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Type I—A Type I PFD has the greatest required inherent buoyancy and turns most unconscious persons in the water from a face down position to a vertical and slightly backward position, therefore greatly increasing one's chances of survival. The Type I PFD is suitable for all waters, especially for cruising on waters where rescue may be slow coming, such as large bodies of water where it is not likely that boats will be nearby. This type PFD is the most effective of all types in rough water. It is reversible and available in only two sizes—Adult (over 40 kg (90 lb)) and child (less than 40 kg (90 lb)) which are universal sizes (designed for all persons in the appropriate category).

[Insert illustration of Type I PFD]

Type II—A Type II PFD turns most wearers to a vertical and slightly backward position in the water. The turning action of a Type II PFD is less noticeable than the turning action of a Type I PFD and the Type II PFD will not turn as many persons under the same conditions as the Type I. The Type II PFD is usually more comfortable to wear than the Type I. This type of PFD is designed to fit a wide range of people for easy emergency use, and is available in the following sizes: Adult (over 40 kg (90 lb)), Medium Child (23–40 kg (50–90 lb)), and two categories of Small Child (less than 23 kg (50 lb) or less than 14 kg (30 lb). Additionally, some models are sized by chest sizes. You may prefer to use the Type II where there is a good chance of fast rescue, such as areas where it is common for other persons to be engaged in boating, fishing and other water activities.

[Insert illustration of Type II PFD]

Type III—The Type III PFD allows the wearer to tilt backwards in the water, and the device will maintain the wearer in that position and will not turn the wearer face down. It is not designed to turn the wearer face up. A Type III is generally more comfortable than a Type II, comes in a variety of styles which should be matched to the individual use, and is often the best choice for water sports, such as skiing, hunting, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. This type PFD normally comes in many chest sizes and weight ranges; however, some universal sizes are available. You may also prefer to use the Type III where there is a probability of quick rescue such as areas where it is common for other persons to be engaged in boating, fishing, and other water activities.

[Insert illustration of Type III PFD]

Hybrid Inflatable Type I, II, or III—A Type I, II, or III Hybrid PFD is an inflatable device which is the most comfortable PFD to wear and has a minimal amount of buoyancy when deflated and significantly increased buoyancy when inflated (See accompanying table for actual buoyancy for your Type of hybrid). When inflated it turns the wearer with the action of a Type I, II, or III PFD as indicated on its label. Boaters taking advantage of the extra comfort of hybrid inflatable PFDs must take additional care in the use of these devices. Boaters should test their hybrid PFDs in the water, under safe, controlled conditions to know how well the devices float them with limited buoyancy. Approximately 90 percent of boaters will float while wearing a Type II or III hybrid inflatable PFD when it is not inflated. However, hybrid inflatable PFDs are not recommended for non-swimmers unless worn with enough additional inflation to float the wearer. Almost all boaters will float while wearing a Type I hybrid inflatable PFD that is not inflated. The PFD's ‘performance type’ indicates whether it should be used only where help is nearby, or if it also may be used where help may be slow coming. Type I hybrids are suitable where rescue may be slow coming, while Types II and III are good only when there is a chance of fast rescue. Type I hybrids are approved in three weight ranges, adult, for persons weighing over 40 kg (90 lb); youth, for persons weighing 23–40 kg (50–90 lb); and small child, for persons weighing 14–23 kg (30–50 lb). Type II hybrid PFDs are approved in the same size ranges as Type I hybrids but may be available in a number of chest sizes and in universal adult sizes. Type III hybrids are only approved in adult and youth sizes but may also be available in a number of chest sizes and in universal adult sizes.

[For a pamphlet provided with a Type I, II or III hybrid PFD, insert illustration of the Type Hybrid PFD being sold]

Type IV—A Type IV PFD is normally thrown or tossed to a person who has fallen overboard so that the person can grasp and hold the device until rescued. Until May 15, 1995 (or May 1, 1996 at commercial liveries), the Type IV is acceptable in place of a wearable device in certain instances. However, this type is suitable only where there is a good chance of quick rescue, such as areas where it is common for other persons to be nearby engaged in boating, fishing, and other water activities. It is not recommended for use by non-swimmers and children.

[Insert illustration of Type IV PFD]

Type V (General)—A Type V PFD is a PFD approved for restricted uses or activities such as boardsailing, or commercial white water rafting. These PFDs are not suitable for other boating activities. The label on the PFD indicates the kinds of activities for which the PFD may be used and whether there are limitations on how it may be used.

Type V Hybrid—A Type V Hybrid PFD is an inflatable device which can be the most comfortable and has very little buoyancy when it is not inflated, and considerably more buoyancy when it is inflated. In order for the device to count toward carriage requirements on recreational boats, it must be worn except when the boat is not underway or when the user is below deck. When inflated it turns the wearer similar to the action provided by a Type I, II, or III PFD (the type of performance is indicated on the label). This type of PFD is more comfortable because it is less bulky when it is not inflated. Boaters taking advantage of the extra comfort of hybrid inflatable PFDs must take additional care in the use of these devices. Boaters should test their hybrid PFDs in the water, under safe, controlled conditions to know how well the devices float them with limited buoyancy. Approximately 70 percent of boaters will float while wearing a Type V hybrid PFD when the device is not inflated. Therefore, it is not recommended for non-swimmers unless worn with enough additional inflation to float the wearer. The PFD's “performance type” indicates whether it should be used only where help is nearby, or if it may also be used where help may be slow coming. This type of PFD is approved in two sizes, adult, for persons weighing over 40 kg (90 lb); and youth, for persons weighing 23–40 kg (50–90 lb), and may be available in a number of chest sizes and in universal adult sizes.

