CCLME.ORG - 46 CFR PART 31—INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION

National
United States Regulations
46 CFR PART 31—INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION

Title 46: Shipping

PART 31—INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION

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

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

Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3205, 3306, 3307, 3703; 46 U.S.C. Chapter 701; 49 U.S.C. 5103, 5106; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; E.O. 12777, 56 FR 54757, 3 CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 351; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1. Section 31.10–21 also issued under the authority of Sect. 4109, Pub. L. 101–380, 104 Stat. 515.

Source: CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16662, Dec. 30, 1965, unless otherwise noted.

Subpart 31.01—General
top
§ 31.01-1 Inspections required—TB/ALL.
top
(a) Every tank vessel subject to the regulations in this subchapter shall be inspected every 5 years or more often, if necessary, by the Coast Guard to see that the hull, boilers, machinery, equipment, apparatus for storage, and appliances of the vessel comply with marine inspection laws, and the regulations in this subchapter, and when applicable, subchapters E, F, J, O, Q, S, and W of this chapter and 33 CFR parts 155 and 157.

(b) Tank vessels which are laid up, dismantled, and out of commission are exempt from inspections required by law or regulations in this subchapter, provided that such vessels are cleaned of all cargo residue and maintained in a gas free condition.

(c) For inspection and tests of tanks containing certain dangerous cargoes in bulk, see part 98 and subchapter O of this chapter.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16662, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70–10, 35 FR 3709, Feb. 25, 1970; CGD 80–009, 48 FR 36458, Aug. 11, 1983; CGD 79–023, 48 FR 51006, Nov. 4, 1983; CGD 84–069, 61 FR 25286, May 20, 1996; CGD 97–057, 62 FR 51043, Sept. 30, 1997; USCG-1999–4976, 65 FR 6499, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 31.01-3 Alternate compliance.
top
(a) In place of compliance with other applicable provisions of this subchapter, the owner or operator of a vessel subject to plan review and inspection under this subchapter for initial issuance or renewal of a Certificate of Inspection may comply with the Alternate Compliance Program provisions of part 8 of this chapter.

(b) For the purposes of this section, a list of authorized classification societies, including information for ordering copies of approved classification society rules and supplements, is available from Commandant (G-MSE), 2100 Second St., SW., Washington, DC 20593–0001; telephone (202) 267–2988; or fax (202) 267–4816. Approved classification society rules and supplements are incorporated by reference into 46 CFR 8.110(b).

[CGD 95–010, 62 FR 67536, Dec. 24, 1997, as amended by USCG-1999–5004, 64 FR 30439, June 8, 1999; USCG-2004–18884, 69 FR 58345, Sept. 30, 2004]

§ 31.01-5 Scope of initial inspection—TB/ALL.
top
The initial inspection, which may consist of a series of inspections during the construction of a vessel, shall include a complete inspection of the structure, including the outside of the vessel's bottom, the machinery, unfired pressure vessels, equipment and the inside and outside of the boilers. The inspection shall be such as to insure that the arrangements, material, and scantlings of the structure, boilers and other pressure vessels and their appurtenances, piping, main and auxiliary machinery, electrical installations, lifesaving appliances, fire-detecting and extinguishing equipment, pilot boarding equipment and other equipment fully comply with the applicable regulations for such vessel and are in accordance with approved plans, and determine that the vessel is in possession of a valid certificate issued by the Federal Communications Commission, if any. The inspection shall be such as to ensure that the workmanship of all parts of the vessel and its equipment is in all respects satisfactory and that the vessel is provided with lights, means of making sound signals, and distress signals as required by applicable statutes and regulations.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16662, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGFR 68–32, 33 FR 5712, Apr. 12, 1968; CGFR 68–82, 33 FR 18804, Dec. 18, 1968; CGD 82–036, 48 FR 654, Jan. 6, 1983; CGD 79–032, 49 FR 25455, June 21, 1984; CGD 95–012, 60 FR 48049, Sept. 18, 1995]

§ 31.01-10 Authority of marine inspectors—TB/ALL.
top
Inspectors may at any time lawfully inspect any tank vessel.

§ 31.01-15 Application for a Certificate of inspection—TB/ALL.
top
(a) You must submit a written application for an inspection for certification to the cognizant OCMI. To renew a Certificate of Inspection, you must submit an application at least 30 days before the expiration of the tank vessel's current Certificate of Inspection. When renewing a Certificate of Inspection, you must schedule an inspection for certification within the 3 months before the expiration date of the current Certificate of Inspection.

