Loading (50 kb)...'
(continued)
Underwriters Laboratories, 12 Laboratory Drive, P.O. Box 13995, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709–3995, (919) 549–1400.
(b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory that performed the approval testing.
[CGD 93–055, 61 FR 13930, Mar. 28, 1996]
Subpart 160.048—Specification for a Buoyant Cushion, Fibrous Glass
top
§ 160.048-1 Incorporation by reference.
top
(a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to the following documents:
(1) Military specification:
MIL-B-2766—Batt, Fibrous Glass, Lifesaving Equipment.
(2) Federal Specifications:
CCC-C-700G—Cloth, Coated, Vinyl, Coated (Artificial Leather).
CCC-C-426D—Cloth, Cotton Drill.
L-P-375C—Plastic Film, Flexible, Vinyl Chloride.
(3) Federal standard:
No. 751—Stitches, Seams, and Stitchings.
(4) Coast Guard specification:
164.003—Kapok, Processed.
(b) Plan. The following plan, of the issue in effect on the date kapok or fibrous glass buoyant cushions are manufactured, form a part of this subpart:
(1) Coast Guard Dwg. No. 160.048–1.
(c) Copies on File. Copies of the specifications and plan 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 specification and plan may be obtained upon request from the Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard, 2100 Second Street, SW., Washington, DC 20593–0001, or recognized laboratory. The Federal Specifications and the Federal Standard may be purchased from the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, Washington; DC 20407. The Military Specification may be obtained from the Commanding Officer, Naval Supply Depot, 5801 Tabor Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19120.
[CGFR 65–37, 30 FR 11583, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70–143, 35 FR 19962, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 78–012, 43 FR 27153, 27154, June 22, 1978; USCG–1999–6216, 64 FR 53227, Oct. 1, 1999]
§ 160.048-2 Types and sizes.
top
(a) Types. Buoyant cushions shall be of the box type, i.e., have top, bottom and gusset. Pillow type cushions without a gusset are not acceptable.
(b) Sizes. Buoyant cushions shall have not less than 225 square inches top surface area; widths and lengths which fall within the dimensions shown in Tables 160.048–4(c)(1)(i) and 160.048–4(c)(1)(ii); and thickness not less than 2 nor more than 3 inches, the thickness to be considered as the finished width of the gusset between seams.
[CGFR 65–37, 30 FR 11583, Sept. 10, 1965]
§ 160.048-3 Materials.
top
(a) General. All components used in the construction of buoyant cushions must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter.
(b) Kapok. The kapok shall be all new material complying with Specification subpart 164.003 of this subchapter and shall be properly processed.
(c) Fibrous glass. The fibrous glass shall comply with the requirements of specification MIL-B-2766.
(d) Cover. Cotton fabrics and coated upholstery cloth meeting the minimum requirements set forth in paragraphs (d) (1) and (2) of this section are acceptable for use as covers for buoyant cushions, but alternate materials will be given special consideration. Pro rata widths of like construction will be acceptable.
(1) Cotton fabrics. Cotton fabrics shall comply with the requirements of Federal Specification CCC-C-426 for Type I, Class 3 material.
(2) Coated upholstery cloth. Coated upholstery cloth shall comply with the requirements of Federal Specification CCC-A-700.
(e) Pad covering. The covering for the buoyant pad inserts shall be flexible vinyl film not less than 0.008 inch in thickness meeting the requirements of Federal Specification L-P-375 for Type I or II, Class 1, film.
(f) Grab straps. The grab straps shall be of materials permitted for the cover, or approved equivalent.
(g) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
(h) Welting. The welting where used may be any fiber or plastic material suitable for the purpose.
[CG FR 65–37, 30 FR 11583, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 78–012, 43 FR 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 84–068, 58 FR 29493, May 20, 1993]
§ 160.048-4 Construction and workmanship.
top
(a) General. This specification covers buoyant cushions of the box type filled with kapok or fibrous glass contained in heat-sealed vinyl film pad covers which are inserted in an outer cover fitted with grab straps. The primary purpose of such cushions is to provide buoyancy to aid a person in keeping afloat in the water. No hooks, snaps, or other means shall be included which might facilitate fastening the cushion to a boat. Buoyant cushions shall be of such size and volume as to provide not less than 20 pounds buoyancy when tested in the manner described in §160.048–5(e), but no cushion providing less than 225 square inches of top surface area or measuring less than 2 inches or more than 3 inches in thickness will be acceptable.