[For a pamphlet provided with a Type V hybrid PFD, insert illustration of TYPE V Hybrid PFD]

(3) A table with the applicable PFD Type, size, and buoyancy values from Table 160.077–15(b)(13) or 160.077–17(b)(11), as applicable; and

(4) The text in UL 1517, Section 39, items D, E, and F.

[CGD 78–174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78–174, 60 FR 2489, Jan. 9, 1995]

§ 160.077-29 PFD Manuals.
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(a) Approval. The text of each manual required by this section is reviewed with the application for approval. Changes may be required if needed to comply with this section.

(b) Required Manuals. An owner's manual must be provided with each recreational and commercial hybrid PFD sold or offered for sale as follows:

(1) The manual text for a recreational hybrid PFD must be printed verbatim and in the sequence set out in paragraph (c) or (d) of this section, as applicable.

(2) The manual for a commercial hybrid PFD must meet the requirements of paragraph (f) of this section except that the manual for a commercial Type I PFD which is also labeled for recreational use must meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section.

(3) Additional information, instructions, or illustrations may be included within the specified text of the manuals required by this section if there is no contradiction to the required information.

(c) Type I, II or III Hybrid PFD. For a Type I, II and III hybrid PFD the manual contents must be as follows:

(1) The following text:


Hybrid Limitations

This PFD has limited inherent buoyancy which means YOU MAY HAVE TO INFLATE THIS PFD TO FLOAT, and its inflatable portion requires maintenance. While these PFDs are not required to be worn, if you have an accident or fall overboard, you are much more likely to survive if you are already wearing a PFD.

There is only one way to find out if you will float while wearing the PFD when it is not inflated. That is to try this PFD in the water as explained in [insert reference to the section of the manual that discusses how to test the PFD]. If you have not tested this device in accordance with these guidelines, the Coast Guard does not recommend its use.


(2) Instructions on use including instructions on donning, inflation, replenishing inflation mechanisms, and recommended practice operation;

(3) Instructions on how to properly inspect and maintain the PFD, and recommendations concerning frequency of inspection;

(4) Instructions on how to get the PFD repaired;

(5) The text in UL 1517, Section 40, items B and D;

(6) The following text:


Why Do You Need a PFD?

A PFD provides buoyancy to help keep your head above water and to help you stay face up. The average in-water-weight of an adult is only about 5 to 10 pounds. The buoyancy provided by most PFDs will support that weight in water. However, the hybrid Type I, II, or III PFD may be an exception. The uninflated buoyancy provided by this PFD may only float 90 percent of the boating public. This is because the inherent buoyancy has been reduced to make it more comfortable to wear. So, you may not float adequately without inflating the device. Once the device is inflated you will have a minimum of 22 lb of buoyancy for adult sizes, which should be more than enough to float everyone. (See table above [below] for the actual minimum buoyancy for different Types of hybrids.) Your body weight alone does not determine your in-water-weight. Since there is no simple method of determining your weight in water, you should try the device in the water in both its deflated and inflated condition.


(7) The text in UL 1517, Section 40, item G;

(8) The following text:

Wear Your PFD


Your PFD won't help you if you don't have it on. It is well-known that most boating accidents occur on calm water during a clear sunny day. It is also true that in approximately 80 percent of all boating accident fatalities, the victim did not use a PFD. Don't wait until it's too late. Non-swimmers and children especially should wear their PFD at all times when on or near the water. Hybrid Type I, II, III or V PFDs are not recommended for non-swimmers unless inflated enough to float the wearer.


(9) The text in UL 1517, Section 40, items I, J, K, and L; and

(10) A table with the applicable PFD Type, size, and buoyancy values from Table 160.077–15(b)(13) or 160.077–17(b)(11), as applicable, or provide a reference to appropriate pamphlet table, if the pamphlet is combined with the manual.

(d) Type V Recreational Hybrid PFD. For a Type V recreational hybrid PFD the manual contents must be as follows:

(1) The text in UL 1517, Section 40, item A;

(2) Instructions on use including instructions on donning, inflation, replenishing inflation mechanisms, and recommended practice operation;

(3) Instructions on how to properly inspect and maintain the PFD, and recommendations concerning frequency of inspection;

(4) Instructions on how to get the PFD repaired; and

(5) The text in UL 1517, section 40, that is not included under paragraph (d)(1) of this section.

(e) Commercial Hybrid PFD. (1) For a commercial hybrid PFD that is “REQUIRED TO BE WORN” the manual must meet the requirements of paragraph (d) of this section.

(2) For a commercial hybrid PFD approved as a “Work Vest Only” or Type I PFD the manual must meet the requirements of either paragraphs (e) (3) and (4) or of paragraph (c) of this section. The manual for a commercial Type I hybrid PFD which is also labeled for use on recreational boats must meet the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section.

(3) Each commercial hybrid PFD approved with special purpose limitation must have a user's manual that—

(i) Explains in detail the proper care, maintenance, stowage, and use of the PFD; and

(ii) Includes any other safety information as prescribed by the approval certificate.

(4) If the manual required in paragraph (e)(3) of this section calls for inspection or service by vessel personnel, the manual must—

(i) Specify personnel training or qualifications needed;

(ii) Explain how to identify the PFDs that need to be inspected; and

(iii) Provide a log in which inspections and servicing may be recorded.

