CCLME.ORG - 46 CFR PART 160—LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT
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(continued)

§ 160.031-4 Equipment for shoulder gun type line-throwing appliance.
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(a) Ten service projectiles, each machined from steel or bronze, weighing about 225 g (8 oz.), and having a shank of sufficient length to project slightly beyond the muzzle, with an eye at the upper end for securing the service line.

(b) Four service lines, each not less than 180 m (600 ft.) in length, of 1.5 mm ( 1/16-in.) or more in diameter, woven or braided nylon, very flexible, and having a breaking strength of not less than 625 N (140 lb.), or equivalent. Each line shall be one continuous length without splice, knot, or other weakening features and shall be made up or coiled in such way as to render it ready at all times for immediate use. The end of the line intended to be attached to projectile shall have securely attached thereto a substantial tag bearing a permanent legend indicating its purpose, and the other end of the line shall be tagged in the same manner to prevent delay in securing proper and immediate action with the equipment. The line shall be coiled or reeled in such manner that when all the line leaves the canister it automatically becomes unattached and free from the canister and the gun. The line canister shall be secured by clamps or brackets below the barrel of the gun.

(c) One auxiliary line consisting of at least 150 m (500 ft.) of 7.5 mm (3 in.) circumference manila complying with federal specification T-R-605.

(d) Twenty-five cartridges of the caliber and loading specified in the instructions furnished by the manufacturer of the gun. The cartridges shall be blank with waterproof paper wad.

(e) One cleaning rod with brush.

(f) One can of oil suitable for cleaning the gun and preserving the finish of the metal parts.

(g) Twelve wiping patches of a size suitable for cleaning the bore.

(h) One set of instructions including a list of the equipment furnished with the gun, the proper caliber and loading of the cartridges to be used in firing the gun, information as to the proper maintenance of the gun and equipment, and directions for loading and firing in service use shall be permanently engraved in plastic and mounted conspicuously in the case or box required by §160.031–4(i).

(i) A suitable case or box, properly compartmented for stowage of the appliance and auxiliary equipment, is required for stowage on merchant vessels. The auxiliary line need not be stowed in the case.

§ 160.031-5 Approval and production tests.
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(a) Approval test. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under §159.010 of this chapter must test an appliance in accordance with the operational test in paragraph (c) of this section.

(b) Production inspections and tests. Production inspections and tests of each appliance must be conducted under the procedures in §159.007 of this chapter. Each appliance which fails the inspections and tests must not be represented as meeting this Subpart or as being approved by the Coast Guard.

(1) Inspections and tests by the manufacturer. The manufacturer's quality control procedures must include the inspection of appliances during production as well as inspection of finished appliances to determine that the appliances are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. Each appliance must be tested in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section except that the projectile may be fired without a service line attached, and the distance and deviation do not have to be measured.

(2) Inspections and test by an independent laboratory. An independent laboratory accepted by the Commandant under §159.010 of this chapter must inspect and test one appliance at least once each year. The inspection must determine that the appliances are being produced in accordance with the approved plans. The test must be in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.

(c) Operational test. The operational test must be conducted as follows:

(1) Three rounds must be fired by the gun, at least one of which must be with a service line attached to a projectile.

(2) The projectile must be fired first by aiming it down an open course, and measuring the distance and deviation of the projectile.

(3) After the projectile is fired, the other two rounds must be fired.

(4) The distance and deviation of the projectile must be in accordance with §160.031–3(d) the gun must fire each round properly and the gun must not be fractured or damaged by the test.

§ 160.031-6 Marking.
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(a) Gun. The gun shall be permanently and legibly marked on the barrel with the manufacturer's model or type designation of the gun, the serial number for the gun, the official Coast Guard approval number, and the name of the manufacturer. The gun stock shall have recessed in it a brass or other corrosion-restistant plate showing legible maintenance instructions for the care of the gun and its parts to prevent corrosion. After the proof test, the gun barrel shall be marked with the letters “P.T.” and the name or mark of the company.

(b) Projectile. Projectiles shall be permanently and legibly marked with the name of the manufacturer.

(c) Line and container. The end of a service line intended to be attached to the projectile shall have securely attached thereto a substantial tag bearing a permanent legend indicating its purpose, and the other end of the line shall be tagged in the same manner to prevent delay in securing proper and immediate action with the equipment. The container of new service lines shall bear the name of the manufacturer, date of manufacture, and a statement to the effect that in all respects the line meets the requirements of this subpart for service lines. Line canisters and reels shall bear the name of the manufacturer.

§ 160.031-7 Procedure for approval.
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(a) Shoulder gun line throwing appliances are approved by the Coast Guard under the procedures in subpart 159.005 of this chapter.

(b) [Reserved]

Subpart 160.032—Davits for Merchant Vessels
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§ 160.032-1 Applicable specifications.
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(a) Specifications. The following specifications of the issue in effect on the date the davits are manufactured form a part of this subpart:

(1) Standards of ASTM:


ASTM A 27/ A 27M–95, Standard Specification for Steel Castings, Carbon, for General Application—160.032–3

ASTM A 36/A 36M–97a, Standard Specification for Carbon Structural Steel—160.032–3

ASTM A 216/A 216M–93 (1998), Standard Specification for Steel Castings, Carbon, Suitable for Fusion Welding for High-Temperature Service—160.032–3


(b) Copies on file. Copies of the specification standards referred to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together with the approved plans and certificate of approval. You may purchase the standards of ASTM from the American Society for Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428–2959.

[CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11466, Sept. 8, 1965; as amended by USCG–1999–5151, 64 FR 67183, Dec. 1, 1999]

§ 160.032-2 General requirements for davits.
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(a) The requirements of this section apply to all new construction. Davits approved and in use prior to the regulations in this subpart may be continued in service if in satisfactory condition.

(b) Davits may be either of the mechanical or gravity types.

(1) Mechanical davits shall be designed to be swung out by screws, gears, or other means, using manual power for operation. Radial type davits with mechanical means for operating are not acceptable under this category.

(2) Gravity davits shall be designed to be swung out without the use of manual, electric, steam, or other power supplied by the vessel.

(3) Other types of davits will be given special consideration.

(c) Davits shall be so designed that it will not be necessary to take up or slack the falls in order to crank out the davits.

(d) For the purpose of calculations and conducting tests, the weight of the persons shall be taken at 165 pounds each.

(e) The requirements of this subpart shall be complied with unless other arrangements in matters of construction details, design, strength, equivalent in safety and efficiency are approved by the Commandant.

[CGFR 49–18, 14 FR 5112, Aug. 17, 1949]

§ 160.032-3 Construction of davits.
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(a) Strength required. Davits shall be of such strength that the lifeboat may be lowered safely with its full complement of persons and equipment, it being assumed that the vessel is heeled 15 degrees in either direction and with a 10-degree trim. A minimum factor of safety of 6 on the ultimate strength of the materials shall be maintained at all times based on the approved working load.

(b) Turning out. (1) Mechanical davits shall be designed so that they may be operated from the full inboard to the full outboard position when the lifeboat is fully equipped, but not loaded with persons, it being assumed that the vessel is heeled 15 degrees in either direction and with a 10-degree trim.

(2) Gravity davits shall be designed so that they may be operated automatically from the full inboard to the full outboard position when the lifeboat is fully equipped, but not loaded with persons, it being assumed that the vessel is heeled 15 degrees in either direction and with a 10-degree trim. This operation shall be accomplished by merely releasing the brake of the lifeboat winch.

(c) Materials. (1) Structural steel made by the open-hearth or electric furnace process shall be in accordance with ASTM A 36/A 36 M (incorporated by reference, see §160.032–1).

(2) Steel castings not intended for fusion welding shall be in accordance with ASTM A 36/A 36 M (incorporated by reference, see §160.032–1), Grades U–60–30, 60–30, 65–30, 65–35, and 70–36.

(3) Steel castings intended to be fabricated by fusion welding shall be in accordance with ASTM Standard Specification A 216 (incorporated by reference, see §160.032–1), Grades WCA and WCB.

(4) Cast iron shall not be used in the construction of davits.

(5) Special consideration shall be given to the use of other materials. Proper affidavits concerning these materials will be required.

(d) Bearings. Bearings of davits shall be of non-ferrous metal, or shall be of the roller or ball-bearing type. Positive means of retaining the bearings in position and of lubricating same shall be provided except that self-lubricated bearings in sheaves of manila rope blocks will be acceptable. The manufacturer shall furnish a lubrication chart for each davit together with a plate attached to the davit indicating the lubricants recommended for extremes in temperature.

(e) Guards. All moving parts shall have suitable guards.

(f) Welding. Welding, when employed, shall be performed by welders certified by the U.S. Coast Guard, American Bureau of Shipping, or U.S. Navy Department, and the electrodes used shall be of an approved type.

[CGFR 49–18, 14 FR 5112, Aug. 17, 1949, as amended by CGFR 65–16, 30 FR 10898, Aug. 21, 1965; CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11466, Sept. 8, 1965; USCG–1999–5151, 64 FR 67184, Dec. 1, 1999; USCG–2000–7790, 65 FR 58463, Sept. 29, 2000]

§ 160.032-4 Capacity of davits.
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(a) Davits shall be approved for a working load after it has been demonstrated by detailed calculations that this working load can be carried with a minimum factor of safety of six based on the ultimate strength of the materials. It will also be necessary to conduct the tests specified in §160.032–5.

(b) [Reserved]

[CGFR 49–18, 14 FR 5113, Aug. 17, 1949]

§ 160.032-5 Inspection and testing of davits.
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(a) Material testing. (1) Where davit arms and frames are fabricated of steel castings, an inspector shall be present at the foundry where such castings are made to witness the tests prescribed by the applicable specification. The manufacturer shall furnish an affidavit stating that the material complies with the requirement of the specification noted in §160.032–3(c) (2) or (3). The inspector shall stamp the casting with the letters U.S.C.G., the Marine Inspection Office identification letters, the letters F.T., and the date of inspection.

(2) The manufacturer shall furnish an affidavit stating that the structural steel complies with the requirements of the specification noted in §160.032–3(c)(1).

(3) The affidavits referred to above shall be obtained from the foundry or mill supplying the material.

(b) Factory tests for initial approval. (1) Mechanical davits shall be tested for strength and operation at the place of manufacture in the presence of an inspector. The davits shall be completely assembled. The tests to be conducted are as noted in paragraphs (b) (2) through (4) of this section.

