Document ID: USCG-2013-0195-0002
Agency: uscg
Document Type: Proposed Rule
Title: NPRM:  Commercial Fishing Vessels Dispensing Petroleum Products (Federal Register Publication)
Posted Date: 2014-08-20T04:00Z

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 161 (Wednesday, August 20, 2014)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 49261-49270]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-19142]

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DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Coast Guard

46 CFR Part 105

[Docket No. USCG-2013-0195]
RIN 1625-AC18

Commercial Fishing Vessels Dispensing Petroleum Products

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.

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SUMMARY: The Coast Guard proposes revisions to its regulations for 
commercial fishing vessels carrying flammable or combustible liquid 
cargoes in bulk. The proposed revisions would reflect a 1984 statutory 
change that eliminated fishery-specific and geographical limitations on 
a statutory exemption that, effectively, permits certain commercial 
fishing vessels to carry and dispense flammable and combustible 
material including petroleum products; additionally, this proposed 
revision would simplify regulatory text. This notice of proposed 
rulemaking promotes the Coast Guard's maritime safety mission.

DATES: Comments and related material must be submitted on or before 
November 18, 2014.

ADDRESSES: Submit comments using one of the listed methods, and see 
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for more information on public comments.
     Online--http://www.regulations.gov following Web site 
instructions.
     Fax--202-493-2251.
     Mail or hand deliver--Docket Management Facility (M-30), 
U.S. Department of Transportation, West Building Ground Floor, Room 
W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001. Hand 
delivery hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays (telephone 202-366-9329).
    Viewing incorporation by reference material. Make arrangements to 
view this material by calling the Coast Guard's Office of Regulations 
and Administrative Law at 202-372-3870 or by emailing HQS-SMB-CoastGuardRegulationsLaw@uscg.mil.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this proposed 
rule, call or email Jack Kemerer, Fishing Vessel Safety Division (CG-
CVC-3), Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance (CVC), U.S. Coast Guard; 
telephone 202-372-1249, email Jack.A.Kemerer@uscg.mil. If you have 
questions on viewing or submitting material to the docket, call Cheryl 
Collins, Program Manager, Docket Operations, telephone 202-366-9826.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Table of Contents for Preamble

I. Public Participation and Request for Comments
II. Abbreviations
III. Basis and Purpose
IV. Background
V. Discussion of Proposed Rule
VI. Incorporation by Reference
VII. Regulatory Analyses
    A. Regulatory Planning and Review
    B. Small Entities
    C. Assistance for Small Entities
    D. Collection of Information
    E. Federalism
    F. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
    G. Taking of Private Property
    H. Civil Justice Reform
    I. Protection of Children
    J. Indian Tribal Governments
    K. Energy Effects
    L. Technical Standards
    M. Environment

I. Public Participation and Request for Comments

    We encourage you to submit comments (or related material) on this 
notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). We will consider all submissions 
and may adjust our final action based on your comments. Comments should 
be marked with docket number USCG-2013-0195 and should provide a reason 
for each suggestion or recommendation. You should provide personal 
contact information so that we can contact you if we have questions 
regarding your comments; but please note that all comments will be 
posted to the online docket without change and that any personal 
information you include can be searchable online (see the Federal 
Register Privacy Act notice regarding our public dockets, 73 FR 3316, 
Jan. 17, 2008).
    Mailed or hand-delivered comments should be in an unbound 8\1/2\ x 
11 inch format suitable for reproduction. The Docket Management 
Facility will acknowledge receipt of mailed comments if you enclose a 
stamped, self-addressed postcard or envelope with your submission.
    Documents mentioned in this notice and all public comments are in 
our online docket at http://www.regulations.gov and can be viewed by 
following the Web site's instructions. You can also view the docket at 
the Docket Management Facility (see the mailing address under 
ADDRESSES) between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except 
Federal holidays.
    We are not planning to hold a public meeting, but will consider 
doing so if public comments indicate a meeting would be helpful. We 
would issue a separate Federal Register notice to announce the date, 
time, and location of such a meeting.

II. Abbreviations

CFV Commercial fishing vessel
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
DHS Department of Homeland Security
E.O. Executive Order
FR Federal Register
MSM Coast Guard's Marine Safety Manual NPRM Notice of proposed 
rulemaking
OMB Office of Management and Budget
Sec.  Section symbol
U.S.C. United States Code

III. Basis and Purpose

    The statutory basis of this proposed rule is provided by 33 U.S.C. 
1321(j)(5), 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 3703, and 4502. In 33 U.S.C.--
     Section 1321(j)(5) of 33 U.S.C. authorizes the Secretary 
of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to issue 
regulations that require certain vessel and facility owners or 
operators to submit plans for responding to bulk noxious liquid 
substance spills from the vessel or facility.
    In 46 U.S.C.--
     Section 2103 gives the Secretary general regulatory 
authority to implement Subtitle II (Chapters 21 through 147), including 
Chapter 37 (Carriage of Liquid Bulk Dangerous Cargoes);
     Section 3306 requires the Secretary to regulate in several 
areas relating to inspected vessels, to implement Subtitle II, Part B 
(Inspection of Vessels), and to secure the safety of individuals and 
property on board vessels subject to inspection;
     Section 3703 gives the Secretary both mandatory and 
discretionary regulatory authority for the specific implementation of 
Chapter 37; and

[[Page 49262]]

     Section 4502 requires the Secretary to regulate safety 
standards on uninspected commercial fishing vessels.
    The Secretary's authority under 33 U.S.C. 1321 was delegated to the 
Coast Guard in DHS Delegation No. 0170.1, para. II (73). The 
Secretary's authority under 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 3703, and 4502 was 
delegated to the Coast Guard in DHS Delegation No. 0170.1, para. II 
(92)(a) and (92)(b).
    The purpose of this proposed rule is to align Coast Guard 
regulations with a 1984 statutory change that eliminated fishery-
specific and geographical limitations on a statutory exemption that, 
effectively, permits certain commercial fishing vessels to carry and 
dispense flammable and combustible material including petroleum 
products. The proposed rule would also simplify the structure of 46 CFR 
part 105.