(5) If a PFD light approved under subpart 161.012 is not provided at time of sale, the manual must specify the recommended type of light to be used.

(6) Notwithstanding the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section, manufacturers that make shipments to purchasers that do not redistribute the PFDs, must provide at least one manual in each carton of PFDs shipped.

[CGD 78–174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78–174, 60 FR 2490, Jan. 9, 1995]

§ 160.077-30 Spare operating components and temporary marking.
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(a) Spare operating components. Each recreational and commercial hybrid PFD must—

(1) If it has a manual or automatic inflation mechanism and is packaged and sold with one inflation medium cartridge loaded into the inflation mechanism, have at least two additional spare inflation cartridges packaged with it. If it is sold without an inflation medium cartridge loaded into the inflation mechanism, it must be packaged and sold with at least three cartridges; and

(2) If it has an automatic inflation mechanism and is packaged and sold with one water sensitive element loaded into the inflation mechanism, have at least two additional spare water sensitive elements packaged with it. If it is sold without a water sensitive element loaded into the inflation mechanism, it must be packaged and sold with at least three water sensitive elements.

(b) Temporary marking. Each recreational and commercial hybrid PFD which is sold—

(1) In a ready-to-use condition but which has covers or restraints to inhibit tampering with the inflation mechanism prior to sale, must have any such covers or restraints conspicuously marked “REMOVE IMMEDIATELY AFTER PURCHASE.”; or

(2) Without an inflation medium cartridge, a water sensitive element, or both pre-loaded into the inflation mechanism, must include the markings required in §160.077–15(c)(3)(ii).

[CGD 78–174, 60 FR 2491, Jan. 9, 1995]

§ 160.077-31 PFD Marking.
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(a) General. Each hybrid PFD must be marked with the applicable information required by this section. Each marking must be waterproof, clear, permanent, and readable from a distance of three feet.

(b) Prominence. Each marking, other than the text in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, must be significantly less prominent and in smaller print than paragraph (c) and (d) text.

(c) Recreational Hybrid PFD. Each recreational hybrid PFD must be marked with the following text using capital letters where shown and be presented in the exact order shown:


Type [II, III, or V, as applicable] PFD

[See paragraph (k) of this section for exact text to be used here]

Recreational hybrid inflatable—Approved for use only on recreational boats. [For Type V only] REQUIRED TO BE WORN to meet Coast Guard carriage requirements (except for persons in enclosed spaces as explained in owner's manual).

[For Type V only] When inflated this PFD provides performance equivalent to a [see paragraph (h) of this section for exact test to be used here].

A Pamphlet and Owner's Manual must be provided with this PFD.

WARNING—TO REDUCE THE RISK OF DEATH BY DROWNING

—YOU MAY HAVE TO INFLATE THIS PFD TO FLOAT.

—TRY THIS PFD IN THE WATER EACH SEASON TO SEE IF IT WILL FLOAT YOU WITHOUT INFLATION.

—CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE PFD AND WEAR IT—FASTEN ALL CLOSURES AND ADJUST FOR SNUG FIT.

—THIS PFD REQUIRES MAINTENANCE. FOLLOW MANUFACTURER'S USE AND CARE INSTRUCTIONS.

—REMOVE HEAVY OBJECTS FROM POCKETS IN AN EMERGENCY.

—[Unless impact tested at high speed as noted on the approval certificate] DO NOT USE IN HIGH-SPEED ACTIVITIES.

—DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL WHILE BOATING.


(d) Type I and Commercial Hybrid PFD. Each Type I hybrid PFD intended for recreational use and each commercial hybrid PFD must be marked with the following text using capital letters where shown and be presented in the exact order shown:


Type [“I”, “V”, or “V Work Vest Only”, as applicable] PFD

[See paragraph (k) of this section for exact text to be used here]

Commercial hybrid inflatable—Approved for use on [see paragraph (j) of this section for exact text to be used here].

[For Type V only] When inflated this PFD provides performance equivalent to a [see paragraph (h) of this section for exact test to be used here].

[For Type I devices intended for recreational use] A Pamphlet and Owner's Manual must be provided with this PFD.

WARNING—TO REDUCE THE RISK OF DEATH BY DROWNING

—YOU MAY HAVE TO INFLATE THIS PFD TO FLOAT.

—TRY THIS PFD IN THE WATER EACH SEASON TO SEE IF IT WILL FLOAT YOU WITHOUT INFLATION.

—[For Type I devices intended for recreational use] CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE PFD AND WEAR IT.

—FASTEN ALL CLOSURES AND ADJUST FOR SNUG FIT.

—THIS PFD MUST BE MAINTAINED, STOWED, AND USED ONLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE OWNER'S MANUAL.

—REMOVE HEAVY OBJECTS FROM POCKETS IN AN EMERGENCY.

—[Unless impact tested at high speed as noted on the approval certificate For Type I devices intended for recreational use] DO NOT USE IN HIGH-SPEED ACTIVITIES.

—[For Type I devices intended for recreational use] DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL WHILE BOATING.


(e) All PFD's. Each hybrid PFD must also be marked with the following information below the text required by paragraph (c) or (d) of this section:

(1) U.S. Coast Guard Approval Number (insert assigned approval number).

(2) Manufacturer's or private labeler's name and address.

(3) Lot Number.

(4) Date, or year and calendar quarter, of manufacture.

