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National
United States Regulations
46 CFR PART 71—INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION


Title 46: Shipping





PART 71—INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION



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Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); 46 U.S.C. 2113, 3205, 3306, 3307; 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.

Source: CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16895, Dec. 30, 1965, unless otherwise noted.

Subpart 71.01—Certificate of Inspection
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§ 71.01-1 When required.
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(a) Except as noted in this subpart or subpart 71.05, no vessel subject to inspection and certification shall be operated without a valid certificate of inspection.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.01-5 Posting.
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The certificate of inspection shall be displayed under glass in a conspicuous place where observation by the passengers is likely.

[CGD 72–104R, 37 FR 14233, July 18, 1972]

§ 71.01-10 Period of validity.
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(a) Certificates of inspection will be issued for a period of 1 year. Application may be made by the master, owner, or agent for inspection and issuance of a new certificate of inspection at any time within the period of validity of the current certificate.

(b) 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 18899, Dec. 18, 1968, as amended by CGD 95–012, 60 FR 48051, Sept. 18, 1995; CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51203, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 71.01-15 Temporary certificate.
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(a) If necessary to prevent delay of the vessel, a temporary certificate of inspection, Form CG-854, shall be issued pending the issuance and delivery of the regular certificate of inspection. Such temporary certificate shall be carried in the same manner as the regular certificate and shall in all ways be considered the same as the regular certificate of inspection which it represents.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.01-20 Expired certificate.
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(a) Nothing in this subpart shall prevent a vessel upon a regularly established line from a port in the United States to a port of a foreign country not contiguous to the United States whose certificate of inspection expires at sea or while said vessel is in a foreign port or a port of Hawaii from lawfully completing her voyage without the valid certificate of inspection or temporary certificate required by this subpart: Provided, That the voyage shall be completed within 30 days after the expiration of the certificate of inspection. No such vessel shall depart if its certificate of inspection will expire within 15 days of the date of sailing.

(b) [Reserved]

Subpart 71.05—Permit To Proceed to Another Port for Repair
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§ 71.05-1 When issued.
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(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) [Reserved]

§ 71.05-5 To whom issued.
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(a) Such permit will only be issued upon the written application of the master, owner, or agent of the vessel.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.05-10 Conditions of permit.
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(a) 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, except as provided under §71.01–20.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.05-15 Posting.
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(a) The permit shall be carried in a manner similar to that described in §71.01–5 for a certificate of inspection.

(b) [Reserved]

Subpart 71.10—Permit To Engage in Excursions
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§ 71.10-1 When issued.
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(a) The Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, may issue a permit to carry additional passengers on an excursion, Form CG-949, if after personally inspecting the vessel, it can, in his judgment, be done with safety.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.10-5 To whom issued.
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(a) Such permit will only be issued upon the written application of the master, owner, or agent of the vessel.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.10-10 Conditions of permit.
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(a) The permit will state upon its face the conditions under which it is issued, the number of extra passengers the vessel may carry, any additional lifesaving or safety equipment which will be required, the route for which the permit is granted, and the dates on which the permit will be valid.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.10-15 Posting.
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(a) The permit when used, shall be carried in addition to the certificate of inspection and shall be carried in a manner similar to that described in §71.01–5 for a certificate of inspection.

(b) [Reserved]

Subpart 71.15—Inspection of Vessels
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§ 71.15-1 Standards in inspection of hulls, boilers, and machinery.
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In the inspection of hulls, boilers, and machinery of vessels, the standards established by the American Bureau of Shipping, see part 70, subpart 70.35 of this chapter respecting material and inspection of hulls, boilers, and machinery, and the certificate of classification referring thereto, except where otherwise provided for by the rules and regulations in this subchapter, subchapter E (Load Lines), subchapter F (Marine Engineering), subchapter J (Electrical Engineering), and subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter, shall be accepted as standard by the inspectors.

