# Subpart DDrainage of Weather Decks

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URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/fr%3A94-19

## Record

- **Collection:** Federal Register
- **Document type:** Uncategorized Document
- **Published:** January 13, 1994

## Text

[Federal Register Volume 59, Number 9 (Thursday, January 13, 1994)]
[Unknown Section]
[Page 0]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 94-19]

[[Page Unknown]]

[Federal Register: January 13, 1994]

Subpart D--Drainage of Weather Decks

Sec. 178.410 Drainage of flush deck vessels.

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, the
weather deck on a flush deck vessel must be watertight and have no
obstruction to overboard drainage.
(b) Each flush deck vessel may have solid bulwarks in the forward
one-third length of the vessel if:
(1) The bulwarks do not form a well enclosed on all sides; and
(2) The foredeck of the vessel has sufficient sheer to ensure
drainage aft.

Sec. 178.420 Drainage of cockpit vessels.

(a) Except as follows, the cockpit on a cockpit vessel must be
watertight:
(1) A cockpit may have companionways if the companionway openings
have watertight doors, or weathertight doors and coamings which meet
Sec. 179.360 of this subchapter.
(2) A cockpit may have ventilation openings along its inner
periphery if the vessel operates only on protected or partially
protected waters.
(b) The cockpit deck of a cockpit vessel that operates on exposed
or partially protected waters must be at least 10 inches above the
deepest load waterline unless the vessel complies with:
(1) The intact stability requirements of Secs. 170.170, 170.173,
171.050, 171.055, and 171.057 of this chapter;
(2) The Type II subdivision requirements in Secs. 171.070, 171.072,
and 171.073 of this chapter; and
(3) The damage stability requirements in Sec. 171.080 of this
chapter.
(c) The cockpit deck of a cockpit vessel that does not operate on
exposed or partially protected waters must be located as high above the
deepest load waterline as practicable.
(d) The cockpit must be self-bailing. Scuppers for the cockpit deck
of a cockpit vessel must:
(1) Be located to allow rapid clearing of water in all probable
conditions of list and trim;
(2) Have a combined drainage area of at least the area required by
Sec. 178.450; and
(3) If the deck is less than 10 inches above the deepest load
waterline of the vessel, be fitted with non-return valves.

Sec. 178.430 Drainage of well deck vessels.

(a) The weather deck on a well deck vessel must be watertight.
(b) The area required on a well deck vessel for drainage of the
well formed by the bulwarks must be determined as required by this
paragraph.
(1) If a vessel operates on exposed or partially protected waters,
it must have at least 100 percent of the drainage area required by
Sec. 178.450.
(2) If a vessel operates only on protected or partially protected
waters, it must have at least 50 percent of drainage area required by
Sec. 178.450 if the vessel meets the following requirements for a
vessel that operates on exposed waters:
(i) The intact stability requirements of Secs. 170.170, 170.173,
171.050, 171.055 and 171.057 of this chapter;
(ii) The Type II subdivision requirements of Secs. 171.070,
171.072, and 171.073 of this chapter; and
(iii) The damage stability requirements of Sec. 171.080 of this
chapter.
(c) The freeing ports or scuppers on a well deck vessel must be
located to allow rapid clearing of water in all probable conditions of
list and trim.
(d) The deck of a well deck vessel that operates on exposed or
partially protected waters must be at least 10 inches above the deepest
load waterline unless the vessel complies with:
(1) The intact stability requirements of Secs. 170.170, 170.173,
171.050, 171.055, and 171.057 of this chapter;
(2) The Type II subdivision requirements in Secs. 171.070, 171.072,
and 171.073 of this chapter; and
(3) The damage stability requirements in Sec. 171.080 of this
chapter.

Sec. 178.440 Drainage of open boats.

The deck within the hull of an open boat must drain to the bilge.
Overboard drainage of the deck is not permitted.

Sec. 178.450 Calculation of drainage area for cockpit and well deck
vessels.

The drainage area required on a vessel must be computed using the
following formula:

Required drainage area in inch2=Volume Factor x Effective Deck
Area where:
Volume Factor=0.1 for all vessels operating on protected waters, or
=0.8b2/(b+f-K), but not less than 0.1, for all vessels
operating on exposed and partially protected waters, where:
b=average height in feet of the bulwark above the deck;
f=height of the freeboard above the deepest waterline in feet as
determined in accordance with Sec. 178.330(h); and K=3.0 feet for
vessels operating on exposed waters and 2.0 feet for vessels
operating on partially protected waters; and
Effective Deck Area=D-H
Where:
D=total deck area of the cockpit or well deck measured in
feet2, including the deck area of the superstructure; and
H=any area of weathertight superstructure within the cockpit or
well deck area which meets the requirements of Sec. 179.360 of this
subchapter, measured in feet2 which extends vertically at least
as high as the deck in which the cockpit is located or the top of
the bulwark which forms the well.

Subpart E--Special Installations

Sec. 178.510 Ballast.

