Loading (50 kb)...'

National
United States Regulations
46 CFR PART 91—INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION

Title 46: Shipping




PART 91—INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION



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

Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(j); 46 U.S.C. 3205, 3306, 3307; 46 U.S.C. Chapter 701; Executive Order 12234; 45 FR 58801; 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p. 277; Executive Order 12777, 56 FR 54757, 3 CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 351; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1.

Source: CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16974, Dec. 30, 1965, unless otherwise noted.

Subpart 91.01—Certificate of Inspection
top
§ 91.01-1 When required.
top
(a) Except as noted in this subpart or subpart 91.05, no vessel subject to inspection and certification shall be operated without a valid certificate of inspection.

§ 91.01-5 Posting.
top
(a) On vessels of over 25 gross tons, the original certificate of inspection shall, in general, be framed under glass and posted in a conspicuous place where it will be most likely to be observed. On vessels not over 25 gross tons, and on other vessels such as barges, where the framing of the certificate under glass would be impracticable, the original certificate of inspection shall be kept on board to be shown on demand.

§ 91.01-10 Period of validity for a Certificate of Inspection.
top
(a) Certificates of inspection will be issued for a period of 5 years. 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.

(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.

(c)(1) In the case of the following vessels, modification of the period of validity of the certificate of inspection will be permitted as set forth in this paragraph:

(i) Nonself-propelled vessels of 100 gross tons and over proceeding on the high seas or ocean for the sole purpose of changing place of employment.

(ii) Nonself-propelled vessels of 100 gross tons and over making rare or infrequent voyages on the high seas or ocean and returning to the port of departure.

(2) The certificate of inspection may be issued for a specific period of time to cover a described situation or for one voyage only but in no case to exceed 5 years. The certificate of inspection will include the conditions under which the vessel must operate. Unless the vessel is in compliance with this Subchapter insofar as it applies to seagoing barges of 100 gross tons and over, such vessel shall not carry any person on board while underway, and the certificate of inspection will be endorsed as an unmanned seagoing barge.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16974, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGFR 68–82, 33 FR 18901, Dec. 18, 1968; CGD 95–012, 60 FR 48051, Sept. 18, 1995; USCG 1999–4976, 65 FR 6501, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 91.01-15 Temporary certificate.
top
(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.

§ 91.01-20 Expired certificate.
top
(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 certificate of inspection did not expire within 15 days after the vessel left the last port of the United States, and that the voyage shall be completed within 30 days after the expiration of the certificate of inspection.

§ 91.01-25 Emergency carriage of more than 16 persons in addition to the crew on vessels not engaged in international voyages.
top
(a) When a District Commander finds that an emergency situation exists, he authorizes the local Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, to issue amendments to vessels' certificates of inspection authorizing the carriage of more than 16 persons in addition to the crew.

(b) Upon receipt of an application from a vessel's owner or operator, the Local Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, amends the vessel's certificate of inspection after—

(1) Additional lifesaving and firefighting equipment found necessary by the OCMI has been provided;

(2) A stability evaluation has been performed; and

(3) Any other conditions considered necessary by the OCMI have been satisfied.

[CGD 76–004, 41 FR 32744, Aug. 5, 1976]

Subpart 91.05—Permit To Proceed to Another Port for Repair
top
§ 91.05-1 When issued.
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.

§ 91.05-5 To whom issued.
top
(a) Such permit will only be issued upon the written application of the master, owner, or agent of the vessel.

§ 91.05-10 Conditions of permit.
top
(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.

§ 91.05-15 Posting.
top
(a) The permit shall be carried in a manner similar to that described in §91.01–5 for a certificate of inspection.

Subpart 91.15—Inspection of Vessels
top
§ 91.15-1 Standards in inspection of hulls, boilers, and machinery.
top
In the inspection of hulls, boilers, and machinery of vessels, the standards established by the American Bureau of Shipping, see part 90, subpart 90.35 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 25289, May 20, 1996]

§ 91.15-5 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 58347, Sept. 30, 2004]

Subpart 91.20—Initial Inspection
top
§ 91.20-1 Prerequisite of certificate of inspection.
top
(a) The initial inspection is a prerequisite of the issuance of the original certificate of inspection.