[CGD 84–069, 61 FR 25287, May 20, 1996]

§ 71.15-5 Alternate compliance.
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(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 58347, Sept. 30, 2004]

Subpart 71.20—Initial Inspection
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§ 71.20-1 Prerequisite of certificate of inspection.
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(a) The initial inspection is a prerequisite of the issuance of the original certificate of inspection.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.20-5 When made.
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(a) The original inspection will only be made upon the written application of the owner or builder of the vessel to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, on Form CG-3752, application for inspection of U.S. vessel, at or nearest the port where the vessel is located.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.20-10 Plans.
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(a) Before application for inspection is made and before construction is started, the owner or builder shall have plans indicating the proposed arrangement and construction of the vessel approved by the Commandant. The procedure for submitting plans and the list of plans to be supplied is set forth in subpart 71.65.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.20-15 Scope of inspections.
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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, pollution prevention 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 68–32, 33 FR 5715, Apr. 12, 1968, as amended by CGD 82–036, 48 FR 654, Jan. 6, 1983; CGD 79–032, 49 FR 25455, June 21, 1984; CGD 95–012, 60 FR 48051, Sept. 18, 1995]

§ 71.20-20 Specific tests and inspections.
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The applicable tests and inspections relating to annual inspection as set forth in subpart 71.25 shall be made at this time. In addition, the following specific tests and inspections shall be made by the inspector:

(a) For inspection procedures of lifesaving appliances and arrangements, see subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.

(b) Installation of carbon dioxide extinguishing piping, see §76.15–15 of this subchapter.

(c) For inspection procedures of marine engineering equipment and systems, see subchapter F (Marine Engineering) of this chapter.

(d) For inspection procedures of electrical engineering equipment and systems, see subchapter J (Electrical Engineering) of this chapter.

(e) For inspection and testing standards of structural subdivision integrity, see §72.01–25 of this subchapter.

(f) For inspection and testing of watertight doors, see §170.270 of this chapter.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16895, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGD 79–023, 48 FR 51007, Nov. 4, 1983; CGD 84–069, 61 FR 25287, May 20, 1996]

Subpart 71.25—Annual Inspection
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§ 71.25-1 Prerequisite of reissuance of certificate of inspection.
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(a) The annual inspection is a prerequisite of the reissuance of a certificate of inspection.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.25-5 When made.
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(a) The annual inspection will be made only upon the written application of the master, owner, or agent of the vessel on Form CG–3752, Application for Inspection of U.S. Vessel, to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, at or nearest the port where the vessel is to be inspected.

(b) You must submit your application for the annual inspection at least 30 days before your current certificate of inspection expires.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16895, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by USCG–1999–4976, 65 FR 6501, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 71.25-10 Scope of inspections.
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The annual inspection 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.

[CGFR 68–32, 33 FR 5715, Apr. 12, 1968 as amended by CGD 82–036, 48 FR 655, Jan. 6, 1983; CGD 79–032, 49 FR 25455, June 21, 1984; CGD 95–012, 60 FR 48051, Sept. 18, 1995]

§ 71.25-15 Lifesaving equipment.
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For inspection procedures of lifesaving appliances and arrangements, see subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.

[CGD 84–069, 61 FR 25287, May 20, 1996]

§ 71.25-20 Fire-detecting and extinguishing equipment.
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(a) At each annual inspection, the inspector shall conduct the following tests and inspections of fire detecting and extinguishing equipment:

(1) All hand portable fire extinguishers and semiportable fire extinguishing systems shall be checked as noted in table 71.25–20(a)(1). In addition, the hand portable fire extinguishers and semiportable fire extinguishing systems shall be examined for excessive corrosion and general condition.


Table 71.25-20(a)(1)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 cartirdge and
loaded stream). 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.
Carbon Dioxide.......................... Weigh cylinders. Recharge if
weight loss exceed 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 they are clear.
Insert charged cartridge. Be
sure dry chemical is free-
flowing (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 (stored pressure type) See that pressure gage is in
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. (See § 76.50-5(e) of this
subchapter.)