(a) Any solid fixed ballast used to comply with the requirements of
parts 170, 171, 178, and 179 of this chapter must be:
(1) Stowed in a manner that prevents shifting of the ballast; and
(2) Installed to the satisfaction of the cognizant OCMI.
(b) Solid fixed ballast may not be located forward of the collision
bulkhead unless the installation and arrangement of the ballast and the
collision bulkhead minimizes the risk of the ballast penetrating the
bulkhead in a collision.
(c) Solid fixed ballast may not be removed from a vessel or
relocated unless approved by the cognizant OCMI except that ballast may
be temporarily moved for a vessel examination or repair if it is
replaced to the satisfaction of the OCMI.
(d) Water ballast, either as an active system or permanent, must be
approved by the Commanding Officer, Marine Safety Center.

PART 179--SUBDIVISION, DAMAGE STABILITY AND WATERTIGHT INTEGRITY
REQUIREMENT

Subpart A--General Provision

Sec.
179.115 Applicability to existing vessels.

Subpart B--Subdivision and Damage Stability Requirements

179.210 Collision bulkhead.
179.212 Watertight bulkheads for subdivision.
179.220 Location of watertight bulkheads for subdivision.
179.230 Damage stability requirements.
179.240 Foam flotation material.

Subpart C--Watertight Integrity Requirements

179.310 Collision bulkheads.
179.320 Watertight bulkheads.
179.330 Watertight doors.
179.340 Trunks.
179.350 Openings in the side of a vessel below the bulkhead or
weather deck.
179.360 Watertight integrity.

Authority: 43 U.S.C. 1333; 46 U.S.C. 2103, 3306, 3703; E.O.
12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., p.277; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec. 179.115 Applicability to existing vessels.

An existing vessel must comply with the subdivision, damage
stability, and watertight integrity regulations which were applicable
to the vessel on [date of the day before the effective date of the
final rule] or, as an alternative, the vessel may comply with the
regulations in this part.

Subpart B--Subdivision and Damage Stability Requirements

Sec. 179.210 Collision bulkhead.

(a) A vessel of more than 65 feet in length must have a collision
bulkhead.
(b) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length must have a
collision bulkhead if it:
(1) Carries more than 49 passengers;
(2) Operates on exposed waters; or
(3) Is of more than 40 feet in length and operates on partially
protected waters.
(c) A double-ended ferry required to have a collision bulkhead must
have a collision bulkhead at each end of the vessel.

Sec. 179.212 Watertight bulkheads for subdivision.

(a) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length, carrying more than
49 passengers, must comply with Sec. 179.220, except that, if designed
to comply with the intact stability requirements of Secs. 170.170,
170.173, 171.050 and 171.055 of this chapter, the vessel must comply
with the Type II subdivision requirements of Secs. 171.070 through
171.073 of this chapter.
(b) A vessel of more than 65 feet in length must comply with the
Type II subdivision requirements of Secs. 171.070 through 171.073 of
this chapter.
(c) A vessel that carries more than 12 passengers on an
international voyage must meet the Type II subdivision requirements of
Secs. 171.070 through 171.073 of this chapter.

Sec. 179.220 Location of watertight bulkheads for subdivision.

(a) The maximum distance between adjacent main transverse
watertight bulkheads on a vessel, required by Sec. 179.212(a) to comply
with this section, must not be more than the smaller of the following:
(1) One third of the length of the bulkhead deck; or
(2) The distance given by the following equation:

l=((F)(f)(L))/D
Where:

l=the maximum length of the bulkhead deck in feet between adjacent
main transverse watertight bulkheads;
f=the effective freeboard in feet calculated for each pair of
adjacent bulkheads in accordance with paragraph (b) of this section;
L=vessel length in feet;
F=the floodable length factor from Table 179.220.
D=the depth in feet, measured amidships at a point one-quarter of
the maximum beam out from the centerline, from the inside of the
bottom planking or plating to the level of the top of the bulkhead
deck at side as shown in Figure 179.220(a).

Table 179.220--Table of Floodable Length Factors
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(d/L) x 100 F
------------------------------------------------------------------------
0-15.......................................................... 0.33
20............................................................ 0.34
25............................................................ 0.36
30............................................................ 0.38
35............................................................ 0.43
40............................................................ 0.48
45............................................................ 0.54
50............................................................ 0.61
55............................................................ 0.63
60............................................................ 0.58
65............................................................ 0.53
70............................................................ 0.48
75............................................................ 0.44
80............................................................ 0.40
85............................................................ 0.37
90-100........................................................ 0.34
------------------------------------------------------------------------

(1) Where:

d=distance in feet from the midpoint of the compartment to the
forwardmost point on the bulkhead deck excluding sheer.
L=vessel length in feet measured over the bulkhead deck.
(2) Intermediate values of floodable length factor may be
obtained by interpolation.
BILLING CODE 4910-14-P

TP13JA94.006

BILLING CODE 4910-14-C
(b) The effective freeboard for each compartment is calculated by
the following equation: f=(a+b)/2
Where:

f=the effective freeboard in feet.
a=the freeboard in feet measured:

