial failure 
of an easily replaceable component of the system allows the propulsion 
engine to overspeed or the pitch of the propeller to increase.


Sec. 130.130  Steering on OSVs of less than 100 gross tons.

    (a) Each OSV of less than 100 gross tons must have a steering 
system that complies with--
    (1) Section 130.140 of this subpart; or
    (2) This section.
    (b) Except as provided by paragraph (i) of this section, each 
vessel must have a main and an independent auxiliary means of steering.
    (c) The main means of steering (main steering gear) must be--
    (1) Of adequate strength for, and capable of, steering the OSV at 
each service speed;
    (2) Designed to operate at maximum astern speed without being 
damaged; and
    (3) Capable of moving the rudder from 35 degrees on one side to 30 
degrees on the other side in no more than 28 seconds with the vessel 
moving ahead at maximum service speed.
    (d) Control of the main steering gear must be available from the 
pilothouse, including control of any necessary ancillary device (motor, 
pump, valve, or the like). If a power-driven main steering gear is 
used, a pilot light must be installed in the pilothouse to indicate 
operation of the power units.
    (e) The auxiliary means of steering (auxiliary steering gear) must 
be--
    (1) Of adequate strength for steering the OSV at navigable speed;
    (2) Capable of steering the vessel at navigable speed; and
    (3) Controlled from a place that--
    (i) Can communicate with the pilothouse; or
    (ii) Enables the master to safely maneuver the vessel.
    (f) The steering gear must be designed so that transfer from the 
main steering gear or its control to the auxiliary steering gear or its 
control can be achieved rapidly. Any tools or equipment necessary for 
transfer must be readily available. Instructions for transfer must be 
posted.

[[Page 49338]]

    (g) Each vessel must have instantaneous protection against short 
circuit for electrical-power circuits and control circuits, the 
protection sized and located to comply with Secs. 58.25-55 (d) and (e) 
of this chapter.
    (h) A rudder-angle indicator independent of the control of the main 
steering gear must be installed at the steering-control station in the 
pilothouse.
    (i) No auxiliary steering gear need be installed if--
    (1) The main steering gear, including power systems, is installed 
in duplicate; or
    (2) Multiple-screw propulsion--with independent control of 
propulsion from the pilothouse for each screw and with a means to 
restrain and center the rudder--is installed, and if that control is 
capable of steering the OSV.
    (j) Each vessel with duplicate (parallel but cross-connected) power 
systems for the main steering gear by way of compliance with paragraph 
(i)(1) of this section may use one of the systems for other purposes 
if--
    (1) Control of the subordinate parallel system is located at the 
steering-control station in the pilothouse;
    (2) Full power is available to the main steering gear when the 
subordinate parallel system is not in operation;
    (3) The subordinate parallel system can be isolated from the means 
of steering, and instructions on procedures for isolating it are 
posted; and
    (4) The subordinate parallel system is materially equivalent to the 
steering system.


Sec. 130.140  Steering on OSVs of 100 or more gross tons.

    (a) Each OSV of 100 or more gross tons must have a means of 
steering that meets the--
    (1) Applicable requirements of subchapters F and J of this chapter; 
or
    (2) Requirements for a hydraulic-helm steering-system in paragraph 
(b) of this section.
    (b) Each hydraulic-helm steering-system must have the following:
    (1) A main steering gear of adequate strength for, and capable of, 
steering the vessel at every service speed without being damaged at 
maximum astern speed.
    (2) A hydraulic system with a maximum allowable working pressure of 
not more than 12,411 kPa (1,800 psi), dedicated to steering.
    (3) Piping materials that comply with subchapter F of this chapter, 
and piping thickness of at least schedule 80.
    (4) Each fore-and-aft run of piping located as far inboard as 
practicable.
    (5) Rudder stops.
    (6) Either--
    (i) Two steering pumps in accordance with Sec. 130.130(c)(3) of 
this part; or
    (ii) A single hydraulic sump of the ``cascading overflow'' type 
with a centerline bulkhead open only at the top, if each half has 
enough capacity to operate the system.
    (7) Control of the main steering gear from the pilothouse, 
including--
    (i) Control from the helm;
    (ii) Control of any necessary ancillary device (motor, pump, valve, 
or the like); and
    (iii) Adequate visibility when going astern.
    (8) Multiple-screw propulsion with independent control of 
propulsion from the pilothouse, complying with Sec. 130.120 of this 
part and being capable of steering the vessel.
    (9) Dual hydraulic cylinders arranged so that either cylinder can 
be readily isolated, permitting the other cylinder to remain in service 
and move each rudder.
    (10) The steering alarms and indicators required by Sec. 58.25-25 
of this chapter, located in the pilothouse.
    (11) Instantaneous protection against short circuit for electrical 
power, and control circuits sized and located as required by 
Secs. 58.25-55 (d) and (e) of this chapter.
    (12) A rudder-angle indicator, at the steering-control station in 
the pilothouse, that is independent of the control of the main steering 
gear.
    (13) Means to locally start and stop the steering pumps.
    (14) Means to isolate any auxiliary means of steering so as not to 
impair the reliability and availability of the control required by 
paragraph (b)(7) of this section.
    (15) Manual capability to center and steady the rudder if the 
vessel loses normal steering power.
    (c) For compliance with paragraph (b) of this section, a common 
piping system for pumps, helm, and cylinders is acceptable.

Subpart B--Miscellaneous Equipment and Systems


Sec. 130.210  Radiotelegraph and radiotelephone.

    Each vessel must comply with 47 CFR part 80 as applicable.


Sec. 130.220  Design of equipment for cooking and heating.

    (a) Doors on each cooking appliance must be provided with heavy-
duty hinges and locking-devices to prevent accidental opening in heavy 
weather.
    (b) Each cooking appliance must be installed so as to prevent its 
movement in heavy weather.
    (c) Each grill or similar cooking appliance must have means to 
collect grease or fat and to prevent its spillage onto wiring or the 
deck.
    (d) On each cooking appliance, grab rails must be installed when 
determined by the cognizant OCMI to be necessary for safety.
    (e) On each cooking appliance, sea rails, with suitable barriers to 
prevent accidental movement of cooking pots, must be installed.
    (f) Each heater must be constructed and installed so as to prevent 
the hanging from it of items such as towels and clothing.


Sec. 130.230  Protection from refrigerants.

    (a) For each refrigeration system that exceeds 0.6 cubic meters (20 
cubic feet) of storage capacity if using ammonia or other hazardous 
gas, or exceeds 28.3 cubic meters (1,000 cubic feet) of storage 
capacity if using a fluorocarbon, as a refrigerant, there must be 
available one pressure-demand, open-circuit, self-contained breathing 
apparatus, approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety 
and Health (NIOSH) and having at a minimum a 30-minute air supply, and 
a full facepiece.
    (b) Each self-contained breathing apparatus must be stowed 
convenient to, but outside, the space containing the refrigeration 
equipment.
    (c) A complete recharge in the form of a spare charge must be 
carried for each self-contained breathing apparatus. The spare charge 
must be stowed with the equipment it is to reactivate.
    (d) The self-contained breathing apparatus in a fireman's outfit, 
if fitted, complies with this section.


Sec. 130.240  Anchors and chains for OSVs of 100 or more gross tons.

    (a) Each OSV of 100 or more gross tons must be fitted with anchors 
and chains meeting the applicable standards set by the ABS for classed 
vessels, including equipment, except as permitted by paragraphs (b) and 
(c) of this section.
    (b) As well as the standards incorporated by paragraph (a) of this 
section, each vessel of under 61 meters (200 feet) in length and with 
an equipment number from the ABS of less than 150 may be equipped with 
either--
    (1) One anchor of the tabular weight and one-half the tabulated 
length of anchor chain listed in the applicable standard; or
    (2) Two anchors of one-half the tabular weight with the total 
length of anchor chain listed in the applicable standard, if both 
anchors are ready for use at any time and if the windlass is capable of 
heaving in either anchor.

[[Page 49339]]

    (c) Standards of classification societies other than the ABS may be 
used, upon approval of the Commandant.


Sec. 130.250  Mooring and towing equipment for OSVs of less than 100 
gross tons.

    Each OSV of less than 100 gross tons must be fitted with mooring 
and towing equipment meeting the applicable requirements for small 
passenger vessels in Sec. 184.300 of this chapter.

Subpart C--Navigational Equipment


Sec. 130.310  Radar.

    Each vessel of 100 or more gross tons must be fitted with a general 
marine radar in the pilothouse.


Sec. 130.320  Electronic position-fixing device.

    Each vessel must be equipped with an electronic position-fixing 
device satisfactory for the area in which the vessel operates.


Sec. 130.330  Charts and nautical publications.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraph (b) or (c) of this section, as 
appropriate for the intended voyage, each vessel must carry adequate 
and up-to-date--
    (1) Charts of large enough scale to make safe navigation possible;
    (2) U.S. Coast Pilot or similar publication;
    (3) Coast Guard Light List;
    (4) Tide Tables published by the National Ocean Service;
    (5) Local Notice or Notices to Mariners; and
    (6) Current Tables published by the National Ocean Service, or a 
river-current publication issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or 
by a river authority, or both.
    (b) Any vessel may carry, instead of the complete publications 
listed in paragraph (a) of this section, extracts from them for areas 
it will transit.
    (c) When operating in foreign waters, a vessel may carry an 
appropriate foreign equivalent of any item required by paragraph (a) of 
this section.


Sec. 130.340  Compass.

    Each vessel must be fitted with a compass suitable for the intended 
service of the vessel. Except aboard a vessel limited to daytime 
operation, the compass must be illuminated.

Subpart D--Automation of Unattended Machinery Spaces


Sec. 130.400  Applicability.

    This subpart applies to each vessel of 100 or more gross tons where 
automated systems either replace specific personnel in the control and 
observation of the propulsion system and machinery spaces or reduce the 
level of crew associated with the vessel's engine department.


Sec. 130.410  General.

    (a) Arrangements must be such that under any operating condition, 
including maneuvering, the safety of the vessel is equivalent to that 
of the same vessel with the machinery spaces fully tended and under 
direct manual supervision.
    (b) Acceptance by the Coast Guard of automated systems to replace 
specific crew members or to reduce overall requirements for crew 
members depends upon the--
    (1) Capabilities of the automated system;
    (2) Combination of crew members, equipment, and systems necessary 
to ensure the safety of the vessel, personnel, and environment in each 
operating condition, including maneuvering; and
    (3) Ability of the crew members to perform each operational 
evolution, including to cope with emergencies such as fire and failure 
of control or monitoring systems.


Sec. 130.420  Controls.

    Each piece of machinery under automatic control must have an 
alternative manual means of control.


Sec. 130.430  Pilothouse control.

    Each OSV must have, at the pilothouse, controls to start a fire 
pump, charge the fire main, and monitor the pressure in the fire main.


Sec. 130.440  Communications system.

    (a) Each OSV must have a communications system to immediately 
summon a crew member to the machinery space wherever one of the alarms 
required by Sec. 130.460 of this subpart is activated.
    (b) The communications system must be either--
    (1) An alarm that--
    (i) Is dedicated for this purpose;
    (ii) Sounds in the crew accommodations and the normally manned 
spaces; and
    (iii) Is operable from the pilothouse; or
    (2) A telephone operated from the pilothouse that reaches the 
master's stateroom, engineer's stateroom, engine room, and crew 
accommodations that either--
    (i) Is a sound-powered telephone; or
    (ii) Gets its power from the emergency switchboard or from an 
independent battery continuously charged by its own charger.


Sec. 130.450  Machinery alarms.

    (a) Each alarm required by Sec. 130.460 of this subpart must be of 
the self-monitoring type that will both show visibly and sound audibly 
upon an opening or break in the sensing circuit.
    (b) The visible alarm must show until it is manually acknowledged 
and the condition is corrected.
    (c) The audible alarm must sound until it is manually silenced.
    (d) No silenced alarm may prevent any other audible alarm from 
sounding.
    (e) Each OSV must be provided with means for testing each visible 
and audible alarm.
    (f) Each OSV must provide battery power for the alarm required by 
Sec. 130.460(a)(8) of this subpart.


Sec. 130.460  Placement of machinery alarms.

    (a) Visible and audible alarms must be installed at the pilothouse 
to indicate the following:
    (1) Loss of power for propulsion control.
    (2) Loss of power to the steering motor or for control of the main 
steering gear.
    (3) Engine-room fire.
    (4) High bilge-level.
    (5) Low lube-oil pressure for each main propulsion engine and each 
prime mover of a generator.
    (6) For each main propulsion engine and each prime mover of a 
generator--
    (i) High lube-oil temperature; and
    (ii) High jacket-water temperature.
    (7) For each reduction gear and each turbocharger with a 
pressurized oil system--
    (i) Low lube-oil pressure; and
    (ii) High lube-oil temperature.
    (8) Loss of normal power for the alarms listed in paragraphs (a)(1) 
through (a)(7) of this section.
    (b) Sensors for the high-bilge-level alarm required by paragraph 
(a)(4) of this section must be installed in--
    (1) Each space below the deepest load waterline that contains 
pumps, motors, or electrical equipment; and
    (2) The compartment that contains the rudder post.
    (c) Centralized displays must be installed in the machinery spaces 
to allow rapid evaluation of each problem detected by the alarms 
required by paragraph (a) of this section. Equipment-mounted gauges or 
meters are acceptable for this purpose, if they are grouped at a 
central site.


Sec. 130.470  Fire alarms.

    (a) Each fire detector and control unit must be of a type 
specifically approved by the Commandant (G-MSE).
    (b) No fire-alarm circuit for the engine room may contain a fire 
detector for any other space.

[[Page 49340]]

    (c) The number and placement of fire detectors must be approved by 
the cognizant OCMI.


Sec. 130.480  Test procedure and operations manual.