(2) Fixed fire extinguishing systems shall be checked as noted in table 71.25–20(a)(2). In addition all parts of the fixed fire extinguishing systems shall be examined for excessive corrosion and general conditions.


Table 71.25-20(a)(2)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 systems must be tested or renewed, as required by
§§ 147.60 and 147.65 of this chapter.


(3) All fire detecting and extinguishing systems, all piping controls, valves, and alarms shall be checked to ascertain that the system is in operating condition. In this respect, automatic sprinkling systems shall be checked by means of test stations or opening heads, smoke detecting systems shall be checked by introducing smoke into the accumulators, fire detecting and manual alarm systems shall be checked by test stations or actuating detectors or pull boxes, and steam smothering lines shall be checked with at least a 50 p.s.i. air pressure with the ends capped or by blowing steam through the lines at the designed pressure.

(4) The fire main system shall be operated and the pressure checked at the most remote and highest outlets. 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.

(b) [Reserved]

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16895, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGFR 68–32, 33 FR 5716, Apr. 12, 1968; CGD 84–044, 53 FR 7748, Mar. 10, 1988]

§ 71.25-25 Hull equipment.
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(a) At each annual inspection, the inspector shall conduct the following tests and inspections of hull equipment:

(1) All subdivision bulkheads shall be examined to determine that their watertight integrity has not been impaired.

(2) All watertight doors shall be operated locally by manual power and also by hydraulic or electric power if so fitted. Where remote control is fitted, the doors shall also be operated by the remote control apparatus.

(3) All magnetically controlled fire doors shall be operated locally and by the remote control, and all automatic fire dampers shall be checked to determine that they are in an operable condition.

(4) The remote controls of all valves shall be operated.

(5) 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 an organization recognized by the Commandant under §31.10–16.

(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 cargo gear organization recognized by the Commandant under §31.10–16.

(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.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16895, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51203, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 71.25-30 [Reserved]
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§ 71.25-35 Marine engineering equipment.
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(a) For inspection procedures of marine engineering equipment and systems, see subchapter F. (Marine Engineering) of this chapter.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.25-37 Pollution prevention.
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At each inspection for certification, the inspector shall examine the vessel to determine that it meets the vessel design and equipment requirements for pollution prevention in 33 CFR part 155, subpart B.

[CGD 71–161R, 37 FR 28262, Dec. 21, 1972]

§ 71.25-40 Sanitary inspection.
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(a) At each annual inspection the passenger and crew quarters, toilet and washing spaces, galleys, serving pantries, lockers, etc., shall be examined by the inspector to be assured that they are in a sanitary condition.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.25-45 Fire hazards.
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(a) At each annual inspection, the inspector shall examine the tank tons and bilges in the machinery spaces to see that there is no accumulation of oil which might create a fire hazard.

(b) [Reserved]

§ 71.25-50 Inspector not limited.
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(a) Nothing in this subpart shall be construed as limiting the inspector from making such tests or inspections as he deems necessary to be assured of the safety and seaworthiness of the vessel.

(b) [Reserved]

Subpart 71.30—Reinspection
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§ 71.30-1 When made.
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In general, at least three reinspections shall be made on each vessel within one year. These reinspections will be made at approximately equal intervals between annual inspections. In the case of vessels with a seasonal schedule, reinspections will be made during the operating season if practicable.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16895, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51203, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 71.30-5 Scope.
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(a) The inspector shall examine all accessible parts of the vessel's hull, machinery, and equipment to be assured that it is in a satisfactory condition.

(b) In general, the scope of the reinspection shall be the same as for the annual inspection, but will be in less detail unless it is determined that major change has occurred since the last annual inspection.

§ 71.30-10 Inspector not limited.
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(a) Nothing in this subpart shall be construed as limiting the inspector from making such tests or inspections as he deems necessary to be assured of the safety and seaworthiness of the vessel.