IV. Background

    Until 1968, 46 U.S.C. 391a(1) (the predecessor to 46 U.S.C. 3703), 
provided that vessels carrying inflammable or combustible cargo, in 
bulk and in tanks, must be ``considered steam vessels for the purposes 
of title 52 of the Revised Statutes [hereafter ``title 52 vessels''] 
and shall be subject to the provisions thereof . . .''.
    In 1968, Congress enacted Public Law 90-397 (the ``1968 Act,'' 82 
Stat. 341). Section 4 of the 1968 Act amended 46 U.S.C. 391a(1) to 
permit all ``cannery tenders, fishing tenders, or fishing vessels of 
not more than five hundred gross tons used in the salmon or crab 
fisheries'' of Alaska, Oregon, and Washington (hereafter ``1968 Act 
vessels'') ``to have on board inflammable or combustible cargo in bulk 
to the extent and upon conditions as may be required'' by Coast Guard 
regulations (rather than as title 52 vessels). The relevant Coast Guard 
regulations for these Public Law 90-397 vessels were added in 1969, as 
46 CFR part 105. Part 105 allowed the 1968 Act vessels to carry and 
dispense liquid bulk dangerous cargoes, subject to the safety 
regulations and other conditions set forth in part 105.
    In 1972, Congress enacted Public Law 92-340 (the ``1972 Act,'' 86 
Stat. 424). It significantly rewrote and expanded 46 U.S.C. 391a. 
Former subsection (1) was redesignated as subsection (2). As 
redesignated, subsection (2) contained the following proviso: ``nothing 
contained herein shall be deemed to amend or modify the provisions of 
section 4 of Public Law 90-397 with respect to certain vessels of not 
more than five hundred gross tons.'' \1\ This proviso ratified and 
preserved the 1968 Act's exemption for all cannery tenders, fishing 
tenders, or fishing vessels of not more than five hundred gross tons 
used in the salmon or crab fisheries of Alaska, Oregon, and Washington.
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    \1\ Public Law 92-340, 86 Stat. 424 at 428.
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    In 1974, Congress enacted Public Law 93-430 (the ``1974 Act,'' 88 
Stat. 1180). It amended 46 U.S.C. 391a(2) in two pertinent respects. 
First, it repeated the 1972 Act's language and added it as new 
subsection (2)(ii): ``nothing contained herein shall be deemed to amend 
or modify the provisions of section 4 of Public Law 93 [sic]-397 with 
respect to certain vessels of not more than five hundred gross tons.'' 
\2\ Second, it added new subsection (2)(iii): ``this section shall not 
apply to vessels of not more than five thousand gross tons used in the 
processing and assembling of fishery products [in Alaska, Oregon, and 
Washington] and such vessels shall be allowed to have onboard 
inflammable or combustible cargo in bulk to the extent and upon 
conditions'' as specified by the Coast Guard.\3\
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    \2\ 88 Stat. 1180 at 1183; the reference to ``Public Law 93-
397'' was presumably intended to cite Public Law 90-397.
    \3\ Id.
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    Thus, the 1974 Act left in place the exemption, first added by the 
1968 Act, for all salmon and crab fish tenders and fishing vessels of 
not more than 500 gross tons in Alaska, Oregon, and Washington, and 
added a new exemption for all fish processing vessels of not more than 
5,000 gross tons in those three States.
    In 1976, the Coast Guard revised 46 CFR part 105 to incorporate the 
changes made by the 1972 and 1974 Acts.
    In 1983, Congress enacted Public Law 98-89 (the ``1983 revision,'' 
97 Stat. 501), to revise and consolidate laws pertaining to vessels and 
seamen, placing the revised statutes in 46 CFR subtitle II. The House 
Report accompanying the 1983 revision stated: ``the bill as reported 
does in fact make a great many substantive changes to the present law. 
Those changes are all either minor changes, adjustments, or 
modifications, or they are more significant changes to which the 
committee received no objection [from the maritime community] and which 
the committee believed would enhance the clarity and effectiveness of 
the law and generally accepted by the industry. Thus, if a comparison 
of the language of this bill with the existing law shows that a 
substantive change has resulted, it should be understood that that 
change was intended by the committee.'' \4\
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    \4\ H.R. Rep. 98-338 at 120.
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    The 1983 revision redesignated the former provisions of 46 U.S.C. 
391a(2)(ii) and (iii) as new 46 U.S.C. 3702(c) and (d), in new Chapter 
37 (Carriage of Liquid Bulk Dangerous Cargoes). The new provisions 
removed Pacific Northwest fish tenders and fishing vessels of not more 
than 500 gross tons and engaged only in the salmon or crab fishing 
industry from the scope of Chapter 37. They preserved the existing 
exemption for Pacific Northwest fish processing vessels of not more 
than 5,000 gross tons, engaged in the salmon or crab fishing industry, 
when they are carrying flammable or combustible liquid cargo in bulk. 
In light of the House Report that accompanied the 1983 revision, the 
Coast Guard understands that the removal of 1968 Act vessels was 
intentional, and viewed by Congress as non-controversial.
    In 1984, Congress enacted Public Law 98-364 (the ``1984 Act,'' 98 
Stat. 446). It amended 46 U.S.C. 3702(c) and (d). This amendment 
removed the salmon/crab fishery and geographical specifications from 
subsections (c) and (d). There appears to have been no practical effect 
to the subsection (c) amendment, because neither by statute nor by 
regulation had commercial fishing vessels outside the Pacific Northwest 
ever been authorized to carry flammable or combustible liquid cargoes 
in bulk. The effect of the subsection (d) amendment was to permit fish 
processors under 5,000 gross tons to carry flammable or combustible 
liquid cargo in bulk anywhere in the country and in any fishery, not 
just in the Pacific Northwest salmon and crab fisheries. There is no 
legislative history to explain Congress's intent.
    The Coast Guard has not amended 46 CFR part 105 since 1976. The 
part needs to be revised to align with the 1984 Act's removal of 
elimination of the salmon/crab fishery and geographical specifications. 
The opportunity to revise part 105 also allows us to consolidate, 
simplify, and reorganize the part. We discuss these changes more fully 
in Section V., Discussion of Proposed Rule.

V. Discussion of Proposed Rule

    We propose revising 46 CFR part 105 to reflect the 1984 legislative 
changes. Also, we propose several non-substantive changes in regulatory 
text to better align the regulations with current Coast Guard practice. 
Finally, we propose simplifying the structure of part 105, eliminating 
its current subparts,

[[Page 49263]]

and combining related subject matter, as shown in Table 1.