    (a) A procedure for tests to be conducted on automated equipment by 
the operator and the Coast Guard must be submitted to comply with 
Sec. 127.110 of this subchapter.
    (b) The procedure for tests must--
    (1) Be in a sequential-checkoff format;
    (2) Include the required alarms, controls, and communications; and
    (3) Set forth details of the tests.
    (c) Details of the tests must specify status of equipment, 
functions necessary to complete the tests, and expected results.
    (d) No tests may simulate conditions by misadjustments, artificial 
signals, or improper wiring.
    (e) A detailed operations manual that describes the operation and 
indicates the location of each system installed to comply with this 
part must be submitted to comply with Sec. 127.110 of this subchapter.

PART 131--OPERATIONS

Subpart A--Notice of Casualty and Records of Voyage

Sec.
131.110  Notice and records.

Subpart B--Markings on Vessels

131.210  Hulls.
131.220  Drafts.
131.230  Loadlines and decklines.

Subpart C--Preparation for Emergencies

131.310  List of crew members and offshore workers.
131.320  Safety orientation for offshore workers.
131.330  Emergency instructions.
131.340  Recommended placard for emergency instructions.
131.350  Station bill.
131.360  Responsibilities of licensed or certificated individuals.

Subpart D--Sufficiency and Supervision of Crew of Survival Craft

131.410  Certificate of proficiency.
131.420  Manning and supervision.

Subpart E--Tests, Drills, and Inspections

131.505  Steering gear, whistle, and means of communication.
131.510  Draft and loadline markings.
131.513  Verification of compliance with applicable stability 
requirements.
131.515  Periodic sanitary inspections.
131.520  Hatches and other openings.
131.525  Emergency lighting and power.
131.530  Abandon-ship training and drills.
131.535  Firefighting training and drills.
131.540  Operational readiness.
131.545  Maintenance in general.
131.550  Maintenance of falls.
131.555  Spare parts and repair equipment.
131.560  Weekly tests and inspections.
131.565  Monthly tests and inspections.
131.570  Quarterly inspections.
131.575  Yearly inspections and repair.
131.580  Servicing of inflatable liferafts, inflatable lifejackets, 
inflatable buoyant apparatus, and inflatable rescue boats.
131.585  Periodic servicing of hydrostatic-release units.
131.590  Firefighting equipment.

Subpart F--Logs

131.610  Logbooks and records.
131.620  Matters that must be logged.
131.630  Entries in official logbooks.

Subpart G--Work Vests

131.710  Approved work vests.
131.720  Use.
131.730  Shipboard stowage.
131.740  Shipboard inspections.

Subpart H--Markings for Fire Equipment and Emergency Equipment

131.800 General.
131.805  General alarm bell, switch.
131.810  General alarm bell.
131.815  Alarm for fixed gaseous fire-extinguishing systems.
131.820  Branch lines of fire-extinguishing system.
131.825  Controls of fire-extinguishing system.
131.830  Fire-hose stations.
131.835  Portable fire extinguishers.
131.840  Emergency lighting.
131.845  Instructions for shift of steering gear.
131.850  Rudder orders.
131.855  Lifeboats and rescue boats.
131.860  Rigid liferafts.
131.865  Inflatable liferafts and inflatable buoyant apparatus.
131.870  Lifefloats and buoyant apparatus.
131.875  Lifejackets, immersion suits, and ring buoys.
131.880  Fire hoses and axes.
131.890  EPIRBs and SARTs.
131.893  Watertight doors and watertight hatches.
131.896  Remote stopping-systems.
131.899  Fire dampers.

Subpart I--Miscellaneous

131.905  Statutory penalties.
131.910  Notices to mariners and aids to navigation.
131.915  Persons allowed in pilothouse and on navigational bridge.
131.920  Level of manning.
131.925  Compliance with provisions of Certificate of Inspection.
131.930  Display of stability letter.
131.935  Prevention of oil pollution.
131.940  Marine sanitation device.
131.945  Display of plans.
131.950  Placard on lifesaving signals and helicopter recovery.
131.955  Display of license.
131.960  Use of auto-pilot.
131.965  Sounding of whistle.
131.970  Unauthorized lighting.
131.975  Searchlights.
131.980  Lookouts and watches.

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); 46 U.S.C. 3306, 6101, 10104; E.O. 
12234, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; E.O. 12777, 3 CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 
351; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--Notice of Casualty and Records of Voyage


Sec. 131.110  Notice and records.

    Each vessel must meet the requirements of part 4 of this chapter 
for reporting marine casualties and retaining voyage records.

Subpart B--Markings on Vessels


Sec. 131.210  Hulls.

    The hull of each vessel must be marked as required by parts 67 and 
69 of this chapter.


Sec. 131.220  Drafts.

    (a) Each vessel must have the drafts of the vessel plainly and 
legibly marked upon the stem and upon the sternpost or rudderpost, or 
at any place at the stern of the vessel that may be necessary for easy 
observance. The bottom of each mark must indicate the draft.
    (b) Each draft must be taken from the bottom of the keel to the 
surface of the water at the location of the marks.
    (c) When, because of raked stem or cutaway skeg, the keel does not 
extend forward or aft to the draft markings, the datum line from which 
the draft is taken must be the line of the bottom of the keel projected 
forward or aft, as the case may be, to where the line meets that of the 
draft markings projected downward.
    (d) When a skeg or other appendage extends below the line of the 
keel, the draft at the end of the vessel adjacent to that appendage 
must be measured to a line tangent to the lowest part of the appendage 
and parallel to the line of the bottom of the keel.
    (e) Drafts must be separated so that the projections of the marks 
onto a vertical plane are of uniform height, equal to the vertical 
spacing between consecutive marks.
    (f) Marks must be painted in a color contrasting with that of the 
hull.
    (g) Where marks are obscured because of operational constraints or 
by protrusions, the vessel must be fitted with a reliable draft-
indicating system from which the drafts at bow and stern can be 
determined.


Sec. 131.230  Loadlines and decklines.

    Each vessel assigned a loadline must have loadline markings and 
deck-line markings permanently scribed or embossed as required by 
subchapter E of this chapter.

[[Page 49341]]

Subpart C--Preparations for Emergencies


Sec. 131.310  List of crew members and offshore workers.

    (a) The master of each vessel shall keep a correct list containing 
the name of each person that embarks upon and disembarks from the 
vessel.
    (b) The list required by paragraph (a) of this section must be 
prepared before the vessel's departure on a voyage, and deposited 
ashore--
    (1) At the facility from which the crew members and offshore 
workers embarked;
    (2) In a well-marked place at the vessel's normal berth; or
    (3) With a representative of the owner or managing operator of the 
vessel.


Sec. 131.320  Safety orientation for offshore workers.

    (a) Before a vessel gets under way on a voyage, the master shall 
ensure that suitable public announcements are made informing each 
offshore worker of--
    (1) In general terms, emergency and evacuation procedures;
    (2) Locations of emergency exits and of embarkation areas for 
survival craft;
    (3) Locations of stowage of lifejackets and immersion suits;
    (4) With demonstration, proper method or methods of donning and 
adjusting lifejackets and immersion suits of the type or types carried 
on the vessel;
    (5) Locations of the instruction placards for lifejackets and other 
lifesaving devices;
    (6) Explanation that each offshore worker shall don an immersion 
suit and a lifejacket when the master determines that hazardous 
conditions do or might exist but that offshore workers may don 
lifejackets whenever they feel it necessary;
    (7) Which hazardous conditions might require the donning of 
lifejackets and immersion suits;
    (8) Types and locations of any other lifesaving device carried on 
the vessel;
    (9) Locations and contents of the ``Emergency Instructions'' 
required by Sec. 131.330;
    (10) Survival craft to which assigned;
    (11) Any hazardous materials on the vessel; and
    (12) Any conditions or circumstances that constitute a risk to 
safety.
    (b) The master of each vessel shall ensure that each offshore 
worker boarding the vessel on a voyage after the initial public 
announcement has been made, as required by paragraph (a) of this 
section, also hears the information in paragraph (a) of this section.


Sec. 131.330  Emergency instructions.

    (a) Except as otherwise provided by this section, the master of 
each vessel shall prepare and post durable emergency-instruction 
placards in conspicuous locations accessible to the crew members and 
offshore workers.
    (b) The instruction placards must contain the recommended 
``Emergency Instructions'' listed in Sec. 131.340 that, in the judgment 
of the cognizant OCMI, apply. The placards must be further designed to 
address the equipment, arrangement, and operation peculiar to each 
vessel.


Sec. 131.340  Recommended placard for emergency instructions.

    The following are the recommended format and content of the placard 
for emergency instructions:
EMERGENCY INSTRUCTIONS
    (a) Rough weather at sea, crossing of hazardous bars, or flooding.
    (1) Close each watertight and weathertight door, hatch, and air-
port to prevent taking water aboard or further flooding in the vessel.
    (2) Keep bilges dry to prevent loss of stability from water in 
bilges. Use power-driven bilge pump, hand pump, and buckets to dewater.
    (3) Align fire pumps to serve as bilge pumps if possible.
    (4) Check, for leakage, each intake and discharge line that 
penetrates the hull.
    (5) Offshore workers remain seated and evenly distributed.
    (6) Offshore workers don immersion suits (if required aboard) or 
lifejackets if the going becomes very rough, if the vessel is about to 
cross a hazardous bar, if flooding begins, or when ordered to by the 
master.
    (7) Never abandon the vessel unless actually forced to, or ordered 
to by the master.
    (8) Prepare survival craft--life floats, (inflatable) rafts, 
(inflatable) buoyant apparatus, and boats--for launching.
    (b) ``Man overboard''. 
    (1) Throw a ring buoy into the water as close to the person 
overboard as possible.
    (2) Post a lookout to keep the person overboard in sight.
    (3) Launch the rescue boat and maneuver it to pick up the person 
overboard, or maneuver the vessel to pick up the person.
    (4) Have a crew member put on an immersion suit or lifejacket, have 
a safety line made fast to the crew member, and have the crew member 
stand by to jump into the water to assist the person overboard if 
necessary.
    (5) If the person overboard is not immediately located--
    (i) Notify other vessels in the vicinity, and the Coast Guard; and
    (ii) Continue searching until released by the Coast Guard.
    (c) Fire.
    (1) Cut off air to the fire: close hatches, ports, doors, manual 
ventilators, and the like and shut off the ventilation system.
    (2) De-energize electrical systems supplying the affected 
compartment.
    (3) Immediately use a portable fire extinguisher aimed at the base 
of the flames. Never use water on electrical fires.
    (4) If the fire is in machinery spaces, shut off the fuel supply 
and ventilation system and activate any fixed extinguishing-system.
    (5) Maneuver the vessel to minimize the effect of wind on the fire.
    (6) If unable to control the fire, notify other vessels in the 
vicinity, and the Coast Guard.
    (7) Move offshore workers away from fire; have them don lifejackets 
and, if necessary, prepare to abandon the vessel.


Sec. 131.350  Station bill.

    (a) The master of each vessel shall post a station bill if the 
vessel's Certificate of Inspection requires more than four crew 
members, including the master.
    (b) The station bill must be posted in the pilothouse and in 
conspicuous places in crew members' and offshore workers' 
accommodations.
    (c) The station bill must set forth the special duties and duty 
stations of each crew member for various emergencies. The duties must, 
as far as possible, be comparable to and compatible with the regular 
work of the member. The duties must include at least the following and 
should comprise any other duties necessary for the proper handling of a 
particular emergency:
    (1) The closing of hatches, air-ports, watertight doors, vents, and 
scuppers, and of intake valves and discharge lines that penetrate the 
hull; the stopping of fans and ventilating systems; and the operating 
of safety equipment.
    (2) The preparing and launching of survival craft and rescue boats.
    (3) The extinguishing of fire.
    (4) The mustering of offshore workers, which includes--
    (i) Assembling them and seeing that they are properly dressed and 
have donned their immersion suits and lifejackets; and
    (ii) Directing them to their appointed stations.

[[Page 49342]]

Sec. 131.360  Responsibilities of licensed or certificated individuals.

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

Subpart D--Sufficiency and Supervision of Crew of Survival Craft


Sec. 131.410  Certificate of proficiency.

    A merchant mariner's document with an endorsement of lifeboatman or 
another inclusive rating under part 12 of this title is evidence of 
training in survival craft and serves as a certificate of proficiency. 
For this subpart, a ``certificated'' person is a person holding a 
merchant mariner's document with such an endorsement.


Sec. 131.420  Manning and supervision.

    (a) There must be enough trained persons aboard each survival craft 
to muster and assist untrained persons.
    (b) Except as permitted by paragraph (c)(2) of this section, there 
must be enough deck officers, able seamen, or other certificated 
persons aboard each survival craft to manage the launching and handling 
of the survival craft.
    (c) One person must be placed in charge of each survival craft to 
be used.
    (1) Except as permitted by paragraph (c)(2) of this section, the 
person in command must be a deck officer, able seaman, or other 
certificated person.
    (2) Considering the nature of the voyage, the number of persons 
permitted aboard, and the characteristics of the vessel, including 
gross tonnage, the cognizant OCMI may permit persons practiced in the 
handling of liferafts to be placed in charge of liferafts instead of 
persons required under paragraph (c)(1) of this section.
    (3) A deck officer, able seaman, or other certificated person shall 
serve as second-in-command for each lifeboat either--
    (i) Carried on a vessel in ocean service; or
    (ii) Permitted to carry more than 40 persons.
    (d) The person in charge and the second-in-command of each survival 
craft shall have a list of crew members and offshore workers assigned 
to the craft and shall see that the crew members are acquainted with 
their duties.
    (e) Each motorized survival craft must have assigned a person 
capable of operating the engine and carrying out minor adjustments.
    (f) The master shall ensure that the persons required under 
paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) of this section are equitably distributed 
among the vessel's survival crafts.

Subpart E--Tests, Drills, and Inspections


Sec. 131.505  Steering gear, whistle, and means of communication.

    (a) On each vessel expected to be away from shore for more than 48 
hours, the master shall examine and test the steering gear, the 
whistle, and the means of communication between the pilothouse and the 
engine room 12 or fewer hours before departure. On every other vessel, 
the master shall do the same at least once a week.
    (b) The date of each test and examination and the condition of the 
equipment must be noted in the vessel's logbook.


Sec. 131.510  Draft and loadline markings.