§ 91.20-5 When made.
top
(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.

§ 91.20-10 Plans.
top
(a) Before application for inspection is made, and before construction is started, the owner or builder shall have plans approved by the Commandant indicating the proposed arrangement and construction of the vessel. The procedure for submitting plans and the list of plans to be supplied is set forth in subpart 91.55.

§ 91.20-15 Scope of inspection.
top
(a) 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.

(b) When equipment is installed which is not required by applicable regulations in this subchapter, that equipment shall be inspected and tested as required for such equipment by applicable regulations in subchapter H (Passenger Vessels) of this chapter. For example, fire-detecting systems shall be inspected and tested as required by subpart 71.20 of subchapter H (Passenger Vessels) of this chapter.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16974, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGFR 68–32, 33 FR 5718, Apr. 12, 1968; CGFR 68–82, 33 FR 18901, Dec. 18, 1968; CGD 71–161R, 37 FR 28262, Dec. 21, 1972; 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]

§ 91.20-20 Specific tests and inspections.
top
The applicable tests and inspections as set forth in subpart 91.25 of this part 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 §95.15–15 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 tests of tanks containing certain dangerous cargoes in bulk, see part 98 of this subchapter.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16974, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGD 84–069, 61 FR 25289, May 20, 1996]

Subpart 91.25—Inspection for Certification
top
§ 91.25-1 Prerequisite of reissuance of certificate of inspection.
top
(a) An inspection for certification is a prerequisite of the reissuance of a certificate of inspection.

§ 91.25-5 Application for a Certificate of Inspection.
top
You must submit a written application for an inspection for certification to the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection. 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. You must use Form CG–3752, Application for Inspection of U.S. Vessel, and submit it to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection at, or nearest to, the port where the vessel is located. 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.

[USCG 1999–4976, 65 FR 6501, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 91.25-10 Scope of inspection.
top
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, lifesaving appliances, fire-detecting and extinguishing equipment, pilot boarding equipment, pollution prevention 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 vessel 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 65–50, 30 FR 16974, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGFR 68–32, 33 FR 5718, Apr. 12, 1968; CGFR 68–82, 33 FR 18901, Dec. 18, 1968; CGD 71–161R, 37 FR 28262, Dec. 21, 1972; 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]

§ 91.25-15 Lifesaving equipment.
top
For inspection procedures of Lifesaving appliances and arrangements, see subchapter W (Lifesaving Appliances and Arrangements) of this chapter.

[CGD 84–069, 61 FR 25289, May 20, 1996]

§ 91.25-20 Fire-extinguishing equipment.
top
(a) At each inspection for certification, periodic inspection and at other times necessary, the inspector will determine that all fire-extinguishing equipment is in suitable condition and may require any tests necessary to determine the condition of the equipment. The inspector will determine if the tests and inspections required by §97.15–60 of this subchapter have been conducted. At each inspection for certification and periodic inspection, the inspector will check fire-extinguishing equipment with the following tests and inspections:

(1) All hand portable fire extinguishers and semi-portable fire extinguishing systems shall be checked as noted in Table 91.25–20(a)(1). In addition, the hand portable fire extinguishers and semi-portable fire extinguishing systems shall be examined for excessive corrosion and general condition.


Table 91.25-20(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 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.
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 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 \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. (See § 95.50-5(e) of this
subchapter.)


(2) Fixed fire-extinguishing systems shall be checked as noted in Table 91.25–20(a)(2). In addition, all parts of the fixed fire-extinguishing systems, shall be examined for excessive corrosion and general conditions.


Table 91.25-20(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) On all fire-extinguishing systems, all piping controls, valves, and alarms shall be checked to ascertain that the system is in operating condition. In this respect 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 firehose 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.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16974, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGFR 68–32, 33 FR 5718, Apr. 18, 1968; CGD 78–154, 44 FR 13491, Mar. 12, 1979; CGD 84–044, 53 FR 7748, Mar. 10, 1988; USCG 1999–4976, 65 FR 6501, Feb. 9, 2000; 65 FR 11904, Mar. 7, 2000]

§ 91.25-25 Hull equipment.
top
(a) At each inspection for certification and periodic inspection, the inspectors shall conduct the following tests and inspections of hull equipment:

(1) 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.