(b) [Reserved]

Subpart 71.40—Inspection After Accident
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§ 71.40-1 General or partial survey.
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(a) A survey, either general or partial, according to the circumstances, shall be made every time an accident occurs or a defect is discovered which affects the safety of the vessel or the efficacy or completeness of its lifesaving appliances, fire-fighting or other equipment, or whenever any important repairs or renewals are made. The survey shall be such as to insure that the necessary repairs or renewals have been effectively made, that the material and the workmanship of such repairs or renewals are in all respects satisfactory, and that the vessel complies in all respects with the regulations in this subchapter.

(b) [Reserved]

Subpart 71.45—Sanitary Inspections
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§ 71.45-1 When made.
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(a) An inspection of passenger and crew quarters, toilet and washing spaces, serving pantries, galleys, etc., shall be made, in general, at least once in every month. If the route of the vessel is such that it is away from a United States port for more than one month, an inspection shall be conducted at least once every trip.

(b) [Reserved]

Subpart 71.50—Drydocking
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§ 71.50-1 Definitions relating to hull examinations.
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As used in this part—

Adequate hull protection system means a method of protecting the vessel's hull from corrosion. It includes, as a minimum, either hull coatings and a cathodic protection (CP) system consisting of sacrificial anodes, or an impressed current CP system.

Alternative Hull Examination (AHE) Program means a program in which an eligible vessel may receive an initial and subsequent credit hull examination through a combination of underwater surveys, internal examinations, and annual hull condition assessment.

Drydock examination means hauling out 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 and appurtenances.

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, sewage, or fuel oil tanks.

Remotely operated vehicle (ROV) team, at a minimum, consist of an ROV operator, a non-destructive testing inspector, an ROV tender or mechanic, and a team supervisor who is considered by the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI), to have the appropriate training and experience to perform the survey and to safely operate the ROV in an effective manor. The team must also have a hull-positioning technician present. This position may be assigned to a team member already responsible for another team duty.

Shallow water is an ascertained water depth at which the uppermost deck(s) of a sunken vessel remain above the water's surface. The determination of the water's depth is made by the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) who considers the vessel's stability (passenger heeling moment), the contour of the hull, the composition of the river bottom, and any other factors that would tend to prevent a vessel from resting an even keel.

Third party examiner means an entity:

(1) With a thorough knowledge of diving operations, including diving limitations as related to diver safety and diver supervision;

(2) Having a familiarity with, but not limited to, the following—

(i) The camera used during the AHE; and

(ii) The NDT equipment used during the AHE, including the effect of water clarity, and marine growth in relation to the quality of the readings obtained;

(3) Having a familiarity with the communications equipment used during the AHE;

(4) Possessing the knowledge of vessel structures, design features, nomenclature, and the applicable AHE regulations; and

(5) Able to present the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, with evidence of formal training, demonstrated ability, past acceptance, or a combination of these.

Underwater Survey in Lieu of Drydocking (UWILD) means a program in which an eligible vessel may alternate between an underwater survey and the required drydock examinations.

[USCG–2000–6858, 67 FR 21076, Apr. 29, 2002, as amended by USCG–2000–6858, 69 FR 47382, Aug. 5, 2004]

§ 71.50-3 Drydock examination, internal structural examination, underwater survey, and alternate hull exam intervals.
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(a) If your vessel is operated on international voyages, it must undergo a drydock and internal structural examination once every 12 months unless it has been approved to undergo an underwater survey per §71.50–5 of this part.

(b) If your vessel is operated on other than international voyages and does not meet the conditions in paragraphs (c) through (f) of this section, it must undergo a drydock and internal structural examination as follows unless it has been approved to undergo an underwater survey per §71.50–5 of this part:

(1) Except as provided in paragraph (b)(2) of this section, vessels that operate in salt water must undergo two drydock and two internal structural examinations within any five year period. No more than three years may elapse between any two examinations.