    (a) The master of each vessel on an ocean or coastwise voyage shall 
enter in the vessel's logbook the drafts of the vessel, forward and 
aft, when leaving port.
    (b) The master of each vessel subject to the requirements of 
subchapter E of this chapter shall, upon departure from port on an 
ocean or coastwise voyage, enter in the vessel's logbook a statement of 
the position of the loadline markings, port and starboard, relative to 
the surface of the water in which the vessel is then floating.
    (c) If the master, when recording drafts, compensates for the 
density of the water in which the vessel is floating, he or she shall 
note this density in the vessel's logbook.


Sec. 131.513  Verification of compliance with applicable stability 
requirements.

    (a) After loading but before departure, and at other times 
necessary to assure the safety of the vessel, the master shall verify 
that the vessel complies with requirements in its trim-and-stability 
book, stability letter, Certificate of Inspection, and Loadline 
Certificate, whichever apply, and then enter a statement of the 
verification in the log book. The vessel may not leave port until it is 
in compliance with these requirements.
    (b) When determining compliance with applicable stability 
requirements, the master shall ascertain the vessel's draft, trim, and 
stability as necessary; and any stability calculations made in support 
of the determination must remain aboard the vessel for the duration of 
the voyage.


Sec. 131.515  Periodic sanitary inspections.

    (a) The master shall make periodic inspections of the quarters, 
toilet and washing spaces, serving pantries, galleys, and the like, to 
ensure that those spaces are maintained in a sanitary condition.
    (b) The master shall enter in the vessel's logbook the results of 
these inspections.


Sec. 131.520  Hatches and other openings.

    Before any vessel leaves protected waters, the master shall ensure 
that the vessel's exposed cargo hatches and other openings in the hull 
are closed; made properly watertight by the use of tarpaulins, gaskets, 
or similar devices; and properly secured for sea.


Sec. 131.525  Emergency lighting and power.

    (a) The master of each vessel shall ensure that the emergency 
lighting and power systems are tested at least once each week that the 
vessel is operated, to verify that they work.
    (b) The master shall ensure that emergency generators driven by 
internal-combustion engines run under load for at least 2 hours at 
least once each month that the vessel is operated.
    (c) The master shall ensure that storage batteries driving fitted 
systems for emergency lighting and power are tested at least once each 
6 months that the vessel is operated, to demonstrate the ability of the 
batteries to supply the emergency loads for the period specified by 
Table 112.05-5(a) of this chapter for cargo vessels.
    (d) The date of each test and the condition and performance of the 
apparatus must be noted in the vessel's logbook.


Sec. 131.530  Abandon-ship training and drills.

    (a) Material for abandon-ship training must be aboard each vessel. 
The material must consist of a manual of one or more volumes, or 
audiovisual training aids, or both.
    (1) The material must contain instructions and information about 
the lifesaving appliances aboard the vessel and about the best methods 
of survival. Any manual must be written in easily understood terms, 
illustrated wherever possible.
    (2) If a manual is used, there must be a copy in each messroom and 
recreation room for crew members or in each stateroom for them. If 
audiovisual aids are used, they must be incorporated in the training 
sessions aboard under paragraph (d) of this section.
    (3) The material must explain the--
    (i) Method of donning immersion suits and lifejackets carried 
aboard;
    (ii) Mustering at assigned stations;
    (iii) Proper boarding, launching, and clearing of survival craft 
and rescue boats;

[[Page 49343]]

    (iv) Method of launching survival craft by people within them;
    (v) Method of releasing survival craft from launching-appliances;
    (vi) Use of devices for protecting survival craft in launching-
areas, where appropriate;
    (vii) Illumination of launching-areas;
    (viii) Use of each item of survival equipment;
    (ix) Instructions for emergency repair of lifesaving appliances;
    (x) Use of radio lifesaving-appliances, with illustrations;
    (xi) Use of sea anchors;
    (xii) Use of engine and accessories, where appropriate;
    (xiii) Recovery of survival craft and rescue boats, including 
stowage and securing;
    (xiv) Hazards of exposure and need for warm clothing;
    (xv) Best use of survival craft for survival; and
    (xvi) Methods of retrieving personnel, including use of helicopter-
mounted rescue gear (slings, baskets, stretchers) and vessel's line-
throwing apparatus.
    (b) An abandon-ship drill must be held on each vessel in alternate 
weeks. If none can be held during the appointed week, because of bad 
weather or other unavoidable constraint, one must be held at the first 
opportunity afterward. If the crew changes more than once in any 2 
weeks, one must be held as soon after the arrival of each crew as 
practicable.
    (1) Any crew member excused from an abandon-ship drill must 
participate in the next one, so that each member participates in at 
least one each month. Unless more than 25 percent of the members have 
participated in one on that particular vessel in the previous month, 
one must be held before the vessel leaves port if reasonable and 
practicable; but, unless the Commandant (G-MOC) accepts alternative 
arrangements as at least equivalent, one must be held not later than 24 
hours after the vessel leaves port in any event.
    (2)(i) On a voyage likely to take more than 24 hours to complete, a 
muster of offshore workers must be held on departure. The master shall 
ensure that each worker is assigned to a survival craft and is directed 
to its location. Each person in charge of such a craft shall maintain a 
list of workers assigned to the craft.
    (ii) On a voyage likely to take 24 hours or less to complete, the 
master shall call the attention of each offshore worker to the 
emergency instructions required by Sec. 131.330.
    (3) Each abandon-ship drill must include--
    (i) Summoning of crew members and offshore workers to survival 
craft with the general alarm;
    (ii) Simulation of an abandon-ship emergency that varies from drill 
to drill;
    (iii) Reporting of crew members and offshore workers to survival 
craft, and preparing for, and demonstrating the duties assigned under 
the procedure described in the station bill for, the particular 
abandon-ship emergency being simulated;
    (iv) Checking to see that crew members and offshore workers are 
suitably dressed;
    (v) Checking to see that immersion suits and lifejackets are 
correctly donned;
    (vi) Lowering of at least one lifeboat (far enough that the davit 
head has completed its travel and the fall wire of the lifeboat has 
begun to pay out) or, if no lifeboats are required, lowering of one 
rescue boat, after any necessary preparation for launching;
    (vii) Starting and operating of the engine of the lifeboat or 
rescue boat; and
    (viii) Operation of davits used for launching liferafts.
    (4) As far as practicable, at successive drills different lifeboats 
must be lowered to meet the requirements of paragraph (b)(3)(vi) of 
this section.
    (5) As far as practicable, each abandon-ship drill must be 
conducted as if there were an actual emergency.
    (6) Each lifeboat must be launched with its assigned crew aboard 
during an abandon-ship drill, and be maneuvered in the water, at least 
once each 3 months that the vessel is operated.
    (7) Each rescue boat must be launched with its assigned crew aboard 
and be maneuvered in the water--
    (i) Once each month that the vessel is operated, if reasonable and 
practicable; but,
    (ii) In any event, at least once each 3 months that the vessel is 
operated.
    (8) If drills for launching lifeboats and rescue boats are carried 
out with the vessel making headway, the drills must, because of the 
danger involved, be practiced only in waters where the drills are safe, 
under the supervision of an officer experienced in such drills.
    (9) At least one abandon-ship drill each 3 months must be held at 
night, unless the master determines it unsafe.
    (10) Emergency lighting for mustering and abandonment must be 
tested at each abandon-ship drill.
    (c) The master of each vessel carrying immersion suits shall ensure 
that--
    (1) Each crew member either--
    (i) Wears an immersion suit in at least one abandon-ship drill a 
month unless it is impracticable because of warm weather; or
    (ii) Participates in at least one immersion-suit drill a month that 
includes donning an immersion suit and being instructed in its use;
    (2) In each abandon-ship drill, each offshore worker aboard is 
instructed in the use of immersion suits; and
    (3) Each offshore worker is told at the beginning of the voyage 
where immersion suits are stowed aboard and is encouraged to read the 
instructions for donning and using the suits.
    (d) Each crew member aboard the vessel must be given training in 
the use of lifesaving appliances and in the duties assigned by the 
station bill.
    (1) Except as provided by paragraph (d)(2) of this section, 
training aboard in the use of the vessel's lifesaving appliances, 
including equipment on survival craft, must be given to each crew 
member as soon as possible but not later than 2 weeks after the member 
joins the vessel.
    (2) If a crew member is on a regularly scheduled rotating 
assignment to a vessel, training aboard in the use of the vessel's 
lifesaving appliances, including equipment on survival craft, must be 
given to the member not later than 2 weeks after the member first joins 
the vessel.
    (3) Each crew member must be instructed in the use of the vessel's 
lifesaving equipment and appliances and in survival at sea during 
alternate weeks, normally in the weeks when abandon-ship drills are not 
held. If individual instructional sessions cover different parts of the 
vessel's lifesaving system, they must cover each part of the vessel's 
lifesaving equipment and appliances each 2 months. Each member must be 
instructed in at least--
    (i) Operation and use of the vessel's inflatable liferafts;
    (ii) Problems of hypothermia, first aid for hypothermia, and other 
appropriate procedures; and
    (iii) Special procedures necessary for use of the vessel's 
lifesaving equipment and appliances in heavy weather.
    (4) Training in the use of davit-launched inflatable liferafts must 
take place at intervals of not more than 4 months on each vessel with 
such liferafts. Whenever practicable this must include the inflation 
and lowering of a liferaft. If this liferaft is a special one intended 
for training only, and is not part of the vessel's lifesaving system, 
it must be conspicuously so marked.
    (e) Dates when musters are held, details of abandon-ship drills, 
drills on other lifesaving equipment and appliances, and training 
aboard must be entered in the vessel's official logbook. Each logbook 
entry must include the following, as applicable:

[[Page 49344]]

    (1) Time and date.
    (2) Length of drill or training session.
    (3) Identification of survival craft used in drills.
    (4) Subject of training session.
    (5) Statement on the condition of the equipment used.
    (6) Unless a full muster, drill, or training session is held at the 
appointed time, the circumstances and the extent of the muster, drill, 
or training session held.


Sec. 131.535  Firefighting training and drills.

    (a) A fire drill must be held on each vessel, normally on alternate 
weeks. It must not be held as part of the abandon-ship drill, nor 
immediately before or after the abandon-ship drill. If none can be held 
on schedule, because of bad weather or other unavoidable constraint, 
one must be held at the next opportunity.
    (b) Any crew member excused from a fire drill must participate in 
the next one, so that each member participates in at least one each 
month. Unless more than 25 percent of the members have participated in 
one on that particular vessel in the previous month, one must be held 
before the vessel leaves port if reasonable and practicable; but, 
unless the Commandant (G-MOC) accepts alternative arrangements as at 
least equivalent, one must be held not later than 24 hours after the 
vessel leaves port in any event.
    (c) Each fire drill must include--
    (1) Summoning of crew members and offshore workers to their 
stations with the general alarm;
    (2) Simulation of a fire emergency that varies from drill to drill;
    (3) Reporting of crew members and offshore workers to stations, and 
preparing for, and demonstrating of the duties assigned under the 
procedure described in the station bill for, the particular fire 
emergency being simulated;
    (4) Starting of fire pumps and use of a sufficient number of 
outlets to determine that the system is working properly;
    (5) Bringing out each breathing apparatus and other item of rescue 
and safety equipment from the emergency-equipment lockers, and 
demonstrating of the use of each item by the person or persons that 
will make use of it;
    (6) Operation of each watertight door;
    (7) Operation of each self-closing fire door;
    (8) Closing of each fire door and each door within the fire 
boundary; and
    (9) Closing of each ventilation closure of each space protected by 
a fixed fire-extinguishing system.
    (d) Each fire drill must, as far as practicable, be conducted as if 
there were an actual emergency.
    (e) The dates when fire drills are held, and details of training in 
fire fighting and of fire drills, must be entered in the vessel's 
official logbook. Each logbook entry must include the following, as 
applicable:
    (1) Time and date.
    (2) Length of drill or training session.
    (3) Number and lengths of hose used.
    (4) Subject of training session.
    (5) Statement on the condition of the equipment used.
    (6) Unless a full drill or training session is held at the 
appointed time, the circumstances and the extent of the drill or 
training session held.


Sec. 131.540  Operational readiness.

    (a) Except as provided by Sec. 131.545(e) of this subpart, ach 
lifesaving appliance and each item of equipment for a lifeboat, 
liferaft, survival craft, rescue boat, life float, or buoyant apparatus 
must be in good working order and ready for immediate use before the 
vessel leaves port and at any time when the vessel is away from port.
    (b) Each deck where a lifeboat, liferaft, survival craft, rescue 
boat, life float, or buoyant apparatus is stowed, launched, or boarded 
must be kept clear of obstructions that would interfere with the 
breaking out, launching, or boarding of the lifesaving appliance.


Sec. 131.545  Maintenance in general.

    (a) For each lifesaving appliance, the manufacturer's instructions 
for maintenance of the appliances aboard must be aboard and must 
include the following:
    (1) Checklists for use in the inspections required by 
Sec. 131.565(a) of this subpart.
    (2) Instructions for maintenance and repair.
    (3) A schedule of periodic maintenance.
    (4) A diagram of lubrication points with the recommended 
lubricants.
    (5) A list of replaceable parts.
    (6) A list of sources of spare parts.
    (7) A log for records of inspections, maintenance, and repair.
    (b) The master shall ensure that maintenance is carried out to 
comply with the instructions required by paragraph (a) of this section.
    (c) For lifesaving appliances constructed on or before July 1, 
1986, paragraph (a) of this section need be complied with only to the 
extent that appliances' manufacturers' instructions are available.
    (d) The cognizant OCMI may accept, instead of the instructions 
required by paragraph (a) of this section, a program for planned 
shipboard maintenance that includes the items listed in that paragraph.
    (e) If lifeboats and rigid liferafts are maintained and repaired on 
the vessel while the vessel is under way, there must be enough 
lifeboats and liferafts available for use on the vessel to accommodate 
each person aboard the vessel.
    (f) Except in an emergency, no extensive repairs or alterations may 
be made to any lifesaving appliance without advance notice to the 
cognizant OCMI. As far as possible, each repair or alteration must be 
made to comply with the requirements for the appliance in subchapter Q 
of this chapter. This OCMI may require each appliance that has been 
extensively repaired or in any way altered to undergo each pertinent 
test in subchapter Q of this chapter.
    (g) The master shall report each emergency repair or alteration to 
a lifesaving appliance, as soon as practicable, either to the OCMI in 
the next port in the United States where the vessel calls or, if the 
vessel does not regularly call at ports in the United States, to the 
OCMI responsible for the next foreign port where the vessel calls.
    (h) No lifeboat or rigid liferaft may be repaired or reconditioned 
for use on a vessel other than the one it was originally built for, 
unless specifically permitted by the cognizant OCMI. The lifeboat or 
rigid liferaft must be so repaired or reconditioned under the 
supervision of this OCMI, unless he or she specifically allows 
otherwise.