(2) A weight equal to 2.2 times the working load shall be suspended from the eye or end of the davit arm. With this load suspended from the davit it shall be operated from the full inboard to the full outboard position using the same operating crank or device used in actual practice aboard ship. The load shall then be swung in a fore and aft direction through an arc of approximately 10 degrees, each side of the vertical. The davit arm and frame shall show no permanent set or undue stress from this test. While this test is being conducted, the frame and arm, if of cast material, shall be subject to a test by being hammered to satisfy the inspector that the castings are sound and without flaws.

(3) A weight equal to 0.5 times the normal working load shall be suspended from the eye or end of the davit arm. This load shall be moved from the full inboard to the full outboard position using the actual handles supplied with the davit. The time required for this operation shall not exceed 90 seconds. The above test shall also be conducted with the davits set up to simulate a 15-degree inboard list with a 10-degree trim to determine that the davits may be satisfactorily operated in that condition. The above test shall also be conducted with the davits set up to simulate a 15-degree outboard list with a 10-degree trim. This test shall determine that the davit arms will not run out under the weight of the light boat.

(4) A load of 1.1 times the normal working load shall be moved from the full outboard to the full inboard position to demonstrate the strength of operation of the return mechanism.

(5) Gravity davits shall be tested for strength and operation at the place of manufacture in the presence of an inspector. The davit arms, tracks, frames, attachments, etc., shall be set up in a manner similar to an actual shipboard installation. This installation shall include a lifeboat winch suitable for gravity davits and the falls shall be reeved in the normal manner. The tests to be conducted are as noted in paragraphs (b)(6) to (8) of this paragraph.

(6) A weight equal to 1.1 times the working load shall be run from the full inboard to the full outboard position with the davit assembly in the normal upright condition. The davit arm, trackways, etc., shall show no permanent set or undue stress from this test.

(7) A weight equal to 2.2 times the working load shall be attached to the falls and suspended from the davit arm when in the full outboard position. The load shall be swung in a fore and aft direction through an arc of approximately 10 degrees each side of the vertical. The davit arm and trackways shall show no permanent set or undue stress from this test.

(8) The entire davit assembly shall then be heeled inboard 15 degrees and with a 10-degree trim. In this condition a weight equal to 0.5 times the working load shall be suspended from the falls and shall be operated from the full inboard to the full outboard position. This test shall demonstrate that the load is sufficient to turn out the davit by merely releasing the brake on the winch. Stops shall be made at intervals between the inboard and outboard positions to assure that the davit will start from any position.

(c) Factory testing after approval. (1) After the design of a mechanical davit has been approved, subsequent davits of the same design shall be individually tested as described in paragraph (b)(2) of this section.

(2) After the design of a gravity davit has been approved, subsequent davit arms of the same design shall be individually tested as described in paragraph (b)(7) of this section, except that the swing test may be eliminated if not practicable.

(d) Name plate. (1) A corrosion resistant name plate shall be affixed to each davit arm and frame on which shall be stamped the name of the manufacturer, approval number, type and serial number of the davit, maximum working load in pounds per arm together with the Marine Inspection Office identification letters, the date, and the letters “U.S.C.G.”

[CGFR 49–18, 14 FR 5113, Aug. 17, 1949, as amended by CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11467, Sept. 8, 1965; CGD 75–186, 41 FR 10437, Mar. 11, 1976]

§ 160.032-6 Procedure for approval of davits.
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(a) Before action is taken on any design of davit, detailed plans covering fully the arrangement and construction of the davit together with stress diagrams and calculations relative to the strength of the davit, and a complete bill of material setting forth the physical properties of all materials used shall be submitted to the Commandant through the Commander of the Coast Guard District having jurisdiction over the construction of the davit.

(b) If the drawings required in paragraph (a) of this section are satisfactory the Commander of the Coast Guard District in which the davits are to be built shall be notified in writing when fabrication is to commence. An inspector will be assigned to supervise the construction in accordance with the plans and upon completion conduct the tests required by §160.032–5.

(c) At the time that the tests are successfully completed, the manufacturer shall present to the inspector four corrected copies of the plans noted in paragraph (a) of this section, including any corrections, changes, or additions which may have been found necessary during construction or testing. If the manufacturer desires more than one set of approved plans, additional copies shall be submitted at that time.

(d) Upon receipt of corrected drawings and satisfactory test report, the Commandant will issue a certificate of approval. No change shall be made in the design or construction without first receiving permission of the Commandant via the Commander of the Coast Guard District in which the davits are built.

[CGFR 49–18, 14 FR 5113, Aug. 17, 1949]

Subpart 160.033—Mechanical Disengaging Apparatus, Lifeboat, for Merchant Vessels
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§ 160.033-1 Applicable specifications.
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(a) Specifications. The following specifications of the issue in effect on the date mechanical disengaging apparatus is manufactured form a part of this subpart.

(1) Coast Guard specifications:


160.035, Specification for Lifeboats for Merchant Vessels.


(b) Copies on file. A copy of the specification regulations referred to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together with the approved plans and certificate of approval. They shall be kept for a period consisting of the duration of approval and 6 months after termination of approval. The specification may be obtained from the Commandant (G-MSE), U.S. Coast Guard, Washington, DC 20593–0001.