(2) Vessels 20 years of age or older that operate in salt water and accommodate overnight passengers must undergo drydock and internal structural examinations at intervals not to exceed 18 months.

(3) Vessels that operate in fresh water at least six months in every 12 month period since the last drydock examination must undergo drydock and internal structural examinations at intervals not to exceed five years.

(c) Vessels with wooden hulls must undergo two drydock and two internal structural examinations within any five year period regardless of the type of water in which they operate. No more than three years may elapse between any two examinations.

(d) If, during an internal structural examination, damage or deterioration to the hull plating or structural members 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.

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

(f) For a vessel that is eligible per §71.50–17 and the owner opts for an alternate hull examination with the underwater survey portion conducted exclusively by divers, the vessel must undergo two alternate hull exams and two internal structural exams within any five-year period. If a vessel completes a satisfactory alternate hull exam, with the underwater survey portion conducted predominantly by an approved underwater ROV, the vessel must undergo one alternate hull and one internal structural exam, within any five-year period. The vessel may undergo a drydock exam to satisfy any of the required alternate hull exams.

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

[CGD 84–024, 52 FR 39652, Oct. 23, 1987, as amended by CGD 84–024, 53 FR 32231, Aug. 24, 1988; GCD 95–072, 60 FR 50463, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96-041, 61 FR 50729, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG–2000–6858, 67 FR 21076, Apr. 29, 2002]

§ 71.50-5 Underwater Survey in Lieu of Drydocking (UWILD).
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(a) The Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI), may approve an underwater survey instead of a drydock examination at alternating intervals if your vessel is—

(1) Less than 15 years of age;

(2) A steel or aluminum hulled vessel;

(3) Fitted with an effective hull protection system; and

(4) Described in §71.50–3(a) or (b).

(b) For vessels less than 15 years of age, you must submit an application for an underwater survey to the OCMI at least 90 days before your vessel's next required drydock examination. The application must include—

(1) The procedure for carrying out the underwater survey;

(2) The time and place of the underwater survey;

(3) The method used to accurately determine the diver's or remotely operated vehicle's (ROV) location relative to the hull;

(4) The means for examining all through-hull fittings and appurtenances;

(5) The means for taking shaft bearing clearances;

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

(7) A description of the hull protection system; and

(8) The name and qualifications of any third party examiner.

(c) If your vessel is 15 years old or older, the cognizant District Commander for the area in which the exam is being completed, may approve an underwater survey instead of a drydock examination at alternating intervals. You must submit an application for an underwater survey to the OCMI at least 90 days before your vessel's next required drydock examination. You may be allowed this option if—

(1) The vessel is qualified under paragraphs (a)(2) through (4) of this section;

(2) Your application includes the information in paragraphs (b)(1) through (b)(8) of this section; and

(3) During the vessel's drydock examination that precedes the underwater survey, a complete set of hull gaugings was taken and they indicated that the vessel was free from appreciable hull deterioration.

(d) After this drydock examination required in paragraph (c)(3) of this section, the OCMI submits a recommendation for future underwater surveys, the results of the hull gauging, and the results of the Coast Guards' drydock examination results to the cognizant District Commander for review.

[USCG–2000–6858, 67 FR 21077, Apr. 29, 2002]

§ 71.50-15 Description of the Alternative Hull Examination (AHE) Program for certain passenger vessels.
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The Alternative Hull Examination (AHE) Program provides you with an alternative to a drydock examination by allowing your vessel's hull to be examined while it remains afloat. If completed using only divers, this program has four steps: the application process, the preliminary examination, the pre-survey meeting, and the hull examination. If the vessel is already participating in the program or if a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) is used during the program, the preliminary exam step may be omitted. Once you complete these steps, the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI), will evaluate the results and accept the examination as a credit hull exam if the vessel is in satisfactory condition. If only divers are used for the underwater survey portion of the examination process, you may receive credit for a period of time such that subsequent AHEs would be conducted at intervals of twice in every five years, with no more than three years between any two AHEs. The OCMI may waive an underwater survey in accordance with §71.50–29(d) provided that the interval does not exceed five years between any two underwater surveys. If an underwater ROV is used as the predominate method to examine the vessel's underwater hull plating, you may receive credit up to five years. At the end of this period, you may apply for further participation under the AHE Program.