Sec. 131.550  Maintenance of falls.

    (a) Each fall used with a launching appliance must be turned end 
for end at intervals of not more than 30 months.
    (b) Each fall used with a launching appliance must be renewed 
either when necessary because of deterioration or after the passage of 
not more than 5 years, whichever occurs earlier.
    (c) Each fall used with a launching appliance must have a 
corrosion-resistant tag permanently marked with--
    (1) The date the new fall was installed; and
    (2) The last date, if any, the fall was turned end for end.


Sec. 131.555  Spare parts and repair equipment.

    Spare parts and repair equipment must be provided for each 
lifesaving appliance and component that either is subject to excessive 
wear or consumption or needs to be replaced regularly. These parts and 
equipment must be kept aboard the OSV, except

[[Page 49345]]

that, if the vessel operates daily out of the same shore base, they may 
be kept at that base.


Sec. 131.560  Weekly tests and inspections.

    The following tests and inspections must be carried out weekly:
    (a) Each lifesaving appliance and launching appliance must be 
visually inspected to ensure that it is ready for use.
    (b) Each engine of a lifeboat or a rescue boat must be run ahead 
and astern for not less than 3 minutes, unless the ambient temperature 
is below the minimal temperature required for starting the engine.
    (c) The general alarm system must be activated.
    (d) Each battery for starting the engine of a lifeboat or a rescue 
boat, or for energizing a searchlight, a fixed installation of a radio 
in a lifeboat, or a portable radio, must be brought up to full charge 
at least once a week if the battery is--
    (1) Of a type that requires recharging; and
    (2) Not connected to a device that keeps it continuously charged.
    (e) The transmitter of each fixed installation of a radio in a 
lifeboat and that of each portable radio must be tried out at least 
once a week with a dummy antenna load.


Sec. 131.565  Monthly tests and inspections.

    (a) Each lifesaving appliance, including lifeboat equipment, must 
be inspected monthly against the checklist required by 
Sec. 131.545(a)(1) of this subpart to ensure that it is aboard and in 
good order. A report of the inspection, including a statement on the 
condition of the appliance, must be entered in the vessel's logbook.
    (b) Each Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) and 
each Search and Rescue Transponder (SART), other than an EPIRB or SART 
in an inflatable liferaft, must be tested monthly. The EPIRB must be 
tested using the integrated test circuit and the output indicator (test 
button) to determine that it works.


Sec. 131.570  Quarterly inspections.

    (a) Each apparatus that controls a lifeboat winch, including motor 
controllers, emergency switches, master switches, and limit switches, 
must be inspected once each 3 months.
    (b) The inspection must involve the removal of drain plugs and the 
opening of drain valves to ensure that enclosures are free of water.
    (c) The date of the inspection required by this section and the 
condition of the equipment must be entered in the vessel's logbook.


Sec. 131.575  Yearly inspections and repair.

    (a) Each lifeboat, rescue boat, rigid liferaft, buoyant apparatus, 
and life float must be stripped, cleaned, and thoroughly inspected and 
repaired as needed at least once a year. This procedure includes 
emptying and cleaning each fuel tank and refilling it with fresh fuel.
    (b) Each davit, winch, fall, and other launching-appliance must be 
thoroughly inspected at least once a year, and repaired as needed.
    (c) Each item of survival equipment with an expiration date must be 
replaced during the annual inspection and repair if this date has 
passed.
    (d) Each battery used in an item of survival equipment and clearly 
marked with an expiration date must be replaced during the annual 
inspection and repair if this date has passed.
    (e) Except a storage battery used in a lifeboat or in a rescue 
boat, each battery used in an item of survival equipment and not 
clearly marked with an expiration date must be replaced during the 
annual inspection and repair.
    (f) Compliance with the requirements of this section does not 
relieve the master or person in charge of the duty of compliance with 
requirements in Sec. 131.540(a) of this subpart to keep the equipment 
ready for immediate use when the vessel is under way.


Sec. 131.580  Servicing of inflatable liferafts, inflatable 
lifejackets, inflatable buoyant apparatus, and inflated rescue boats.

    (a) Except for an inflatable liferaft or an inflatable buoyant 
apparatus less than two years of age, each inflatable liferaft, 
inflatable lifejacket, inflatable buoyant apparatus, and hybrid 
inflatable lifejacket or work vest must be serviced within 12 months 
of--
    (1) Its initial packing; and
    (2) Each subsequent servicing, except when a servicing due after 12 
months is delayed not more than 5 months until the next scheduled 
inspection of the OSV.
    (b) Each inflatable liferaft and inflatable buoyant apparatus must 
be serviced--
    (1) Whenever the container of the raft is damaged, or the straps or 
seal broken; and
    (2) In compliance with subpart 160.151 of this chapter.
    (c) Each inflatable lifejacket must be serviced in compliance with 
subpart 160.176 of this chapter.
    (d) Each hybrid inflatable lifejacket or work vest must be serviced 
in accordance with the manual provided under Sec. 160.077-29 of this 
chapter.
    (e) Repair and maintenance of inflatable rescue boats must follow 
the manufacturers' instructions. Each repair, except an emergency 
repair made aboard the vessel, must be made at a servicing facility 
approved by the Commandant (G-MSE).


Sec. 131.585  Periodic servicing of hydrostatic-release units.

    (a) Except a disposable hydrostatic-release unit with an expiration 
date, each hydrostatic-release unit must be serviced--
    (1) Within 12 months of its manufacture and within 12 months of 
each subsequent servicing, except when a servicing due after 12 months 
is delayed not more than 5 months until the next scheduled inspection 
of the vessel; and
    (2) In compliance with subpart 160.062 of this chapter.
    (b) The springs of each spring-tensioned gripe used with a 
hydrostatic-release unit must be renewed when the unit is serviced and 
tested.


Sec. 131.590  Firefighting equipment.

    (a) The master shall ensure that the vessel's required firefighting 
equipment is on board in the prescribed location and always ready for 
use, other than when the equipment is being serviced.
    (b) The master shall, at least once each 12 months, nsure the 
performance of the tests and inspections of each portable fire 
extinguisher, semiportable fire extinguisher, and fixed fire-
extinguishing system aboard described by Table 132.350 of this 
subchapter.
    (c) The master shall keep records of these tests and inspections, 
showing the dates of their performance, the number or other 
identification of each unit undergoing them, and the name of the person 
or company conducting them. The records must be made available to the 
marine inspector upon request and must be kept for the period of 
validity of the vessel's current Certificate of Inspection.
    (d) The conducting of tests and inspections required by this 
section does not relieve the master of his or her responsibility to 
maintain the prescribed firefighting equipment in working order for use 
at any time when the vessel is under way.

Subpart F--Logs


Sec. 131.610  Logbooks and records.

    (a) Each OSV must by statute, or by regulations in this subchapter, 
have certain logbooks or records. The master shall make all entries 
required by statute, or by regulations in this subchapter.
    (b) 46 U.S.C. 11301 states that a vessel of the United States, 
except one on a voyage from a port in the United States

[[Page 49346]]

to a port in Canada, shall have an official logbook if the vessel is--
    (1) On a voyage from a port in the United States to a foreign port; 
or
    (2) Of at least 100 gross tons and on a voyage between a port in 
the United States on the Atlantic Ocean and one on the Pacific Ocean.
    (c) The Coast Guard gratuitously furnishes to masters of vessels of 
the United States the official logbook as Form CG-706B or CG-706C, 
depending upon the number of persons employed as crew. The first 
several pages of this logbook list various acts of Congress governing 
logbooks and the entries required in them.
    (d) When a voyage is completed, or after a specified time has 
elapsed, the master shall file the official logbook containing required 
entries with the OCMI at or nearest the port where the vessel may be.
    (e) Unless an official logbook is required, the owner, operator, or 
master shall supply an alternative log or record for making entries 
required by law, including regulations in this subchapter. This log or 
record need not be filed with this OCMI, but must be kept available for 
review by a marine inspector for a year after the date that the latest 
entry concerns.


Sec. 131.620  Matters that must be logged.

    The following matters must be entered in each vessel's logbook:
    (a) Safety Orientation for Offshore Workers. As held. See 
Sec. 131.320.
    (b) Tests and inspection of Steering Gear, Whistle, and Means of 
Communication. Before departure. See Sec. 131.505.
    (c) Draft and Loadline Markings. Before leaving port. Ocean and 
coastwise voyages only. See Sec. 131.510.
    (d) Verification of Compliance with Applicable Stability 
Requirements. See Sec. 131.513.
    (e) Periodic Sanitary Inspections. After periodic sanitary 
inspections made by the master. See Sec. 131.515.
    (f) Hatches and Other Openings. Each opening and closing, or 
departure from port without closing (except by vessels on protected 
waters). See Sec. 131.520.
    (g) Tests of Emergency Lighting and Power. Weekly, monthly, and 
twice-yearly. See Sec. 131.525.
    (h) Abandon-Ship Training and Drills, and Firefighting Training and 
Drills. As held. See Secs. 131.530 and 131.535.
    (i) Inspection of Lifeboat Winches. Once each 3 months. See 
Sec. 131.570.


Sec. 131.630  Entries in official logbooks.

    On each vessel required to have an Official Logbook, the items 
required by 46 U.S.C. 11301, as well as the items required by 
Sec. 131.620, must be entered in the logbook.

Subpart G--Work Vests


Sec. 131.710  Approved work vests.

    Each buoyant work vest carried aboard must be approved under 
subpart 160.053 of this chapter or, as a commercial hybrid personal 
flotation device, under subpart 160.077 of this chapter.


Sec. 131.720  Use.

    (a) An approved buoyant work vest is an item of safety apparel and 
may be carried aboard for wear by a crew member when working near or 
over the water.
    (b) The vest may not count towards the vessel's complement of 
lifejackets.
    (c) The vest may not be worn instead of a lifejacket during a 
drill.


Sec. 131.730  Shipboard stowage.

    The master shall ensure that no work vest is stowed where any 
lifejacket is stowed.


Sec. 131.740  Shipboard inspections.

    Each buoyant work vest must be subject to examination by a marine 
inspector, to determine its serviceability. If found serviceable, it 
may continue in service; but no buoyant work vest is stamped as 
inspected. If not found serviceable, and if determined irreparable by 
the inspector, a buoyant work vest must be destroyed in the presence of 
the inspector.

Subpart H--Markings for Fire Equipment and Emergency Equipment


Sec. 131.800  General.

    (a) This section prescribes markings necessary for the guidance of 
persons aboard in case of an emergency. The markings may be modified or 
omitted if they are unnecessary, because either the vessel is small or 
particular circumstances warrant, and if the cognizant OCMI approves.
    (b) Each stateroom notice, directional sign, and the like must be 
printed in English and in other languages appropriate to the service of 
the vessel.
    (c) Where this subpart specifies red letters, letters of a 
contrasting color on a red background are acceptable.


Sec. 131.805  General alarm bell, switch.

    The switch in the pilothouse that activates the general alarm bell 
must be clearly and permanently identified either by letters on a metal 
plate or with a sign in red letters on a suitable background that state 
the following: ``GENERAL ALARM.''


Sec. 131.810  General alarm bell.

    Each general alarm bell must be identified by red letters at least 
13 millimeters (\1/2\-inch) high that state the following: ``GENERAL 
ALARM--WHEN BELL RINGS GO TO YOUR STATION.''


Sec. 131.815  Alarm for fixed gaseous fire-extinguishing system.

    Each alarm for a fixed gaseous fire-extinguishing system must be 
conspicuously identified, using the following statement: ``WHEN ALARM 
SOUNDS, LEAVE AT ONCE: [CARBON DIOXIDE] [HALON] BEING RELEASED.''


Sec. 131.820  Branch lines of fire-extinguishing system.

    The valves of each branch line in the fire extinguishing system 
must be plainly and permanently marked, indicating the spaces served.


Sec. 131.825  Controls of fire-extinguishing system.

    Each control cabinet or space containing a valve or manifold for a 
fire extinguishing system must be distinctly marked in conspicuous red 
letters at least 50 millimeters (2 inches) high that state the 
following: ``FIRE APPARATUS FOR [CARBON DIOXIDE] [HALON]''.


Sec. 131.830  Fire hose stations.

    Each fire station must be identified in red letters and figures at 
least 50 millimeters (2 inches) high that state the following: ``FIRE 
STATION #1,'' ``* * * 2,'' ``* * * 3,'' and so on. Where the hose is 
not so stowed in the open or behind glass as to be readily seen, this 
identification must be so placed as to be readily seen from a distance.


Sec. 131.835  Portable fire extinguishers.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraph (b) of this section, ach 
portable fire extinguisher must be marked with a number, and the site 
of its stowage must be marked with a corresponding number at least 13 
millimeters (\1/2\-inch) high.
    (b) If only one type and size of portable fire extinguisher is 
carried, the number may be omitted.


Sec. 131.840  Emergency lighting.

    Emergency lighting must be marked with a letter ``E'' at least 13 
millimeters (\1/2\-inch) high.


Sec. 131.845  Instructions for shift of steering gear.

    (a) Instructions, including diagrams, for a shift of steering gear 
and for a shift to the alternative steering stations must be on water-
resistant material and posted at each steering station and in the 
steering-engine room, relating, in order, the different steps to take 
in either shift.