(5) Necessary vital care or use instructions, if any, such as the following:

(i) Warning against dry cleaning.

(ii) Size and type of inflation medium cartridges required.

(iii) Specific donning instructions.

(f) Identification of User. Each hybrid PFD must have adequate space within which to mark the name or other identification of the intended user.

(g) Flotation material buoyancy loss. When kapok flotation material is used, the statement “—REPLACE PFD IF PADS BECOME STIFF OR WATERLOGGED.” must follow the warning “—TRY THIS PFD IN THE WATER EACH SEASON TO SEE IF IT WILL FLOAT YOU WITHOUT INFLATION.” required by paragraph (c) or (d) of this section.

(h) Type equivalence. The exact text to be inserted for Type V hybrid PFDs will be one of the following type equivalents as noted on the Approval Certificate.

(i) [Reserved]

(j) Approved use. Unless the Commandant has authorized omitting the display of approved use, the exact text to be inserted will be one or more of the following statements as noted on the approval certificate:

(1) “all recreational boats and on uninspected commercial vessels”

(2) “all recreational boats and on uninspected commercial vessels. REQUIRED TO BE WORN to meet Coast Guard carriage requirements (except for persons in enclosed spaces as explained in owner's manual)”

(3) “inspected commercial vessels as a WORK VEST only.”

(4) “[Insert exact text of special purpose or limitation and vessel(s) or vessel type(s), noted on approval certificate].”

(k) Size Ranges. The exact text to be inserted will be one of the following statements as noted on the approval certificate:

(1) ADULT—For persons weighing more than 40 kg (90 lb).

(2) YOUTH—For persons weighing 23–40 kg (50–90 lb).

(3) CHILD SMALL—For persons weighing 14–23 kg (30–50 lb).

(4) “[Other text noted on approval certificate].”

[CGD 78–174, 50 FR 33928, Aug. 22, 1985, as amended by CGD 78–174A, 51 FR 4351, Feb. 4, 1986; CGD 78–174, 60 FR 2491, Jan. 9, 1995; 60 FR 7131, Feb. 7, 1995]

Subpart 160.151—Inflatable Liferafts (SOLAS)
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Source: CGD 85–205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, unless otherwise noted.

§ 160.151-1 Scope.
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This subpart prescribes standards, tests, and procedures for approval by the Coast Guard of SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts, and for their periodic inspection and repair at approved facilities (“servicing”). Certain provisions of this subpart also apply to inflatable buoyant apparatus as specified in §160.010–3 and to inflatable liferafts for domestic service as specified in subpart 160.051.

§ 160.151-3 Definitions.
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In this subpart, the term:

Commandant means the Commandant (G-MSE), United States Coast Guard, 2100 Second Street, SW., Washington, DC 20593–0001.

Servicing means periodic inspection, necessary repair, and repacking by a servicing facility approved by the Coast Guard. Requirements for periodic inspection and repair of inflatable liferafts approved by the Coast Guard are described in §§160.151–35 through 160.151–57.

SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended by the International Maritime Organization through the 1988 (GMDSS) amendments, dated 9 November 1988.

SOLAS A Liferaft means a liferaft that meets the requirements of this subpart for an inflatable liferaft complying with SOLAS and equipped with a SOLAS A equipment pack.

SOLAS B Liferaft means a liferaft that meets the requirements of this subpart for an inflatable liferaft complying with SOLAS and equipped with a SOLAS B equipment pack.

§ 160.151-5 Incorporation by reference.
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(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that specified in paragraph (b) of this section, the Coast Guard must publish notice of change in the Federal Register and make the material available to the public. All approved material is on file at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), and at the U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering Standards (G-MSE), 2100 Second Street SW., Washington, DC 20593–0001, and is available from the sources indicated in paragraph (b) of this section. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.

(b) The material approved for incorporation by reference in this subpart and the sections affected are as follows:


American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428–2959.

ASTM F 1014–92, Standard Specification for Flashlights on Vessels—160.151–21

International Maritime Organization (IMO)

Publications Section, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, England

Resolution A.689(17)—Recommendation on Testing of Life-saving Appliances, 27 November 1991, including amendments through Resolution MSC.54(66), adopted 30 May 1996—160.151–21; 160.151–27; 160.151–31; 160.151–57

Resolution A.657(16)—Instructions for Action in Survival Craft, 19 November 1989—160.151–21

Resolution A.658(16)—Use and Fitting of Retro-reflective Materials on Life-saving Appliances, 20 November 1989—160.151–15; 160.151–57.

National Institute of Standards and Technology (formerly National Bureau of Standards)

c/o National Technical Information Service, Springfield, VA 22161

NBS Special Publication 440 (Order No. PB265225) Color: Universal Language and Dictionary of Names, 1976—160.151–15

Naval Forms and Publications Center

Customer Service, Code 1052, 5801 Tabor Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19120

MIL-C-17415E—(Ships)—Cloth, Coated, and Webbing, Inflatable Boat and Miscellaneous Use—160.151–15


[CGD 85–205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended at USCG–1999–5151, 64 FR 67184, Dec. 1, 1999; 69 FR 18803, Apr. 9, 2004]

§ 160.151-7 Construction of inflatable liferafts.
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Except as specified in this subpart, each SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferaft must meet the requirements of Chapter III of SOLAS. To be approved under this subpart, inflatable liferafts must be constructed in accordance with the following provisions of SOLAS:

(a) Chapter III, Regulation 30, paragraph 2 (III/30.2), General requirements for life-saving appliances.