(1) At the forward main transverse watertight bulkhead; and
(2) From the deepest waterline to:
(i) The top of the bulkhead deck on a flush deck vessel; or
(ii) If a vessel has a stepped bulkhead deck, the line shown in
Figure 179.220(b); or
(iii) If a vessel has an opening port light below the bulkhead
deck, the line shown in Figure 179.220(c).

b=the freeboard in feet measured:

(1) At the aft main transverse watertight bulkhead; and
(2) From the deepest waterline to:
(i) The top of the bulkhead deck on a flush deck vessel; or
(ii) If a vessel has a stepped bulkhead deck, the line shown in
Figure 179.220(b)(1); or
(iii) If a vessel has an opening port light below the bulkhead
deck, the line shown in Figure 179.220(b)(2).

BILLING CODE 4910-14-P

Figure 179.220(b)(1)

TP13JA94.007

Figure 179.220 (b)(2)

TP13JA94.008

BILLING CODE 4910-14-C

Sec. 179.230 Damage stability requirements.

A vessel which, in accordance with Sec. 179.212(b), must meet the
requirements of Secs. 171.070 through 171.073 of this chapter for Type
II subdivision must meet the damage stability requirements of
Sec. 171.080 of this chapter.

Sec. 179.240 Foam flotation material.

(a) Foam may only be installed as flotation material on a vessel of
not more than 65 feet in length, when approved by the cognizant OCMI.
(b) If foam is installed as flotation material on a vessel, the
owner shall ensure that the following tests are conducted and
requirements are met, to the satisfaction of the cognizant OCMI:
(1) All foam must comply with MIL-P-21929B, including the
requirements for fire resistance;
(2) Foam may be installed only in void spaces that are free of
ignition sources, unless the foam complies with the requirements of 33
CFR 183.114;
(3) Foam may be installed adjacent to fuel tanks only if the
boundary between the tank and the space has doubled continuous fillet
welds;
(4) The structure enclosing the foam must be strong enough to
accommodate the buoyancy of the foam;
(5) Piping and cables must not pass through foamed spaces unless
they are within piping and cable ways accessible from both ends;
(6) Blocked foam must:
(i) Be used in each area that may be exposed to water; and
(ii) Have a protective cover, approved by the cognizant OCMI, to
protect it from damage;
(7) A water submergence test must be conducted on the foam for a
period of at least 7 days to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the
cognizant OCMI that the foam has adequate strength to withstand a
hydrostatic head equivalent to that which would be imposed if the
vessel were submerged to its bulkhead deck;
(8) The effective buoyancy of the foam must be determined at the
end of the submergence test required by paragraph (b)(7) of this
section. The effective buoyancy or 55 pounds per cubic foot, whichever
is less, must be used in determining the location of watertight
bulkheads for subdivision required by Sec. 179.212; and
(9) The owner or operator must obtain sample foam specimens during
installation of the foam and determine the density of the installed
foam.

Subpart C--Watertight Integrity Requirements

Sec. 179.310 Collision bulkheads.

(a) Each collision bulkhead required by Sec. 179.210, must be
constructed in accordance with Sec. 179.320, except that a collision
bulkhead:
(1) Must extend to the weather deck or to one deck above the
bulkhead deck, whichever is lower, for service on oceans or coastwise
routes, and
(2) Must not be fitted with any type of penetration or opening
except penetrations may be made if they are located as high and as far
inboard as practicable and they have a means to make them watertight.
(b) The forward collision bulkhead required to be on a vessel by
Sec. 179.210 must be:
(1) Located at least 5 percent but not more than 15 percent of the
LBP aft of the forward perpendicular, or for vessels with bulbous bows
extending forward of the forward perpendicular and contributing more
than 2 percent of the underwater volume of the vessel, located at least
5 percent but not more than 15 percent of the LBP aft of the mid-length
of such extension; and
(2) Installed in a single plane, with no recess or step, up to the
bulkhead deck;
(c) The after collision bulkhead on a double-ended ferry of more
than 65 feet in length must be:
(1) At least 5 percent but not more than 15 percent of the LBP
forward of the after perpendicular; and
(2) Installed in a single plane, with no recess or step, at least
up to the bulkhead deck.

Sec. 179.320 Watertight bulkheads.

(a) Each watertight bulkhead must be of sufficient strength to be
capable of remaining watertight with a head of water to the top of the
bulkhead.
(b) Each watertight bulkhead must extend to the bulkhead deck and
be installed in one plane without steps or recesses insofar as is
reasonable and practicable. Any steps or recesses permitted must comply
with the applicable subdivision requirements in this subchapter.
(c) The number of penetrations in a watertight bulkhead must be
minimized. A penetration in a watertight bulkhead must be as high and
as far inboard in the bulkhead as practicable, and made watertight.
(d) Sluice valves are not permitted in watertight bulkheads.

Sec. 179.330 Watertight doors.