[[Page 49347]]

    (b) The instructions must indicate each clutch or pin to be ``in'' 
or ``out'' and each valve or switch to be ``open'' or ``closed'' in a 
shift to any means of steering for which the vessel is equipped.
    (c) The instructions must specify that each steering wheel or 
lever, and each rudder, must be amidships before any shift of steering 
gear or steering stations.
    (d) Each clutch, gear, wheel, lever, valve, or switch used during 
any shift of steering gear or steering stations must be numbered or 
lettered on a metal plate or painted so that the numbers or letters are 
recognizable at a reasonable distance.


Sec. 131.850  Rudder orders.

    At each steering station there must be installed a suitable notice 
on the wheel or lever, or in some other place directly in the 
helmsman's line of sight, to indicate the direction in which to turn 
the wheel or lever for ``right rudder'' and for ``left rudder.''


Sec. 131.855  Lifeboats and rescue boats.

    (a) The following must be plainly marked or painted on each side of 
the bow of each lifeboat and rescue boat in block capital letters and 
numbers:
    (1) The name of the vessel.
    (2) The number of the boat. (The boats on each side of the vessel 
must be numbered from forward to aft. If there are boats on both sides 
of the vessel, the odd numbers must be on the starboard side.)
    (3) For each vessel in ocean service, the name of the port whose 
marking on the stern is required by Sec. 67.123 of this chapter.
    (b) The following must be plainly marked or painted on each side of 
the bow of each lifeboat and rescue boat in block capital letters and 
numbers:
    (1) The length and beam of the boat.
    (2) The number of persons the boat will hold. This number must--
    (i) Be the number of persons the boat is equipped for; and
    (ii) Not be greater than the number of persons the boat is approved 
for, as shown on its nameplate.
    (c) The following must be plainly marked or painted on each 
lifeboat and rescue boat, visible from above the boat:
    (1) The number of the boat.
    (2) The name of the vessel.
    (d) Each lifeboat and rescue boat must be marked with Type II 
retro-reflective material approved under subpart 164.018 of this 
chapter. The arrangement of the retro-reflective material must comply 
with IMO Resolution A.658(16).


Sec. 131.860  Rigid liferafts.

    (a) The following must be plainly marked or painted, near one 
entrance of each rigid liferaft:
    (1) The name of the vessel.
    (2) For each vessel in ocean service, the name of the port whose 
marking on the stern is required by Sec. 67.123 of this chapter.
    (b) The length of the painter must be plainly marked or painted, 
near one entrance of each rigid liferaft.
    (c) The number of persons the rigid liferaft is approved for must 
be plainly marked or painted, over each entrance to each raft, in 
letters and numbers at least 102 millimeters (4 inches) high and in a 
color contrasting to that of the raft. This number must--
    (1) Be the number of persons the rigid liferaft is equipped for; 
and
    (2) Not be greater than the number of persons the rigid liferaft is 
approved for, as shown on its nameplate.
    (d) The rigid liferaft must be marked with the words ``SOLAS A 
pack'' or ``SOLAS B pack'', to reflect the pack inside.


Sec. 131.865  Inflatable liferafts and inflatable buoyant apparatus.

    The number of the inflatable liferaft or inflatable buoyant 
apparatus and the number of persons it is approved for must be marked 
or painted, in a conspicuous place in the immediate vicinity of each 
raft and each apparatus, in letters and numbers at least 38 millimeters 
(1-\1/2\ inches) high and in a color contrasting to that of the raft or 
apparatus. Each raft or apparatus stowed on the side of a vessel must 
be numbered like a liferaft in compliance with Sec. 199.178 (c) and (d) 
of this chapter. No letters or numbers may go on the liferaft or on the 
container of the apparatus.


Sec. 131.870  Life floats and buoyant apparatus.

    (a) The name of the vessel must be plainly marked or painted on 
each life float or buoyant apparatus, and on each oar and paddle.
    (b) The number of persons each life float or buoyant apparatus is 
approved for must be plainly marked or painted on each float or 
apparatus in letters and numbers at least 38 millimeters (1-\1/2\ 
inches) high and in a color contrasting to that of the float or 
apparatus. This number must--
    (1) Be the number of persons the float or apparatus is equipped 
for; and
    (2) Not be greater than the number of persons the float or 
apparatus is approved for, as shown on its nameplate.


Sec. 131.875  Lifejackets, immersion suits, and ring buoys.

    (a) Each lifejacket, immersion suit, and ring life buoy must be 
marked in block capital letters with the vessel's name.
    (b) Each container for lifejackets and immersion suits must be 
marked in letters and numbers at least 50 millimeters (2 inches) high 
with the number, identity, or IMO symbol specified by IMO Resolution 
A.760(18), and size of the items stowed inside.
    (c) Each ring buoy on a vessel in ocean service must be marked in 
block capital letters with the name of the port whose marking on the 
stern of the vessel is required by Sec. 67.123 of this chapter.
    (d) Each stowage site for a ring buoy must be marked ``LIFE BUOY'' 
or marked with the IMO symbol.
    (e) Each lifejacket must be marked with Type I retro-reflective 
material approved under subpart 164.018 of this chapter. The 
arrangement of the retro-reflective material must comply with IMO 
Resolution A.658(16).
    (f) Each ring life buoy must be marked with Type I or II retro-
reflective material approved under subpart 164.018 of this chapter. The 
arrangement of the retro-reflective material must comply with IMO 
Resolution A.658(16).


Sec. 131.880  Fire hoses and axes.

    Each fire hose and axe must be marked with the vessel's name.


Sec. 131.890  EPIRBs and SARTs.

    The name of the vessel must be plainly marked or painted on each 
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) and on each Search 
and Rescue Transponder (SART), except on an EPIRB or SART--
    (a) In an inflatable liferaft; or
    (b) Permanently installed in a survival craft.


Sec. 131.893  Watertight doors and watertight hatches.

    Each watertight door in a bulkhead that must be watertight in 
compliance with the requirements in part 174 of this chapter, and each 
watertight hatch, must be marked on both sides in letters at least 50 
millimeters (2 inches) high that state the following: ``WATERTIGHT 
DOOR--KEEP CLOSED EXCEPT FOR PASSAGE'' or ``WATERTIGHT HATCH--KEEP 
CLOSED WHEN NOT IN USE''.


Sec. 131.896  Remote stopping-systems.

    The remote stopping-systems required by Sec. 129.540 of this 
subchapter must be clearly marked to show what system each controls.

[[Page 49348]]

Sec. 131.899  Fire dampers.

    Each fire damper installed within the boundary of a space protected 
by a fixed fire extinguishing system must be fitted with an indicator 
showing whether the damper is open or closed and must be marked with 
red letters at least 13 millimeters (\1/2\-inch) high stating ``FIRE 
DAMPER'' and, as otherwise appropriate, identifying the space served by 
the fire damper.

Subpart I--Miscellaneous


Sec. 131.905  Statutory penalties.

    (a) The marine-safety statutes and other statutes impose criminal 
and civil penalties for violating the applicable provisions of this 
subchapter. Possible sanctions include:
    (1) Assessment and collection of civil monetary penalty.
    (2) Criminal prosecution, where no loss of life results.
    (3) Criminal prosecution for manslaughter, where loss of life 
results from violating marine-safety statutes or regulations or from 
misconduct, negligence, or inattention to duty.
    (4) Libel against vessel.
    (b) 46 U.S.C. Chapter 77 allows, in addition to the foregoing, the 
suspension or revocation of licenses, certificates, or documents issued 
by the Coast Guard, for incompetence, misconduct, or negligence or for 
violating marine-safety statutes or regulations.


Sec. 131.910  Notices to mariners and aids to navigation.

    Each master and mate shall acquaint himself or herself with the 
latest information published by the Coast Guard and the U.S. Navy 
regarding aids to navigation in the area in which the vessel operates.


Sec. 131.915  Persons allowed in pilothouse and on navigational bridge.

    No person may be in the pilothouse while the vessel is under way, 
unless connected with the navigation of the vessel or authorized for 
good cause by the master or mate on watch.


Sec. 131.920  Level of manning.

    Each vessel must carry the personnel required by the Certificate of 
Inspection, as determined by the cognizant OCMI, based on an evaluation 
under part 15 of this chapter.


Sec. 131.925  Compliance with provisions of Certificate of Inspection.

    The master of the vessel shall ensure compliance with each 
provision of the Certificate of Inspection. Nothing in this subchapter 
prevents the master's diverting the vessel from the route prescribed in 
the Certificate, or taking other steps necessary and prudent to assist 
vessels in distress or to handle similar emergencies.


Sec. 131.930  Display of stability letter.

    If the Coast Guard issues a stability letter under Sec. 170.120 of 
this chapter, the letter must be readily available to the person on 
watch in the pilothouse of the vessel.


Sec. 131.935  Prevention of oil pollution.

    Each vessel must be operated in compliance with--
    (a) Section 311 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as 
amended (33 U.S.C. 1321); and
    (b) 33 CFR parts 151, 155, and 156.


Sec. 131.940  Marine sanitation device.

    Each vessel with installed toilet facilities must have a marine 
sanitation device in compliance with 33 CFR part 159.


Sec. 131.945  Display of plans.

    Each vessel must have a permanently exhibited, for the guidance of 
the master and crew members, general arrangement plans showing, for 
each deck, the various fire-retardant bulkheads together with 
particulars of the--
    (a) Fire-detection systems;
    (b) Manual-alarm systems;
    (c) Fire-extinguishing systems;
    (d) Fire doors;
    (e) Means of ingress to the different compartments; and
    (f) Ventilating-systems, including the--
    (1) Positions of the dampers;
    (2) Site of the remote means of stopping the fans; and
    (3) Identification of the fans serving each section.


Sec. 131.950  Placard on lifesaving signals and helicopter recovery.

    (a) Each vessel must have readily available to the person on watch 
in the pilothouse a placard (Form CG-811) containing instructions--
    (1) For the use of lifesaving signals set forth in Regulation 16, 
Chapter V, of SOLAS 74/83; and
    (2) In helicopter recovery.
    (b) The signals must be employed by vessels or persons in
    distress when communicating with lifesaving stations and maritime 
rescue units.


Sec. 131.955  Display of license.

    Each master and licensed officer on an vessel shall conspicuously 
display his or her license in compliance with 46 U.S.C. 7110.


Sec. 131.960  Use of auto-pilot.

    When the automatic pilot is used in areas of high traffic density, 
conditions of restricted visibility, or any other hazardous 
navigational situations, the master shall ensure that--
    (a) It is possible to immediately establish manual control of the 
vessel's steering;
    (b) A competent person is ready at all times to take over steering 
control; and
    (c) The changeover from automatic to manual control of the vessel's 
steering and the reverse is made by, or under the supervision of, the 
master or officer of the watch.


Sec. 131.965  Sounding of whistle.

    No vessel may sound its whistle within any harbor limits of the 
United States unless it needs to.


Sec. 131.970  Unauthorized lighting.

    No master of a vessel may authorize or permit the vessel's carrying 
of any lighting not required by law that will interfere in any way with 
any other vessel's ability to distinguish the vessel's navigation 
lighting.


Sec. 131.975  Searchlights.

    No person may flash, or cause to be flashed, the rays of a 
searchlight or other blinding light onto the bridge or into the 
pilothouse of any vessel, OSV or other, under way.


Sec. 131.980  Lookouts and watches.

    Nothing in this part exonerates any master or officer of the watch 
from the consequences of any neglect to keep a proper lookout or to 
maintain a proper fire watch, or of any neglect of any precaution that 
may be required by the ordinary practice of seamen, by general 
prudence, or by the special circumstances of the case. Each master 
shall set added watches when necessary to guard against fire or other 
danger and to give an alarm in case of accident or disaster.

PART 132--FIRE-PROTECTION EQUIPMENT

Subpart A--Fire Main

Sec.
132.100  General.
132.110  Piping.
132.120  Fire pumps.
132.130  Fire stations.

Subpart B--Portable and Semiportable Fire Extinguishers

132.210  Classification.
132.220  Installation.
132.230  Spare charges.
132.240  Stowage of semiportable fire extinguishers.

[[Page 49349]]

Subpart C--Miscellaneous

132.310  Fixed fire-extinguishing systems for paint lockers.
132.320  Helicopter-landing decks.
132.330  Fire monitors.
132.340  Equipment installed although not required.
132.350  Tests and inspections of fire-extinguishing equipment.
132.360  Fire axes.
132.370  Added requirements for fixed independent and portable 
tanks.

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

Subpart A--Fire Main


Sec. 132.100  General.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, 
each vessel must be equipped with a fire main that complies with this 
subpart.
    (b) Each vessel of less than 100 gross tons and not more than 19.8 
meters (65 feet) in length may have, instead of a fire main that 
complies with this subpart, a hand-operated pump and a hose capable of 
providing an effective stream of water to each part of the vessel.
    (c) A garden hose of nominal inside diameter of at least 16 
millimeters (5/8-inch) complies with paragraph (b) of this section if 
the hose is--
    (1) Of good commercial grade and is constructed of an inner rubber 
tube, plies of braided-fabric reinforcement, and an outer cover made of 
rubber or equivalent fire-resistant material; and
    (2) Fitted with a commercial garden-hose nozzle of high-grade 
bronze or equivalent metal capable of providing a solid stream and a 
spray pattern.


Sec. 132.110  Piping.

    (a) Except as provided for liftboats by Sec. 134.180 of this 
subchapter, each fitting, flange, valve, and run of piping must meet 
the applicable requirements of part 128 of this subchapter. Piping must 
be--
    (1) Hot-dip galvanized;
    (2) At least extra-heavy schedule; or
    (3) Of a suitable corrosion-resistant material.
    (b) Each distribution cut-off valve must be marked in compliance 
with Sec. 131.820 of this subchapter.


Sec. 132.120  Fire pumps.