(b) Chapter III, Regulation 38 (III/38) General requirements for liferafts.

(c) Chapter III, Regulation 39 (III/39) Inflatable liferafts.

(d) Chapter III, Regulation 51 (III/51) Training manual.

(e) Chapter III, Regulation 52 (III/52) Instructions for on-board maintenance.

§ 160.151-9 Independent laboratory.
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Tests and inspections that this subpart requires to be conducted by an independent laboratory must be conducted by an independent laboratory accepted by the Coast Guard under subpart 159.010 of part 159 of this chapter to perform such tests and inspections. A list of accepted laboratories is available from the Commandant.

§ 160.151-11 Approval procedure.
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(a) A manufacturer seeking approval of an inflatable liferaft must comply with the procedures in part 159, subpart 159.005, of this chapter and in this section.

(b) A manufacturer seeking approval of an inflatable liferaft must submit an application meeting the requirements of §159.005–5 of this chapter for preapproval review. To meet the requirements of §159.005–5(a)(2) of this chapter, the manufacturer shall submit—

(1) General-arrangement drawing including principal dimensions;

(2) Seating-arrangement plan;

(3) Plans for subassemblies;

(4) Plans for carriage and, in detail, stowage of equipment;

(5) Plans for the inflation system;

(6) Plans for the outer container;

(7) Plans for any lifting shackle or ring, including diameter in cross-section, used for connecting the suspension tackle of a davit-launched inflatable liferaft to the automatic disengaging device used for its hoisting and lowering;

(8) Other drawing(s) necessary to show that the inflatable liferaft complies with the requirements of this subpart;

(9) Description of methods of seam and joint construction;

(10) Samples and identification of each material used in the buoyancy chambers, floor, and canopy, including the identity of their manufacturers, and segments of each type of seam made from such materials; and

(11) Complete data pertinent to the installation and use of the proposed inflatable liferaft, including the maximum proposed height of its installation above the water, and the maximum length of the sea painter installed in the inflatable liferaft.

§ 160.151-13 Fabrication of prototype inflatable liferafts for approval.
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If the manufacturer is notified that the information submitted in accordance with §160.151–11 is satisfactory to the Commandant, fabrication of a prototype inflatable liferaft must proceed in the following sequence:

(a) The manufacturer shall arrange for an independent laboratory to inspect the liferaft during its fabrication and prepare an inspection report meeting the requirements of §159.005–11 of this chapter. The independent laboratory shall conduct at least one inspection during layup of the buoyancy tubes of the liferaft, at least one inspection of the finished liferaft when fully inflated, and as many other inspections as are necessary to determine that the liferaft—

(1) Is constructed by the methods and with the materials specified in the plans;

(2) Passes the applicable inspections and tests required by §160.151–31; and

(3) Conforms with the manufacturer's plans.

(b) The manufacturer shall submit the independent laboratory's inspection report to the Commandant for review.

(c) If, after review of the inspection report of the independent laboratory, the Commandant notifies the manufacturer that the liferaft is in compliance with the requirements of this subpart, the manufacturer may proceed with the approval tests required under §§160.151–27 and 160.151–29.

(d) The manufacturer shall notify the cognizant OCMI of where the approval tests required under §§160.151–27 and 160.151–29 will take place and arrange with the OCMI a testing schedule that allows for a Coast Guard inspector to travel to the site where the testing is to be performed.

(e) The manufacturer shall admit the Coast Guard inspector to any place where work or testing is performed on inflatable liferafts or their component parts and materials for the purpose of—

(1) Assuring that the quality-assurance program of the manufacturer is satisfactory;

(2) Witnessing tests; and

(3) Taking samples of parts or materials for additional inspections or tests.

(f) The manufacturer shall make available to the Coast Guard inspector the affidavits or invoices from the suppliers of all essential materials used in the production of inflatable liferafts, together with records identifying the lot numbers of the liferafts in which such materials were used.

(g) On conclusion of the approval testing, the manufacturer shall comply with the requirements of §159.005–9(a)(5) of this chapter by submitting the following to the Commandant:

(1) The report of the prototype testing prepared by the manufacturer. The report must include a signed statement by the Coast Guard inspector who witnessed the testing, indicating that the report accurately describes the testing and its results.

(2) The final plans of the liferaft as built. The plans must include—

(i) The servicing manual described in §160.151–37;

(ii) The instructions for training and maintenance described in §§160.151–59 and 160.151–61, respectively;

(iii) The final version of the plans required under §160.151–11(b), including—

(A) Each correction, change, or addition made during the construction and approval testing of prototypes;

(B) Sufficient detail to determine that each requirement of this subpart is met;

(C) Fabrication details for the inflatable liferaft, including details of the method of making seams and joints; and

(D) Full details of the inflation system.

(3) A description of the quality-control procedures that will apply to the production of the inflatable liferaft. These must include—

(i) The system for checking material certifications received from suppliers;

(ii) The method for controlling the inventory of materials;

(iii) The method for checking quality of seams and joints; and

(iv) The inspection checklists used during various stages of fabrication to assure that the approved liferaft complies with the approved plans and the requirements of this subpart.