(b) Cover. One piece of material each for the top and bottom shall be stitched together to form the cover except that piecing of the cover material will be allowed provided it is for decorative purposes only. Gusset or boxing materials shall be of not more than two pieces. If more than one piece of material is used for the top, bottom, boxing or gusset, they shall be attached by a double row of stitching of the type shown in Federal Standard No. 751, for seam types SSw–2 or LS(b)–2. The top and bottom may be of any of the materials permitted for the cover, but the boxing or gusset shall be a cotton fabric as specified by §160.048–3(c)(1) or other equivalent material of a porous nature. Nonporous materials will not be permitted for the boxing or gusset, but coated upholstery cloth specified by §160.048–3(d)(2), perforated to permit adequate draining and drying will be acceptable.
(c) Buoyant material. Buoyant cushions shall be filled with the minimum amounts of kapok or fibrous glass determined as follows:
(1) Rectangular buoyant cushions 2 inches thick shall be filled with the amounts of kapok or fibrous glass indicated for the various widths and lengths of such cushions by Table 160.048–4(c)(1)(i) or 160.048–4(c)(1)(ii), as applicable. Trapezoidal buoyant cushions 2 inches thick shall be filled with the amounts of kapok or fibrous glass indicated for the various widths and lengths of rectangular buoyant cushions by Table 160.048–4(c)(1)(i) or 160.048–4(c)(1)(ii) as applicable, on the basis that the length of a trapezoidal cushion shall be considered as its average length in each case.
Table 160.048-4(c)(1)(i)_Weight of Kapok (in Ounces) for Filling Rectangular Buoyant Cushions 2 Inches Thick
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Width (inches)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Length (inches) Over
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 24
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15....................................... ... ... ... 20 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ....
16....................................... ... ... ... 21 23 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ....
17....................................... ... ... 21 23 24 26 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ....
18....................................... ... 21 22 24 26 27 29 ... ... ... ... ... ... ....
19....................................... 20 22 24 25 27 29 30 32 ... ... ... ... ... ....
20....................................... 21 23 25 27 28 30 32 34 36 ... ... ... ... ....
21....................................... 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 35 37 39 ... ... ... ....
22....................................... 23 25 27 29 31 33 35 37 39 41 43 ... ... ....
23....................................... 25 27 29 31 33 35 37 39 41 43 45 47 ... ....
24....................................... 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 41 43 45 47 49 51 ....
25....................................... 27 29 31 33 36 38 40 42 44 47 49 51 53 (\1\
)
26....................................... 28 30 32 35 37 39 42 44 46 49 51 53 55 (\1\
)
27....................................... 29 31 34 36 38 41 43 46 48 50 53 55 58 (\1\
)
28....................................... 30 32 35 37 40 42 44 47 50 52 55 57 60 (\1\
)
29....................................... 31 34 36 39 41 44 46 49 52 54 57 59 62 (\1\
)
30....................................... 32 35 37 40 43 45 48 51 53 56 59 61 64 (\1\
)
31....................................... 33 36 39 41 44 47 50 52 55 58 61 63 66 (\1\
)
32....................................... 34 37 40 43 46 48 51 54 57 60 62 65 68 (\1\
)
33....................................... 35 38 41 44 47 50 53 56 59 62 64 67 70 (\1\
)
34....................................... 36 39 42 45 48 51 54 57 60 63 66 69 73 (\1\
)
35....................................... 37 40 44 47 50 53 56 59 62 65 68 72 75 (\1\
)
36....................................... 38 42 45 48 51 54 58 61 64 67 70 74 77 (\1\
)
Over 36.................................. (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1\
\) \) \) \) \) \) \) \) \) \) \) \) \) )
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Determine amount of kapok from formula (1) contained in § 160.048-4(c)(2).
Table 160.048-4(c)(1)(ii)_Weight of Fibrous Glass (in Ounces) for Filling Rectangular Buoyant Cushion 2 Inches
Thick
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Width (inches)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Length (inches) Over
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 24
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15....................................... ... ... ... 36 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ....
16....................................... ... ... ... 38 41 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ....
17....................................... ... ... 38 41 44 46 ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ....
18....................................... ... 37 40 43 46 49 52 ... ... ... ... ... ... ....
19....................................... 36 40 43 46 49 52 55 58 ... ... ... ... ... ....
20....................................... 38 42 45 48 51 54 58 61 64 ... ... ... ... ....
21....................................... 40 44 47 50 54 57 60 64 67 71 ... ... ... ....
22....................................... 42 46 49 53 56 60 63 67 70 74 77 ... ... ....
23....................................... 44 48 52 55 59 63 66 70 74 77 81 85 ... ....
24....................................... 46 50 54 58 61 65 69 73 77 81 84 88 92 ....