    (a) Except as provided by Sec. 132.100(b) of this subpart, each 
vessel must be equipped with one self-priming power-driven fire pump 
capable of delivering a single stream of water from the highest 
hydrant, through the hose and nozzle at a Pitot-tube pressure of at 
least 345 kPa (50 psi [pounds per square inch]).
    (b) Each fire pump must be fitted on the discharge side with a 
pressure gauge.
    (c) Each fire pump must be fitted on the discharge side with a 
relief valve set to relieve at either 172 kPa (25 psi) in excess of the 
pressure necessary to maintain the requirements of paragraph (a) of 
this section or 862 kPa (125 psi), whichever is greater. The relief 
valve is optional if the pump is not capable of developing pressure 
exceeding the greater amount.
    (d) If two propulsion engines are installed, the pump required by 
paragraph (a) of this section may be driven by one of the engines. If 
only one propulsion engine is installed, the pump must be driven by a 
source of power independent of the engine.
    (e) If two fire pumps are installed, and if one pump remains 
available for service on the fire main at any time, the other pump may 
be used for other purposes.
    (f) Each fire pump must be capable of providing the quantity of 
water required to comply with paragraph (a) of this section while 
meeting any other demands placed on it, as by a branch line connected 
to the fire main for washing the anchor or the deck.
    (g) No branch line may be directly connected to the fire main 
except for fighting fires or for washing the anchor or the deck. Each 
discharge line for any other purpose must be clearly marked and must 
lead from a discharge manifold near the fire pump.
    (h) When a fire monitor is connected to the fire main system, it 
must lead from a discharge manifold near the fire pump.
    (i) The total cross-sectional area of piping leading from a fire 
pump may not be less than that of the pump-discharge outlet.
    (j) In no case may a pump connected to a line for flammable or 
combustible liquid be used as a fire pump.
    (k) A fire pump must be capable of both manual operation at the 
pump and, if a remote operating station is fitted, operation at that 
station.


Sec. 132.130  Fire stations.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraph (b) of this section, ire 
stations must be so numerous and so placed that each part of the vessel 
accessible to persons aboard while the vessel is being operated, and 
each cargo hold, are reachable by at least two effective spray patterns 
of water. At least two such patterns must come from separate hydrants. 
At least one must come from a single length of hose.
    (b) Each part of the main machinery space, including the shaft 
alley if it contains space assigned for the stowage of combustibles, 
must be reachable by at least two streams of water. Each stream must 
come from a single length of hose, from a separate fire station.
    (c) Each fire station must be numbered in compliance with 
Sec. 131.830 of this subchapter.
    (d) Each part of the fire main on a weather deck must be either 
protected against freezing or fitted with cut-out valves and drain 
valves so that exposed parts of the piping may be shut off and drained 
in freezing weather. Except when closed against freezing, the cut-out 
valves must be sealed open.
    (e) Each outlet at a fire hydrant must be at least 38 millimeters 
(1\1/2\ inch) in diameter and, to minimize the possibility of kinking, 
must be fitted so that no hose leads upward from it.
    (f) Each fire station must be equipped with a spanner suitable for 
use on the hose there.
    (g) Each fire station must have at least one length of fire hose. 
Each hose on the station must have a fire nozzle approved under subpart 
162.027 of this chapter that can discharge both solid stream and water 
spray.
    (h) Each pipe and fire hydrant must be placed so that the fire hose 
may be easily coupled to them. Each station must be readily accessible. 
No deck cargo may interfere with access to the stations; each pipe must 
run as far away from this cargo as practicable, to avoid risk of damage 
by the cargo.
    (i) Each fire hydrant or ``Y'' branch must be equipped with a valve 
such that the fire hose may be removed while there is pressure on the 
fire main.
    (j) Each fire hydrant connection must be of brass, bronze, or 
equivalent metal. The threads of fire hose couplings must be of brass 
or other suitable corrosion-resistant material and comply with NFPA 
1963.
    (k) Each fire hydrant must have a fire hose 15.2 meters (50 feet) 
in length, with a minimum diameter of 38 millimeters (1\1/2\ inches), 
connected to an outlet, for use at any time.
    (l) No fire hose, when part of the fire equipment, may be used for 
any purpose except fire-fighting, fire drills, and testing.
    (m) A suitable hose rack or other device must be provided for each 
fire hose. Each rack on a weather deck must be placed so as to protect 
its hose from heavy weather.
    (n) Each section of fire hose must be lined commercial fire hose, 
or lined fire hose that meets Standard 19 of Underwriters Laboratories, 
Inc. (UL). Hose that bears the UL label as lined fire hose complies 
with this section.

[[Page 49350]]

Subpart B--Portable and Semiportable Fire Extinguishers


Sec. 132.210  Classification.

    (a) Each portable fire extinguisher and semiportable fire 
extinguisher is classified by a symbol combining letter and number. The 
letter indicates the type of fire that the unit should extinguish; the 
number indicates the relative size of the unit.
    (b) The types of fire are the following:
    (1) ``A''--fires in ordinary combustible materials, where the 
quenching and cooling effect of quantities of either water or solutions 
containing large percentages of water is essential.
    (2) ``B''--fires in flammable liquids, greases, and the like, where 
the blanketing effect of a smothering-agent is essential.
    (3) ``C''--fires in electrical equipment, where the use of 
nonconducting extinguishing-agent is essential.
    (c) The sizes of units run from ``I'' for the smallest to ``V'' for 
the largest. Sizes I and II are portable fire extinguishers; sizes III, 
IV, and V, which exceed 25 kilograms (55 pounds) in gross weight, are 
semiportable fire extinguishers and must be fitted with suitable hose 
and nozzle or other practicable means to cover any part of the space 
involved. Typical portable and semiportable fire extinguishers are set 
forth by Table 132.210 of this section.

                                                                      Table 132.210                                                                     
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       Classification                        Halon 1211, 1301, and                                                                      
------------------------------------------------------------   1211-1301 mixtures        Foam, liters       Carbon dioxide, kgs.    Dry chemicals, kgs. 
                Type                          Size                kgs. (lbs.)             (gallons)                (lbs.)                 (lbs.)        
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A..................................  II....................  .....................  9.46 (2\1/2\)........  .....................  ......................
B..................................  I.....................  1.13 (2\1/2\)........  .....................  1.8 (4)..............  0.91 (2)              
B..................................  II....................  4.5 (10).............  9.46 (2\1/2\)........  6.8 (15).............  4.5 (10)              
B..................................  III...................  .....................  45.4 (12)............  15.9 (35)............  9 (20)                
B..................................  IV....................  .....................  75.7 (20)............  22.6 (50)............  13.6 (30)             
B..................................  V.....................  .....................  151.4 (40)...........  453 (100)............  22.6 (50)             
C..................................  I.....................  1.13 (2\1/2\)........  .....................  1.8 (4)..............  .91 (2)               
C..................................  II....................  4.5 (10).............  .....................  6.8 (15).............  4.5 (10)              
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (d) Each portable fire extinguisher and semiportable fire 
extinguisher must have permanently attached an identification plate 
that gives the name of the extinguishing-agent, the capacity of the 
agent in liters (gallons) or kilograms (pounds), the classification of 
the extinguisher expressed by letter or letters indicating the type or 
types of fire for which it is intended, and the identifying mark of the 
manufacturer.


Sec. 132.220  Installation.

    (a) Each portable fire extinguisher approved under subpart 162.028 
of this chapter and each semiportable fire extinguisher approved under 
subpart 162.039 of this chapter must be installed in compliance with 
Table 132.220 of this section. The placement of each extinguisher must 
satisfy the cognizant OCMI, who may also deem added extinguishers 
necessary for the proper protection of the vessel.

                    Table 132.220.--Carriage of Portable and Semiportable Fire Extinguishers                    
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                             Classification (see Sec.                                           
                  Space                              132.210)                     Number and placement          
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                                
Safety areas: Communicating passageways    A-II.......................  1. In each main passageway, not more    
                                                                         than 45.7 meters (150 feet) apart      
                                                                         (permissible in stairways).            
Pilothouse...............................  C-I........................  2. In vicinity of exit.                 
Service spaces: Galleys..................  B-II or C-11...............  1. For each 230 square meters (2,500    
                                                                         feet\2\) or fraction thereof, suitable 
                                                                         for hazards involved.                  
Paint lockers............................  B-II.......................  1. Outside space, in vicinity of exit.  
Accessible baggage and storerooms........  A-II.......................  1. For each 230 square meters (2,500    
                                                                         feet\2\) or fraction thereof, located  
                                                                         in vicinity of exits, either inside or 
                                                                         outside spaces.                        
Work shops and similar spaces............  A-II.......................  1. Outside space in vicinity of exit.   
Machinery spaces: Internal-combustion      B-II.......................  1. For each 1,000 brake horsepower, but 
 propulsion-machinery.                                                   not fewer than 2 nor more than 6.      
                                           B-III......................  1. Required. (\1\), (\2\)               
Electric propulsion motors or generators   C-II.......................  1. For each propulsion motor or         
 of open type.                                                           generator unit.                        
Auxiliary spaces: Internal combustion....  B-II.......................  1. Outside space in vicinity of exit.   
                                                                         (\2\)                                  
Electric motors and emergency generators.  C-II.......................  1. Outside space in vicinity of exit.   
                                                                         (\2\)                                  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(\1\) Not required where a fixed gaseous fire-extinguishing system is installed.                                
(\2\) Not required on vessels of less than 300 gross tons.                                                      

    (b) Each semiportable fire extinguisher must be mounted or 
otherwise placed in the open so as to be readily visible.
    (c) Except as provided by paragraph (d) of this section, each 
portable fire extinguisher must be mounted or otherwise placed in the 
open or behind glass so as to be readily visible.
    (d) A portable fire extinguisher may be mounted or otherwise placed 
in an enclosure together with the fire hose, if the enclosure is marked 
in compliance with Sec. 131.830 of this subchapter.
    (e) Each portable fire extinguisher and its station must be 
numbered to comply with Sec. 131.835 of this subchapter.
    (f) No portable or semiportable fire extinguisher with a nameplate 
indicating that it needs protection from freezing may be mounted or 
otherwise

[[Page 49351]]

placed where freezing temperatures are foreseeable.


Sec. 132.230  Spare charges.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraph (b) or (c) of this section, 
each vessel must carry spare charges for 50 percent of the portable 
fire extinguishers required by Sec. 132.220 of this subpart.
    (b) Rather than comply with paragraph (a) of this section, a vessel 
may carry one extra portable extinguisher of the same classification.
    (c) If extinguishers of a particular classification cannot be 
readily recharged by crew members, a vessel must-- rather than comply 
with paragraph (a) of this section--carry one more extinguisher of that 
classification.
    (d) Each spare charge must be packaged so as to minimize the 
hazards to personnel recharging the extinguishers.


Sec. 132.240  Stowage of semiportable fire extinguishers.

    The frame or support of each semiportable fire extinguisher of size 
III, IV, or V must be secured to prevent the extinguisher from shifting 
in heavy weather.

Subpart C--Miscellaneous


Sec. 132.310  Fixed fire-extinguishing systems for paint lockers.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraph (b) of this section, a fixed 
gaseous fire-extinguishing system or another approved fixed fire-
extinguishing system must be installed in each paint locker.
    (b) No fixed fire-extinguishing system need be installed in a paint 
locker that is--
    (1) Less than 1.7 cubic meters (60 cubic feet) in volume;
    (2) Accessible only from the weather deck; and
    (3) Not adjacent to a tank for flammable or combustible liquid.
    (c) Each fixed fire-extinguishing system installed must comply with 
part 95 of this chapter or be approved by the Commanding Officer, 
Marine Safety Center.


Sec. 132.320  Helicopter-landing decks.

    Each vessel with a helicopter-landing deck must meet the fire 
fighting requirements of part 108 of this chapter.


Sec. 132.330  Fire monitors.

    (a) Each fire monitor of the fire main system must be fitted with a 
shut-off valve at the monitor and at the connection to the fire main 
discharge manifold required by Sec. 132.120(h) of this part.
    (b) Fire monitor piping must comply with Sec. 132.110 of this part.
    (c) Each fire monitor must be protected against over-pressure.


Sec. 132.340  Equipment installed although not required.

    A vessel may install equipment for detection of and protection 
against fires beyond that required by this subchapter, unless the 
excess equipment in any way endangers the vessel or the persons aboard. 
This equipment must be listed and labeled by a nationally recognized 
testing laboratory.


Sec. 132.350  Tests and inspections of fire-extinguishing equipment.

    (a) Each master of a vessel shall ensure that the tests and 
inspections, of fire-extinguishing equipment, described by paragraph 
(b) of this section are performed--
    (1) Every 12 months; or
    (2) Not later than the next inspection for certification, unless 
the total time from the date of the last tests and inspections exceeds 
15 months.
    (b) The master shall provide satisfactory evidence of the servicing 
of fire-extinguishing equipment, required by paragraph (c) of this 
section, to the marine inspector. If any of the equipment or records 
have not been properly maintained, a qualified servicing facility may 
be required to perform the required inspections, maintenance, and 
hydrostatic tests.
    (c) The following tests and inspections of fire-extinguishing 
equipment must be performed by the owner, operator, or master, or by a 
qualified servicing facility, to verify compliance with paragraph (a) 
of this section:
    (1) Each portable fire extinguisher must be inspected, maintained, 
and hydrostatically tested as required by Chapter 4 of NFPA 10 with the 
frequency specified by NFPA 10. Carbon-dioxide and halon portable fire 
extinguishers must be refilled when the weight loss of net content 
exceeds that specified for fixed systems by Table 132.350. Further, 
each must be examined for excessive corrosion and for general 
condition. A tag issued by a qualified servicing facility, and attached 
to each extinguisher, will be acceptable evidence that the necessary 
maintenance has been conducted.
    (2) Each semiportable fire extinguisher and each fixed fire-
extinguishing system must be--
    (i) Inspected and tested as required by Table 132.350 of this 
subpart;
    (ii) Inspected, tested, and marked as required by Secs. 147.60 and 
147.65 of this chapter;
    (iii) Inspected to ensure that piping, controls, and valves are in 
good general condition with no excessive corrosion; and
    (iv) Inspected and tested to determine that alarms and ventilation 
shutdowns for each fire-extinguishing system operate properly.