[CGD 85–205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997; 62 FR 35392, July 1, 1997]

§ 160.151-15 Design and performance of inflatable liferafts.
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To satisfy the requirements of the regulations of SOLAS indicated in §160.151–7, each inflatable liferaft must meet the following requirements of this section:

(a) Workmanship and materials (Regulation III/30.2.1). Each liferaft must be constructed of the following types of materials meeting MIL-C-17415E, or materials accepted by the Commandant as equivalent or superior—

(1) Type 2, Class B, for the canopy;

(2) Type 8 for seam tape;

(3) Type 11 for the inflatable floor; and

(4) Type 16, Class AA, for all other inflatable compartments and structural components.

(b) Seams (Regulation III/30.2.1). Each seam must be at least as strong as the weakest of the materials joined by the seam. Each seam must be covered with tape where necessary to prevent lifting of and damage to fabric edges.

(c) Protection from cold inflation-gas (Regulation III/30.2.1). Each inflatable compartment must be provided with a protective liner or baffling arrangement at the inflation-gas inlet, or other equally effective means to prevent damage from exposure to cold inflation-gas.

(d) Compatibility of dissimilar materials (Regulation III/30.2.4). Where dissimilar materials are combined in the construction of a liferaft, provisions must be made to prevent loosening or tightening due to differences in thermal expansion, freezing, buckling, galvanic corrosion, or other incompatibilities.

(e) Color (Regulation III/30.2.6). The primary color of the exterior of the canopy must be vivid reddish orange (color number 34 of NBS Special Publication 440), or a fluorescent color of a similar hue.

(f) Retroreflective material (Regulation III/30.2.7). Each inflatable liferaft must be marked with Type I retroreflective material approved under part 164, subpart 164.018, of this chapter as complying with SOLAS. The arrangement of the retroreflective material must comply with IMO Resolution A.658(16).

(g) Towing attachments (Regulation III/38.1.4.) Each towing attachment must be reinforced strongly enough to withstand the towing strain, and marked to indicate its function.

(h) Weight (Regulation III/38.2.2). The weight of the liferaft including its container and equipment may not exceed 185 kg (407.8 lb), unless the liferaft is intended for launching into the water directly from its stowed position using an inclined or hand-tilted rack, or is served by a launching appliance approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.163.

(i) Lifelines (Regulation III/38.3.1). Each lifeline must be made of nylon tubular webbing with a minimum diameter of 14 mm (9/16-inch), rope with a minimum diameter of 10 mm ( 3/8-inch), or equivalent. Each lifeline-attachment patch must have a minimum breaking strength of 1.5 kN (350 lb) pull exerted perpendicular to the base of the patch. Each bight of an exterior lifeline must be long enough to allow the lifeline to reach to the waterline of the liferaft when it is afloat.

(j) Painter length (Regulation III/38.3.2). The length of the liferaft painter shall be not less than 10 meters (33 feet) plus the liferaft's maximum stowage height, or 15 meters (49 feet), whichever is greater.

(k) Painter system (Regulation III/38.6.1). The painter protruding from the liferaft container must be inherently resistant, or treated to be resistant, to deterioration from sunlight and salt spray, and resistant to absorption and wicking of water.

(l) Inflation cylinders (Regulation III/39.2.3). Each compressed-gas inflation cylinder within the liferaft must meet the requirements of §147.60 of this chapter, and be installed so that—

(1) Slings and reinforcements of sufficient strength retain the inflation cylinders in place when the liferaft is dropped into the water from its stowage height and during inflation; and

(2) The painter and the inflation cylinders of the liferaft are linked to start inflation when the painter is pulled by one person exerting a force not exceeding 150 N (34 lb).

(m) Boarding ladders (Regulation III/39.4.2). The steps of each boarding ladder must provide a suitable foothold.

(n) Canopy lamps (Regulation III/39.6.2). The exterior liferaft canopy lamp must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 161.101.

(o) Containers (Regulation III/39.7.1). Each container for packing liferafts—

(1) Must include a telltale made with a seal-and-wire, or equivalent, method for indicating whether the liferaft has been tampered with or used since packing;

(2) Must be designed so that the liferaft breaks free of the container when inflation is initiated, without the need to manually open or remove any closing arrangement;

(3) Must have an interior surface smooth and free from splinters, barbs, or rough projections;

(4) Must be of rigid construction where the liferaft is intended for float-free launching or for exposed stowage on deck;

(5) If rigid, must be designed to facilitate securing the inflatable liferaft to a vessel to permit quick release for manual launching;

(6) If constructed of fibrous-glass-reinforced plastic, must be provided with a means to prevent abrasion of the liferaft fabric, such as by using a gel-coated interior finish of the container, enclosing the liferaft in an envelope of plastic film, or equivalent means; and

(7) Except as provided in paragraph (o)(4) of this section, may be of fabric construction. Each container of fabric construction must be made of coated cloth, include carrying handles and drain holes, and be adaptable to stowage and expeditious removal from lockers and deck-mounted enclosures adjacent to liferaft-launching stations. The weight of a liferaft in a fabric container including its container and equipment may not exceed 100 kg (220 lb).

[CGD 85–205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG–1998–4442, 63 FR 52192, Sept. 30, 1998]

§ 160.151-17 Additional requirements for design and performance of SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts.
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To satisfy the requirements of the indicated regulations of SOLAS, each SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferaft must be manufactured in accordance with §§160.151–7 and 160.151–15, and must comply with the following additional requirements:

(a) Stability (Regulation III/39.5.1). (1) Each liferaft with a capacity of more than 8 persons must have a waterplane of circular or elliptical shape. A hexagonal, octagonal, or similar outline approximating a circular or elliptical shape is acceptable.