           Table 1--Proposed Restructuring of 46 CFR Part 105
------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Current 46 CFR Sec.                   Proposed new Sec.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
105.01-1.........................  105-1.
105.01-3.........................  105-3.
105.01-5.........................  Transfer substance to proposed Sec.
                                    105-1 and remove to help simplify
                                    part 105 structure.
105.05-1.........................  105-1, 105-11.
105.05-2.........................  105-11.
105.05-3.........................  Transfer substance to proposed Sec.
                                    105-5 and remove to help simplify
                                    part 105 structure.
105.05-5.........................  Section 105.05-5 specifies in
                                    positive terms how petroleum
                                    products must be stored on vessels.
                                    This may be unduly restrictive.
                                    Therefore, we propose replacing it
                                    with Sec.   105-11, which instead
                                    would specify only those types of
                                    storage that are prohibited.
105.05-10........................  Transfer substance to proposed Sec.
                                    Sec.   105-1 and 105-11, and remove
                                    to help simplify part 105 structure.
105.10-5.........................  105-5.
105.10-10........................  105-5.
105.10-15........................  105-5.
105.10-20........................  105-5.
105.10-25........................  Remove definition of ``commercial
                                    fishing vessel'' as obsolete in
                                    light of the 1984 Act. Proposed Sec.
                                      105-5 includes a definition of
                                    ``commercial fish-processing
                                    vessel,'' the only type of vessel to
                                    which part 105 is still applicable.
105.15-1.........................  105-10.
105.15-5.........................  105-10.
105.15-10........................  105-10.
105.15-15........................  105-10.
105.15-20........................  105-10.
105.20-1.........................  105-10.
105.20-3.........................  105-12.
105.20-5.........................  105-12.
105.20-10........................  105-12.
105.20-15........................  105-12.
105.25-1.........................  105-12.
105.25-5.........................  105-12.
105.25-7.........................  105-12.
105.25-10........................  105-12.
105.25-15........................  105-12.
105.25-20........................  105-12.
105.30-1.........................  105-13.
105.30-5.........................  105-13.
105.35-1.........................  105-14.
105.35-5.........................  105-14.
105.35-10........................  105-14.
105.35-15........................  105-14.
105.45-1(a)(1), (a)(2)...........  105-10.
105.45-1(b)......................  New specific requirements for cargo
                                    transfer operations appear in
                                    proposed Sec.   105-15. We propose
                                    removing Sec.   105.45-1(b) because
                                    its merchant-mariner credentialing
                                    provisions duplicates of existing
                                    requirements in 46 CFR Subchapter B
                                    (Merchant Marine Officers and
                                    Seamen).
105.45-5.........................  105-15.
105.45-10........................  105-15.
105.45-15........................  105-15.
105.45-20........................  105-15.
105.90-1.........................  105-12(i), 105-13(d).
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The changes we propose within each section of part 105 and the 
reasons for each proposed change are listed in Table 2.

        Table 2--Substantive Changes Proposed for 46 CFR Part 105
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 46 CFR--Proposed Sec.   & subject             Proposed change
------------------------------------------------------------------------
105-1 Purpose and applicability...  Revise to align with 1984 Act and
                                     implement 46 U.S.C. 3702(d). Part
                                     105 would apply to section 3702(d)
                                     commercial fish processors built
                                     since 1976 and not greater than
                                     5,000 gross tons, but would no
                                     longer apply to commercial fishing
                                     industry vessels of 500 gross tons
                                     or less.

[[Page 49264]]

 
105-3 Incorporation by reference..  Revise section to reference UL 19
                                     and an updated version of ASTM 323.
                                     Existing regulations for fire hoses
                                     (46 CFR 105.35-15(c)(1)) tie
                                     regulatory compliance to UL 19 but
                                     do not officially incorporate it by
                                     reference. In order to enforce
                                     compliance with UL 19, the Coast
                                     Guard must incorporate the standard
                                     into regulation (per requirements
                                     of the Office of the Federal
                                     Register). ASTM 323 is incorporated
                                     not to impose any regulatory
                                     obligation on the public, but
                                     merely to provide a currently
                                     available industry standard that
                                     usefully defines ``Reid vapor
                                     pressure'' (which is a term used in
                                     the proposed revision of part 105).
                                    The Coast Guard specifically
                                     requests public comment on these
                                     proposed incorporations and on
                                     whether other standards should be
                                     incorporated in place of or in
                                     addition to UL 19 and ASTM 323.
105-5 Definitions.................  Add definitions for ``bulk,''
                                     ``cargo,'' ``certificate of
                                     compliance,'' ``commercial fish-
                                     processing vessel,''
                                     ``dispensing,'' ``dispensing
                                     tank,'' ``examination,'' ``fuel
                                     tank,'' ``limited quantities,'' and
                                     ``new vessel,'' all of which are
                                     terms used in the proposed part 105
                                     revision. These definitions are
                                     derived either from existing Coast
                                     Guard regulations or from our
                                     Marine Safety Manual (MSM). The
                                     definition of ``limited
                                     quantities'' uses a ``20% of
                                     deadweight tonnage'' standard; this
                                     represents no change from the
                                     current standard for CFVs and other
                                     ``miscellaneous vessels,'' as
                                     stated in MSM volume II, chapter 2.
                                     The definition of ``new vessel''
                                     reflects the impact of the 1974
                                     act, which added the fish
                                     processing vessel provision, and
                                     the 1984 act, which removed the
                                     salmon/crab fishery and
                                     geographical limitations.
105-10 Vessel examinations........  Replace the term ``vessel
                                     inspections'' with ``vessel
                                     examinations.'' In the context of
                                     part 105, the former term was never
                                     proper. Examinations, not
                                     inspections, are and have always
                                     been the customary Coast Guard
                                     enforcement mechanism for CFVs.
105-11 Prohibitions...............  The only substantive change is to
                                     replace Sec.   105.05-5's positive
                                     specifications as to how petroleum
                                     products must be stored on vessels
                                     with a specification of what
                                     storage arrangements are
                                     prohibited. Positive statement of
                                     what is allowed may be unduly
                                     restrictive, because it leaves no
                                     regulatory room for the future
                                     evolution of safe storage
                                     arrangements. Therefore, our
                                     proposed rule's focus is on
                                     prohibiting existing arrangements
                                     that we know to be unsafe.
105-12 Cargo tank and pumping       The proposed requirements are
 system requirements.                substantially similar to those now
                                     contained in subparts 105.20,
                                     105.25, and 105.90 (requirements
                                     for plans and sketches would be
                                     transferred to new Sec.   105-10),
                                     but they are presented in a shorter
                                     format that in some cases
                                     eliminates or simplifies details
                                     found in those subparts.
105-13 Electrical fittings and      The proposed requirements are
 fixtures.                           substantively identical to those
                                     now contained in subparts 105.30
                                     and 105.90, but they are presented
                                     in a shorter format that in some
                                     cases eliminates or simplifies
                                     details found in those subparts.
105-14 Fire extinguishing           The proposed requirements are
 equipment.                          substantially similar to those now
                                     contained in subpart 105.35, but
                                     they are presented in a shorter
                                     format that in some cases
                                     eliminates or simplifies details
                                     found in those subparts.
105-15 Cargo transfer operations..  The proposed requirements are
                                     substantially similar to those now
                                     contained in subpart 105.45, but
                                     they are presented in a shorter
                                     format that in some cases
                                     eliminates or simplifies details
                                     found in those subparts, and they
                                     eliminate documentation
                                     requirements that appear elsewhere
                                     in the proposed revised part or
                                     that duplicate provisions of 46 CFR
                                     Subchapter B (Merchant Marine
                                     Officers and Seamen).
------------------------------------------------------------------------