25....................................... 48 52 56 60 64 68 72 76 80 84 88 92 96 (\1\
)
26....................................... 50 54 58 62 67 71 75 79 83 87 92 96 100 (\1\
)
27....................................... 52 56 60 65 69 73 78 82 86 91 95 99 104 (\1\
)
28....................................... 54 58 63 67 72 76 81 85 90 94 99 103 108 (\1\
)
29....................................... 56 60 65 70 74 79 84 88 93 97 102 107 111 (\1\
)
30....................................... 58 62 67 72 77 82 86 91 96 101 106 110 115 (\1\
)
31....................................... 60 64 69 74 79 84 89 94 99 104 109 114 119 (\1\
)
32....................................... 61 67 72 77 82 87 92 97 103 108 113 118 123 (\1\
)
33....................................... 63 69 74 79 84 90 95 100 106 111 116 121 127 (\1\
)
34....................................... 65 71 76 82 87 92 98 103 109 114 120 125 131 (\1\
)
35....................................... 67 73 78 84 90 95 101 106 112 118 123 129 134 (\1\
)
36....................................... 69 75 81 86 92 98 104 109 115 121 127 132 138 (\1\
)
Over 36.................................. (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1 (\1\
\) \) \) \) \) \) \) \) \) \) \) \) \) )
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Determine amount of fibrous glass from formula (2) contained in § 160.048-4(c)(2).
(2) All buoyant cushions more than 2 inches thick, and all buoyant cushions 2 inches thick which are of shapes different from those covered by paragraph (c)(1) of this section, shall be filled with kapok or fibrous glass as determined in the following formulas:
Amount of kapok (ounces) = A × t ÷ 22.5 (1)
Amount of fibrous glass (ounces) = A × t ÷ 12.5 (2)
Where:
A = Top surface area of cushion in square inches as determined from measurements taken along finished edges.
t = Thickness of boxing or gusset of finished cushion in inches.
(d) Pad covers for buoyant material. Before being inserted in the outer cover the buoyant material shall be placed in waterproof vinyl film pad covers which shall be heat-sealed tight. The heat-sealed pad seams shall show an adhesion of not less than 8 pounds when one inch strips cut across and perpendicular to the seams are pulled apart at a rate of separation of the clamping jaws of the test machine of 12 inches per minute. Each cushion shall contain not less than four pads and all pads in a cushion shall contain approximately equal portions of the total amount of buoyant material in the cushion. The buoyant material may be inserted directly into the vinyl film pad covers, or may first be packed in bags made of print cloth or other suitable material and then inserted into the vinyl film pad covers. The pads shall be of such size as to adequately fill the outer cover, and prior to sealing, the pads shall be evacuated of air sufficiently that when sat on the pads will not “balloon” excessively because of the pressure in the pad covers. For 15&inch;×15&inch;×2&inch; cushions the four vinyl film pad covers shall each be cut approximately 12&inch; wide × 12&inch; long or approximately 8&inch; wide × 18&inch; long shall have a sealed area of approximately 125 square inches; shall contain not less than 5 ounces of kapok or 9 ounces of fibrous glass each; and the volume displacement of the individual heat-sealed pad inserts shall be 5 1/2 pounds each, plus or minus 1/2 pound, when tested in accordance with the method set forth in §160.048–5(e)(1), except that the pad covers shall not be slit open, and the period of submergence shall be only long enough to determine the displacement of the pads.
(e) Grab straps. Grab straps shall be attached as shown on Dwg. No. 160.048–1 and shall finish 20 inches long and 1 inch wide at opposite ends. The grab straps, if formed from cover material shall be folded and stitched together so as to produce a double thickness with raw edges turned under. Other means will be given special consideration.
(f) Seams and stitching. Seams shall be constructed with not less than a 3/8 inch border between the seam and the edge of the cover materials. All stitching shall be a lock stitch, 7 to 9 stitches per inch, except as follows: Chain stitching 6 to 8 stitches per inch, with 20/4 thread on top and 40/3 thread on the bottom, will be acceptable in constructing straps.
(g) Workmanship. All cushions shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from defects materially affecting their appearance or serviceability. Cushions classified as “seconds” or “irregular” will not be acceptable under this specification.
[CGFR 65–37, 30 FR 11583, Sept. 10, 1965]
§ 160.048-5 Inspections and tests. 1
top
1 The manufacturer of a personal flotation device must meet 33 CFR 181.701 through 33 CFR 181.705 which require an instruction pamphlet for each device that is sold or offered for sale for use on recreational boats.
(a) General. Manufacturers of listed and labeled buoyant cushions shall maintain quality control of the materials used, manufacturing methods and the finished product so as to meet the applicable requirements, and shall make sufficient inspections and tests of representative samples and components produced to maintain the quality of the finished product. Records of tests conducted by the manufacturer and records of materials, including affidavits by suppliers that applicable requirements are met, entering into construction shall be made available to the recognized laboratory inspector or the Coast Guard inspector, or both, for review upon request. Any examinations, inspections and test which are required by the recognized laboratory for listed and labeled devices produced will be conducted by the laboratory inspector at the place of manufacture or other location at the option of the laboratory.