(b) The application should be on Form CG-3752, Application for Inspection of U.S. Vessel, which requires information on name and type of vessel, nature of employment and route in which to be operated, grade or type of cargo to be carried, place where and date when the vessel may be inspected, and that no other application has been made to any Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, since the issuance of the last valid certificate of inspection.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16662, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by USCG-1999–4976, 65 FR 6499, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 31.01-20 Application for inspection of a new tank vessel or conversion of a vessel to a tank vessel—TB/ALL.
top
Prior to the commencement of the construction of any new tank vessel, or prior to the commencement of the conversion of any vessel to a tank vessel, application for the approval of contract plans and specifications and for a certificate of inspection shall be made in writing to the Coast Guard and no such construction or conversion shall be proceeded with until such approval is granted. (See §31.10–1.)

Subpart 31.05—Certificates of Inspection
top
§ 31.05-1 Issuance of certificate of inspection—TB/ALL.
top
(a) When a tank vessel is found to comply with all applicable regulations, including the applicable provisions of subchapters E, F, J, O, Q, S, and W of this chapter and of 33 CFR parts 104, 155, and 157, the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection will issue a certificate of inspection to the vessel or to its owners.

(b) Certificates of inspection for tank vessels shall be similar in form to certificates issued to other cargo vessels, and in addition to the manning requirements and waters over which they may be operated, they shall be appropriately endorsed Inspected and approved for the carriage of flammable or combustible liquids of Grade A, B, C, D, or E (as the case may be), and such endorsement shall serve as a permit for such vessel to operate. The endorsement for the carriage of liquefied flammable gases is set forth in §38.01–5 of this subchapter.

(c) The certificate of inspection shall be delivered to the master or owner of the tank vessel to which it relates.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16662, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGD 73–96, 42 FR 49024, Sept. 26, 1977; CGD 79–023, 48 FR 51006, Nov. 4, 1983; CGD 84–069, 61 FR 25286, May 20, 1996; USCG-2003–14749, 68 FR 39314, July 1, 2003]

§ 31.05-5 Posting the certificate of inspection—TB/ALL.
top
The certificate of inspection shall be framed under glass and posted in a conspicuous part of the vessel, except that where it is not practicable to so expose the certificate of inspection it shall be carried in the vessel in such manner as authorized by the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection.

§ 31.05-10 Period of validity for a Certificate of Inspection—TB/ALL.
top
(a) A Certificate of Inspection is valid for 5 years.

(b) Application may be made by the master, owner, or agent for inspection and issuance of a new certificate of inspection at any time during the period of validity of the current certificate.

(c) Certificates of inspection may be revoked or suspended by the Coast Guard where such process is authorized by law. This may occur if the vessel does not meet the requirements of law or regulations in this chapter or if there is a failure to maintain the safety requirements requisite to the issuance of a certificate of inspection.

[CGFR 68–82, 33 FR 18804, Dec. 18, 1968, as amended by CGD 95–012, 60 FR 48049, Sept. 18, 1995; USCG-1999–4976, 65 FR 6499, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 31.05-15 Certificate of inspection; terms; endorsements—TB/ALL.
top
The terms, endorsements and conditions set forth on a certificate of inspection shall have the same force and effect as the regulations contained in this subchapter.

Subpart 31.10—Inspections
top
§ 31.10-1 Recognized classification society—TB/ALL.
top
(a) In the inspection of hulls, boilers, and machinery, the current standards established by the American Bureau of Shipping and designated Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels respecting material and construction of hulls, boilers, and machinery, except as otherwise provided for by law and regulations in this chapter, shall be accepted as standard by the Coast Guard.

(b) The current standards established by the American Bureau of Shipping in effect at the time of construction of the vessel, or otherwise as applicable, shall be used. The book Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels is usually published annually and may be purchased from the American Bureau of Shipping, ABS Plaza, 16855 Northchase Drive, Houston, TX 77060. These standards may be also examined at the office of the Commandant (G-M), U.S. Coast Guard, Washington, DC 20593–0001, or at the office of any Coast Guard District Commander or Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection.

(c) The approved plans and certificate of the American Bureau of Shipping, or other recognized classification society for classed vessels, may be accepted by the Coast Guard as evidence of the structural efficiency of the hull and reliability of machinery of vessels subject to the regulations in this subchapter, except as otherwise provided for by laws and regulations in this chapter.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16662, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGFR 68–32, 33 FR 5712, Apr. 12, 1968; CGD 88–070, 53 FR 34533, Sept. 7, 1988; 53 FR 37570, Sept. 27, 1988; 53 FR 44011, Nov. 1, 1988; CGD 95–072, 60 FR 50461, Sept. 29, 1995; USCG-2000–7790, 65 FR 58459, Sept. 29, 2000]

§ 31.10-5 Inspection of new tank vessels—TB/ALL.
top
(a) Plans. Triplicate copies of contract plans and specifications shall be forwarded to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, in whose district the construction will take place, for submission to the Marine Safety Center, 400 7th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590–0001 for approval, but if the tank vessel is to be classed, such plans and specifications shall first be approved by a recognized classification society. If the plans and specifications are found to be in substantial agreement with the regulations in this chapter, they shall be approved, properly stamped and dated and distributed as follows: One set to owner or builder; one set to Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, of the district in which the vessel is to be built; and one set shall be retained at the Marine Safety Center. If such plans and specifications are not approved, the Marine Safety Center shall notify the owner or builder promptly wherein they fail to comply with the regulations in this chapter. For list of electrical plans see subchapter J (Electrical Engineering) of this chapter.