VI. Incorporation by Reference

    Material proposed for incorporation by reference appears in 
proposed 46 CFR 105-3. See ADDRESSES for information on viewing this 
material. Copies of the material are available from the sources listed 
in proposed 46 CFR 105-3. Before publishing a binding rule, we will 
submit this material to the Director of the Federal Register for 
approval of the incorporation by reference.
    This NPRM proposes incorporating two standards: UL 19 and an 
updated version of ASTM 323. The Coast Guard specifically requests 
public comment on these proposed incorporations and on whether other 
standards should be incorporated in place of or in addition to UL 19 
and ASTM 323.

VII. Regulatory Analyses

    We developed this proposed rule after considering numerous statutes 
and executive orders (E.O.s) related to rulemaking. Below we summarize 
our analyses based on these statutes and E.O.s.

A. Regulatory Planning and Review

    Executive Orders 12866, Regulatory Planning and Review and 13563, 
Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review direct agencies to assess 
the costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if 
regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize 
net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, public 
health, safety effects, distributive impacts, and equity benefits). 
Executive Order 13563 emphasizes the importance of quantifying both 
costs and benefits, of reducing costs, of harmonizing rules, and of 
promoting flexibility. This proposed rule has not been designated a 
``significant regulatory action'' under section 3(f) of E.O. 12866. 
Accordingly, the proposed rule has not been reviewed by the Office of 
Management and Budget (OMB).
    The Coast Guard does not expect this proposed rule to result in any 
economic impact on industry. The proposed revisions would reflect 1984 
statutory changes, simplify regulatory text, and clarify existing 
language in order to harmonize the existing regulations with current 
industry practices. We estimate that 14 commercial fish processing 
vessels would be affected by this proposed rulemaking and we obtained 
this number by using the Coast Guard's Marine Information Safety and 
Law Enforcement System (MISLE) database. Additionally, Coast Guard 
subject matter experts working in the Office of Commercial Vessel 
Compliance (CVC-3), have independently verified and confirmed the total 
affected population to be 14 vessels. Our analysis of this population 
shows that all the commercial fish processing vessels affected by this 
proposed rule are fitted with storage tanks that allow them to 
transport liquid cargoes in bulk.
    It is the intent of this proposed rule to clarify and update 
existing CFR language to align with current industry practices. The 
updates in this proposed rulemaking do not require changes to industry 
practices because these updates simply reflect current industry

[[Page 49265]]

practices; therefore, this proposed rule does not incur any cost on the 
affected population. Table 2 (earlier in this preamble) lists the 
proposed changes and we summarize the proposed changes and the economic 
impact of this proposed rule in the following paragraphs:
105-1 Purpose and Applicability
    This provision has been revised to align with the 1984 Act and to 
implement 46 U.S.C. 3702(d). Part 105 would apply to section 3702(d) 
regarding commercial fish processing vessels not greater than 5,000 
gross tons and built after 1976. The Coast Guard and industry have been 
operating in accordance with the 1984 Act and 46 U.S.C. Additionally, 
the 1984 Act removed the geographical limitations which were restricted 
to the States of Washington, Alaska, and Oregon and this provision is 
updating current CFR language to reflect these statutory changes. We do 
not expect this provision to change industry operations and believe it 
should have no economic impact on industry.
105-3 Incorporation by Reference
    We are revising this section to reference UL 19 and the updated 
version of ASTM 323. The revised section would comply with current 
Office of Federal Register requirements and this update would link 
existing regulatory compliance standards for fire hoses (46 CFR 105.35-
15 (c) (1)) to UL 19. We have incorporated ASTM 323 simply to reference 
the current industry standards that define ``Reid Vapor Pressure''. The 
language in this provision would not cause any economic impact.
105-5 Definitions
    The proposed rule updates the definitions that are required to 
identify the population of commercial fish processing vessels 
transporting and dispensing limited quantities of flammable or 
combustible liquid cargo in bulk. This provision would not cause any 
economic burden to industry because it is simply clarifying, not 
changing, the criteria that are applicable to the affected population.
105-10 Vessel Examinations
    The change in language from ``vessel inspection'' to ``vessel 
examination'' is a technical change that is consistent with the Coast 
Guard's terminology related to commercial fishing vessels. The term 
inspection is typically used to describe Coast Guard activities related 
to vessels that require a Certificate of Inspection (COI). Similar 
activities on vessels not required to hold a COI, such as commercial 
fishing vessels, are typically referred to as examinations. The change 
is solely to provide consistency and would not produce any economic 
burden on industry.
105-11 Prohibition
    There is one substantive change to this section, which is to 
replace Sec.  105.5's specifications on how petroleum products must be 
stored on vessels with a specification of what storage arrangements are 
prohibited. Positive statements of what storage arrangements are 
allowed may be unduly restrictive, because these statements leave no 
room for the future evolution of safe storage arrangements. This 
provision would not cause an economic burden on industry since the 
provision is simply stating the Coast Guard's authority to review and 
address any safety concerns with the storage and transportation of 
petroleum products.
105-12 Cargo Tanks and Pumping System Requirement
    This provision would consolidate the requirements for plans and 
drawings which are now found in subparts 105.20, 105.25, and 105.90, in 
the new Sec.  105-10. These editorial changes will shorten the current 
format by simplifying details found within subparts 105.20, 105.25, and 
105.90. These editorial changes would not cause an economic burden on 
the affected population.
105-13 Electrical Fitting and Fixtures
    This provision is an editorial change that consolidates and 
simplifies existing subparts 105.30 and 105.90 to reflect the statutory 
changes by shorting the format and by simplifying specific details 
found within these subparts. The change proposed in this provision 
would not cause any economic burden on the affected population.
105-14 Fire Extinguishing Equipment
    The proposed provision will shorten the format and simplify details 
found in subpart 105.35. This provision would not cause an economic 
burden on the affected population since the changes proposed in this 
provision are editorial.
105-15 Cargo Transfer Operations
    The proposed changes in this subpart will shorten the format and 
simplify language of existing part 105.45. This provision will also 
eliminate documentation requirements that appear elsewhere in the 
subpart. These requirements are duplicates of the provisions found in 
46 CFR subchapter B (Merchant Marine officers and Seaman). This 
provision does not cause an economic burden on the affected population 
since the changes proposed in this provision are editorial in nature.