                   Table 132.350.--Tests of Semiportable and Fixed Fire-Extinguishing Systems                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Type of system                                                Test                         
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carbon dioxide.........................................  Weigh cylinders. Recharge if weight loss exceeds 10% of
                                                          weight of charge. Test time delays, alarms, and       
                                                          ventilation shutdowns with carbon dioxide, nitrogen,  
                                                          or other nonflammable gas as stated in the            
                                                          manufacturer's instruction manual. Inspect hoses and  
                                                          nozzles to be sure they are clean.                    
Halon..................................................  Weigh cylinders. Recharge if weight loss exceeds 5% of 
                                                          weight of charge. If the system has a pressure gauge, 
                                                          also recharge if pressure loss (adjusted for          
                                                          temperature) exceeds 10%. Test time delays, alarms,   
                                                          and ventilation shutdowns with carbon dioxide,        
                                                          nitrogen, or other nonflammable gas as stated in the  
                                                          manufacturer's instruction manual. Inspect hoses and  
                                                          nozzles to be sure they are clean.                    
Dry chemical (cartridge-operated)......................  Examine pressure cartridge and replace if end is       
                                                          punctured or if cartridge has leaked or is in         
                                                          unsuitable condition. Inspect hose and nozzle to see  
                                                          that they are clear. Insert charged cartridge. Ensure 
                                                          that dry chemical is free-flowing (not caked) and that
                                                          extinguisher contains full charge.                    
Dry chemical (stored pressure).........................  See that pressure gauge is in opera ting range. If not,
                                                          or if seal is broken, weigh or otherwise determine    
                                                          that extinguisher is fully charged with dry chemical. 
                                                          Recharge if pressure is low or if dry chemical is     
                                                          needed.                                               
Foam (stored pressure).................................  See that pressure gauge, if there is one, is in        
                                                          operating range. If it is not, or if seal is broken,  
                                                          weigh or otherwise determine that extinguisher is     
                                                          fully charged with foam. Recharge if pressure is low  
                                                          or if foam is needed. Replace premixed agent every 3  
                                                          years.                                                
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 49352]]

    (3) The fire-main system must be operated, and the pressure checked 
at the remotest and highest outlets. Each fire hose must be subjected 
to a test pressure, equivalent either to the maximal pressure to which 
it may be subjected in service or to 690 kPa (100 psi), whichever is 
greater.
    (4) All systems for detecting smoke and fire, including sensors and 
alarms, must be inspected and tested.


Sec. 132.360  Fire axes.

    (a) Each vessel of less than 100 gross tons must carry one fire 
axe.
    (b) Each vessel of 100 or more gross tons must carry two fire axes.
    (c) Each fire axe must be so placed as to be readily available in 
an emergency.
    (d) Each fire axe must be so placed in the open or behind glass 
that it is readily visible, except that, if the enclosure is marked in 
compliance with Sec. 131.830 of this subchapter, the axe may be placed 
in an enclosure together with the fire hose.


Sec. 132.370  Added requirements for fixed independent and portable 
tanks.

    (a) When carrying fixed independent tanks on deck or portable tanks 
in compliance with Sec. 125.110 of this subchapter, each vessel must 
also comply with Secs. 98.30-37 and 98.30-39 of this chapter.
    (b) When carrying portable tanks in compliance with Sec. 125.120 of 
this subchapter, each vessel must also comply with 49 CFR 176.315.

PART 134--ADDED PROVISIONS FOR LIFTBOATS

Sec.
134.100  Applicability.
134.110  Initial inspection.
134.120  Inspection for certification.
134.130  New construction.
134.140  Structural standards.
134.150  Liftboat-jacking systems.
134.160  Freeboard markings.
134.170  Operating manual.
134.180  Piping for fire-main suction.

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


Sec. 134.100  Applicability.

    This part, as well as parts 125 through 133 of this subchapter, 
applies to each liftboat of United States flag to which this subchapter 
applies.


Sec. 134.110  Initial inspection.

    Liftboat jacking systems, liftboat legs, liftboat leg pads, and 
arrangements for supply of water to fire mains, as well as the items 
listed by Sec. 126.340 of this subchapter, will normally be inspected 
during the initial inspection to determine whether the liftboat was 
built in compliance with developed plans and meets applicable 
regulations.


Sec. 134.120  Inspection for certification.

    Liftboat jacking systems, liftboat legs, liftboat leg pads, and 
arrangements for supply of water to fire mains, as well as the items 
listed by Sec. 126.430 of this subchapter, will normally be inspected 
during an inspection for certification to determine whether the 
liftboat is in satisfactory condition and fit for the service intended.


Sec. 134.130  New construction.

    Each applicant for an original Certificate of Inspection and for 
approval of plans must submit, as well as three copies of those 
required by Sec. 127.110 of this subchapter, three copies of the 
following plans:
    (a) Operating Manual for Liftboats.
    (b) Legs, details of supporting structure, and structural 
calculations.


Sec. 134.140  Structural standards.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraph (b) of this section, each 
liftboat must comply with the ABS's ``Rules for Building and Classing 
Mobile Offshore Drilling Units'', assuming a steady wind speed of 100 
knots for liftboats in unrestricted service, and 70 knots for liftboats 
in restricted service under normal operating conditions and 100 knots 
under severe storm conditions, as follows:
    (1) The main hull structure, legs, and supporting structure must 
comply with Section 3/4.3 of the Rules.
    (2) The calculations required by Section 3/4.3 of the Rules must 
assume the vessel to be in the most adverse loading conditions 
described by Sections 3/2.1 and 3/4.1 of the Rules.
    (3) Unless otherwise agreed upon by the Commandant (G-MSE), the 
calculations on column-buckling required by Section 3/4.3 of the Rules, 
must employ an effective-length factor, ``K'', of not less than 2.0.
    (4) The calculations on single-rack jacking systems required by 
Sections 3/2.1 and 3/4.1 of the Rules must include an extra bending 
moment caused by the most adverse eccentric loading of the legs.
    (b) Standards of classification societies other than the ABS, and 
other established standards acceptable to the Commandant (G-MSE), may 
be used.
    (c) Upon submittal of the plans required by Secs. 127.110 and 
133.130 of this subchapter, the standard used in the design must be 
specified.
    (d) If no established standard is used in the design, etailed 
design calculations must be submitted with the plans required by 
Secs. 127.110 and 133.130 of this subchapter.


Sec. 134.150  Liftboat-jacking systems.

    (a) For this subchapter, liftboat jacking systems are vital systems 
and must comply with Sections 4/1.13.1 through 4/1.13.3 of the ABS's 
``Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units'' as 
well as meet the applicable requirements of part 128 of this 
subchapter.
    (b) Each control system for a liftboat jacking system must be 
designed so that loss of power, loss of pressure in the hydraulic 
system, or low hydraulic-fluid level will activate a visible and 
audible alarm at the operating station and will not result in the 
liftboat's uncontrolled descent.


Sec. 134.160  Freeboard markings.

    Freeboard markings required by Sec. 174.260 of this subchapter must 
be both permanently scribed or embossed and painted white or yellow on 
a dark background.


Sec. 134.170  Operating manual.

    (a) Each liftboat must have aboard an operating manual approved by 
the Coast Guard as complying with this section.
    (b) The operating manual must be available to, and written so as to 
be easily understood by, the crew members of the liftboat and must 
include the following:
    (1) A table of contents and general index.
    (2) A general description of the vessel, including--
    (i) Major dimensions;
    (ii) Tonnages; and
    (iii) Load capacities for--
    (A) Various cargoes;
    (B) Crane hook; and
    (C) Helicopter-landing deck.
    (3) Designed limits for each mode of operation, including--
    (i) Draft;
    (ii) Air gap;
    (iii) Wave height;
    (iv) Wave period;
    (v) Wind;
    (vi) Current;
    (vii) Temperatures; and
    (viii) Other environmental factors.
    (4) The heaviest loads allowable on deck.
    (5) Information on the use of any special cross-flooding fittings 
and on the location of valves that may require closure to prevent 
progressive flooding.
    (6) Guidance on preparing the vessel for heavy weather and on what 
to do when heavy weather is forecast, including when critical decisions 
or acts--such as leaving the area and heading for a harbor of safe 
refuge, or evacuating the vessel--should be accomplished.
    (7) Guidance on operating the vessel while changing mode and while

[[Page 49353]]

preparing the vessel to make a move, and information on how to avoid 
structural damage from shifting loads during heavy weather.
    (8) Information on inherent operational limitations for each mode 
and on changing modes, including preloading instructions.
    (9) Guidance on the proper procedures for discovering the flooding 
of a normally buoyant leg or leg pad, precautionary information 
concerning the effects on stability of flooded legs, and what to do 
upon discovering the flooding of a normally buoyant leg or leg pad.
    (10) A description, a diagram, operating guidance for the bilge 
system, and an alternative method of dewatering.
    (11) A general arrangement diagram showing the locations of--
    (i) Watertight and weathertight compartments;
    (ii) Openings in the hull and structure;
    (iii) Vents and closures;
    (iv) Shutdowns for mechanical and electrical emergencies, and for 
emergencies affecting ventilation;
    (v) Alarms for flooding and for too-high and too-low levels;
    (vi) Fire and gas detectors; and
    (vii) Access to different compartments and decks.
    (12) A list of shutdown locations for emergencies and guidance on 
restarting mechanical and electrical equipment and equipment for 
ventilation after shutdowns.
    (13) A diagram of the hazardous locations (if applicable).
    (14) A diagram of the emergency-power system.
    (15) Stability information setting forth the maximum allowable 
height of the center of gravity in relation to draft data, 
displacement, and other applicable parameters unique to the design of 
the unit to determine compliance with the intact and damage stability 
criteria, under Secs. 174.250 and 174.255 of this chapter.
    (16) Curves of form as required under Sec. 170.075(a)(3) of this 
chapter.


Sec. 134.180  Piping for fire-main suction.

    (a) Except as provided by paragraph (b) of this section, suction 
lines must comply with Sec. 132.110 of this subchapter.
    (b) Suction lines that extend below the main deck outside the hull 
plating and that supply the fire pump with the liftboat in the elevated 
mode must be metallic, unless they comply with Sec. 56.60-25(c) of this 
chapter for vital fresh-water and salt-water service, except that they 
may be of unlimited length.

PART 170--STABILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL INSPECTED VESSELS

    8. The authority citation for part 170 continues to read as 
follows:

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

    9. In Sec. 170.055, revise paragraph (g) to read as follows:


Sec. 170.055  Definitions concerning a vessel.

* * * * *
    (g) Downflooding angle means, except as specified by 
Secs. 171.055(f), 172.090(d), 173.095(e), 174.015(b), and 174.035(b)(2) 
of this chapter, the static angle from the intersection of the vessel's 
centerline and waterline in calm water to the first opening that cannot 
be closed watertight and through which downflooding can occur.
* * * * *

PART 174--SPECIAL RULES PERTAINING TO VESSELS OF SPECIFIC TYPES

    10. The authority citation for part 174 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 9118, 9119, 9153; 43 U.S.C. 1333; 46 U.S.C. 
3306, 3703; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; 49 
CFR 1.46.

    11. In Sec. 174.005, redesignate paragraphs (g) and (h) as 
paragraphs (f) and (g), respectively, to read as follows:


Sec. 174.005  Applicability.

* * * * *
    (f) Offshore supply vessel inspected under subchapter L of this 
chapter.
    (g) Liftboat inspected under subchapter L of this chapter.
    12. Revise subpart G of part 174 to read as follows:

Subpart G--Special Rules Pertaining to Offshore Supply Vessels

Sec.
174.180  Applicability.
174.185  Intact stability.
174.190  Collision bulkheads.
174.195  Bulkheads in machinery spaces.
174.200  Damaged stability in machinery spaces for all OSVs.
174.205  Additional damaged stability for OSVs carrying more than 16 
offshore workers.
174.207  Damaged stability criteria.
174.210  Watertight doors in watertight bulkheads.
174.215  Drainage of weather deck.
174.220  Hatches and coamings.
174.225  Hull penetrations and shell connections.


Sec. 174.180  Applicability.

    Each offshore supply vessel (OSV), except a liftboat inspected 
under subchapter L of this chapter, must comply with this subpart.


Sec. 174.185  Intact stability.

    (a) Each OSV must be shown by design calculations to meet, under 
each condition of loading and operation, the minimal requirements for 
metacentric height (GM) in Sec. 170.170 of this chapter, and in either 
Sec. 170.173 of this chapter or paragraphs (b) through (e) of this 
section.
    (b) The area under each righting arm curve must be at least 0.08 
meter-radians (15 foot-degrees) up to the smallest of the following 
angles:
    (1) The angle of maximum righting arm;
    (2) The downflooding angle; or
    (3) 40 degrees.
    (c) The downflooding angle must not be less than 20 degrees.
    (d) The righting arm curve must be positive to at least 40 degrees.
    (e) The freeboard at the stern must be equal to the freeboard 
calculated to comply with subchapter E of this chapter or to the value 
taken from Table 174.185, whichever is less.
    (f) For paragraphs (b) and (d) of this section, at each angle of 
heel an OSV's righting arm may be calculated considering either--
    (1) The vessel is permitted to trim free until the trimming moment 
is zero; or
    (2) The vessel does not trim as it heels.
    (g) For the purpose of paragraphs (b) and (d) of this section, the 
method of calculating righting arms chosen must be the same for all 
calculations.

             Table 174.185.--Minimal Freeboard at the Stern             
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Freeboard 
                                                             at stern in
                    LBP in meters (feet)                     millimeters
                                                               (inches) 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less than 20 (65)..........................................     300 (12)
20 (65) but less than 30 (100).............................     380 (15)
30 (100) but less than 40 (130)............................     400 (18)
40 (130) but less than 50 (155)............................     500 (20)
50 (155) but less than 60 (190)............................     560 (22)
60 (190) but less than 70 (230)............................     610 (24)
70 (230) and greater.......................................     660 (26)
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sec. 174.190  Collision bulkhead.

    (a) Each OSV must have a collision bulkhead in compliance with 
Secs. 171.085(c)(1), (d), (e)(2), and (f) of this chapter.
    (b) Penetration of the collision bulkhead by piping must be 
minimal, and, where fitted, piping must meet the requirements of 
Secs. 56.50-1(b)(1) and (c) and 128.230 of this chapter.