(a) Except as permitted in paragraph (b) of this section, hinged
watertight doors are not permitted in bulkheads required by
Secs. 179.210 or 179.212 unless the vessel will not proceed more than
20 nautical miles (37 kilometers) from shore and:
(1) The door separates a machinery space from an accommodation
space and, in the judgment of the cognizant OCMI, the door will be kept
closed except when a person is passing through the door; or
(2) The Commandant determines that, due to the arrangements of the
vessel, the door will be kept closed except when a person is passing
through the door.
(b) Watertight doors are permitted in any bulkhead, except the
collision bulkhead, on a vessel that operates only in the offshore oil
industry.
(c) A hinged watertight bulkhead door must be fitted with a quick
action closing device operable from both sides of the door and
indicator lights at the operating station showing whether the door is
open or closed.
(d) Sliding watertight doors must meet the requirements of part
170, subpart H of this chapter.
(e) No more than one watertight door may be fitted in a watertight
bulkhead, and it must be located as high and as far inboard as
practicable.

Sec. 179.340 Trunks.

Where a trunk, i.e., an enclosed passageway through a deck or
bulkhead, is installed, it must comply with the requirements of
Sec. 179.360(a)(1) and with the requirements of Sec. 171.113 of this
chapter.

Sec. 179.350 Openings in the side of a vessel below the bulkhead or
weather deck.

(a) On a vessel operating on exposed or partially protected waters,
an opening port light is not permitted below the weather deck unless
the sill of the port light is at least 30 inches above the deepest load
waterline.
(b) A port light must have an inside, hinged dead cover regardless
of whether the port light is or is not capable of being opened.
(c) Except for engine exhausts, each inlet or discharge pipe that
penetrates the hull below a line drawn parallel to and at least 6
inches above the deepest load waterline must have means to prevent
water from entering the vessel if the pipe fractures or otherwise
fails.
(d) A positive action valve or cock that is located as close as
possible to the hull is an acceptable means for complying with
paragraph (c) of this section.
(e) If an inlet or discharge pipe is inaccessible, the means for
complying with paragraph (c) of this section must be a shutoff valve
that is:
(1) Operable from the weather deck or any other accessible location
above the bulkhead deck; and
(2) Labeled at the operating point for identity and direction of
closing.
(f) Any connecting device or valve in a hull penetration must not
be cast iron.
(g) Each plug cock in an inlet or discharge pipe must have a means,
other than a cotter pin, to prevent its loosening or removal from the
body.

Sec. 179.360 Watertight integrity.

(a) A hatch exposed to the weather must be watertight, except that
the following hatches may be weathertight:
(1) A hatch on a watertight trunk that extends at least 12 inches
above the weather deck;
(2) A hatch in a cabin top; and
(3) A hatch on a vessel that operates only on protected waters.
(b) A hatch cover must: (1) Have securing devices; and
(2) Be attached to the hatch frame or coaming by hinges, captive
chains, or other devices of substantial strength to prevent its loss.
(c) A hatch cover that provides access to accommodation spaces must
be operable from either side.
(d) A weathertight door must be provided for each opening located
in a deck house or companionway. Permanent watertight coamings must be
provided as follows:
(1) On a vessel on an exposed or partially protected route, a
watertight coaming with a height of at least 6 inches must be provided
under each weathertight door in a cockpit or a well, or on the main
deck of a flush deck vessel.
(2) On a vessel on a protected route, a watertight coaming with a
height of at least 3 inches must be provided under each weathertight
door in a cockpit or a well.
(3) The height of the watertight coaming for a hinged watertight
door need only be sufficient to accommodate the door.

PART 180--LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT AND ARRANGEMENTS

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec.
180.10 Applicability to vessels on an international voyage.
180.15 Applicability to existing vessels.
180.25 Additional requirements.

Subpart B--Emergency Communications

180.64 Emergency Position Indicating Radiobeacons (EPIRB).
180.68 Distress flares and smoke signals.

Subpart C--Life Buoys and Lifejackets

180.70 Ring life buoys.
180.71 Lifejackets.
180.72 Personal flotation devices carried in addition to
lifejackets.
180.75 Lifejackets lights.
180.78 Stowage of lifejackets.

Subpart D--Survival Craft Arrangements and Equipment

180.130 Stowage of survival craft.
180.137 Stowage of life floats and buoyant apparatus.
180.150 Survival craft embarkation arrangements.
180.175 Survival craft equipment.

Subpart E--Number and Type of Survival Craft

180.200 Survival craft--general.
180.202 Survival craft--vessels operating on oceans routes.
180.204 Survival craft--vessels operating on coastwise routes.
180.206 Survival craft--vessels operating on Great Lakes routes.
180.207 Survival craft--vessels operating on lakes, bays, and
sounds routes.
180.208 Survival craft--vessels operating on rivers routes.
180.210 Rescue boats.

Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2104, 3306; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR,
1980 Comp., p.277; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec. 180.10 Applicability to vessels on an international voyage.