(1) The plans and specifications shall include the arrangement of the cargo gear. Plans and specifications for cargo gear shall be approved by either a recognized classification society or the International Cargo Gear Bureau, Inc., whose home office is located at 90 West Street, Suite 1612, New York, NY 10006, prior to submission to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection.

(2) For vessels of 100 meters (328 feet) or more in length contracted for on or after September 7, 1990, a plan must be included which shows how visibility from the navigation bridge will meet the standards contained in §32.16–1 of this subchapter.

(b) Inspection. During construction, and upon completion of each tank vessel, it shall be inspected by the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, to determine whether it has been built in accordance with the approved plans and specifications, and, if so, a certificate of inspection endorsed as a permit for the carriage of flammable or combustible liquids in bulk for the proper grade or grades of cargo shall be issued to the vessel or its owner.

(c) Certificate of class may be accepted. In the event such tank vessel is classed by the American Bureau of Shipping or other recognized classification society, the approved plans and certificates of such society may be accepted by the Coast Guard as evidence of the structural efficiency of the hull and reliability of machinery, except as otherwise provided for by law and the rules and regulations in this subchapter.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16662, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGD 74–125A, 47 FR 15230, Apr. 8, 1982; CGD 85–099, 55 FR 32247, Aug. 8, 1990; CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51197, Sept. 30, 1997; USCG-2000–7790, 65 FR 58459, Sept. 29, 2000]

§ 31.10-10 Vessels converted to tank vessels—TB/ALL.
top
The procedure for the inspection of vessels converted to tank vessels shall conform to the inspection for new tank vessels as called for in §31.10–5(b), and such vessels shall comply with the requirements of inspections for converted vessels as set forth in the regulations in this subchapter.

§ 31.10-15 Inspection for certification—TB/ALL.
top
(a) After receiving an application for inspection, the OCMI will inspect a tank vessel in his or her jurisdiction once every 5 years. The OCMI will ensure that every tank vessel is of a structure suitable for the carriage of flammable and/or combustible liquids in bulk and for the proper grade or grades of cargo the vessel carries while in service. If the OCMI deems it necessary, he or she may direct the vessel to be put in motion, and may adopt any other suitable means to test the tank vessel and its equipment.

(b) The inspection for certification shall include an inspection of the structure, boilers, and other pressure vessels, machinery and equipment. The inspection shall be such as to insure that the vessel, as regards the structure, boilers, and other pressure vessels and their appurtenances, piping, main and auxiliary machinery, electrical installations, life-saving appliances, fire-detecting and extinguishing equipment, pilot boarding equipment, and other equipment is in satisfactory condition and fit for the service for which it is intended, and that it complies with the applicable regulations for such vessels, and determine that the vessel is in possession of a valid certificate issued by the Federal Communications Commission, if required. The lights, means of making sound signals, and distress signals carried by the vessel shall also be subject to the above-mentioned inspection for the purpose of ensuring that they comply with the requirements of the applicable statutes and regulations.

(c) If the vessel passes the inspection for certification, the OCMI will issue a new Certificate of Inspection.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16662, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGFR 68–32, 33 FR 5712, Apr. 12, 1968; CGFR 68–82, 33 FR 18804, Dec. 18, 1968; CGD 82–036, 48 FR 655, Jan. 6, 1983; CGD 79–032, 49 FR 25455, June 21, 1984; CGD 95–012, 60 FR 48049, Sept. 18, 1995; CGD 95–027, 61 FR 25997, May 23, 1996; USCG-1999–4976, 65 FR 6499, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 31.10-16 Inspection and certification of cargo gear—TB/ALL.
top
(a) The owner, operator or master shall provide the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection with all current valid certificates and registers of cargo gear issued by competent persons or a recognized organization or nonprofit association approved by the Commandant to certify the suitability of the cargo gear.

(b) Every acceptable cargo gear certificate and/or register shall be properly executed by a person authorized to do so and shall:

(1) Certify as to the tests and examinations conducted;

(2) Show the dates on which the tests and examinations were conducted; and

(3) Indicate that the cargo gear described in the certificate or register complies with the standards of the organization or association authorized to issue the certificate or register.

(c) Competent persons for the purposes of this section are defined as—

(1) Surveyors of a classification society recognized by the Commandant under 46 U.S.C. 3316,

(2) Surveyors of a recognized cargo gear organization; or

(3) Responsible officials or employees of the testing laboratories, companies, or organizations who conduct tests of pieces of loose cargo gear, wire rope, or the annealing of gear as may be required by the standards of the organization or association authorized to issue the certificate or register.