[CGFR 49–18, 14 FR 5113, Aug. 17, 1949, as amended by CGFR 65–16, 30 FR 10899, Aug. 21, 1965; CGD 88–070, 53 FR 34535, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95–072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; CGD 96–041, 61 FR 50733, Sept. 27, 1996]

§ 160.033-2 General requirements for mechanical disengaging apparatus.
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(a) The requirements of this subpart apply to all new construction. Mechanical disengaging apparatus approved and in use prior to the regulations in this subpart may be continued in service if in satisfactory condition.

(b) Mechanical disengaging apparatus installed in approved lifeboats shall be designed to release both ends of the lifeboat simultaneously under tension.

(c) Other types of mechanical disengaging apparatus will be considered for lifeboats fitted on vessels operating on waters other than ocean, coastwise or Great Lakes, or for vessels of 3,000 gross tons and under operating in ocean, coastwise or Great Lakes service.

[CGFR 49–18, 14 FR 5113, Aug. 17, 1949, as amended by CGFR 60–36, 25 FR 10637, Nov. 5, 1960]

§ 160.033-3 Construction of mechanical disengaging apparatus.
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(a) Mechanical disengaging apparatus shall be of such strength that the lifeboat in which installed may be safely lowered with its full complement of persons and equipment. A minimum factor of safety of six on the ultimate strength of the materials used shall be maintained at all times based on the approved working load per hook.

(b) Mechanical disengaging apparatus shall be designed to release both ends of the lifeboat simultaneously under tension, which shall be effected by partially rotating a shaft which shall be continuous and extend from point of contact with the hooks. The control effecting the rotation of the shaft shall be painted bright red and shall have thereon in raised letters the words “DANGER—LEVER DROPS BOAT”. The control shall be readily accessible, secured to a permanent part of the lifeboat structure, and so installed as not to interfere with the inspection of any removable parts of the lifeboat or its equipment.

(c) If closed type hooks are used, arrangements shall be made to effect the release of the falls in the event that the gear is inoperable.

(d) Positive means of lubrication shall be provided for all bearings.

(e) Welding, when employed, shall be performed by welders certified by the U. S. Coast Guard, American Bureau of Shipping, or U. S. Navy Department, and the electrodes used shall be of an approved type.

(f) The manufacturer shall furnish mill or foundry affidavits relative to the physical and chemical properties of the materials used.

[CGFR 49–18, 14 FR 5113, Aug. 17, 1949, as amended by CGFR 52–10, 17 FR 2365, Mar. 19, 1952; CGFR 57–27, 22 FR 4021, June 7, 1957]

§ 160.033-4 Inspection and testing of mechanical disengaging apparatus.
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(a) Inspection. Mechanical disengaging apparatus shall be inspected during the course of construction to determine that the arrangement and materials entering into the construction are in accordance with the approved plans.

(b) Factory tests for initial approval. (1) Mechanical disengaging apparatus shall be tested to destruction in a jig built in accordance with the drawing required in §160.033–5(a). This test shall be conducted in the presence of an inspector.

(2) Universal connections used to transmit the release power from the throw lever to the hook release shall be set up in a jig with the angles of leads set at 0.30, and 60 degrees, respectively. A load of 200 pounds shall be applied at the end of a lever arm 24 inches long. This load shall be applied with the connecting rod secured beyond the universal and with the lever arm in the horizontal position. This test shall demonstrate that the universals have strength adequate for the purpose intended. There shall be no permanent set, or undue stress as a result of this test. Consideration will be given to arrangements other than universals submitted for this transmission of power.

(c) Installation test prior to passing first unit installed. (1) Each new type or arrangement of mechanical disengaging apparatus shall be tested by suspending a lifeboat loaded with deadweight equivalent to the number of persons allowed in the lifeboat (165 pounds per person) together with the weight of the equipment, plus 10 percent of the total load. The release lever shall then be thrown over with this load suspended until the lifeboat is released. This test shall demonstrate the efficiency of the installation in an actual lifeboat. (This test may be conducted ashore by suspending the lifeboat just clear of the ground.)

(d) Factory testing after approval. (1) In general, no factory tests after approval are required. However, each lifeboat in which mechanical disengaging apparatus is fitted shall be tested in accordance with §160.035–13(a) of subpart 160.035.

(e) Name plate. A corrosion resistant name plate shall be attached to each hook assembly giving the manufacturer's name, approval number, and approved working load (as installed).

[CGFR 49–18, 14 FR 5113, Aug. 17, 1949, as amended by CGFR 52–10, 17 FR 2365, Mar. 19, 1952; CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11467, Sept. 8, 1965]

§ 160.033-5 Procedure for approval of mechanical disengaging apparatus.
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(a) Before action is taken on any design of mechanical disengaging apparatus, detailed plans covering fully the arrangement and construction of the apparatus, together with stress diagrams and calculations relative to the strength, proposed test jig to be used in the test prescribed in §160.033–4(b)(1), and a complete bill of material setting forth the physical and chemical properties of all the materials used shall be submitted to the Commandant through the Commander of the Coast Guard District having jurisdiction over the construction of the mechanical disengaging apparatus.