A vessel on an international voyage must meet the requirements in
subchapter H of this chapter for passenger vessels in the same service,
instead of the requirements of this part.

Sec. 180.15 Applicability to existing vessels.

An existing vessel must comply with the requirements of this part
except as otherwise specified by this section.
(a) Before [date 5 years after effective date] or 10 years after
the vessel's keel was laid or the vessel was at a similar stage of
construction, whichever is later, an existing vessel may comply with
the requirements in effect for the vessel prior to [effective date] for
the number and type of survival craft, stowage arrangements, and
launching appliances for survival craft.
(b) On or before [date 5 years after effective date] or 10 years
after the vessel's keel was laid or the vessel was at a similar stage
of construction, whichever is later, an existing vessel must:
(1) Be equipped with the number of survival craft required for its
route under Secs. 180.202, 180.204, 180.206, 180.207, or 180.208, as
applicable; and
(2) Comply with the stowage and launching appliance requirements
for survival craft in Secs. 180.130 through 180.150, inclusive.
(c) An existing vessel which meets the following requirements may
be equipped with life floats of an aggregate capacity which will
accommodate the total number of persons permitted on board, in lieu of
meeting the requirements for the use of inflatable buoyant apparatus in
Secs. 180.202(c), 180.204(a)(1), and 180.206(a).
(1) The vessel is constructed of a material other than wood;
(2) The vessel is of not more than 65 feet in length and carries
not more than 49 passengers;
(3) The vessel is certificated to operate on oceans, coastwise, or
Great Lakes routes;
(4) The vessel must meet the standards for collision bulkheads in
Sec. 179.310 of this subchapter; and
(5) The vessel must meet the standards for one-compartment
subdivision in Secs. 179.220 and 179.320 of this subchapter, at least
in way of the engine room and lazarette.
(d) Each inflatable liferaft, inflatable buoyant apparatus, life
float, and buoyant apparatus on the vessel on [effective date], may be
used to meet the requirements of this part for these survival craft as
long as the survival craft is continued in use on the vessel, and is in
good and serviceable condition.
(e) When any lifesaving equipment on a vessel is replaced or a
vessel undergoes repairs, alterations, or modifications of a major
character involving replacement of, or any addition to, the existing
lifesaving equipment, each new piece of lifesaving equipment must meet
this part.
(f) A combination flare and smoke distress signal approved under
Sec. 160.023 of this chapter may be used on an existing vessel until
the expiration date of the distress signal but no later than [3 years
after effective date] as one of the distress signals required by
Sec. 180.68.
(g) Until January 1, 1996, a Coast Guard approved 121.5/243 MHz
Class A EPIRB may be used to meet the requirement for an EPIRB under
Sec. 180.64, if the EPIRB:
(1) Is operable;
(2) Is installed to automatically float-free and activate;
(3) Was manufactured on or after October 1, 1988; and
(4) Was installed on the vessel on or before [date 45 days after
effective date]
(h) Until January 1, 1995, an FCC Type Accepted VHF-FM Class C
EPIRB may be used to meet the requirement for an EPIRB on a vessel
operating on a Great Lakes route under Sec. 180.64, if the EPIRB:
(1) Is operable; and
(2) Was installed on the vessel on or before [date 45 days after
effective date].
(i) Until January 1, 1994, an existing vessel on a coastwise route
operating not more than 20 nautical miles from a harbor of safe refuge,
need not comply with Sec. 180.64.
(j) An existing vessel need not comply with Sec. 180.78(a)(4).
(k) An existing vessel must comply with Sec. 180.210 or may comply
with the regulations for rescue boats that were in effect for the
vessel prior to [effective date of regulations].

Sec. 180.25 Additional requirements.

(a) Each item of lifesaving equipment carried on board a vessel but
not required under this part, must be approved by the Commandant.
(b) The cognizant OCMI may require a vessel to carry specialized or
additional lifesaving equipment if:
(1) The OCMI determines the conditions of the voyage render the
requirements of this part inadequate; or
(2) The vessel is operated in Arctic, Antarctic, or other severe
conditions not covered under this part.

Subpart B--Emergency Communications

Sec. 180.64 Emergency Position Indicating Radiobeacons (EPIRB).

Each vessel which operates on the high seas, or which operates
beyond three miles from the coastline of the Great Lakes, must have on
board a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Type Accepted Category
1, 406 MHz Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB),
installed to automatically float free and activate.

Sec. 180.68 Distress flares and smoke signals.