Note to §71.50–15: The expected hull coverage when using an ROV must be at least 80 percent.

[USCG–2000–6858, 69 FR 47382, Aug. 5, 2004]

§ 71.50-17 Eligibility requirements for the Alternative Hull Examination (AHE) Program for certain passenger vessels.
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(a) Your vessel may be eligible for the AHE Program if—

(1) It is constructed of steel or aluminum;

(2) It has an effective hull protection system;

(3) It has operated exclusively in fresh water since its last drydock examination;

(4) It operates in a reduced risk environment such as a river or the protected waters of a lake; and

(5) It operates exclusively in shallow water or within 0.5 nautical miles from shore.

(b) In addition to the requirements in paragraph (a), the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI), will evaluate the following information when determining your vessel's eligibility for the AHE Program:

(1) The overall condition of the vessel, based on its inspection history;

(2) The vessel's history of hull casualties and hull-related deficiencies; and

(3) The AHE Program application, as described in §71.50–19 of this part.

(c) When reviewing a vessel's eligibility for the AHE program, the OCMI may modify the standards given by paragraph (a)(5) of this section where it is considered safe and reasonable to do so. In making this determination, the OCMI will consider the vessel's overall condition, its history of safe operation, and any other factors that serve to mitigate overall safety risks.

[USCG–2000–6858, 67 FR 21077, Apr. 29, 2002]

§ 71.50-19 The Alternative Hull Examination (AHE) Program application.
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If your vessel meets the eligibility criteria in §71.50–17 of this part, you may apply to the AHE Program. You must submit an application at least 90 days before the requested hull examination date to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI), who will oversee the hull examination. The application must include—

(a) The proposed time and place for conducting the hull examination;

(b) The name of the participating diving contractor and underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) company accepted by the OCMI under §71.50–27 of this part;

(c) The name and qualifications of the third party examiner. This person must be familiar with the inspection procedures and his or her responsibilities under this program. The OCMI has the discretionary authority to accept or deny use of any third party examiner using the criteria established in §71.50–1 of this part;

(d) A signed statement from your vessel's master, chief engineer, or the person in charge stating the vessel meets the eligibility criteria of §71.50–17 of this part and a description of the vessel's overall condition, level of maintenance, known or suspected damage, underwater body cleanliness (if known), and the anticipated draft of the vessel at the time of the examination;

(e) Plans or drawings that illustrate the external details of the hull below the sheer strake;

(f) A detailed plan for conducting the hull examination in accordance with §§71.50–25 and 71.50–27 of this part, which must address all safety concerns related to the removal of sea valves during the inspection; and

(g) A preventative maintenance plan for your vessel's hull, its related systems and equipment.

[USCG–2000–6858, 67 FR 21077, Apr. 29, 2002, as amended by USCG–2000–6858, 69 FR 47382, Aug. 5, 2004]

§ 71.50-21 Preliminary examination requirements.
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(a) If you exclusively use divers to examine the underwater hull plating, you must arrange to have a preliminary examination conducted by a third party examiner, with the assistance of qualified divers. The purpose of the preliminary examination is to assess the overall condition of the vessel's hull and identify any specific concerns to be addressed during the underwater hull examination.

(b) The preliminary examination is required only upon the vessel's entry or reentry into the AHE program.

(c) If you use an underwater ROV as the predominant means to examine your vessel's hull plating, a preliminary examination and the participation of a third party examiner will not be necessary.