(2) Each liferaft manufactured under this subpart must have water-containing stability appendages on its underside to resist capsizing from wind and waves. These appendages must meet the following requirements:

(i) The total volume of the appendages must not be less than 220 liters (7.77 ft 3 ) for liferafts approved to accommodate up to 10 persons. The volume of an appendage is calculated using the bottom of the lowest opening in an appendage as the height of the appendage, and by deducting the volume of any objects inside the appendage. No opening designed to close as water is forced out of an appendage is an opening for the purpose of this calculation.

(ii) The total volume of the appendages for liferafts approved to accommodate more than 10 persons must be not less than 20 × N liters (0.706 × N ft 3 ), where N = the number of persons for which the liferaft is approved.

(iii) The appendages must be securely attached and evenly distributed around the periphery of the exterior bottom of the liferaft. They may be omitted at the locations of inflation cylinders.

(iv) The appendages must consist of at least two separate parts so that damage to one part will permit at least half of the required total volume to remain intact.

(v) Openings in or between the appendages must be provided to limit the formation of air pockets under the inflatable liferaft.

(vi) The appendages must be designed to deploy underwater when the liferaft inflates, and to fill to at least 60 percent of their capacity within 25 seconds of deployment. If weights are used for this purpose, they must be of corrosion-resistant material.

(vii) The primary color of the appendages must be vivid reddish orange (color number 34 of NBS Special Publication 440), or a fluorescent color of a similar hue.

(b) Boarding ramp (Regulation III/39.4.1). The boarding ramp must have sufficient size and buoyancy to support one person weighing 100 kg (220 lb), sitting or kneeling and not holding onto any other part of the liferaft.

(c) Marking (Regulation III/39.8). Means must be provided for identifying the liferaft with the name and port of registry of the ship to which it is to be fitted, so that the identification can be changed without opening the liferaft container.

[CGD 85–205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG–1998–4442, 63 FR 52192, Sept. 30, 1998]

§ 160.151-21 Equipment required for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts.
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To obtain Coast Guard approval, the equipment in each SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferaft must meet the following specific requirements when complying with the indicated regulations of SOLAS:

(a) Heaving line (Regulation III/38.5.1.1). The buoyant heaving line described by Regulation III/38.5.1.1 must have a breaking strength of not less than 1.1 kN (250 lb), and must be attached to the inflatable liferaft near the entrance furthest from the painter attachment.

(b) Jackknife (Regulation III/38.5.1.2). Each folding knife carried as permitted by Regulation III/38.5.1.2 must be a jackknife approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.043.

(c) Bailer (Regulation III/38.5.1.3). Each bailer described by Regulation III/38.5.1.3 must have a volume of at least 2 L (125 in 3 ).

(d) Sponge (Regulation III/38.5.1.4). Each sponge described by Regulation III/38.5.1.4 must have a volume of at least 750 cm 3 (48 in 3 ) when saturated with water.

(e) Sea anchors (Regulation III/38.5.1.5). Sea anchors without the swivels described by Regulation III/38.5.1.5 may be used if, during the towing test, a sea anchor of their design does not rotate when streamed. The sea anchors need not have the tripping lines described by Regulation III/38.5.1.5 if, during the towing test, a sea anchor of their design can be hauled in by one person.

(f) Paddles (Regulation III/38.5.1.6).The paddles must be at least 1.2 m (4 ft) long and must be of the same size and type as used to pass the maneuverability test in paragraph 1/5.10 of IMO Resolution A.689(17).

(g) Tin-opener (Regulation III/38.5.1.7). Each sharp part of a tin-opener described by Regulation III/38.5.1.7 must have a guard.

(h) First-aid kit (Regulation III/38.5.1.8). Each first-aid kit described by Regulation III/38.5.1.8 must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.054.

(i) Whistle (Regulation III/38.5.1.9). The whistle described by Regulation III/38.5.1.9 must be a ball-type or multi-tone whistle of corrosion-resistant construction.

(j) Rocket parachute flare (Regulation III/38.5.1.10). Each rocket parachute flare described by Regulation III/38.5.1.10 must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.136.

(k) Hand flare (Regulation III/38.5.1.11). Each hand flare described by Regulation III/38.5.1.11 must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.121.

(l) Buoyant smoke signal (Regulation III/38.5.1.12). Each buoyant smoke signal described by Regulation III/38.5.1.12 must be of the floating type approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.122.

(m) Electric torch (Regulation III/38.5.1.13). The waterproof electric torch described by Regulation III/38.5.1.13 must be a Type I or Type III flashlight constructed and marked in accordance with ASTM F 1014 (incorporated by reference, see §160.151–5. Three-cell-size flashlights bearing Coast Guard approval numbers in the 161.008 series may continue to be used as long as they are serviceable.

(n) Radar reflector (Regulation III/38.5.1.14). The radar reflector may be omitted if the outside of the container of the inflatable liferaft includes a notice near the “SOLAS A” or “SOLAS B” marking indicating that no radar reflector is included.

(o) Signalling mirror (Regulation III/38.5.1.15). Each signalling mirror described by Regulation III/38.5.1.15 must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.020.

(p) Lifesaving signals (Regulation III/38.5.1.16). If not provided on a waterproof card or sealed in a transparent waterproof container as described in Regulation III/38.5.1.16, the table of lifesaving signals may be provided as part of the instruction manual.

(q) Fishing tackle (Regulation III/38.5.1.17). The fishing tackle must be in a kit approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.061.

(r) Food rations (Regulation III/38.5.1.18.) The food rations must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.046.