(a) Oceans, coastwise, and Great Lakes routes. A vessel on an
oceans, coastwise, or Great Lakes route must carry:
(1) Six hand red flare distress signals approved under subpart
160.021 of this chapter; and
(2) Six hand orange smoke distress signals approved under subpart
160.037 of this chapter.
(b) Lakes, bays, and sounds, and rivers routes. A vessel on a
lakes, bays, and sounds, or rivers route must carry:
(1) Three hand red flare distress signals approved under subpart
160.021 of this chapter; and
(2) Three hand orange smoke distress signals approved under subpart
160.037 of this chapter.
(c) Substitutions: (1) A rocket parachute flare approved under
subpart 160.036 of this chapter may be substituted for any of the hand
red flare distress signals required under paragraph (a) or (b) of this
section.
(2) One of the following may be substituted for any of the hand
orange smoke distress signals required under paragraph (a) or (b) of
this section:
(i) A rocket parachute flare approved under subpart 160.036 of this
chapter.
(ii) A hand red flare distress signal approved under subpart
160.021 of this chapter.
(iii) A floating orange smoke distress signal approved under
subpart 160.022 of this chapter.
(d) Exemption for vessels on short runs. A vessel operating on
short runs limited to approximately 30 minutes away from the dock is
not required to carry distress flares and smoke signals under this
section.
(e) Stowage. Each flare carried to meet this section must be stowed
in one of the following:
(1) A portable watertight container complying with Sec. 160.021-6
of this chapter, carried at the operating station; or
(2) A pyrotechnic locker secured above the freeboard deck, away
from heat, in the vicinity of the operating station. An acceptable
pyrotechnic locker is described in ASTM F--[reserved for name of
standard under development by ASTM].

Subpart C--Life Buoys and Lifejackets

Sec. 180.70 Ring life buoys.

(a) A vessel must have one or more ring life buoys as follows:
(1) A vessel of not more than 26 feet in length must carry a
minimum of one life buoy of not less than 20 inches in diameter;
(2) A vessel of more than 26 feet in length, but not more than 65
feet, must carry a minimum of one life buoy of not less than 24 inches
in diameter; and
(3) A vessel of more than 65 feet in length must carry a minimum of
three life buoys of not less than 24 inches in diameter.
(b) Each ring life buoy on a vessel must:
(1) Be approved under subpart 160.050 of this chapter;
(2) Be readily accessible;
(3) Be stowed in a way that it can be rapidly cast loose;
(4) Not be permanently secured in any way; and
(5) If on a vessel on an oceans or coastwise route, be orange in
color.
(c) At least one ring life buoy must be fitted with a lifeline. If
more than one ring life buoy is carried, at least one must not have a
lifeline attached. Each lifeline on a ring life buoy must:
(1) Be buoyant;
(2) Be of at least 60 feet in length;
(3) Be non-kinking;
(4) Have a diameter of at least \5/16\ of an inch;
(5) Have a breaking strength of at least 1,124 pounds; and
(6) Be of a dark color if synthetic, or of a type certified to be
resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light.
(d) A vessel must carry one floating waterlight, unless it is
limited to daytime operation, in which case no floating waterlight is
required.
(1) Each floating waterlight must be approved under subpart 161.010
of this chapter.
(2) Each ring life buoy with a floating waterlight must have a
lanyard of at least 3 feet in length, but not more than 6 feet,
securing the waterlight around the body of the ring life buoy.
(3) Each floating waterlight installed after [date one year after
effective date] on a vessel carrying only one ring life buoy, must be
attached to the lanyard with a corrosion-resistant clip. The clip must
have a strength of at least 50 pounds, and allow the waterlight to be
quickly disconnected from the ring life buoy.

Sec. 180.71 Lifejackets.

(a) An adult lifejacket must be provided for each person permitted
on board a vessel.
(b) In addition, a number of child size lifejackets equal to at
least 10% of the number of the persons permitted on board must be
provided, or such greater number as necessary to provide a lifejacket
for each person being carried that is smaller than the lower size limit
of the adult lifejackets provided to meet this section. However, child
size lifejackets are not required if the vessel's Certificate of
Inspection is endorsed for the carriage of adults only.
(c) Each lifejacket must be approved under either subpart 160.002,
subpart 160.005, or subpart 160.055 of this chapter.

Sec. 180.72 Personal flotation devices carried in addition to
lifejackets.

(a) Equipment carried under this section is not acceptable in lieu
of any portion of the required number of approved lifejackets and must
not be substituted for the approved lifejackets required to be worn
during drills and emergencies.
(b) Wearable marine buoyant devices which include ``ski vests'',
``boating vests'', and ``fishing vests'', approved under subpart
160.064 of this chapter, may be carried as additional equipment.
(c) Buoyant work vests approved under subpart 160.053 of this
chapter may be carried as additional equipment for use of persons
working near or over the water.
(d) Commercial hybrid personal flotation devices (PFD) approved
under subpart 160.077 of this chapter may be carried as additional
equipment for use of persons working near or over the water. Each
commercial hybrid PFD must be:
(1) Used, stowed, and maintained in accordance with the procedures
set out in the manual required for these devices under Sec. 160.077-29
of this chapter and any limitation(s) marked on them; and
(2) Of the same or similar design and have the same method of
operation as each other hybrid PFD carried on board.

Sec. 180.75 Lifejacket lights.