(b) Lot size and sampling. (1) A lot shall consist of not more than 1,000 buoyant cushions. A new lot shall be started with any change or modification in materials used or manufacturing methods employed. When a lot of buoyant cushions is ready for inspection, the manufacturer shall notify the recognized laboratory so that they may, at their discretion, assign an inspector to the plant for the purpose of making any tests and inspections deemed necessary. From each lot of buoyant cushions, the manufacturer or the recognized laboratory or U.S. Coast Guard inspector, when assigned, shall select samples in accordance with Table 160.048–5(b)(1) to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
Table 160.048-5(b)(1)_Sampling for Buoyancy Tests
------------------------------------------------------------------------
No. of
Lot size cushions
in sample
------------------------------------------------------------------------
200 and under................................................ 1
201 to 400................................................... 2
401 to 600................................................... 3
601 to 1,000................................................. 4
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2) For a lot next succeeding one from which any sample cushion failed the buoyancy test, the sample shall consist of not less than 10 specimen cushions to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
(c) Additional tests. Unannounced examinations, tests and inspections of samples obtained either directly from the manufacturer or through commercial channels may be made to determine the suitability of a product for listing and labeling, or to determine conformance of a labeled product to the applicable requirements. These may be conducted by the recognized laboratory or the Coast Guard.
(d) Test facilities. The laboratory inspector, or the Coast Guard inspector, or both, shall be admitted to any place in the factory where work is being done on listed and labeled products, and either or both inspectors may take samples of parts or materials entering into construction of final assemblies, for further examinations, inspections, or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place and the apparatus necessary for the performance of the tests which are done at the place of manufacture.
(e) Buoyancy—(1) Buoyancy test method. Remove the buoyant pad inserts from the cushion and cut three slits in the vinyl film, each not less than 6 inches in length on both sides of each pad. Securely attach the spring scale in a position directly over the test tank. Suspend the weighted wire basket from the scale in such a manner that the basket is weighed while it is completely under water. In order to measure the actual buoyance provided by the pads, the underwater weight of the empty basket should exceed the buoyancy of the pads. To obtain the buoyancy of the pads, proceed as follows:
(i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
(ii) Place the pads inside the basket and submerge it so that the top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water for 24 hours. The tank shall be locked or sealed during this 24-hour submergence period. It is important that after the pads have once been submerged that they shall remain submerged for the duration of the test, and at no time during the course of the test shall they be removed from the tank or otherwise exposed to air.
(iii) After the 24-hour submergence period unlock or unseal the tank and weigh the weighted wire basket with the pads inside while both are still under water.
(iv) The buoyancy is computed as (i) minus (iii).
(2) Buoyancy required. The buoyant pads from the cushion shall provide not less than 20 pounds total buoyancy.
[CGFR 65–37, 30 FR 11585, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70–143, 35 FR 19963, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 78–008, 43 FR 9772, Mar. 9, 1978]
§ 160.048-6 Marking.
top
(a) Each buoyant cushion must have the following information clearly marked in waterproof lettering:
(1) In letters that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:
Type IV Personal Flotation Device.
Inspected and tested in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
Dry out thoroughly when wet.
(Kapok or Fibrous glass) buoyant material provides a minimum buoyant force of 20 lb.
Do not snag or puncture inner plastic cover.
If pads become waterlogged, replace device.
Approved for use on recreational boats only as a throwable device.
U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. 160.048/(assigned manufacturer's No.)/(Revision No.); (Model No.).
(Name and address of manufacturer or distributor.).
(Lot No.).
(Size; width, thickness, and length, including both top and bottom for trapezoidal cushions.).
(2) In letters that are distinctively set off or larger than all other marking, and are at least one-fourth of an inch in height:
WARNING: DO NOT WEAR ON BACK
(b) Waterproofness of marking. Marking for buoyant cushions shall be sufficiently waterproof so that after 72 hours submergence in water, it will withstand vigorous rubbing by hand while wet without the printed matter becoming illegible.
[CGFR 65–37, 30 FR 11585, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70–143, 35 FR 19963, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 72–163R, 38 FR 8119, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 75–008, 43 FR 9771, Mar. 9, 1978; CGD 92–045, 58 FR 41608, Aug. 4, 1993; CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51213, Sept. 30, 1997]
§ 160.048-7 Procedure for approval.
top
(a) Group approval. A single group approval will be granted to each manufacturer to cover all buoyant cushions which have materials and construction strictly in conformance with this subpart, which are 2 inches thick, and which are filled with kapok or fibrous glass in accordance with §160.048–4(c)(1).