B. Small Entities

    Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 601-612, we have 
considered whether this proposed rule would have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities. The term ``small 
entities'' comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations 
that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their 
fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 
50,000. This regulation does not impose any economic impact. Therefore, 
the Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this proposed rule 
would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of 
small entities. If you think that your business, organization, or 
governmental jurisdiction qualifies as a small entity and that this 
rule would have a significant economic impact on it, please submit a 
comment to the Docket Management Facility at the address under 
ADDRESSES. In your comment, explain why you think it qualifies and how 
and to what degree this rule would economically affect it.

C. Assistance for Small Entities

    Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement 
Fairness Act of 1996, Public Law 104-121, we want to assist small 
entities in understanding this proposed rule so that they can better 
evaluate its effects on them and participate in the rulemaking. If the 
proposed rule would affect your small business, organization, or 
governmental jurisdiction and you have questions concerning its 
provisions or options for compliance, contact the Coast Guard (see FOR 
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). The Coast Guard will not retaliate 
against small entities that question or complain about this rule or any 
policy or action of the Coast Guard.

D. Collection of Information

    This proposed rule calls for no new collection of information under 
the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, 44 U.S.C. 3501-3520.

E. Federalism

    A rule has implications for federalism under E.O. 13132, 
Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on the States, on the 
relationship between the national government and the States, or on the 
distribution of power and

[[Page 49266]]

responsibilities among the various levels of government. We have 
analyzed this proposed rule under that Order and have determined that 
it is consistent with the fundamental federalism principles and 
preemption requirements as described in Executive Order 13132. Our 
analysis is explained below.
    It is well settled that States may not regulate in categories 
reserved for regulation by the Coast Guard, including categories for 
inspected vessels. It is also well-settled, now, that all of the 
categories covered in 46 U.S.C. 3306, 3703, 7101, and 8101 (design, 
construction, alteration, repair, maintenance, operation, equipping, 
personnel qualification, and manning of vessels), as well as the 
reporting of casualties and any other category in which Congress 
intended the Coast Guard to be the sole source of a vessel's 
obligations, are within the field foreclosed from regulation by the 
States. (See the decision of the Supreme Court in the consolidated 
cases of United States v. Locke and Intertanko v. Locke, 529 U.S. 89, 
120 S.Ct. 1135 (March 6, 2000).)
    This proposed rule would amend the applicability of existing 
regulations in order to align with the statutory authority granted, 
through delegation, to the Coast Guard under 46 U.S.C. 3306, and 
further outlined under 46 U.S.C. 3702, to promulgate regulations for 
commercial fish-processing vessels when carrying flammable or 
combustible liquid cargoes in bulk. This authority was specifically 
defined by Congress and, hence, States and local governments do not 
have the authority to determine the applicability of Coast Guard-issued 
regulations for commercial fish-processing vessels, nor do they have 
the authority to promulgate regulations within the category of 
commercial fish-processing vessels carrying flammable or combustible 
liquid cargoes in bulk. Therefore, the proposed rule would be 
consistent with the principles of federalism and preemption 
requirements in E.O. 13132.
    While it is well settled that States may not regulate in categories 
in which Congress intended the Coast Guard to be the sole source of a 
vessel's obligations, the Coast Guard recognizes the key role that 
State and local governments may have in making regulatory 
determinations. Additionally, for rules with federalism implications 
and preemptive effect, E.O. 13132 specifically directs agencies to 
consult with State and local governments during the rulemaking process. 
If you believe this rule would have implications for federalism under 
E.O. 13132, please contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER 
INFORMATION CONTACT section of this preamble.

F. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995, 2 U.S.C. 1531-1538, 
requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary 
regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may 
result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in 
the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 (adjusted for 
inflation) or more in any one year. Though this proposed rule would not 
result in such an expenditure, we do discuss the effects of this rule 
elsewhere in this preamble.

G. Taking of Private Property

    This proposed rule would not cause a taking of private property or 
otherwise have taking implications under E.O. 12630, Governmental 
Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property 
Rights.

H. Civil Justice Reform

    This proposed rule meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 
3(b)(2) of E.O. 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize litigation, 
eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden.

I. Protection of Children

    We have analyzed this proposed rule under E.O. 13045, Protection of 
Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks. This 
proposed rule is not an economically significant rule and would not 
create an environmental risk to health or risk to safety that might 
disproportionately affect children.

J. Indian Tribal Governments

    This proposed rule does not have tribal implications under E.O. 
13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments, 
because it would not have a substantial direct effect on one or more 
Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and 
Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities 
between the Federal Government and Indian tribes.

K. Energy Effects

    We have analyzed this proposed rule under E.O. 13211, Actions 
Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, 
Distribution, or Use. We have determined that it is not a ``significant 
energy action'' under that order because it is not a ``significant 
regulatory action'' under E.O. 12866 and is not likely to have a 
significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of 
energy.

L. Technical Standards

    The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act, codified as a 
note to 15 U.S.C. 272, directs agencies to use voluntary consensus 
standards in their regulatory activities unless the agency provides 
Congress, through OMB, with an explanation of why using these standards 
would be inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical. 
Voluntary consensus standards are technical standards (e.g., 
specifications of materials, performance, design, or operation; test 
methods; sampling procedures; and related management systems practices) 
that are developed or adopted by voluntary consensus standards bodies.
    This proposed rule uses the following voluntary consensus 
standards: ASTM D 323-94 and UL 19. The proposed sections that 
reference these standards and the locations where these standards are 
available are listed in 46 CFR 105-3.

M. Environment

    We have analyzed this proposed rule under Department of Homeland 
Security Management Directive 023-01 and Commandant Instruction 
M16475.lD, which guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969, 42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f, and have made a 
preliminary determination that this action is one of a category of 
actions that do not individually or cumulatively have a significant 
effect on the human environment. A preliminary environmental analysis 
checklist supporting this determination is available in the docket 
where indicated under the ``Public Participation and Request for 
Comments'' section of this preamble. This proposed rule is likely to be 
categorically excluded under section 2.B.2, figure 2-1, paragraph 
(34)(d) and (e) of the Instruction and 6(a) of Coast Guard Procedures 
for Categorical Exclusions published July 23, 2002 (67 FR 48243). This 
proposed rule involves regulations concerning vessel operation safety 
standards; regulations concerning equipment approval and carriage 
requirements; and regulations concerning the examination of and 
equipping of vessels. We seek any comments or information that may lead 
to the discovery of a significant environmental impact from this 
proposed rule.