(d) The registers issued in connection with cargo gear certification must have all required entries fully completed as of the dates indicated, shall be kept current, and shall include the following:

(1) A register of the cargo handling machinery and the gear accessory thereto carried on the vessel named therein;

(2) Certification of the testing and examination of winches, derricks, and their accessory gear;

(3) Certification of the testing and examination of cranes, hoists, and their accessory gear;

(4) Certification of the testing and examination of chains, rings, hooks, shackles, swivels, and blocks;

(5) Certification of the testing and examination of wire rope;

(6) Certification of the heat treatment of chains, rings, hooks, shackles, and swivels which require such treatment; and,

(7) Certification of the annual thorough examinations of gear not required to be periodically heat treated.

(e) The authorization for an organization to perform the required inspection is granted by the Commandant (G-MOC), and will continue until superseded, canceled, or modified. The following organization is currently recognized, by the Commandant (G-MOC), as having the technical competence to handle the required inspection:

The International Cargo Gear Bureau, Inc., with home office at 90 West Street, Suite 1612, New York, New York 10006.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16662, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51197, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 31.10-17 Annual and periodic inspections—TB/ALL.
top
(a) Annual inspection. Your vessel must undergo an annual inspection within 3 months before or after each anniversary date, except as specified in paragraph (b) of this section.

(1) You must contact the cognizant OCMI to schedule an inspection at a time and place which he or she approves. No written application is required.

(2) The scope of the annual inspection is the same as the inspection for certification but in less detail unless the cognizant marine inspector finds deficiencies or determines that a major change has occurred since the last inspection. If deficiencies are found or a major change to the vessel has occurred, the marine inspector will conduct an inspection more detailed in scope to ensure that the vessel is in satisfactory condition and fit for the service for which it is intended. If your vessel passes the annual inspection, the marine inspector will endorse your vessel's current Certificate of Inspection.

(3) If the annual inspection reveals deficiencies in your vessel's maintenance, you must make any or all repairs or improvements within the time period specified by the OCMI.

(4) Nothing in this subpart limits the marine inspector from conducting such tests or inspections he or she deems necessary to be assured of the vessel's seaworthiness.

(b) Periodic inspection. Your vessel must undergo a periodic inspection within 3 months before or after the second or third anniversary of the date of your vessel's Certificate of Inspection. This periodic inspection will take the place of an annual inspection.

(1) You must contact the cognizant OCMI to schedule an inspection at a time and place which he or she approves. No written application is required.

(2) The scope of the periodic inspection is the same as that for the inspection for certification, as specified in §31.10–15(b). The OCMI will ensure that the vessel is in satisfactory condition and fit for the service for which it is intended. If your vessel passes the periodic inspection, the marine inspector will endorse your vessel's current Certificate of Inspection.

(3) If the periodic inspection reveals deficiencies in your vessel's maintenance, you must make any or all repairs or improvements within the time period specified by the OCMI.

(4) Nothing in this subpart limits the marine inspector from conducting such tests or inspections he or she deems necessary to be assured of the vessel's seaworthiness.

[USCG-1999–4976, 65 FR 6499, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 31.10-17a Certificate of Inspection: Conditions of validity.
top
To maintain a valid Certificate of Inspection, you must complete your annual and periodic inspections within the periods specified in §31.10–17 (a) and (b) and your Certificate of Inspection must be endorsed.

[USCG-1999–4976, 65 FR 6500, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 31.10-18 Firefighting equipment: General—TB/ALL.
top
(a) It shall be the duty of the owner, master, or person in charge of a tank vessel to require and have performed at least once in every 12 months, the tests and inspections of all hand portable fire extinguishers, semiportable fire extinguishing systems, and fixed fire extinguishing systems on board, as described in paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this section. The owner, master, or person in charge shall keep records of such tests and inspections showing the dates when performed, the number and/or other identification of each unit tested and inspected, and the name(s) of the person(s) and/or company conducting the tests and inspections. Such records shall be made available to the marine inspector upon request and shall be kept for the period of validity of the vessel's current certificate of inspection. Where practicable, these records should be kept in or with the vessel's logbook. The conduct of these tests and inspections does not relieve the owner, master, or person in charge of his responsibility to maintain this firefighting equipment in proper condition at all times.