(a) Each lifejacket carried on a vessel on an oceans, coastwise, or
Great Lakes route, must have a lifejacket light approved under subpart
161.012 of this chapter. Each lifejacket light must be securely
attached to the front shoulder area of the lifejacket.
(b) Notwithstanding the requirements of paragraph (a) of this
section, lifejacket lights are not required for lifejackets on:
(1) Ferries; and
(2) Vessels with Certificates of Inspection endorsed only for
routes that do not extend more than 20 miles from a harbor of safe
refuge.

Sec. 180.78 Stowage of lifejackets.

(a) General. Unless otherwise stated in this section, lifejackets
must be stored in convenient places distributed throughout
accommodation spaces.
(1) Each stowage container for lifejackets must not be capable of
being locked. If practicable, the container must be designed to allow
the lifejackets to float free.
(2) Each lifejacket kept in a stowage container must be readily
available.
(3) Each lifejacket stowed overhead must be supported in a manner
which allows quick release for distribution.
(4) If lifejackets are stowed more than 7 feet above the deck, a
means for quick release must be provided and must be capable of
operation by a person standing on the deck.
(5) Each child size lifejacket must be stowed in a location which
is appropriately marked and separated from adult lifejackets so the
child size lifejackets are not mistaken for adult lifejackets.
(b) Additional personal flotation devices. The stowage locations of
the personal flotation devices carried in addition to lifejackets under
Sec. 180.72, must be separate from the lifejackets, and such as not to
be easily confused with that of the lifejackets.

Subpart D--Survival Craft Arrangements and Equipment

Sec. 180.130 Stowage of survival craft.

(a) Each survival craft must be:
(1) Secured to the vessel by a painter with a float-free link
permanently attached to the vessel except that a float-free link is not
required if the vessel operates only on waters not as deep as the
length of the painter;
(2) Stowed so that when the vessel sinks the survival craft floats
free and, if inflatable, inflates automatically;
(3) Stowed in a position which is readily accessible to crew
members for launching, or else provided with a remotely operated device
which releases the survival craft into launching position or into the
water;
(4) Stowed in a way that permits manual release from its securing
arrangements;
(5) Ready for immediate use so that two crew members can carry out
preparations for embarkation and launching in less than 5 minutes;
(6) Provided with means to prevent shifting;
(7) Stowed in a way that neither the survival craft nor its stowage
arrangements will interfere with the embarkation and operation of any
other survival craft at any other launching station;
(8) Stowed in a way that any protective covers will not interfere
with launching and embarkation.
(9) Fully equipped as required under this part; and
(10) Stowed, as far as practicable, in a position sheltered from
breaking seas and protected from damage by fire and explosion.
(b) A hydrostatic release unit used in a float-free arrangement
must be approved under subpart 160.062 of this chapter.
(c) A mechanical, manually operated device to assist in launching a
survival craft must be provided if:
(1) The survival craft weighs more than 200 pounds; and
(2) The survival craft requires lifting to be launched.

Sec. 180.137 Stowage of life floats and buoyant apparatus.

(a) In addition to meeting Sec. 180.130, each life float and
buoyant apparatus must be stowed as required under this section.
(b) The float-free link required by Sec. 180.130(a)(1) must be:
(1) Certified to meet subpart 160.073 of this chapter;
(2) Of proper strength for the size of the life float or buoyant
apparatus as indicated on its identification tag; and
(3) Secured to the painter at one end and to the vessel on the
other end.
(c) The means used to attach the float-free link to the vessel
must:
(1) Have a breaking strength of at least the breaking strength of
the painter;
(2) If synthetic, be of a dark color or of a type certified to be
resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light; and
(3) If metal, be corrosion resistant.
(d) If the life float or buoyant apparatus does not have a painter
attachment fitting, a means for attaching the painter must be provided
by a wire or line which:
(1) Encircles the body of the device;
(2) Will not slip off;
(3) Has a breaking strength which is at least the strength of the
painter; and
(4) If synthetic, is of a dark color or is of a type certified to
be resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light.
(e) If the vessel carries more than one life float or buoyant
apparatus in a group with each group secured by a single painter:
(1) The combined weight of each group of life floats and buoyant
apparatus must not exceed 400 pounds;
(2) Each group of life floats and buoyant apparatus is considered a
single survival craft for the purposes of Sec. 180.130(c);
(3) Each life float and buoyant apparatus must be individually
attached to the painter by a line meeting Secs. 180.175(e)(3)(ii),
(iii), and (iv) and long enough that each life float or buoyant
apparatus can float without contacting any other life float or buoyant
apparatus in the group; and
(4) The strength of the float-free link under paragraph (b)(2) of
this section and the strength of the painter under
Sec. 180.175(e)(3)(ii) must be determined by the combined capacity of
the group of life floats and buoyant apparatus.
(f) Life floats and buoyant apparatus must not be stowed in tiers
more than four feet high. When stowed in tiers, the separate units must
be kept apart by spacers.

Sec. 180.150 Survival craft embarkation arrangements.