[[Page 49354]]

Sec. 174.195  Bulkheads in machinery spaces.

    (a) The bulkhead in each machinery space of each OSV must be 
watertight to the bulkhead deck.
    (b) Each penetration of, and each opening in, a bulkhead in a 
machinery space must--
    (1) Be kept as high and as far inboard as practicable; and
    (2) Except as provided by Sec. 174.210 of this subpart and by 
paragraph (c) of this section, have means to make it watertight.
    (c) No penetration of a bulkhead in a machinery space by a 
ventilation duct need have means to make the bulkhead watertight if--
    (1) Every part of the duct is at least 760 millimeter (30 inches) 
from the side of the OSV; and
    (2) The duct is continuously watertight from the penetration to the 
main deck.
    (d) Each penetration of a bulkhead in a machinery space by piping 
must meet the design requirements for material and pressure in 
subchapter F of this chapter.


Sec. 174.200  Damaged stability in machinery spaces for all OSVs.

    Each OSV must be shown by design calculations to comply, under each 
afloat condition of loading and operation, with Sec. 174.207 of this 
subpart in case of damage between any two watertight bulkheads in each 
machinery space.


Sec. 174.205  Additional damaged stability for OSVs carrying more than 
16 offshore workers.

    (a) Calculations. Each OSV carrying more than 16 offshore workers 
must be shown by design calculations to comply, under each afloat 
condition of loading and operation, with Sec. 174.207 of this subpart 
in case of the damage specified by paragraph (b) of this section.
    (b) Character of damage. For paragraph (a) of this section, design 
calculations must show that the OSV can survive damage at any place 
other than either the collision bulkhead or a transverse watertight 
bulkhead unless--
    (1) The transverse watertight bulkhead is closer than the 
longitudinal extent of damage, specified by Table 174.207(a), to the 
adjacent transverse watertight bulkhead; or
    (2) The transverse watertight bulkhead has a step or a recess, 
which must be assumed damaged, if it is both more than 3 meters (10 
feet) in length and located within the transverse extent of damage 
specified by Table 174.207(a) of this section.


Sec. 174.207  Damaged stability criteria.

    (a) Extent of damage. Damage must consist of penetrations having 
the dimensions specified by table 174.207(a) of this section, except 
that, if the most disabling penetrations are smaller than the 
penetrations specified by the table, damage must consist of the smaller 
penetrations.
    (b) Permeability of spaces. The permeability of a floodable space 
must be as specified by Table 174.207(b) of this section.
    (c) Survival conditions. An OSV is presumed to survive assumed 
damage if it meets the following conditions in the final stage of 
flooding:
    (1) Final waterline. The final waterline, in the final stage of 
sinkage, heel, and trim, must be below the lower edge of an opening 
through which progressive flooding may take place, such as an air pipe, 
a tonnage opening, an opening closed by a weathertight door or hatch-
cover, or a tank vent fitted with a ball check-valve. This opening does 
not include an opening closed by a--
    (i) Watertight manhole-cover;
    (ii) Flush scuttle;
    (iii) Small hatch-cover for a watertight cargo-tank that maintains 
the high integrity of the deck;
    (iv) Watertight door in compliance with Sec. 174.210 of this 
subpart; or
    (v) Side scuttle of the non-opening type.
    (2) Angle of heel. The angle of heel must not exceed 15 degrees.
    (3) Range of stability. Through an angle of 20 degrees beyond its 
position of equilibrium after flooding, an OSV must meet the following 
conditions:
    (i) The righting arm curve must be positive.
    (ii) The righting arm must be at least 100 millimeters (4 inches).
    (iii) Each submerged opening must be weathertight. (A tank vent 
fitted with a ball check-valve is weathertight.)
    (4) Progressive flooding. Piping, ducts, or tunnels within the 
assumed extent of damage must be either--
    (i) Equipped with arrangements, such as stop check-valves, to 
prevent progressive flooding of the spaces with which they connect; or
    (ii) Assumed in the calculations required by paragraph (a) of this 
section to permit progressive flooding of the spaces with which they 
connect.
    (d) Buoyancy of superstructure. For paragraph (a) of this section, 
the buoyancy of any superstructure directly above the side damage must 
be considered in the most unfavorable condition.

                   Table 174.207(a).--Extent of Damage                  
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Collision Penetration                         
Longitudinal extent (vessels with LBP not   .1L or 1.8 meters (6 feet):,
 greater than 45 meters [143 feet]).         whichever is greater in    
                                             length.                    
Longitudinal extent (vessels with LBP       3 meters (10 feet) + .03L.  
 greater than 45 meters [143 feet]).                                    
Transverse extent*........................  760 millimeters (30 inches).
Vertical extent...........................  From baseline upward without
                                             limit.                     
------------------------------------------------------------------------
*The transverse penetration applies inboard from the side of the vessel,
  at right angles to the centerline, at the level of the deepest load   
  waterline.                                                            


                Table 174.207(b).--Permeability of Spaces               
------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Spaces and tanks                       Permeability        
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Storerooms................................  60 percent.                 
Accommodations............................  95 percent.                 
Machinery.................................  85 percent.                 
Voids and passageways.....................  95 percent.                 
Dry-bulk tanks............................  0 (*) or 95 percent.        
Consumable-liquid tanks...................  0 (*) or 95 percent.        
Other liquid tanks........................  0 (*) 0 (**) or 95 percent. 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Whichever results in the more disabling condition.                     
**If tanks are partly filled, the permeability must be determined from  
  the actual density and amount of liquid carried.                      

Sec. 174.210  Watertight doors in watertight bulkheads.

    (a) This section applies to each vessel with watertight doors in 
bulkheads made watertight in compliance with this chapter.
    (b) Except as provided by paragraph (c) of this section, each 
watertight door must comply with subpart H of part 170 of this chapter.
    (c) A Class-1 door may be installed at any place if--
    (1) The door has a quick-acting closing-device operative from both 
sides of the door;
    (2) The door is designed to withstand a head of water equivalent to 
the depth from the sill of the door to the bulkhead deck or 3 meters 
(10 feet), whichever is greater; and
    (3) The vessel's pilothouse contains a visual indicator showing 
whether the door is open or closed.
    (d) Each watertight door must be marked in compliance with 
Sec. 131.893 of this chapter.
    (e) If a Class-1 door is installed, the vessel's stability letter 
will require the master to ensure that the door is always closed except 
when being used for access.

[[Page 49355]]

Sec. 174.215  Drainage of weather deck.

    The weather deck must have open rails to allow rapid clearing of 
water, or must have freeing ports in compliance with Sec. 42.15-70 of 
this chapter.


Sec. 174.220  Hatches and coamings.

    (a) Each hatch exposed to the weather must be watertight, except 
that the following hatches may be only weathertight:
    (1) Each hatch on a watertight trunk that extends at least 430 
millimeters (17 inches) above the weather deck.
    (2) Each hatch in a cabin top.
    (b) Each hatch cover must--
    (1) Have securing-devices; and
    (2) Be attached to the hatch frame or coaming by hinges, captive 
chains, or other devices to prevent its loss.
    (c) Each hatch that provides access to quarters or to accommodation 
spaces for crew members or offshore workers must be capable of being 
opened and closed from either side.
    (d) Except as provided by paragraph (e) of this section, a 
weathertight door with a permanent watertight coaming at least 380 
millimeters (15 inches) high must be installed for each opening in a 
deckhouse or companionway that--
    (1) Gives access into the hull; and
    (2) Is in an exposed place.
    (e) If an opening in a deckhouse or companionway has a Class-1 
watertight door installed, the height of the watertight coaming need 
only accommodate the door.


Sec. 174.225  Hull penetrations and shell connections.

    Each overboard discharge and shell connection except an engine 
exhaust must comply with Secs. 56.50-95 and 128.230 of this chapter.
    13.Revise subpart H of part 174 to read as follows:

Subpart H--Special Rules Pertaining to Liftboats

Sec.
174.240  Applicability.
174.245  General.
174.250  Unrestricted service.
174.255  Restricted service.
174.260  Freeboard.


Sec. 174.240  Applicability.

    Each liftboat inspected under subchapter L of this chapter must 
comply with this subpart.


Sec. 174.245  General.

    Each liftboat must comply with Secs. 174.210 through 174.225.


Sec. 174.250  Unrestricted service.

    Each liftboat not limited to restricted service must comply with 
subpart C of this part in each condition of loading and operation.


Sec. 174.255  Restricted service.

    This section applies to each liftboat unable to comply with 
Sec. 174.250 and limited to restricted service as defined by 
Sec. 125.160 of this chapter.
    (a) Intact stability.
    (1) Each liftboat must be shown by design calculations to meet, 
under each condition of loading and operation afloat, the following 
requirements:
    (i) Those imposed by Sec. 174.045, given a ``K'' value of at least 
1.4.
    (ii) A range of positive stability of at least 10 degrees extending 
from the angle of the first intercept of the curves of righting moment 
and wind heeling moment, either to the angle of the second intercept of 
those curves or to the angle of heel at which downflooding would occur, 
whichever angle is less.
    (iii) A residual righting energy of at least 0.003 meter radians (5 
foot-degrees) between the angle of the first intercept of the curves of 
righting moment and wind heeling moment, either to the angle of the 
second intercept of those curves or to the angle of heel at which 
downflooding would occur, whichever angle is less.
    (2) For this section, each wind heeling moment must be calculated 
as prescribed by Sec. 174.055 of this part using winds of 60 knots for 
normal conditions of operation afloat and of 70 knots for severe-storm 
conditions of operation afloat.
    (3) For paragraph (a)(1) of this section, the initial metacentric 
height must be at least 300 millimeters (1 foot) for each leg position 
encountered while afloat including the full range of leg positions 
encountered while jacking.
    (b) Damaged stability.
    (1) Each liftboat must be designed so that, while it is in each of 
its normal operating conditions, its final equilibrium waterline will 
remain below the lowest edge of any opening through which additional 
flooding can occur if the liftboat is subjected simultaneously to--
    (i) Damage causing flooding described by paragraph (b)(4) of this 
section; and
    (ii) A wind heeling moment calculated in compliance with 
Sec. 174.055(b) using a wind speed of 50 knots.
    (2) Each liftboat must have a means of closing off each pipe, 
ventilation system, and trunk in each compartment described by 
paragraph (b)(4) of this section if any part of the pipe, ventilation 
system, or trunk is within 760 millimeters (30 inches) of the hull.
    (3) For compliance with paragraph (b)(1) of this section, no 
compartment on the liftboat may be ballasted or pumped out to 
compensate for the flooding described by paragraph (b)(4) of this 
section.
    (4) For compliance with paragraph (b)(1) of this section, each 
compartment within 760 millimeters (30 inches) of the hull, excluding 
the bottom of the liftboat, between two adjacent main watertight 
bulkheads and the uppermost continuous deck or first superstructure 
deck where superstructures are fitted must be assumed subject to 
simultaneous flooding.
    (5) In the calculations required by paragraph (b)(1) of this 
section, the permeability of a floodable space must be as listed by 
Table 174.205(d).
    (c) On-bottom stability. Each liftboat must be shown by design 
calculations to exert a continuous downward force on each footing when 
the vessel is supported on the bottom with footings and is subjected to 
the forces of waves, currents, and winds of 70 knots under normal 
conditions of operation, and winds of 100 knots under severe-storm 
conditions of operation when elevated in a safe place, if this place is 
other than a harbor of safe refuge. The waves and currents must be 
appropriate for the winds and place.


Sec. 174.260  Freeboard.

    (a) Each liftboat not required to obtain and maintain a loadline in 
compliance with subchapter E of this chapter must place markings on 
each side of the vessel amidships. These markings must each consist of 
a horizontal line 460 millimeters (18 inches) in length and 25 
millimeters (1 inch) in height. The upper edges of the markings must be 
at a distance equal to the authorized freeboard measured vertically 
below the intersection of the continuation outwards of the upper 
surface of the weather deck and the outer surface of the shell. This 
distance must be at least 610 millimeters (24 inches).
    (b) The markings required by paragraph (a) of this section may not 
be submerged in any condition of loading or operation.

PART 175--GENERAL PROVISIONS

    14. The authority citation for part 175 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3703; 49 U.S.C. App. 1804; 49 CFR 
1.45, 1.46; Section 175.01-3 also issued under the authority of 44 
U.S.C. 3507.

    15. Add Sec. 175.115 to read as follows:


Sec. 175.115  Applicability to offshore supply vessels.

    (a) Existing OSVs of more than 15 but less than 100 gross tons are 
subject to inspection under this subchapter. New OSVs of more than 15 
but less than 100

[[Page 49356]]

gross tons are subject to inspection under subchapter L of this 
chapter.
    (b) Each existing OSV permitted grandfathering under paragraph (a) 
of this section must complete construction and have a Certificate of 
Inspection by March 16, 1998.

    16. In Sec. 175.400, add definitions of ``Offshore supply vessel 
(OSV),'' ``Existing OSV,'' and ``New OSV'' to read as follows:


Sec. 175.400  Definitions of terms used in this subchapter.

* * * * *
    Offshore supply vessel (OSV) means a vessel that--
    (1) Is propelled by machinery other than steam;
    (2) Is of above 15 gross tons and of less than 500 gross tons (as 
measured under the Standard, Dual, or Simplified Measurement System 
under part 69, subpart C, D, or E, of this chapter), or is less than 
6,000 gross tons (as measured under the Convention Measurement System 
under part 69, subpart B, of this chapter); and
    (3) Regularly carries goods, supplies, or equipment in support of 
exploration, exploitation, or production of offshore mineral or energy 
resources.
* * * * *
    Existing OSV means an OSV that was contracted for, or the keel of 
which was laid, before March 15, 1996.
* * * * *
    New OSV means an OSV--
    (1) That was contracted for, or the keel of which was laid, on or 
after March 15, 1996; or
    (2) That underwent a major conversion initiated on or after March 
15, 1996.
* * * * *
    Dated: August 28, 1997.
R.D. Herr,
Vice Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard, Acting Commandant.
[FR Doc. 97-24572 Filed 9-18-97; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-14-P