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

(3) 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 16974, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51206, Sept. 30, 1997; USCG 1999–4976, 65 FR 6501, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 91.25-30 Electrical engineering equipment.
top
For inspection procedures of electrical engineering equipment and systems see subchapter J (Electrical Engineering) of this chapter.

§ 91.25-35 Marine engineering equipment.
top
(a) For inspection procedures of marine engineering equipment and systems, see subchapter F (Marine Engineering) of this chapter.

§ 91.25-37 Tanks containing dangerous cargoes.
top
(a) For inspection and tests of tanks containing certain dangerous cargoes in bulk, see part 98 of this subchapter.

§ 91.25-38 Pollution prevention.
top
At each inspection for certification and periodic inspection, 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, as amended by USCG 1999–4976, 65 FR 6501, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 91.25-40 Sanitary inspection.
top
(a) At each inspection for certification and periodic inspection, the quarters, toilets, and washing spaces, galleys, serving pantries, lockers, etc., shall be examined by the inspector to be assured that they are in a sanitary condition.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16974, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by USCG 1999–4976, 65 FR 6501, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 91.25-45 Fire hazards.
top
(a) At each inspection for certification and periodic inspection, the inspector shall examine the tank tops and bilges in the machinery spaces to see that there is no accumulation of oil which might create a fire hazard.

[CGFR 65–50, 30 FR 16974, Dec. 30, 1965, as amended by USCG 1999–4976, 65 FR 6501, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 91.25-50 Inspector not limited.
top
(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.

Subpart 91.27—Annual and Periodic Inspections
top
§ 91.27-1 Annual and periodic inspections.
top
(a) Annual inspection. Your vessel must undergo an annual inspection within the 3 months before or after each anniversary date, except as required in paragraph (b) of this section.

(1) You must contact the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection 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 as specified in §91.25–10 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 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 Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection.

(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 Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection 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 §91.25–10. The Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection will insure 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 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 Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection.

(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 6501, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 91.27-5 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 §91.27–1 (a) and (b) and your Certificate of Inspection must be endorsed.

[USCG 1999–4976, 65 FR 6502, Feb. 9, 2000]

§ 91.27-13 Alternative annual inspection for offshore supply vessels less than 400 gross tons in foreign ports.
top
(a) The owner or operator of an offshore supply vessel of less than 400 gross tons, except liftboats as defined in §90.10–20 of this chapter, may request authorization to conduct an alternative annual inspection in place of the annual inspection described in §91.27–1(a) of this chapter. You must submit your request to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection responsible for conducting inspections in the country in which the vessel is operating and will be examined. To qualify for the alternative annual inspection, you must meet the following requirements:

(1) The request for authorization must be in writing and received by the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection before the end of the twelfth month of each COI anniversary year.

(2) The vessel is expected to be continuously employed outside of the United States during the 3 months before and after each anniversary date of the issuance of the COI.

(b) In determining whether to grant authorization for the alternative annual inspection, the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection will consider the following:

(1) Information contained in previous inspection and drydock examination reports, including the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection's recommendation for participation in the alternative midperiod examination program, and the alternative annual inspection program.

(2) The nature, number, and severity of any marine casualties or accidents, as defined in §4.03–1 of this chapter, which the vessel has experienced in the last 3 years.

(3) The nature, number, and severity of any outstanding inspection requirements for the vessel.

(4) The owner or operator's history of compliance and cooperation in the alternative midperiod examination program and the alternative annual inspection program, which includes—

(i) The prompt correction of deficiencies;

(ii) The reliability of previously submitted alternative examination and annual inspection reports; and

(iii) The reliability of representations that the vessel under consideration will be, and other vessels previously examined under this section were, employed outside of the United States for the 3 month period before and after each anniversary date.

(c) If authorization is granted, the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection must provide the applicant written authorization to proceed with the alternative annual inspection, including special instructions when appropriate.