[[Page 49267]]

List of Subjects in 46 CFR Part 105

    Cargo vessels, Fishing vessels, Hazardous materials transportation, 
Marine safety, Petroleum, Seamen.

    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard proposes 
to revise 46 CFR part 105 to read as follows:

PART 105--COMMERCIAL FISHING VESSELS DISPENSING PETROLEUM PRODUCTS

Sec.
105-1 Purpose and applicability.
105-3 Incorporation by reference.
105-5 Definitions.
105-10 Vessel examination.
105-11 Prohibitions.
105-12 Cargo tank and pumping system requirements.
105-13 Electrical fittings and fixtures.
105-14 Fire extinguishing equipment.
105-15 Cargo transfer operations.

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 3703, 4502; 
Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1, para. II 
(73), (93)(a) and (b).

Sec.  105-1  Purpose and applicability.

    This part implements 46 U.S.C. 3702(d) and applies to each vessel 
of not more than 5,000 gross tons, the primary use of which is as a 
commercial fish-processing vessel, and that incidental to its primary 
use, carries and dispenses limited quantities of flammable or 
combustible liquid cargo in bulk. Certain provisions in 46 CFR 105-12 
apply only to vessels the construction of which was contracted for 
before May 31, 1976.

Sec.  105-3  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that 
specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish a notice of 
change in the Federal Register and the material must be available to 
the public. All approved material is available for inspection at the 
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on 
the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to 
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html. Also, it is available for inspection 
at Coast Guard Headquarters. Contact Commandant (CG-CVC), Attn: Office 
of Commercial Vessel Compliance, U.S. Coast Guard Stop 7501, 2703 
Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20593-7501; telephone 
202-372-1244. The material is also available from the sources listed in 
paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section.
    (b) ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, 
PA 19428-2959, telephone: 610-832-9500, fax: 610-832-9555, http://www.astm.org.
    (1) ASTM D 323-08, ``Standard Test Method for Vapor Pressure of 
Petroleum Products (Reid Method),'' incorporation by reference approved 
for Sec.  105-5.
    (2) [Reserved]
    (c) UL (formerly Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.), 12 Laboratory 
Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-3995, 919-549-1400, http://www.ul.com.
    (1) UL 19, ``Standard for Safety-Lined Fire Hose and Hose 
Assemblies,'' incorporation by reference approved for Sec.  105-14.
    (2) [Reserved]

Sec.  105-5  Definitions.

    As used in this part, the italicized terms have the meanings 
indicated in this section.
    Approved means approved by the Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard, unless 
otherwise stated.
    Bulk means having a capacity of 250 barrels or more.
    Cargo means any combustible liquid or flammable liquid that is 
transported and off-loaded at a destination by a commercial fish-
processing vessel. It does not include combustible or flammable liquid 
carried in temporary tanks or permanently installed tanks for use only 
by machinery and boats carried aboard the vessel, or for use only by 
vessels that are directly supporting the vessel's primary operations.
    Certificate of compliance means the document issued and displayed 
in accordance with 46 CFR 105-10.
    Combustible liquid means any liquid having a flashpoint above 
80[emsp14][deg]F (as determined from an open cup tester, as used for 
testing of burning oils). A Grade D combustible liquid is one having a 
flashpoint above 80[emsp14][deg]F and below 150 [deg]F. A Grade E 
combustible liquid is one having a flashpoint of 150 [deg]F or above.
    Commercial fish-processing vessel means a self-propelled manned 
vessel that commercially prepares fish or fish products other than by 
gutting, decapitating, gilling, skinning, shucking, icing, freezing, or 
brine chilling.
    Dispensing means the loading or unloading of limited quantities of 
flammable or combustible liquids in bulk.
    Dispensing tank means any tank from which a limited quantity of a 
flammable or combustible liquid, in bulk, that is not used to supply 
fuel for vessel propulsion or auxiliary machinery is off-loaded by 
means of pumping, gravitation, or displacement.
    Examination means a careful and critical assessment of the vessel 
and its appurtenances carried out by an authorized examiner or an 
organization designated by the Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard. This 
includes, where necessary, a visual assessment of the vessel's hull, 
structures, electrical systems, and machinery, supplemented by other 
means such as measurement and/or nondestructive testing.
    Flammable liquid means any liquid that gives off flammable vapors 
(as determined by flashpoint from an open cup tester, as used for 
testing of burning oils) at or below 80 [deg]F. Flammable liquids are 
referred to by grades as follows:
    (1) Grade A. Any flammable liquid having a Reid vapor pressure of 
14 pounds or more, as measured in accordance with ASTM D 323-08 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  105-3).
    (2) Grade B. Any flammable liquid having a Reid vapor pressure of 
less than 14 pounds and more than 8\1/2\ pounds, as measured in 
accordance with ASTM D 323-08.
    (3) Grade C. Any flammable liquid having a Reid vapor pressure of 
8\1/2\ pounds or less and a flashpoint of 80 [deg]F or below, as 
measured in accordance with ASTM D 323-08.
    Fuel tank means a tank other than a dispensing tank used to 
transport flammable or combustible liquid for the purpose of supplying 
fuel for propulsion of the vessel to which it is attached.
    Limited quantities means not more than 20 percent of a vessel's 
deadweight tonnage as applied to bulk liquid cargoes or carried in 
permanent or temporary tanks.
    New vessel means a vessel whose construction is contracted for on 
or after May 31, 1976.
    Pressure vacuum relief valve means any device or assembly of a 
mechanical, liquid, weight, or other type used for the automatic 
regulation of pressure or vacuum in enclosed places.

Sec.  105-10  Vessel examination.

    (a) Each examination referred to in this section must be conducted 
by the Coast Guard, or an accepted or similarly qualified organization 
designated by the Commandant, to determine whether the examined vessel 
is in substantial compliance with this part. An examination may include 
any test or verification that the examiner deems necessary for 
determining the vessel's safety and seaworthiness.