(b) Special approvals. Special approvals will be granted separately to each manufacturer for each kapok or fibrous glass buoyant cushion he proposes to manufacture which is not included under the group approval provided by paragraph (b) of this section, for example: A kapok or fibrous glass buoyant cushion having cover material not specifically provided for by this subpart; or any buoyant cushion more than 2 inches thick; or any buoyant cushion having a different shape.
(c) A buoyant cushion is approved when it bears the compliance label of the recognized laboratory.
[CGFR 70–143, 35 FR 19963, Dec. 30, 1970, as amended by CGD 72–163R, 38 FR 8119, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 93–055, 61 FR 13930, Mar. 28, 1996; 61 FR 15162, Apr. 4, 1996]
§ 160.048-8 Recognized laboratory.
top
(a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under §159.010–7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions under this subpart:
Underwriters Laboratories, 12 Laboratory Drive, P.O. Box 13995, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709–3995, (919) 549–1400.
(b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performed production oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory that performed the approval testing.
[CGD 93–055, 61 FR 13930, Mar. 28, 1996]
Subpart 160.049—Specification for a Buoyant Cushion Plastic Foam
top
§ 160.049-1 Incorporation by reference.
top
(a) Specifications and Standards. This subpart makes reference to the following documents:
(1) Federal Specifications:
CCC-C-700G–Cloth, Coated, Vinyl, Coated (Artificial Leather).
CCC-C-426D–Cloth, Cotton Drill.
(2) Federal standard:
No. 751—Stitches, Seams, and Stitchings.
(3) Coast Guard specifications:
160.055—Life Preservers, Unicellular Plastic Foam, Adult and Child.
164.015—Plastic Foam, Unicellular, Buoyant, Sheet and Molded Shapes.
(4) Military specifications.
MIL-C-43006—Cloth, Laminated, Vinyl-Nylon, High Strength, Flexible.
(b) Plan. The following plan, of the issue in effect on the date unicellular plastic foam buoyant cushions are manufactured, form a part of this subpart:
(1) Coast Guard Dwg. No. 160.049–1.
(c) Copies on file. Copies of the specifications and plan 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 and plan may be obtained upon request from the Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard, 2100 Second Street SW., Washington, DC 20593–0001, or recognized laboratory. The Federal Specifications and the Federal Standard may be purchased from the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20407.
[CGFR 65–37, 30 FR 11586, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70–143, 35 FR 19964, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 72–163R, 38 FR 8119, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 78–012, 43 FR 27153, 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 88–070, 53 FR 34535, Sept. 7, 1988; USCG–1999–6216, 64 FR 53228, Oct. 1, 1999]
§ 160.049-2 Types and sizes.
top
(a) Type. Buoyant cushions shall be of the box type, i.e., have top, bottom, and gusset. Pillow type cushions without a gusset are not acceptable.
(b) Sizes. Buoyant cushions shall have not less than 225 square inches of top surface area, shall contain not less than 630 cubic inches of buoyant material, shall not be less than 2 inches thick, and shall have width no less than 12 inches and length no less than 15 inches, respectively.
[CGFR 65–37, 30 FR 11586, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by USCG–1998–4442, 63 FR 52191, Sept. 30, 1998]
§ 160.049-3 Materials.
top
(a) General. All components used in the construction of buoyant cushions must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019.
(b) Unicellular plastic foam. The unicellular plastic foam shall be all new material complying with the requirements of Specification subpart 164.015 for Type A or B foam.
(c) Cover. Cotton fabrics and coated upholstery cloth meeting the minimum requirements set forth in paragraphs (c) (1) and (2) of this section, are acceptable for use as covers for buoyant cushions. Vinyl-dip coating meeting the requirements set forth in paragraph (c)(3) of this section will also be acceptable. Alternate materials will be given special consideration. Pro rata widths of like construction will be acceptable.
(1) Cotton fabrics. Cotton fabrics shall comply with the requirements of Federal Specification CCC-C-426 for Type I, Class 3 material.
(2) Coated upholstery cloth. Coated upholstery cloth shall comply with the requirements of Federal Specification CCC-A-700.
(3) Vinyl-dip. The vinyl-dip coating shall comply with the coating requirements of §160.055–5(b)(2) except there are no color restrictions.
(4) Adhesive. The adhesive shall be an all-purpose waterproof vinyl type. Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Co. EC–870 or EC–1070, United States Rubber Co. M6256, Herculite Protective Fabrics Corp. CVV, Pittsburgh Plate Glass Co. R.828, or equal, are acceptable.
(5) Reinforcing fabric. The reinforcing fabric shall be type II, class I, laminated vinyl-nylon high strength cloth in accordance with the requirements of Specification MIL-C-43006.
(d) Grab Straps. The grab straps shall be of materials permitted for the cover, or approved equivalent.