(d) The following conditions must be met for the alternative annual inspection to be accepted by the Coast Guard in lieu of conducting an annual inspection in accordance with §91.27–1(a) of this subpart.

(1) The alternative annual inspection must be conducted within 3 months before and after each anniversary date.

(2) The alternative annual inspection must be of the scope detailed in §91.27–1(a) of this subpart and must be conducted by the vessel's master, operator, or a designated representative of the owner or operator.

(3) Upon completion of the alternative annual inspection, the person or persons conducting the inspection must prepare a comprehensive report describing the conditions found. This inspection report must contain sufficient detail to allow an evaluation to be made by the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection to whom the report is submitted that the vessel is fit for the service and route specified on the Certificate of Inspection. The report must include reports and receipts documenting the servicing of lifesaving and fire protection equipment, and any photographs or sketches necessary to clarify unusual circumstances. Each person preparing the report must sign it and certify that the information contained therein is complete and accurate.

(4) Unless the vessel's master participated in the alternative annual inspection and the preparation of the inspection report, the master must review the report for completeness and accuracy. The master must sign the report to indicate review and forward it to the vessel's owner or operator who requested authorization to conduct the inspection.

(5) The owner or operator of an offshore supply vessel inspected under this subpart must review and submit the report required by paragraph (d)(3) of this section to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection who authorized the owner or operator to conduct the alternative annual inspection. The inspection report must be received by the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection before the first day of the fifth month following the anniversary date. The forwarding letter or endorsement must be certified and contain the following information—

(i) That the person or persons who conducted the inspection acted on behalf of the vessel's owner or operator;

(ii) That the inspection report was reviewed by the owner or operator;

(iii) That the discrepancies noted during the inspection have been corrected or will be corrected within a stated time frame; and

(iv) That the owner or operator has sufficient personal knowledge of conditions aboard the vessel at the time of the inspection or has made necessary inquiries to justify forming a belief that the inspection report is true and correct.

(e) The form of certification required under this subpart is as follows:


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


(f) Deficiencies and hazards discovered during an alternative annual inspection conducted pursuant to this section must be corrected or eliminated, if practical, before the inspection report is submitted to the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection in accordance with paragraph (d)(5) of this section. Deficiencies and hazards that are not corrected or eliminated by the time the inspection report is submitted must be listed in the report as “outstanding.” Upon receipt of an inspection report indicating outstanding deficiencies or hazards, the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection will inform the owner or operator of the vessel in writing of the time period in which to correct or eliminate the deficiencies or hazards and the method for establishing that the corrections have been accomplished. Where a deficiency or hazard remains uncorrected or uneliminated after the expiration of the time specified for correction or elimination, the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection will initiate appropriate enforcement measures.

(g) Upon receipt of the report required by paragraph (d)(3) of this section, the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection must evaluate it and make the following determination:

(1) Whether the alternative annual inspection is accepted in lieu of the annual inspection required by §91.27–1(a) of this subpart.

(2) Whether the vessel is in satisfactory condition.

(3) Whether the vessel continues to be reasonably fit for its intended service and route. The Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection may request any additional information needed to make the determinations required by this section. The Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection will inform the owner or operator in writing of the determinations required by this section.

(h) If the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection determines, in accordance with paragraph (g) of this section, that the alternative annual inspection is not accepted in lieu of the annual inspection required by §91.27–1(a) of this subpart, the vessel must be reinspected by the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection as soon as practical.

(i) If the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection determines, in accordance with paragraph (g) of this section, that the alternative annual inspection is accepted in lieu of the annual inspection required by §91.27–1(a) of this subpart, the master must complete the applicable COI endorsement.

[USCG 1999–4976, 65 FR 6502, Feb. 9, 2000; 65 FR 11904, Mar. 7, 2000]

§ 91.27-15 Inspectors not limited.
top
(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 seaworthiness of the vessel.

Subpart 91.30—Inspection After Accident
top
§ 91.30-1 General or partial survey.
top
(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.

Subpart 91.35—Sanitary Inspections
top
§ 91.35-1 When made.
top
(a) An inspection of quarters, toilet and washing spaces, serving pantries, galleys, etc., shall be made 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.