(b) If the drawings required in paragraph (a) of this section are satisfactory, the Commander of the Coast Guard District in which the mechanical disengaging apparatus is to be built, shall be notified in writing when fabrication is to commence. An inspector will be assigned to supervise the construction in accordance with the plans and upon completion, conduct the tests required by §160.033–4.

(c) At the time that the tests are successfully completed, the manufacturer shall present to the inspector four corrected copies of the plans noted in paragraph (a) of this section, including any corrections, changes, or additions which may have been found necessary during construction or testing. If the manufacturer desires more than one set of approved plans, additional copies shall be submitted at that time.

(d) Upon receipt of corrected drawings and satisfactory test report, the Commandant will issue a certificate of approval. No change shall be made in the design or construction without first receiving permission of the Commandant via the Commander of the Coast Guard District in which the mechanical disengaging apparatus is built.

[CGFR 49–18, 14 FR 5113, Aug. 17, 1949]

Subpart 160.035—Lifeboats for Merchant Vessels
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Source: CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11467, Sept. 8, 1965, unless otherwise noted.

§ 160.035-1 Applicable specifications.
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(a) Specifications. The following specifications, of the issue in effect on the date lifeboats are manufactured form a part of this subpart.

(1) Standards of ASTM:


ASTM A 36/A 36M–97a, Standard Specification for Carbon Structural Steel—160.035–3

ASTM A 653/A 653M–98, Standard Specification for Steel Sheet, Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) or Zinc-Iron Alloy-Coated (Galvannealed) by the Hot-Dip Process—160.035–3


(2) Military specifications:


MIL-P-18066—Plywood, Ship and Boat Construction.

MIL-Y-1140—Yarn, Cord, Sleeving, Cloth and Tape—Glass.

MIL-M-15617—Mats, Fibrous Glass, For Reinforcing Plastics.

MIL-R-7575—Resin, Polyester, Low-Pressure Laminating.

MIL-P-40619—Plastic Material, Cellular Polystyrene.

MIL-P-17549—Plastic Laminates, Fibrous Glass Reinforced, Marine Structural.

MIL-P-19644—Plastic Foam, Molded Polystyrene (Expanded Bead Type).

MIL-C-19663—Cloth, Glass, Woven Roving For Plastic Laminate.

MIL-R-21607—Resins, Polyester, Low Pressure Laminating, Fire Retardant.

MIL-P-21929—Plastic Material, Cellular Polyurethane, Rigid, Foam-In-Place, Low Density.


(3) Federal specifications:


TT-P-59—Paint, Ready-Mixed, International Orange.


(4) Federal test method standard:


406—Plastics: Method of Testing.


(5) Federal Communications Commission:


47 CFR part 83, Rules Governing Stations on Shipboard in the Maritime Service.


(6) Coast Guard specifications:


160.033—Mechanical Disengaging Apparatus (For Lifeboats).

160.034—Hand Propelling Gear (For Life boats).

161.006—Searchlights, Motor Lifeboat.


(b) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications and rules referred to in this section shall be kept on file by the manufacturer, together with the approved plans and certificate of approval. The Coast Guard Specifications may be obtained upon request from the Commandant. United States Coast Guard Headquarters, Washington, DC 20226. You may purchase the standards of ASTM from the American Society for Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428–2959. The Military Specifications may be obtained from the Commanding Officer, Naval Supply Depot, 5801 Tabor Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa. 19120. The Federal Communications Commission's Rules and Regulations may be obtained from the Federal Communications Commission, Washington, DC 20554. Federal Specifications and Standards may be obtained from the General Services Administration, Business Service Center, Washington, DC 20407.

[CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11467, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by CGD 72–133R, 37 FR 17039, Aug. 24, 1972; USCG–1999–5151, 64 FR 67184, Dec. 1, 1999]

§ 160.035-2 General requirements for lifeboats.
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(a) The requirements of this subpart apply to all new construction. Lifeboats approved and in use prior to the regulations in this subpart may be continued in service if in satisfactory condition.

(b) All lifeboats must be properly constructed and shall be of such form and proportions that they shall be readily maneuverable, have ample stability in a seaway, and sufficient freeboard when fully loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment. All lifeboats shall be capable of maintaining positive stability when open to the sea and loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment. All lifeboats must be open boats with rigid sides having internal buoyancy only. Lifeboats with a rigid shelter may be approved, provided that it may be readily opened from both inside and outside, and does not impede rapid embarkation and disembarkation or the launching and handling of the lifeboat.

(c) Lifeboats may be constructed of steel, aluminum, fibrous glass reinforced plastic (FRP), or other materials receiving specific approval: Provided, That, the weight of the fully equipped and loaded lifeboat shall not exceed 44,800 pounds, and the carrying capacity calculated in accordance with §160.035–9 of this specification shall not exceed 150 persons.

(1) The thwarts, side benches and footings of lifeboats shall be painted or otherwise colored international orange in accordance with Federal Specification TT-P-59. The area in way of the red mechanical disengaging gear control lever, from the keel to the side bench, shall be painted or otherwise colored white, to provide a contrasting background for the lever. This band of white should be approximately 12 inches wide depending on the internal arrangements of the lifeboat.

(d) For the purpose of calculations and conducting tests, the weight of the persons shall be taken at 165 pounds each.

[CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11467, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51211, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 160.035-3 Construction of steel oar-propelled lifeboats.
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(a) Type. Lifeboats shall have rigid sides and be fitted with internal buoyancy so arranged that the boats will float in the flooded condition when fully loaded with persons and equipment. The capacity of an oar-propelled lifeboat is limited to a maximum of 59 persons. Lifeboats designed to carry 60, but not more than 100, persons shall be either hand-propelled or motor-propelled. Lifeboats designed to carry more than 100 persons shall be motor-propelled, except that a lifeboat designed to carry more than 100 persons may be hand-propelled if it is a replacement for a previously approved hand-propelled lifeboat.

(b) Materials. (1) Plating for shell, floors, air tanks, etc., must be in accordance with ASTM A 653, Coating Designation G90 (incorporated by reference, see §160.035–1). The bend test required by these specifications must be made after the galvanizing or other anticorrosive treatment has been applied.

(2) Rivets and rolled or extruded shapes such as keel, stem, sternpost, gunwales, etc., shall be made by the open-hearth or electric furnace process in accordance with ASTM Standard Specification A 36 (incorporated by reference, see §160.035–1). Consideration will be given to the use of other steels having equivalent strength where longitudinal cold forming is necessary.

(c) Riveting. (1) Riveting of the shell plating to the keel, stem, and sternpost shall be button head rivets, staggered with not less than 12 rivets to the foot. The distance from the edge of the plate to the centers of the rivets in the nearest row shall be not less than 1/2 inch nor more than 3/4 inch. Rivets connecting the shell to the gunwale shall be spaced not more than 3 inches on centers. The size of the rivets for connecting the shell plating to the keel, stem, sternpost, and gunwale shall be 1/4-inch diameter for boats 28 feet and under and 5/16-inch diameter for boats over 28 feet.

(2) The connection of the floors to the shell shall be a single row of rivets not less than 3/16 inch in diameter and spaced not more than 3 inches on centers.

(d) Welding. Welding may be substituted for riveting in any location. It shall be performed by welders qualified by the U.S. Coast Guard, American Bureau of Shipping, or U.S. Navy Department, and only approved electrodes shall be used. Details of the joints shall be indicated on the construction drawings submitted for approval.

(e) Gunwale braces. (1) The gunwale braces shall be bolted to the thwarts with at least two carriage bolts of a size not less than that noted in table 160.035–3(e)(1) and riveted or welded to the gunwales. Where riveted to the gunwale, at least two rivets of a size not less than that noted in table 160.035–3(e)(1) shall be used.


Table 160.035-3(e)(1)
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Brace size Bolts and rivets
Length of lifeboat (inches) diameter (inch)
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22 feet and under............... 3x\1/4\ \5/16\
Over 22 feet and not over 28.... 3x\5/16\ \3/8\
Over 28 feet.................... 3x\3/8\ \7/16\
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(2) Bracket type gunwale braces will be given special consideration.

(f) Seats. (1) The thwarts, side benches, and end benches shall be of fir, yellow pine, fibrous glass reinforced plastic (FRP), or approved equivalent.

(2) The edges of all thwarts, side, and end benches shall be well rounded.

(3) Suitable foot rests shall be furnished at a distance of between 17 and 20 inches below the thwarts and side benches. This may be accomplished by raising the footings from the bottom of the boat.

(4) The leading edge of the thwart or end bench shall be located a minimum of 3 inches and a maximum of 6 inches distance from the Rottmer release gear.

(g) Stretchers. Stretchers of sufficient size and strength shall be fitted in suitable positions for rowing.

(h) Disengaging apparatus. (1) Connections for the disengaging apparatus shall have a minimum factor of safety of six.

(2) For construction and capacity of disengaging apparatus, see subpart 160.033.

(i) Plugs. Each lifeboat shall be fitted with an automatic plug so designed and installed as to insure complete drainage at all times when the boat is out of the water. The automatic plug shall be provided with a cap attached to the lifeboat by a suitable chain. The location of drain plug is to be marked on the vertical surface in the vicinity of the plug below the side bench with the word “plug” in 3-inch white letters and with an arrow pointing in the direction of the drain plug.

(j) Protection against corrosion. (1) All steel or iron entering into the construction of lifeboats shall be galvanized by the hot dipped process. All fabricated pieces or sections are to be galvanized after fabrication. Other methods of corrosion prevention will be given special consideration.

(2) Where welded construction is employed, the material shall be galvanized after welding unless impractical to do so in which case consideration will be given to equivalent protection.

(3) Provisions shall be made to obtain a satisfactory bond between the metal and the paint.

(k) Rudders. (1) Each lifeboat shall be fitted with a rudder and tiller. The rudder shall be fitted with a 1/2-inch diameter manila lanyard of such length as to permit the rudder to be shipped without untying the lanyard.

(2) A suitable hinged or pivoted tiller shall be provided.

(3) Rudder stops shall be provided to limit the rudder angle to approximately 45 degrees each side of the centerline.

(l) Buoyancy tanks. (1) All lifeboats shall have inherent buoyancy, or shall be fitted with buoyancy tanks or other equivalent noncorrodible buoyancy units, which shall not be adversely affected by oil or oil products, sufficient to float the boat and its equipment when the boat is flooded and open to the sea. An additional volume of buoyancy, or buoyancy units, equal to at least one-tenth the cubic capacity of the lifeboat shall be provided.