[[Page 49268]]

    (1) The owner or operator of each vessel subject to this part must 
apply, using Form CG-3752, available at http://www.uscg.mil/forms/cg/cg_3752.pdf, to the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, 
for the vessel to be examined in accordance with paragraph (b) of this 
section. In applying for a vessel's initial examination under this 
section, the application must be accompanied by a plan or sketch of 
each cargo tank and piping system for filling and dispensing bulk 
flammable or combustible cargoes, and a brief description of those 
systems, including their dimensions and materials used. If cargo tanks 
will be located in enclosed compartments or below decks, the plans or 
sketches must show the proposed ventilation system. Plans or sketches 
need not be submitted if the cargo tanks and piping systems have 
previously been accepted by the Coast Guard.
    (2) Each vessel must be examined before its first use in loading, 
transporting, or dispensing combustible or flammable liquids in bulk, 
and at least annually thereafter if the vessel carries such liquids in 
temporarily installed cargo tanks or containers, or at least biennially 
thereafter if the vessel carries such liquids in permanently installed 
cargo tanks.
    (3) A vessel that is laid up, dismantled, or out of commission is 
exempt from the requirements of this section.
    (b) After examining a vessel and finding it to be in substantial 
compliance with this part, the examiner will issue, and the vessel's 
owner or operator must display onboard, a certificate of compliance 
that describes the amounts of bulk liquid flammable or combustible 
cargoes that the vessel may carry, the number of crewmembers required 
to hold merchant mariner credentials and tankerman endorsements in 
accordance with 46 U.S.C. 8304 and 46 CFR part 13, and any conditions 
applicable to the carriage or dispensation of those cargoes. Each 
certificate of compliance is valid for not more than 2 years or until 
suspended or revoked.

Sec.  105-11  Prohibitions.

    Each vessel to which this part applies is prohibited from 
transporting Grade A flammable liquids in bulk, or carrying bulk 
flammable or combustible liquids in portable or temporarily installed 
dispensing tanks or containers that are either below deck or in closed 
compartments on or above deck.

Sec.  105-12  Cargo tank and pumping system requirements.

    (a) Cargo tanks for the carriage of bulk flammable or combustible 
liquids must be constructed of iron, steel, copper, nickel alloy, 
copper alloy, or aluminum. Tanks must be designed to withstand the 
maximum head to which they may be subjected, and tanks of more than 150 
gallons capacity must have at least the thickness indicated in Table 
105-12.

                                          Table 105-12--Tank Thickness
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                          ASTM specification
               Material                    (latest edition)       Thickness in inches and gauge number \2\ \3\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nickel copper........................  B127, hot rolled sheet   0.107 (USSG 12).
                                        or plate.
Copper nickel \1\....................  B122, Alloy No. 5......  0.128 (AWG 8).
Copper \1\...........................  B152, Type ETP.........  0.182 (AWG 5).
Copper silicon \1\...................  B97, Alloys A, B, and C  0.144 (AWG 7).
Steel or iron........................  .......................  0.179 (MSG 7).
Aluminum \4\.........................  B209, Alloy............  5086 0.250 (USSG 3).\5\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Tanks fabricated with these materials must not be utilized for the carriage of diesel oil.
\2\ The gauge numbers used in this table may be found in many standard engineering reference books. The letters
  ``USSG'' stand for ``U.S. Standard Gauge'' which was established by the act of March 3, 1892 (15 U.S.C. 206)
  for sheet and plate iron and steel. The letters ``AWG'' stand for ``American Wire Gauge'' (or Brown and Sharpe
  Gauge) for nonferrous sheet thicknesses. The letters ``MSG'' stand for ``Manufacturers' Standard Gauge'' for
  sheet steel thicknesses.
\3\ Tanks more than 400 gallons must be designed with a factor of safety of four on the ultimate strength of the
  tank material used with a design head of not less than 4 feet of liquid above the top of the tank.
\4\ Anodic to most common metals. Avoid dissimilar-metal contact with tank body unless galvanically compatible.
\5\ And other alloys acceptable to the Commandant.

    (1) All tank joints, connections, and fittings must be welded or 
brazed, and tanks may not have flanged-up top edges.
    (2) A tank exceeding 30 inches in any horizontal dimension must be 
fitted with vertical baffle plates of the same material as the tank, 
unless the tank has a greater thickness than minimum requirements and 
is reinforced with stiffeners. Limber holes at the bottom and air holes 
at the top of all baffles must be provided.
    (3) An opening fitted with a threaded pipe plug may be used on the 
bottom of the tank for cleaning purposes.
    (b) Supports. Tanks must be adequately supported and braced to 
prevent movement. Supports and braces must be insulated from contact 
with the tank surface using a nonabrasive and nonabsorbent material.
    (c) Fittings. (1) Filling lines must be at least 1\1/2\ inches 
standard pipe size and extend to within 1\1/2\ -inch pipe diameters of 
the bottom of the tank.
    (2) Suction lines from diesel oil tanks may be taken from the 
bottom provided a shutoff valve is installed at the tank. Tanks for 
Grades B and C liquids must have top suctions only.
    (3) Vent lines must be at least equal in size to the filling lines.
    (4) When a cargo tank contains Grades B or C liquids, the vent 
lines must be terminated with an approved pressure vacuum relief valve 
not less than 3 feet above the weather deck. When a cargo tank contains 
Grades D or E liquids, the vent line may be terminated with a gooseneck 
fitted with a flame screen at a reasonable height above the weather 
deck.
    (d) Hydrostatic tests. Tanks vented to the atmosphere must be 
hydrostatically tested to a pressure of 5 pounds per square inch or 
1\1/2\ times the maximum head to which they may be subjected in 
service. A standpipe of 11\1/1\ feet in length attached to the tanks 
may be filled with water to accomplish the 5 pounds per square inch 
test.
    (e) Piping systems. (1) Piping must be copper, nickel copper, or 
copper nickel, with a minimum wall thickness of 0.035 inches; except 
that seamless steel piping or tubing providing equivalent safety may be 
used for diesel cargo systems.
    (2) Valves must be of a suitable nonferrous metallic Union Bonnet 
type with ground seats, except that steel or nodular iron may be used 
in cargo systems that use steel pipe or tubing.