(e) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
(f) Welting. The welting where used may be of any fiber or plastic material suitable for the purpose.
[CGFR 65–37, 30 FR 11586, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70–143, 35 FR 19964, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 78–012, 43 FR 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 84–068, 58 FR 29493, May 20, 1993]
§ 160.049-4 Construction and workmanship.
top
(a) General. This specification covers buoyant cushions of the box type filled with unicellular plastic foam buoyant material. Such cushions consist essentially of a buoyant insert contained in an outer cover fitted with grab straps. The primary purpose of such cushions is to provide buoyancy to aid a person in keeping afloat in the water. Buoyant cushions providing less than 20 pounds buoyancy or less than 2 inches in thickness will not be acceptable.
(b) Cover. One piece of material each for the top and bottom shall be stitched together to form the cover except that piecing of the cover material will be allowed provided it is for decorative purposes only. Gusset or boxing materials shall be of not more than two pieces. If more than one piece of material is used for the top, bottom, boxing or gusset, they shall be attached by a double row of stitching of the type shown in Federal Standard No. 751, for Seam types SSw–2 or LSb–2. The top and bottom may be of any of the materials permitted for the cover, but the boxing or gusset shall be a cotton fabric as specified by §160.049–3(b)(1) or other equivalent material of a porous nature. Nonporous materials will not be permitted for the boxing or gusset, but coated upholstery cloth specified by §160.049–3(c)(2), perforated to permit adequate draining and drying will be acceptable.
(c) Buoyant material. A buoyant insert for a buoyant cushion must comply with the requirements in paragraph (c) (1) and (2) of this section and may be:
(1) Molded in one piece; or
(2) Built up from sheet material if it is formed from:
(i) Three pieces or less in each layer, cemented together with an all-purpose vinyl adhesive such as or equivalent to U.S. Rubber No. M–6256 or Minnesota Mining No. EC–870 and No. EC–1070;
(ii) Three layers or less that may be cemented; and
(iii) Staggered butts and seams of adjacent layers.
(d) Grab Straps. Grab straps shall be attached as shown on Dwg. No. 160,049–1 and shall finish 20 inches long and 1 inch wide at opposite ends. The grab straps, if formed from cover material shall be folded and stitched together so as to produce a double thickness with raw edges turned under. Other means will be given special consideration.
(e) Seams and stitching. Seams shall be constructed with not less than a 3/8-inch border between the seam and the edge of the cover materials. All stitching shall be a lock stitch, 7 to 9 stitches per inch, except as follows: Chain stitching 6 to 8 stitches per inch with 20/4 thread on top and 40/3 thread on the bottom, will be acceptable in constructing grab straps.
(f) Workmanship. All cushions shall be of first class workmanship and shall be free from defects materially affecting their appearance or serviceability. Cushions classified as “seconds” or “irregular” will not be acceptable under this specification.
[CGFR 65–37, 30 FR 11586, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGD 72–163R, 38 FR 8119, Mar. 28, 1973]
§ 160.049-5 Inspections and tests. 1
top
1 The manufacturer of a personal flotation device must meet 33 CFR 181.701 through 33 CFR 181.705 which require an instruction pamphlet for each device that is sold or offered for sale for use on recreational boats.
(a) General. Manufacturers of listed and labeled buoyant cushions shall maintain quality control of the materials used, manufacturing methods and the finished product so as to meet the applicable requirements, and shall make sufficient inspections and tests of representative samples and components produced to maintain the quality of the finished product. Records of tests conducted by the manufacturer and records of materials, including affidavits by suppliers that applicable requirements are met, entering into construction shall be made available to the recognized laboratory inspector or the Coast Guard inspector, or both, for review upon request. Any examinations, inspections and tests which are required by the recognized laboratory for listed and labeled devices produced will be conducted by the laboratory inspector at the place of manufacture or other location at the option of the laboratory.
(b) Lot size and sampling. (1) A lot shall consist of not more than 1,000 buoyant cushions. A new lot shall be started with any change or modification in materials used or manufacturing methods employed. When a lot of buoyant cushions is ready for inspection, the manufacturer shall notify the recognized laboratory so that they may, at their discretion, assign an inspector to the plant for the purpose of making any tests and inspections deemed necessary. From each lot of buoyant cushions, the manufacturer or the recognized laboratory or U.S. Coast Guard inspector, when assigned, shall select samples in accordance with table 160.049–5(b)(1) to be tested for buoyancy in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section.
Table 160.049-5(b)(1)_Sampling for Buoyancy Tests
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of
Lot size cushions
in sample
------------------------------------------------------------------------
200 and under................................................ 1
201 to 400................................................... 2
401 to 600................................................... 3
601 to 1,000................................................. 4
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(c) Additional tests. Unannounced examinations, tests and inspections of samples obtained either directly from the manufacturer or through commercial channels may be made to determine the suitability of a product for listing and labeling, or to determine conformance of a labeled product to the applicable requirements. These may be conducted by the recognized laboratory or the U.S. Coast Guard.