(b) The following tests and inspections of portable fire extinguishing equipment shall be made:

Table 31.10-18(b)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Type unit Test
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Soda acid................................ Discharge. Clean hose and
inside of extinguisher
thoroughly. Recharge.
Foam..................................... Discharge. Clean hose and
inside of extinguisher
thoroughly. Recharge.
Pump tank (water or antifreeze).......... Discharge. Clean hose and
inside of extinguisher
thoroughly. Recharge with
clean water or antifreeze.
Cartridge operated (water, antifreeze or Examine pressure cartridge
loaded stream). and replace if end is
punctured or if cartridge is
otherwise determined to have
leaked or to be in
unsuitable condition. Remove
liquid, clean hose and
inside of extinguisher
thoroughly. Recharge with
clean water, solution, or
antifreeze. Insert charged
cartridge.
Stored pressure (water, antifreeze or See that pressure gage is in
loaded stream). operating range. If not, or
if seal is broken, weigh or
otherwise determine that
full charge is in
extinguisher. Recharge if
pressure is low or if
extinguishing agent is
needed.
Carbon dioxide........................... Weigh cylinders. Recharge if
weight loss exceeds 10
percent of weight of charge.
Inspect hose and nozzle to
be sure they are clear.\1\
Dry chemical (cartridge-operated type)... Examine pressure cartridge
and replace if end is
punctured or if cartridge is
otherwise determined to have
leaked or to be in
unsuitable condition.
Inspect hose and nozzle to
see if they are clear.
Insert charged cartridge. Be
sure dry chemical is
freeflowing (not caked) and
chamber contains full
charge.
Dry chemical (stored pressure type)...... See that pressure gage is in
operating range. If not, or
if seal is broken, weigh or
otherwise determine that
full charge of dry chemical
is in extinguisher. Recharge
if pressure is low or if dry
chemical is needed.
Vaporizing liquid \2\ (pump type)........ Pump a few strokes into clean
pail and replace liquid.
Keep water out of
extinguisher or liquid. Keep
extinguisher completely full
of liquid.
Vaporizing liquid \2\ (stored pressure See that pressure gage is in
type). operating range. Weigh or
check liquid level to
determine that full charge
of liquid is in
extinguisher. Recharge if
pressure is low or if liquid
is needed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Cylinders must be tested and marked, and all flexible connections
and discharge hoses of semi-portable carbon dioxide and halon
extinguishers must be tested or renewed, as required by §§
147.60 and 147.65 of this chapter.
\2\ Vaporizing-liquid type fire extinguishers containing carbon
tetrachloride or chlorobromomethane or other toxic vaporizing liquids
shall be removed from all vessels.

(c) The following tests and inspections of fixed fire extinguishing equipment shall be made:

Table 31.10-18(c)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Type system Test
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Foam..................................... Systems utilizing a soda
solution shall have such
solution replaced. In all
cases, ascertain that powder
is not caked.
Carbon dioxide........................... Weigh cylinders. Recharge if
weight loss exceeds 10
percent of weight of
charge.\1\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Cylinders must be tested and marked, and all flexible connections on
fixed carbon dioxide and halon extinguishers must be tested or
renewed, as required by §§ 147.60 and 147.65 of this
chapter.

(d) Deck foam systems shall be tested at the inspection for certification and the periodic inspection by discharging foam for approximately 15 seconds from any nozzle designated by the marine inspector. It shall not be required to deliver foam from all foam outlets, but all lines and nozzles shall be tested with water to prove them to be clear of obstruction. Before the inspection for certification and periodic inspection of deck foam systems utilizing a mechanical foam system, a representative sample of the foam liquid shall be submitted to the manufacturer who will issue a certificate indicating gravity, pH, percentage of water dilution and solid content.

(e) At each inspection for certification, periodic inspection, and at such other times as considered necessary, the inspector shall determine that all fire extinguishing equipment is in suitable condition and that the tests and inspections required by paragraphs (b) through (i) of this section have been conducted. In addition, the marine inspector may require such tests as are considered necessary to determine the condition of the equipment.

(f) On all fire extinguishing systems, all the piping, controls, valves, and alarms shall be checked by the marine inspector to ascertain that the system is in good operating condition.

(g) The fire main system shall be operated and the pressure checked at the most remote and highest outlets by the marine inspector. All fire hose shall be subjected to a test pressure equivalent to the maximum pressure to which they may be subjected in service, but not less than 100 p.s.i. The marine inspector shall check that the hose couplings are securely fastened in accordance with the regulations of this subchapter.

(h) At each inspection for certification, periodic inspection, and at such other times as considered necessary, all carbon dioxide cylinders for fixed, semiportable, and portable systems shall be examined and replaced if any corrosion is found. They shall also be checked by weighing to determine their contents, and if found to be more than 10 percent under the required contents of carbon dioxide, they shall be recharged.

(i) Steam smothering lines shall be tested with at least 50 pounds per square inch of air pressure or by blowing steam through the lines at the working pressure and a survey made for detecting corrosion and defects using hammer test or such other means as may be necessary.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16662, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGFR 68–32, 33 FR 5712, Apr. 12, 1968; CGD 84–044, 53 FR 7748, Mar. 10, 1988; USCG-1999–4976, 65 FR 6500, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 31.10-18a Liquefied gas vessels: additional firefighting equipment inspections.
top
(a) Once during each 12 month period after the month an original Certificate of Inspection is issued for a liquefied gas vessel under §31.05–1, the master shall ensure that the firefighting systems required in part 154 of this chapter for a liquefied gas vessel meets the following:

(1) The exterior water spray system must past a water spray test.