Subpart 91.40—Drydocking
top
§ 91.40-1 Definitions relating to hull examinations.
top
As used in this part—

(a) 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.

(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 39653, Oct. 23, 1987, as amended by CGD 84–024, 53 FR 32231, Aug. 24, 1988; CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51206, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 91.40-3 Drydock examination, internal structural examination, cargo tank internal examination, and underwater survey intervals.
top
(a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) through (g) of this section, each 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 examined in accordance with the intervals set forth in Table 91.40–3(a) of this section. Where Table 91.40–3(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.


Table 91.40-3(a)_Salt Water Service Vessels Examination Intervals in Years
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Double Double
hull barge hull barge Single hull Unmanned
Single with with barge with Wood hull Unmanned double
hull ship internal external independent ship and deck cargo hull
and barge framing framing tanks \3\ barge barge \4\ freight
\1\ \2\ barge \5\
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Drydock............................................................ 2.5 5.0 5.0 5.0 2.5 5.0 5.0
Internal structural................................................ 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5
Cargo tank internal................................................ \6\ 2.5 \6\ 5.0 \6\ 10.0 \6\ 10.0 \6\ 2.5 .......... \6\ 5.0
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note:
\1\ Applicable to double hull tank barges (double sides, ends, and bottoms) when the structural framing is on the internal tank surface.
\2\ Applicable to double hull tank barges (double sides, ends, and bottoms) when the structural framing is on the external tank surface accessible for
examination from voids, double bottoms, and other similar spaces.
\3\ Applicable to single hull tank barges with independent cargo tanks which have a cargo containment envelope that is not a contiguous part of the hull
structure and which has adequate clearance between the tanks and between the tanks and the vessel's hull to provide access for examination of all tank
surfaces and the hull structure.
\4\ Applicable to unmanned/non-permissively manned deck cargo barge which carries cargo only above the weather deck and which provides complete access
for examination of the inside of the hull structure.
\5\ Applicable to unmanned/non-permissively manned double hull freight barges (double sides, ends, and bottoms) the arrangement of which provides access
for a complete internal structural examination as defined in § 91.40-1(b) without the necessity of entering cargo tanks or holds.
\6\ Or as specified in Part 151.


(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 91.40–3(b) of this section. Where Table 91.40–3(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.


Table 91.40-3(b)_Fresh Water Service Vessels Examination Intervals in Years
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Double Double
hull barge hull barge Single hull Unmanned
Single with with barge with Wood hull Unmanned double
hull ship internal external independent ship and deck cargo hull
and barge framing framing tanks \3\ barge barge \4\ freight
\1\ \2\ barge \5\
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Drydock............................................................ 5.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 2.5 10.0 10.0
Internal structural................................................ 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 2.5 5.0 5.0
Cargo tank internal................................................ \6\ 5.0 \6\ 5.0 \6\ 10.0 \6\ 10.0 \6\ 2.5 .......... \6\ 5.0
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note:
\1\ Applicable to double hull tank barges (double sides, ends, and bottoms) when the structural framing is on the internal tank surface.
\2\ Applicable to double hull tank barges (double sides, ends, and bottoms) when the structural framing is on the external tank surface accessible for
examination from voids, double bottoms, and other similar spaces.
\3\ Applicable to single hull tank barges with independent cargo tanks which have a cargo containment envelope that is not a contiguous part of the hull
structure and which has adequate clearance between the tanks and between the tanks and the vessel's hull to provide access for examination of all tank
surfaces and the hull structure.
\4\ Applicable to unmanned/non-permissively manned deck cargo barge which carries cargo only above the weather deck and which provides complete access
for examination of the inside of the hull structure.
\5\ Applicable to unmanned/non-permissively manned double hull freight barges (double sides, ends, and bottoms) the arrangement of which provides access
for a complete internal structural examination as defined in § 91.40-1(b) without the necessity of entering cargo tanks or holds.
\6\ Or as specified in Part 151.


(b) During each inspection or reinspection for certification, all wing voids, rakes, cofferdams, and other void spaces on 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, 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 91.40–3(a) of this section) or that are in fresh water service with a five year drydock interval (as indicated in Table 91.40–3(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— (continued)