(d) Test facilities. The laboratory inspector, or the Coast Guard inspector, or both, shall be admitted to any place in the factory where work is being done on listed and labeled products, and either or both inspectors may take samples of parts or materials entering into construction of final assemblies, for further examinations, inspections, or tests. The manufacturer shall provide a suitable place and the apparatus necessary for the performance of the tests which are done at the place of manufacture.
(e) Buoyancy—(1) Buoyancy test method. Securely attach the spring scale in a position directly over the test tank. Suspend the weighted wire basket from the scale in such a manner that the basket is weighed while it is completely under water. In order to measure the actual buoyancy provided by the cushion, the underwater weight of the empty basket should exceed the buoyancy of the cushion. To obtain the buoyancy of the cushion, proceed as follows:
(i) Weigh the empty wire basket under water.
(ii) Place the cushion inside the basket and submerge it so that the top of the basket is at least 2 inches below the surface of the water for 24 hours. The tank shall be locked or sealed during this 24-hour submergence period. It is important that after the cushion has once been submerged that it shall remain submerged for the duration of the test, and at no time during the course of the test shall it be removed from the tank or otherwise exposed to air.
(iii) After the 24-hour submergence period unlock or unseal the tank and weigh the weighted wire basket with the cushion inside while both are still under water.
(iv) The buoyancy is computed as (i) minus (iii).
(2) Buoyancy required. Each cushion shall provide not less than 20 pounds buoyancy.
[CGFR 65–37, 30 FR 11587, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70–143, 35 FR 19964, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 75–008, 43 FR 9772, Mar. 9, 1978]
§ 160.049-6 Marking.
top
(a) Each buoyant cushion must have the following information clearly marked in waterproof lettering:
(1) In letters that can be read at a distance of 2 feet:
Type IV Personal Flotation Device.
Inspected and tested in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
(Name of buoyant material) buoyant material provides a minimum buoyant force of 20 lb.
Dry out thoroughly when wet.
Approved for use on recreational boats only as a throwable device.
U.S. Coast Guard Approval No. 160.049/(assigned manufacturer's No.)/(Revision No.); (Model No.).
(Name and address of manufacturer or distributor.).
(Lot No.).
(Size; width, thickness, and length, including both top and bottom for trapezoidal cushions.).
(2) In letters that are distinctively set off or larger than all other marking, and are at least one-fourth of an inch in height:
WARNING: DO NOT WEAR ON BACK
(b) Waterproofness of marking. Marking for buoyant cushions shall be sufficiently waterproof so that after 72 hours submergence in water, it will withstand vigorous rubbing by hand while wet without the printed matter becoming illegible.
[CGFR 65–37, 30 FR 11588, Sept. 10, 1965, as amended by CGFR 70–143, 35 FR 19964, Dec. 30, 1970; CGD 72–163R, 38 FR 8119, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 75–008, 43 FR 9771, Mar. 9, 1978; CGD 92–045, 58 FR 41608, Aug. 4, 1993; CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51213, Sept. 30, 1997]
§ 160.049-7 Procedure for approval.
top
(a) Group approval. A single group approval will be granted to each manufacturer to cover all buoyant cushions which have materials and construction strictly in conformance with this subpart, and which are in accordance with §160.049–4(c)(1).
(b) Special approvals. Special approvals will be granted separately to each manufacturer for each unicellular plastic foam buoyant cushion he proposes to manufacture which is not included under the group approval provided for by paragraph (b) of this section, for example: a buoyant cushion having cover material not specifically provided for by this subpart, or any buoyant cushion having a different shape.
(c) A buoyant cushion is approved when it bears the compliance label of the recognized laboratory.
[CGFR 70–143, 35 FR 19964, Dec. 30, 1970, as amended by CGD 72–163R, 38 FR 8119, Mar. 28, 1973; CGD 93–055, 61 FR 13930, Mar. 28, 1996]
§ 160.049-8 Recognized laboratory.
top
(a) A manufacturer seeking Coast Guard approval of a product under this subpart shall follow the approval procedures of subpart 159.005 of this chapter, and shall apply for approval directly to a recognized independent laboratory. The following laboratories are recognized under §159.010–7 of this part, to perform testing and approval functions under this subpart:
Underwriters Laboratories, 12 Laboratory Drive, P.O. Box 13995, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709–3995, (919) 549–1400.
(b) Production oversight must be performed by the same laboratory that performs the approval tests unless, as determined by the Commandant, the employees of the laboratory performing production oversight receive training and support equal to that of the laboratory that performed the approval testing.