[USCG–2000–6858, 67 FR 21078, Apr. 29, 2002]

§ 71.50-23 Pre-survey meeting.
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(a) In advance of each AHE, you must conduct a pre-survey meeting to discuss the details of the AHE procedure with the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI). If you exclusively use divers to examine the underwater hull plating, the third party examiner must attend the meeting and you must present the results of the preliminary examination. If you use an underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) as the predominant means to examine the vessel's hull plating, then the pre-survey meeting must be attended by a representative of the ROV operating company who is qualified to discuss the ROV's capabilities and limitations of your vessel's hull design and configuration.

(b) A vessel owner, operator, or designated agent must request this meeting in writing at least 30 days in advance of the examination date.

(c) The pre-survey meeting may be conducted by teleconference, if agreed to in advance by the OCMI.

[USCG–2000–6858, 67 FR 21078, Apr. 29, 2002,as amended by USCG–2000–6858, 69 FR 47382, Aug. 5, 2004]

§ 71.50-25 Alternative Hull Examination (AHE) procedure.
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(a) To complete the underwater survey you must—

(1) Perform a general examination of the underwater hull plating and a detailed examination of all hull welds, propellers, tailshafts, rudders, and other hull appurtenances;

(2) Examine all sea chests;

(3) Remove and inspect all sea valves in the presence of a marine inspector once every five years;

(4) Remove all passengers from the vessel when the sea valves are being examined, if required by the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI);

(5) Allow access to all internal areas of the hull for examination, except internal tanks that carry fuel, sewage, or potable water. Internal tanks that carry fuel must be examined in accordance with §71.53–1 of this part. Internal sewage and potable water tanks may be examined visually or by non-destructive testing to the satisfaction of the attending marine inspector; and

(6) Meet the requirements in §71.50–27 of this part.

(b) A marine inspector may examine any other areas deemed necessary by the OCMI.

(c) If the AHE reveals significant deterioration or damage to the vessel's hull plating or structural members, the OCMI must be immediately notified. The OCMI may require the vessel be drydocked or otherwise taken out of service to further assess the extent of damage or to effect permanent repairs if the assessment or repairs cannot be completed to the satisfaction of the OCMI while the vessel is waterborne.

[USCG–2000–6858, 67 FR 21078, Apr. 29, 2002, as amended by USCG–2000–6858, 69 FR 47382, Aug. 5, 2004]

§ 71.50-27 Alternative Hull Examination (AHE) program options: Divers or underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV).
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To conduct the underwater survey portion of the AHE, you may use divers or an underwater ROV.

(a) If you use divers to conduct the underwater survey, you must:

(1) Locate the vessel so the divers can work safely under the vessel's keel and around both sides. The water velocity must be safe for dive operations;

(2) Provide permanent hull markings, a temporary grid system of wires or cables spaced not more than 10 feet apart and tagged at one-foot intervals, or any other acoustic or electronic positioning system approved by the OCMI to identify the diver's location with respect to the hull, within one foot of accuracy;

(3) Take ultrasonic thickness gaugings at a minimum of 5 points on each plate, evenly spaced;

(4) Take hull plating thickness gaugings along transverse belts at the bow, stern, and midships, as a minimum. Plating thickness gaugings must also be taken along a longitudinal belt at the wind and water strake. Individual gaugings along the transverse and longitudinal belts must be spaced no more than 3 feet apart;

(5) Ensure the third party examiner observes the entire underwater examination process;

(6) Record the entire underwater survey with audio and video recording equipment and ensure that communications between divers and the third party examiner are recorded; and

(7) Use appropriate equipment, such as a clear box, if underwater visibility is poor, to provide the camera with a clear view of the hull.