(2) The dry chemical system must meet the manufacturer's specifications for—

(i) The amount of dry chemical powder; and

(ii) The pressure for nitrogen bottles.

(3) The piping, valves, and controls of the system must be operable.

(b) On the same date that the requirements under paragraph (a) of this section are met, the master shall record in the vessel's official logbook the following information:

(1) The date of the inspection.

(2) The identification of each device inspected.

(3) The name of the inspector.

[CGD 74–289, 44 FR 26006, May 3, 1979]

§ 31.10-19 All firefighting equipment may be tested—TB/ALL.
top
(a) During the inspection of fire-fighting equipment, the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, may require fire apparatus to be tested, and used, except as provided under §§31.10–18(h) and 34.15–90(a) of this subchapter.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 31.10-20 Definitions relating to hull examinations—T/B ALL.
top
As used in this part—

(a) Drydock examination means hauling out of a vessel or placing a vessel in a drydock or slipway for an examination of all accessible parts of the vessel's underwater body and all through-hull fittings.

(b) Internal structural examination means an examination of the vessel while afloat or in drydock and consists of a complete examination of the vessel's main strength members, including the major internal framing, the hull plating, voids, and ballast tanks, but not including cargo or fuel oil tanks.

(c) Cargo tank internal examination means an examination of the vessel while afloat or in drydock and consists of an examination of the internals of all cargo tanks; except, if the vessel is certificated to carry cargoes regulated under part 38 or subchapter O of this chapter, the cargo tank internal examination must be accomplished as specified in parts 38 and 151 of this chapter respectively.

(d) Underwater survey means the examination, while the vessel is afloat, of all accessible parts of the vessel's underwater body and all through-hull fittings.

[CGD 84–024, 52 FR 39649, Oct. 23, 1987, as amended by CGD 84–024, 53 FR 32229, Aug. 24, 1988; CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51197, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 31.10-21 Drydock examination, internal structural examination, cargo tank internal examination, and underwater survey intervals—TB/ALL.
top
(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) through (g) of this section, each tank vessel must undergo drydock, internal structural, and cargo tank internal examinations as follows:

(1) Except under paragraph (a)(2) of this section, vessels that operate in salt water must be inspected in accordance with the intervals set forth in table 31.10–21(a). Where table 31.10–21(a) indicates a 2.5 year examination interval, it means a vessel must undergo two examinations within any five year period. No more than three years may elapse between any two examinations.

View or download PDF

(2) Vessels that operate in fresh water at least six months in every 12 month period since the last drydock examination must be examined in accordance with the intervals set forth in table 31.10–21(b). Where table 31.10–21(b) indicates a 2.5 year examination interval, it means a vessel must undergo two examinations within any five year period. No more than three years may elapse between any two examinations.

View or download PDF

(b) During each inspection or reinspection for certification, all wing voids, rakes, cofferdams, and other void spaces on tank barges must be opened and checked from on-deck for the presence of water or cargo indicating hull damage or cargo tank leakage. If water or cargo is not present, these spaces need not be gas freed, ventilated, cleaned, or otherwise prepared for personnel entry. If water or cargo is present, an internal structural examination may be required.

(c) If, during an internal structural examination, cargo tank internal examination, or underwater survey, damage or deterioration to the hull plating, structural members, or cargo tanks is discovered, the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, may require the vessel to be drydocked or otherwise taken out of service to further assess the extent of the damage and to effect permanent repairs.

(d) Vessels less than 15 years of age (except wooden hull vessels) that are in salt water service with a 2.5 year drydock interval (as indicated in table 31.10–21(a) of this section) or that are in fresh water service with a five year drydock interval (as indicated in table 31.10–21(b) of this section) may be considered for an underwater survey instead of alternate drydock examinations, provided the vessel is fitted with an effective hull protection system. Vessel owners or operators must apply to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, for approval of underwater surveys instead of alternate drydock examinations for each vessel. The application must include the following information:

(1) The procedure to be followed in carrying out the underwater survey.

(2) The location where the underwater survey will be accomplished.

(3) The method to be used to accurately determine the diver location relative to the hull.

(4) The means that will be provided for examining through-hull fittings.

(5) The means that will be provided for taking shaft bearing clearances.

(6) The condition of the vessel, including the anticipated draft of the vessel at the time of the survey.

(7) A description of the hull protection system.

(e) Vessels otherwise qualifying under paragraph (d) of this section, that are 15 years of age or older may be considered for continued participation in or entry into the underwater survey program on a case-by-case basis, if—

(1) Before the vessel's next scheduled drydocking, the owner or operator submits a request for participation or continued participation to Commandant (G-MOC);

(2) During the vessel's next drydocking after the request is submitted, no appreciable hull deterioration is indicated as a result of a complete set of hull gaugings; and

(3) The results of the hull gauging and the results of the Coast Guard drydock examination together with the recommendation of the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, are submitted to Commandant (G-MOC) for final approval.