(2) At least 50 percent of the buoyancy shall be located along the sides of the boat and shall be so located that the boat will be on even keel when flooded.

(3) The tops of the buoyancy tanks or buoyancy units shall be protected by the side benches or other suitable means. The construction shall be such that water will not collect on the tops of the tanks.

(4) Built-in buoyancy tanks. Each built-in buoyancy tank shall be filled with buoyancy material. The amount of material required shall be determined by the flooding test in accordance with §160.035–11(b)(2). The buoyancy materials used shall meet the requirements set forth for core materials as follows:





Core Polystyrene............................ MIL-P-40619
MIL-P-19644
Polyurethane MIL-P-21929



(m) Equipment stowage. (1) Provision lockers, water tanks, and special equipment lockers shall be watertight and so designed and located as to fit under the side benches, end benches, or footings without projecting into the accommodation spaces of the lifeboat. In special cases, stowage under the thwarts will be permitted. Standard 1/4 inch pipe size testing nipples shall be fitted to all such lockers or tanks.

(2) Water tanks shall be constructed of at least 18 USSG material. An opening with a dogged type cover shall be provided for removal of water cans. This opening shall be at least 7 inches in diameter, but in any case shall be of sufficient size that all water cans can be removed. In addition, built-in water tanks shall have an opening at least 13 inches in diameter with a bolted cover for the purpose of inspection and maintenance. A 2-inch diameter fill cap shall be installed for the purpose of storing rain water. A standard 1/4-inch pipe size drainage nipple with hexagonal cap shall be fitted in the bottom of the tank in an accessible location and may be used for air testing the water tank.

(n) Grab rails. Grab rails shall be substantially attached to each lifeboat below the turn of the bilge and extend approximately one-half of the length of the lifeboat on each side. The ends of the grab rails shall be faired to prevent fouling and all connections of the rails to the lifeboat shall be made by riveting the palms of the brackets to a small plate and riveting the plate to the shell. To prevent rupture of the shell if the grab rail is carried away, more rivets shall be used in attaching the plate to the shell than in fastening the bracket to the plate. The clearance between the grab rail pipe and the hull shall be at least 1 1/2 inches. The connections of the rails to a fibrous glass reinforced plastic lifeboat hull will be given special consideration.

(o) Hand rails. All lifeboats intended for use in ocean and coastwise service shall be fitted with hand rails approximately 18 inches in length, constructed and attached to the lifeboat in the same manner as the grab rails required by paragraph (n) of this section. The clearance between the hand rail pipe and the hull shall be at least 1 1/2 inches. The hand rails shall be located approximately parallel to and at both ends of the grab rails and spaced midway between the grab rail and the gunwale and midway between the grab rail and the keel on both sides of the lifeboat provided that, when the distance from grab rail to gunwale or to the keel exceeds 4 feet, two hand rails shall be fitted so as to provide equal spacing. In no case shall the hand rails project beyond the widest part of the boat. Recessed hand rails or other alternate arrangements will be given consideration.

[CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51211, Sept. 30, 1997, as amended by USCG–1998–4442, 63 FR 52191, Sept. 30, 1998; USCG–1999–5151, 64 FR 67184, Dec. 1, 1999; USCG–2000–7790, 65 FR 58463, Sept. 29, 2000]

§ 160.035-5 Construction of steel motor-propelled lifeboats with and without radio cabin.
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(a) General provisions applicable to all motor-propelled lifeboats. (1) A motor-propelled lifeboat, carried as part of the lifesaving equipment of a vessel, whether required or not, shall comply with all the requirements for an oar-propelled lifeboat, and in addition, shall have sufficient additional buoyancy to compensate for the weight of the engine and other equipment.

(2) The engine shall be enclosed in a suitable engine box which shall be watertight with the exception of the top which may be weathertight. If the engine box is made of material other than steel or aluminum, such as fibrous glass reinforced plastic, it shall be made of fire retardant material. The top of the engine box shall be fitted with a screwdown mushroom vent. The engine box shall be fitted with a suitable drain. An engine starting instruction plate shall be permanently attached to the engine box. There shall be ample space between the engine and the engine box to permit proper maintenance and removal of engine accessories when necessary. If the internal arrangements of the engine in the engine box do not permit this, then suitable watertight hand-hole plates shall be installed in the vicinity of these accessories. The location of these plates and the accessibility to the accessories shall be to the satisfaction of the marine inspector. The marine inspector may require the removal of any accessory through these hand-hole plates that he may deem necessary to establish that it is of proper size and location.

(3) Fuel tanks must be constructed of steel, fibrous glass reinforced plastic or other approved equivalent. Fuel tanks must be adequately supported and securely fastened inside the lifeboat to prevent any movement. Fuel tanks must have no openings in the bottom, sides or ends. Openings for fill, vent and feed pipes must be on the top surface of the tanks. The vent size for tanks of 50 gallons or less must not be less than 1/4-inch O.D. tubing. Vents for larger tanks will be given special consideration. The access openings in the thwarts for the fill tank cap must have a flush cover or the top of the cap must be flush with the top of the thwart. Fuel feed pipes must be provided with a shutoff valve at the tank, where it is readily accessible and its location marked. Tanks must be tested by a static head above the tank top of ten feet of water without showing leakage or permanent deformation. A graduated measure stick or other means must be provided to determine the amount of the fuel in the tank.