[[Page 49269]]

    (3) Aluminum or aluminum alloy valves and fittings may not be used 
in cargo lines.
    (f) Pumps. (1) Pumps for cargo dispensing must be of a type 
satisfactory for the purpose.
    (2) A relief valve must be provided on the discharge side of the 
pump if the pressure under shutoff conditions exceeds 60 pounds. When a 
relief valve is installed, it must discharge back to the suction of the 
pump.
    (3) Where electric motors are installed with dispensing pumps, they 
must be explosion-proof and so labeled by UL or another recognized 
laboratory, as suitable for Class I, Group D atmospheres.
    (g) Grounding. (1) All tanks and associated lines must be 
electrically grounded to the vessel's common ground.
    (2) A grounded type hose and nozzle must be used for dispensing 
fuels.
    (h) Cargo tanks installed below decks--additional requirements. (1) 
Compartments or areas containing tanks or pumping systems must be 
closed off from the remainder of the vessel by gastight bulkheads. Such 
gastight bulkheads may be pierced for a drive shaft and pump engine 
control rods if the openings are fitted with stuffing boxes or other 
acceptable gland arrangements.
    (2) Each compartment must be provided with a mechanical exhaust 
system capable of ventilating the compartment with a complete change of 
air every 3 minutes. The intake duct or ducts must be of a sufficient 
size to permit the required air change. The exhaust duct or ducts must 
be located so as to remove vapors from the lower portion of the space 
or bilges.
    (3) The ventilation outlets must terminate more than 10 feet from 
any opening to the interior of the vessel that normally contains 
sources of vapor ignition. The ventilation fan must be explosion-proof 
and unable to act as a source of ignition.
    (4) Cargo pumps must not be installed in the cargo tank compartment 
unless the drive system is outside the compartment. Suction pipelines 
from cargo tanks must be run directly to the pump, but not through 
working or crew spaces of the vessel.
    (5) Tanks must be located so as to provide at least 15 inches of 
space around the tank, including top and bottom, to permit external 
examination.
    (6) Shutoff valves must be provided in the suction lines as close 
to the tanks as possible. Valves must be installed so as to shut off 
against the flow. Remote control of the shutoff valve must be provided 
where the examiner deems necessary.
    (i) Exemption for older vessels. Tanks, containers, and associated 
piping systems in use prior to December 1, 1969, on a vessel whose 
construction was contracted for a date before May 31, 1976, are exempt 
from the requirements of this section provided they are maintained in a 
condition that the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, finds 
satisfactory, and provided that major repairs or replacement of 
exempted equipment and systems is in accordance with this part.

Sec.  105-13  Electrical fittings and fixtures.

    (a) In compartments or areas containing tanks or pumps handling 
petroleum products other than Grade E products, no electrical fittings, 
fixtures, or equipment may be installed or used unless approved for a 
Class I, Group D hazardous location and labeled as such by UL or 
another recognized laboratory.
    (b) All electrical equipment, fixtures, and fittings located within 
10 feet of a vent outlet or a dispensing outlet must be explosion-proof 
and labeled as such by UL or another recognized laboratory, as suitable 
for Class I, Group D atmospheres.
    (c) All electrical equipment must be grounded to the vessel's 
common ground.
    (d) Tanks, containers, and associated piping systems in use prior 
to December 1, 1969, on a vessel whose construction was contracted for 
a date before May 31, 1976, are exempt from the requirements of this 
section provided they are maintained in a condition that the Officer in 
Charge, Marine Inspection, finds satisfactory, and provided that major 
repairs or replacement of exempted equipment and systems is in 
accordance with this part.

Sec.  105-14  Fire extinguishing equipment.

    (a) Each vessel must carry at least two B-II dry chemical or foam 
portable fire extinguishers that comply with 46 CFR 28.160 and bear the 
UL marine type label, and must be located at or near each dispensing 
area. This equipment must be examined prior to issuing a letter of 
compliance.
    (b) Each vessel must be provided with a hand-operated portable fire 
pump having a capacity of at least 5 gallons per minute and equipped 
with a suction and discharge hose suitable for use in firefighting. The 
pump may also serve as a bilge pump.
    (c) A self-priming power-driven fire pump must be installed on each 
vessel of more than 65 feet in length overall. The pump must be able to 
discharge an effective stream from a hose connected to the highest 
outlet, must be fitted with a pressure gauge, and must have a minimum 
capacity of 50 gallons per minute at a pressure of not less than 60 
pounds per square inch at the pump outlet. The pump must be self-
priming and connected to the fire main and may be driven off a 
propulsion engine or other source of power. The pump may also be 
connected to the bilge system so that it can serve as either a fire 
pump or a bilge pump.
    (d) Each vessel that must have a power-driven fire pump must also 
have a fire main system that includes a fire main, hydrants, hoses, and 
nozzles.
    (1) Fire hydrants must be of sufficient number and located such 
that any part of the vessel may be reached with an effective stream of 
water from a single length of hose.
    (2) All piping, valves, and fittings must be in accordance with 
good marine practice and suitable for the purpose intended.
    (3) One length of the fire hose must be attached to each fire 
hydrant at all times. The fire hose may be a commercial fire hose or 
equivalent of not more than a 1\1/2\-inch diameter, or a garden hose of 
not less than a \5/8\-inch nominal inside diameter. The hose must be in 
one piece, not less than 25 feet, and not more than 50 feet in length. 
If a 1\1/2\-inch diameter fire hose is used after January 1, 1980, each 
length of hose must be lined as a commercial fire hose that conforms to 
UL 19 (incorporated by reference; see 46 CFR 105-3). A hose that bears 
a UL label as a lined fire hose is accepted as conforming to this 
requirement. The hose must have a combination nozzle approved by the 
Commandant in accordance with 46 CFR 162.027-6. If a garden hose is 
used, it must be of a good commercial grade constructed of an inner 
rubber tube, plies of braided cotton reinforcement, and an outer rubber 
cover, or of equivalent material, and must be fitted with a commercial 
garden hose nozzle of good-grade bronze or equivalent metal. All 
fittings on fire hoses must be of brass, copper, or other suitable 
corrosion-resistant metal.

Sec.  105-15  Cargo transfer operations.

    During a transfer operation involving bulk liquid flammable or 
combustible cargoes--
    (a) The operation must comply with any conditions listed in the 
vessel's certificate of compliance;
    (b) The person in charge of the operation must ensure that--
    (1) Any galley fire is safely maintained during the operation or 
immediately extinguished if it cannot be so maintained; and

[[Page 49270]]

    (2) No smoking takes place in the vicinity of the operation.
    (c) A red flag by day or a red electric lantern at night, visible 
on all sides, must be used to signal a dockside transfer operation. For 
non-dockside transfer operations, a red flag must be used to signal the 
operation; and
    (d) During a dockside transfer operation, a placard must be 
displayed to warn persons approaching the gangway. The placard must use 
letters at least 2 inches high, bear the heading ``Warning,'' and 
prohibit open lights, smoking, or visitors.

    Dated: August 8, 2014.
J.C. Burton,
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Director of Prevention and Compliance.
[FR Doc. 2014-19142 Filed 8-19-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9110-04-P