(f) Each vessel which has not met with the applicable examination schedules in paragraphs (a) through (e) of this section because it is on a voyage, must undergo the required examinations upon completion of the voyage.

(g) The Commandant (G-MOC) may authorize extensions to the examination intervals specified in paragraph (a) of this section.

[CGD 84–024, 52 FR 39649, Oct. 23, 1987, as amended at 53 FR 32230, Aug. 24, 1988; 53 FR 34872, Sept. 8, 1988; CGD 95–072, 60 FR 50461, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 91–045, 61 FR 39792, July 30, 1996; CGD 96–041, 61 FR 50726, Sept. 27, 1996; CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51198, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 31.10-21a Periodic gauging of tank vessel midbodies more than 30 years old that carry certain oil cargoes—TB/ALL.
top
(a) As used in this section, the term “midbody” means the 40-percent midship length (0.40L) of the tank vessel. The age of the midbody is determined from its year of original construction.

(b) Midbodies of all tank vessels certificated to carry a pollution category I oil cargo listed in 46 CFR Table 30.25–1 must undergo an initial gauging survey and periodic regauging surveys as follows:

(1) An initial midbody gauging survey must be accomplished no later than the next drydocking inspection after the midbody becomes 30 years old.

(2) Regaugings:

(i) Midbodies of double hull tank vessels, or single hull tank vessels with independent tanks, that operated in fresh water at least 6 months in every 12-month period since the last drydock examination must be regauged at intervals not exceeding 10 years;

(ii) Midbodies of all other tank vessels must be regauged at intervals not exceeding 5 years.

(c) The midbody gauging survey must be comprised of at least three transverse (girth) belts of deck, bottom, side, inner hull, trunk, and longitudinal bulkhead plating and attached longitudinal members. The number and specific locations of the gauging points shall be to the satisfaction of the Officer in Charge of Marine Inspection (OCMI).

(d) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, within 60 days of the vessel's required compliance date the owner or operator shall submit the following to the OCMI that issued the vessel's current Certificate of Inspection:

(1) The gauging survey results.

(2) An engineering analysis signed by a registered Professional Engineer licensed by any state of the United States or the District of Columbia, or signed by a Coast Guard-approved organization, that—

(i) Certifies the vessel's compliance with the minimum section modulus and plating thickness requirements of subpart 32.59 of this chapter; or

(ii) Proposes structural repairs and/or modifications that will bring the vessel up to the required strength standards.

(e) The vessel owner or operator shall keep a permanent copy of the Coast Guard-approved gauging report available for inspection by the OCMI.

(f) Instead of the submittals required by paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, current classification with the American Bureau of Shipping or another recognized classification society, or a load line certificate issued in accordance with the International Convention on Load Lines or the International Voyage Load Line Act, may be submitted as evidence of compliance with the requirements of this section.

[CGD 91–209, 58 FR 52602, Oct. 8, 1993]

§ 31.10-22 Notice and plans required.
top
(a) The master, owner, operator, or agent of the vessel shall notify the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, whenever the vessel is to be drydocked regardless of the reason for drydocking.

(b) Each vessel, except barges, that holds a Load Line Certificate must have on board a plan showing the vessel's scantlings. This plan must be made available to the Coast Guard marine inspector whenever the vessel undergoes a drydock examination, internal structural examination, cargo tank internal examination, or underwater survey or whenever repairs are made to the vessel's hull.

(c) Each barge that holds a Load Line Certificate must have a plan showing the vessel's scantlings. The plan need not be maintained on board the barge but must be made available to the Coast Guard marine inspector whenever the barge undergoes a drydock examination, internal structural examination, cargo tank internal examination or underwater survey or whenever repairs are made to the barge's hull.

[CGD 84–024, 52 FR 39651, Oct. 23, 1987]

§ 31.10-24 Integral fuel oil tank examinations—T/ALL.
top
(a) Each fuel oil tank with at least one side integral to the vessel's hull and located within the hull (integral fuel oil tank) is subject to inspection as provided in this section. The owner or operator of the vessel shall have the tanks cleaned out and gas freed as necessary to permit internal examination of the tank or tanks designated by the marine inspector. The owner or operator shall arrange for an examination of the fuel tanks of each vessel during an internal structural examination at intervals not to exceed five years.

(b) Integral non-double-bottom fuel oil tanks need not be cleaned out and internally examined if the marine inspector is able to determine by external examination that the general condition of the tanks is satisfactory.

(c) Double-bottom fuel oil tanks on vessels less than 10 years of age need not be cleaned out and internally examined if the marine inspector is able to determine by external examination that the general condition of the tanks is satisfactory.

(d) All double-bottom fuel oil tanks on vessels 10 years of age or older but less than 15 years of age need not be cleaned out and internally examined if the marine inspector is able to determine by internal examination of at least one forward double-bottom fuel oil tank, and by external examination of all other double-bottom fuel oil tanks on the vessel, that the general condition of the tanks is satisfactory.