(i) Steel diesel oil fuel tanks shall have a thickness of not less than 12 USSG and shall not be galvanized on the inside; however, the outside of such tanks shall be so treated as to obtain a corrosion resistance approximately equivalent to hot-dip galvanizing. Swash plates shall be fitted in tanks over 30 inches in length.

(ii) Fibrous glass reinforced plastic diesel oil fuel tanks shall have a thickness of not less than 0.187 inch. The resins used shall be of a fire retardant type and shall qualify under military specification MIL-R-21607. The mechanical properties of the tank shall not be less than Grade No. 4 of military specification MIL-P-17549. Mat, woven roving and 1000th cloth shall be used. Tank laminates shall not be constructed exclusively with fibrous glass fabrics. An increment of random oriented, chopped fibrous glass reinforcement is deemed necessary to prevent porosity. An ounce and a half per square foot is considered minimum. Inclusion of fabrics in low pressure laminates are recommended to impart satisfactory containment, strength, and rigidity. For maximum strength, tank surfaces should be cambered and curved wherein practical. Fittings shall be made of nonferrous metal and securely bonded to the tank with epoxy resin. A fibrous glass reinforced plate or boss of the same thickness as the tank proper and 1 1/2 times the outside dimensions of the fitting shall be used to strengthen the openings for fuel, fill and vent lines. Tanks shall be constructed of a minimum possible number of sections. Where two parts are joined there shall be a minimum of 2-inch overlap. Tanks exceeding 18 inches in any horizontal dimension shall be fitted with vertical baffle plates at intervals not exceeding 18 inches. Baffle plate flanges shall be integral and shall be of the same strength and stiffness as the tank wall. Flanges shall be bonded in place with mat and fabric. A suitable striking plate shall be installed at the bottom of the fuel measurement and fill pipe line. The laminate may be increased in thickness, in the way of the fill pipe. The cover of the fuel tank shall be through bolted as well as bonded. All fuel tanks shall bear legible, permanent labels, conveniently located for visual inspection, signifying full compliance with these specifications and including the following:

(a) Manufacturer's name and address.

(b) Date of construction and the inspector's initials.

(c) Wall thickness (in decimals of one inch) and capacity U.S. gallons.

(d) Material of construction: Polyester—Glass.

(4) Propeller shafting shall be of bronze or other suitable corrosion resistant materials. Fittings, pipes, connections, etc., shall be of high standard and good workmanship, and installed in accordance with good marine practice. The exhaust manifold shall be suitably insulated.

(5) All engines shall be permanently installed and shall be equipped with an efficient cranking system. This system shall be one that can be operated by hand, such as a hand cranking, hydraulic cranking, or inertia cranking system, acceptable to the Commandant. If an electric cranking system consisting of an electric starter motor, generator and batteries are fitted, it shall be in addition to the required acceptable cranking system, the battery or batteries shall be installed within the watertight engine box. The battery box shall be so constructed as to retain the battery in position when the lifeboat is in a seaway. The battery box shall be 1 inch longer and 1 inch wider than the battery and shall be lined with 4-pound lead flashed up 3 inches on the sides and ends. The battery box may be made of fibrous glass reinforced plastic using a fire-retardant epoxy resin. This type of battery box will not be required to be lead lined.

(i) Engines. The engine shall be a reliable, marine, compression-ignition type and shall be capable of propelling the fully equipped and loaded lifeboat at a sustained speed of not less than 6 knots through smooth water over a measured course. Provision shall be made for going astern. Sufficient fuel for 24 hours continuous operation at 6 knots shall be provided. The engine used in approved lifeboats shall be capable of being started without the use of starting aids at a temperature of 20 °F., by the use of an acceptable cranking system. If water cooled, the engine shall be equipped with a closed fresh water cooling system. This system shall be cooled by a secondary medium, such as a water cooled heat exchanger.

(ii) The hydraulic cranking system shall be a self-contained system which will provide the required cranking forces and engine r.p.m. as recommended by the engine manufacturer. The capacity of the hydraulic cranking system shall provide not less than six cranking cycles. Each cranking cycle shall provide the necessary number of revolutions at the required r.p.m. to the engine to meet the requirements of carrying its full rated load within twenty seconds after cranking is initiated with intake air and hydraulic cranking system at 20 °F. Capacity of the hydraulic cranking system sufficient for three cranking cycles under the above conditions, shall be held in reserve and arranged so that the operation of a single control by one person will isolate the discharged or initially used part of the system and permit the reserve capacity to be employed. The installation of an engine-driven pump is recommended but is not required. The hydraulic cranking shall meet the requirements prescribed in 46 CFR 58.30 and 46 CFR 61.10–5 of Subchapter F, Marine Engineering Regulations. The hydraulic system when used in lifeboats as engine cranking systems shall be leak-tested at its operating pressure after installation.

(6) The following tools to perform emergency repairs and ordinary servicing shall be provided:


One 12-ounce ball peen hammer.

One screwdriver with 6-inch blade.

One pair of 8-inch slip-joint pliers.

One 8-inch adjustable end wrench.

One 12-inch adjustable end wrench.

One Phillipsor cross-head screwdriver with a 6-inch blade. (continued)