(s) Drinking water (Regulation III/38.5.1.19). The fresh water required by Regulation III/38.5.1.19 must be “emergency drinking water” approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.026. The desalting apparatus described in Regulation III/38.5.1.19 must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.058. 1.0 liter/person of the required water may be replaced by an approved manually powered reverse osmosis desalinator capable of producing an equal amount of water in two days.

(t) Drinking cup (Regulation III/38.5.1.20). The drinking cup described in Regulation III/38.5.1.20 must be graduated in ounces or milliliters or both.

(u) Anti-seasickness medicine (Regulation III/38.5.1.21). The anti-seasickness medicine required by Regulation III/38.5.1.21 must include instructions for use and be marked with an expiration date.

(v) Survival instructions (Regulation III/38.5.1.22). The instructions required by Regulation III/38.5.1.22 on how to survive in a liferaft must—

(1) Be waterproof;

(2) Whatever other language or languages they may be in, be in English;

(3) Meet the guidelines in IMO Resolution A.657(16); and

(4) Be suspended in a clear film envelope from one of the arch tubes of the canopy.

(w) Instructions for immediate action (Regulation III/38.5.1.23). The instructions for immediate action must—

(1) Be waterproof;

(2) Whatever other language or languages they may be in, be in English;

(3) Meet the guidelines in IMO Resolution A.657(16);

(4) Explain both the noise accompanying the operation of any provided pressure-relief valves, and the need to render them inoperable after they complete venting; and

(5) Be suspended from the inside canopy, so they are immediately visible by survivors on entering the inflatable liferaft. They may be contained in the same envelope with the instructions on how to survive if the instructions for immediate action are visible through both faces of the envelope.

(x) Thermal protective aid (Regulation III/38.5.1.24). Each thermal protective aid described by Regulation III/38.5.1.24 must be approved by the Commandant under approval series 160.174.

(y) Repair outfit (Regulation III/39.10.1.1). The repair outfit required by Regulation III/39.10.1.1 must include—

(1) Six or more sealing clamps or serrated conical plugs, or a combination of the two;

(2) Five or more tube patches at least 50 mm (2 in) in diameter;

(3) A roughing tool, if necessary to apply the patches; and

(4) If the patches are not self-adhesive, a container of cement compatible with the liferaft fabric and the patches, marked with instructions for use and an expiration date.

(z) Pump or bellows (Regulation III/39.10.1.2). The pump or bellows required by Regulation III/39.10.1.2 must be manually operable and arranged to be capable of inflating any part of the inflatable structure of the liferaft.

(aa) Plugs for pressure-relief valves. Plugs for rendering pressure-relief valves inoperable must be provided in any liferaft fitted with such valves, unless the valves are of a type that can be rendered inoperable without separate plugs. If provided, plugs for pressure-relief valves must be usable with hands gloved in an immersion suit, and must either float or be secured to the liferaft by a lanyard.

[CGD 85–205, 62 FR 25547, May 9, 1997, as amended by USCG–1998–4442, 63 FR 52192, Sept. 30, 1998; USCG–2000–7790, 65 FR 58464, Sept. 29, 2000]

§ 160.151-25 Additional equipment for inflatable liferafts.
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The manufacturer may specify additional equipment to be carried in inflatable liferafts if the equipment is identified in the manufacturer's approved drawings and if the packing and inspection of the equipment is covered in the servicing manual. Any such additional equipment for which performance or approval standards are prescribed in this part or in 47 CFR part 80 must comply with those standards.

§ 160.151-27 Approval inspections and tests for inflatable liferafts.
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(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, to satisfy the testing requirements of: IMO Resolution A.689(17), part 1, paragraphs 5.1 through 5.15 inclusive; paragraph 5.16 for a davit-launched inflatable liferaft; and paragraph 5.17, a prototype inflatable liferaft of each design submitted for Coast Guard approval must meet the additional specific requirements and tests specified in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section.

(b) The Commandant may waive certain tests for a liferaft identical in construction to a liferaft that has successfully completed the tests, if the liferafts differ only in size and are of essentially the same design.

(c) Tests must be conducted in accordance with the indicated paragraphs of IMO Resolution A.689(17), except:

(1) Jump test (Paragraph 1/5.2). One-half of the jumps must be with the canopy erect, and the remainder with the canopy furled or deflated. If a “suitable and equivalent mass” is used, it must be equipped with the shoes described in paragraph 1/5.2.1 of Resolution A.689(17), and arranged so the shoes strike the liferaft first.

(2) Mooring-out test (Paragraph 1/5.5). Initial inflation may be with compressed air.

(3) Loading and seating test (Paragraph 1/5.7). For a liferaft not intended for use with a launching or embarkation appliance, the persons used to determine seating capacity shall wear insulated buoyant immersion suits rather than lifejackets.

(4) Boarding test (Paragraph 1/5.8). This test must be performed using each boarding ramp or boarding ladder which is installed on the liferaft.

(5) Canopy-closure test (Paragraph 1/5.12). This test is required only for SOLAS A and SOLAS B inflatable liferafts. For a davit-launched liferaft, any opening near the lifting eye should be sealed during the test to prevent the ingress of water. The water accumulated within the liferaft at the end of the test must not exceed 4 liters (1 gallon).

(6) Detailed inspection (Paragraph 1/5.14). The independent laboratory's inspection of the prototype liferaft under §160.151–13(a) satisfies the requirements of paragraph 1/5.14. (continued)