(e) All double-bottom fuel oil tanks on vessels 15 years of age or older but less than 25 years of age need not be cleaned out and internally examined if the marine inspector is able to determine by internal examination of at least one forward, one amidships, and one aft double-bottom fuel oil tank, and by external examination of all other double-bottom fuel oil tanks on the vessel, that the general condition of the tanks is satisfactory.

(f) All double-bottom fuel oil tanks on vessels 25 years of age or older need not be cleaned out and internally examined if the marine inspector is able to determine by internal examination of at least one double-bottom fuel oil tank in way of each cargo tank, and by external examination of all other double-bottom fuel oil tanks, that the general condition of the tanks is satisfactory.

[CGD 84–024, 52 FR 39651, Oct. 23, 1987, as amended at 53 FR 32230, Aug. 24, 1988]

§ 31.10-25 Inspection covering repairs and alterations involving safety—TB/ALL.
top
No extensive alterations involving the safety of a tank vessel either in regard to hull or machinery shall be made without the approval of the Commandant. Before such alterations are carried out, copies of plans and specifications in triplicate for the work involved shall be forwarded to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, in whose zone the repairs will be made, for submission to Headquarters for approval. If approved one set of the plans and specifications, properly stamped and dated, shall be returned to the owner or to the repair yard designated by the owner; one set to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, who forwarded the plans and specifications to Headquarters; and one set shall be retained at Headquarters. If such plans and specifications are not approved, the Commandant shall promptly notify the owner or designated shipyard wherein they fail to comply with the regulations in this chapter. No extensive repairs to the hull or machinery which affect the safety of a vessel shall be made without the knowledge of the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection.

§ 31.10-30 Stability requirements—TB/ALL.
top
Each tank vessel must meet the applicable requirements in subchapter S of this chapter.

[CGD 79–023, 48 FR 51006, Nov. 4, 1983]

§ 31.10-32 Loading information—TB/ALL.
top
(a) This section applies to each tankship and tank barge the construction of which begins on or after September 6, 1977.

(b) Each tank vessel over 300 feet in length must have the loading information prescribed in either §42.15–1(a) or §45.105(a) of this chapter. For tank vessels subject to the Load Line Acts the information must be approved by the Commandant or by a recognized classification society that is approved by the Commandant. For tank vessels not subject to the Load Line Acts loading information must be approved by the Commandant. If the vessel is a tankship, the approved information must be provided to the master of the vessel. If the vessel is a tank barge, the information must be provided to the person in charge of handling the cargo during loading or off-loading of the barge.

[CGD 75–041, 42 FR 28887, June 6, 1977; 42 FR 35650, July 11, 1977]

§ 31.10-35 Permit to proceed to another port for repair—TB/ALL.
top
(a) The Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, may issue a permit to proceed to another port for repair, Form CG-948, to a vessel if in his judgment it can be done with safety even if the certificate of inspection of the vessel has expired or is about to expire.

(b) Such permit will only be issued upon the written application of the master, owner or agent of the vessel.

(c) The permit will state upon its face the conditions under which it is issued and whether or not the vessel is permitted to carry freight or passengers. Passengers may not be carried if the certificate of inspection has expired.

(d) The permit shall be carried in a manner similar to that described in §31.05–5 for a certificate of inspection.

§ 31.10-40 Inspection during trial trip—T/ALL.
top
On the trial trip of each new or converted tankship, an inspector shall be present to observe from the standpoint of safety in the carriage of flammable and/or combustible liquids in bulk, the operation of boilers, engines, steering gear, and auxiliaries; and if not satisfied with the performance of such boilers and machinery, appliances, and apparatus for stowage, he shall make such requirements as in his judgment will overcome any deficiencies which may have come under his observation.

§ 31.10-45 Inspection of crew accommodations—TB/ALL.
top
Crew's quarters shall be inspected to determine their sanitary condition. The Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, upon completing such inspection, shall notify the master or officer in charge of the vessel of his findings, which shall be entered in the vessel's log book.

§ 31.10-50 Inspection of bilges—TB/ALL.
top
(a) When inspecting oil-burning vessels, either internal-combustion type or steam-driven type, the marine inspector shall examine the tank tops and bilges in the fireroom and engineroom to see that there is no accumulation of oil which might create a fire hazard.

Subpart 31.15—Manning of Tank Vessels
top
§ 31.15-1 Licensed officers and crews—TB/ALL.
top
The Officer in Charge, MarineInspection (OCMI), that inspects the vessel enters on the Certificate of Inspection (COI) for each tank vessel the complement of officers and crew that are required by statute and regulation and that in the judgment of the OCMI are necessary for its safe operation. The OCMI may change the complement from time to time by endorsement to the COI for changes in conditions of employment. (continued)