(b) You may use an underwater ROV to conduct the underwater survey. The underwater ROV operating team, survey process and equipment, quality assurance methods, and the content and format of the survey report must be accepted by the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) prior to the survey. If you choose this option, you must—

(1) Locate the vessel to ensure that the underwater ROV can operate effectively under the vessel's keel and around all sides;

(2) Employ divers to examine any sections of the hull and appurtenances that the underwater ROV cannot access or is otherwise unable to evaluate; and

(3) If the OCMI determines that the data obtained by the ROV, including non-destructive testing results, readability of the results, and positioning standards, will not integrate into the data obtained by the divers, then a third party examiner must be present during the divers portion of the examination.

[USCG–2000–6858, 67 FR 21078, Apr. 29, 2002, as amended by USCG–2000–6858, 69 FR 47382, Aug. 5, 2004]

§ 71.50-29 Hull examination reports.
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(a) If you use only divers for the underwater survey portion of the Alternative Hull Examination (AHE), you must provide the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI), with a written hull examination report. This report must include thickness gauging results, bearing clearances, a copy of the audio and video recordings, and any other information that will help the OCMI evaluate your vessel for a credit hull exam. The third party examiner must sign the report and confirm the validity of its contents.

(b) If you use an underwater ROV as the predominant means to examine the vessel's underwater hull plating, you must provide the OCMI with a report in the format that is accepted by the OCMI, per §71.50–27(b) of this part.

(c) The OCMI will evaluate the hull examination report and grant a credit hull exam if satisfied with the condition of the vessel. If approved and you exclusively use divers to examine the hull plating, you may receive a credit hull exam up to 36 months. (Underwater examinations are required twice every 5 years). If approved and you use an underwater ROV as the predominant means to examine the underwater hull plating, you may receive a credit hull exam up to 60 months (5 years).

(d) At least 60 days prior to each scheduled underwater exam, the owner may request a waiver from the OCMI if:

(1) A satisfactory exam has been completed within the last three years;

(2) The conditions during the last exam allowed at least 80 percent of the bottom surface to be viewed and recorded; and

(3) The results of the last exam indicated that an extended interval is safe and reasonable.

[USCG–2000–6858, 67 FR 21078, Apr. 29, 2002, as amended by USCG–2000–6858, 69 FR 47382, Aug. 5, 2004]

§ 71.50-31 Continued participation in the Alternative Hull Examination (AHE) program.
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(a) To continue to participate in the AHE Program, vessel operators must conduct an annual hull condition assessment. At a minimum, vessel operators must conduct an internal examination and take random hull gaugings internally during the hull condition assessment, unless waived by the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI). If the annual hull assessment reveals significant damage or corrosion, where temporary repairs have been made, or where other critical areas of concern have been identified, the OCMI may require an expanded examination to include an underwater hull examination using divers. If an underwater examination is required, the examination must focus on areas at higher risk of damage or corrosion and must include a representative sampling of hull gaugings.

(b) If an underwater survey is required for the annual hull condition assessment, the OCMI may require the presence of a third party examiner and a written hull examination report must be submitted to the OCMI. This report must include thickness gauging results, a copy of the audio and video recordings and any other information that will help the OCMI evaluate your vessel for continued participation in the AHE program. The third party examiner must sign the report and confirm the validity of its contents.

(c) You must submit your preventive maintenance reports or checklists on an annual basis to the OCMI. These reports or checklists must conform to the plans you submitted in your application under §71.50–19 of this part, which the OCMI approved.

(d) Prior to each scheduled annual hull condition assessment—

(1) The owner may submit to the OCMI a plan for conducting the assessment, or a request for a waiver of this requirement, no fewer than 30 days before the scheduled assessment; and

(2) The OCMI may reduce the scope or extend the interval of the assessment if the operational, casualty, and deficiency history of the vessel, along with a recommendation of the vessel's master, indicates that it is warranted.

[USCG–2000–6858, 67 FR 21078, Apr. 29, 2002, as amended by USCG–2000–6858, 69 FR 47382, Aug. 5, 2004]

§ 71.50-35 Notice and plans required. (continued)