[CGD 93–055, 61 FR 13930, Mar. 28, 1996]
Subpart 160.050—Specification for a Buoy, Life Ring, Unicellular Plastic
top
§ 160.050-1 Incorporation by reference.
top
(a) Standard. This subpart makes reference to Federal Standard No. 595-Colors in §160.050–3.
(b) Copies on file. The Federal Standard may be obtained from the Business Service Center, General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20407.
[USCG–1999–6216, 64 FR 53228, Oct. 1, 1999]
§ 160.050-2 Types and sizes.
top
(a) Type. Life buoys shall be of the annular ring type as described in this subpart, but alternate arrangements meeting the performance requirements set forth will be given special consideration.
(b) Sizes. Ring life buoys shall be of the sizes set forth in Table 160.050–2(b). A tolerance of a plus or minus 5 percent will be allowable on the dimensions indicated in Table 160.050–2(b).
Table 160.050-2(b)_Sizes and Dimensions of Ring Life Buoys
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dimensions
(inches)
Size Finished
ring
------------------------------------------------------------------------
30-inch.................................................... 30
24-inch.................................................... 24
20-inch.................................................... 20
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[CGFR 54–46, 19 FR 8707, Dec. 18, 1954, as amended by CGFR 62–17, 27 FR 9045, Sept. 11, 1962]
§ 160.050-3 Materials.
top
(a) General. All exposed materials must be resistant to oil or oil products, salt water and anticipated weather conditions encountered at sea. All components used in construction of buoys and life rings must meet the applicable requirements of subpart 164.019 of this chapter.
(b) Unicellular plastic. The unicellular plastic material used in fabrication of the buoy body shall meet the requirements of subpart 164.015 of this subchapter for Type C material. The buoy's body shall be finished with two coats of vinyl base paint. The ring life buoys shall be either international orange (Color No. 12197 of Federal Standard 595) or white in color and the colorfastness shall be rated “good” when tested in accordance with Federal Test Method Standard No. 191 Methods 5610, 5630, 5650, and 5660.
Note: On vessels on an international voyage, all ring life buoys shall be international orange in color.)
(c) Grab line. The grab line shall be 3/8-inch diameter polyethylene, polypropylene, or other suitable buoyant type synthetic material having a minimum breaking strength of 1,350 pounds.
(d) Beckets. The beckets for securing the grab line shall be 2-inch polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, saran or other suitable synthetic material having a minimum breaking strength of 585 pounds. In addition, polyethylene and polypropylene shall be weather-resistant type which is stabilized as to heat, oxidation, and ultraviolet light degradation.
(e) Thread. Each thread must meet the requirements of subpart 164.023 of this chapter. Only one kind of thread may be used in each seam.
[CGFR 65–9, 30 FR 11477, Sept. 8, 1965, as amended by CGFR 65–64, 31 FR 562, Jan. 18, 1966; CGD 78–012, 43 FR 27154, June 22, 1978; CGD 84–068, 58 FR 29493, May 20, 1993]
§ 160.050-4 Construction and workmanship.
top
(a) General. This specification covers ring life buoys which provide buoyancy to aid in keeping persons afloat in the water. Each buoy consists of a body constructed in the shape of an annular ring, with an approximately elliptical body cross section and which is fitted with a grab line around the outside periphery. The outside and inside diameters of the ring and the length and width of the cross section of the body shall be uniform throughout.
(b) Body. The body shall be made in either one or two pieces. If of two pieces, the pieces shall be equal in size and shall be adhesive bonded along a center line through an axis passing through the flat area dimension of the body. The adhesive shall be a liquid cold setting, polymerizable, nonsolvent, containing material of the phenolepichlorhydrin type or equivalent having good strength retention under outdoor weathering conditions.
(c) Grab line. The finished length of the grab line shall be four times the outside diameter of the buoy. The ends of the grab line shall be securely and neatly spliced together, or shall be hand whipped with a needle and both ends securely and smoothly seized together. The grab line shall encircle the buoy and shall be held in place by the beckets. The spliced or seized ends of the grab line shall be placed in the center of the width of one of the beckets.
(d) Beckets. Each ring buoy shall be fitted with four beckets located at equidistant points about the body of the buoy. The beckets shall be passed around the body of the buoy with the free ends to the outside, and shall be securely cemented to the buoy with a suitable waterproof adhesive which is compatible with the unicellular plastic used in the buoy body. The ends of the beckets shall be turned under at least 1 inch, one end to go around the grab line, and the other to be laid flat against the first end. The beckets shall then be stitched to the grab line with not less than five hand stitches made with two parts of thread or machined stitched with not less than three stitches per inch. Alternate methods for rigging beckets and grab line will be given special consideration. (continued)