(a) A launching appliance which complies with the installation and
arrangement requirements for launching appliances in subchapter H of
this chapter must be provided for each inflatable liferaft and
inflatable buoyant apparatus when either:
(1) The embarkation station for the survival craft is on a deck
more than 15 feet above the waterline; or
(2) The inflatable liferaft and inflatable buoyant apparatus is
boarded prior to being placed in the water.
(b) An embarkation ladder, approved under subpart 160.017 of this
chapter, must be at each embarkation station if the distance from the
deck on which an embarkation station is located to the vessel's
lightest operating waterline is more than 10 feet.

Sec. 180.175 Survival craft equipment.

(a) General. Each item of survival craft equipment must be of good
quality, and efficient for the purpose it is intended to serve. Unless
otherwise stated in this section, each item of equipment carried,
whether required under this section or not, must be secured by
lashings, stored in lockers, compartments, brackets, or have equivalent
mounting or storage arrangements which do not:
(1) Reduce survival craft capacity;
(2) Reduce space available to the occupants;
(3) Interfere with launching, recovery, or rescue operations; or
(4) Adversely affect seaworthiness of the survival craft.
(b) Inflatable liferafts. Each inflatable liferaft must have one of
the following equipment packs as shown by the markings on its
container:
(1) Limited Service;
(2) SOLAS B Pack;
(3) SOLAS A Pack; or
(4) Ocean Service.
(c) Life floats. Each life float must be fitted with a lifeline,
pendants, two paddles, a painter, and a light.
(d) Buoyant apparatus. Each buoyant apparatus must be fitted with a
lifeline, pendants, a painter, and a light.
(e) Equipment specifications for life floats and buoyant apparatus.
The equipment required for lifefloats and buoyant apparatus must meet
the following specifications:
(1) Lifeline and pendants. The lifeline and pendants must be as
furnished by the manufacturer with the approved life float or buoyant
apparatus. Replacement lifelines and pendants must meet the
requirements in subpart 160.010 of this chapter.
(2) Paddle. Each paddle must be of at least 4 feet in length and
buoyant.
(3) Painter. The painter must:
(i) Be of at least 100 feet in length, but not less than 3 times
the distance between the deck where the life float or buoyant apparatus
it serves is stowed and the lowest load waterline of the vessel;
(ii) Have a breaking strength of at least 1500 pounds, except that
if the capacity of the life float or buoyant apparatus is 50 persons or
more, the breaking strength must be at least 3000 pounds;
(iii) Be of a dark color if synthetic, or of a type certified to be
resistant to deterioration from ultraviolet light; and
(iv) Be stowed in such a way that it runs out freely when the life
float or buoyant apparatus floats away from a sinking vessel.
(4) Light. The light must be a floating waterlight approved under
subpart 161.010 of this chapter. The floating waterlight must be
attached around the body of the life float or buoyant apparatus by a
12-thread manila, or equivalent, lanyard of at least 18 feet in length.
(f) Other survival craft. If survival craft other than inflatable
liferafts, life floats, inflatable buoyant apparatus, and buoyant
apparatus are carried on the vessel, such as lifeboats or rigid
liferafts, they must be installed, arranged, and equipped as required
under subchapter H (Passenger Vessels) of this chapter for passenger
vessels on the same route.

Subpart E--Number and Type of Survival Craft

Sec. 180.200 Survival craft--general.

(a) Each survival craft required on a vessel by this part must meet
one of the following:
(1) For an inflatable liferaft--subpart 160.051 of this chapter,
with the applicable equipment pack, as determined by the cognizant
OCMI. Each inflatable liferaft required on a vessel by this part must
have a capacity of 6 persons or more. Inflatable liferafts may be
substituted for inflatable buoyant apparatus or life floats required
under this section;
(2) For a life float--subpart 160.027 of this chapter. Buoyant
apparatus may be used to meet requirements for life floats if the
buoyant apparatus was installed on board the vessel on or before
[effective date of final rule], and if the buoyant apparatus remains in
good and serviceable condition;
(3) For an inflatable buoyant apparatus--subpart 160.010 of this
chapter. Inflatable buoyant apparatus may be substituted for life
floats required under this section.
(b) If the vessel carries a small boat or boats, the capacity of
these boats may be counted toward the buoyant apparatus or life float
capacity required by this part. Such boats must meet the requirements
for safe loading and flotation in 33 CFR part 183, and must meet the
stowage, launching, and equipment requirements in this part for the
survival craft they replace.
(c) A summary of survival craft requirements is provided in Table
180.200(c). The citations identify the sections of this part which
contain the specific requirements.

TABLE 180.200(C)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Route Survival craft requirements
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oceans, more than 50 100% ILR--Sec. 180.202(a)
miles offshore.
Oceans, 20-50 miles (a) wood--100% IBA--Sec. 180.202(b)
offshore. (b) nonwood--same as Coastwise (a) & (b)--
Sec. 180.202(c)
Coastwise................ (a) cold water\1\
(i) w/subdivision--100% LF\2\--Sec.
180.204(a)(2)
(ii) existing nonwood vessels,
65', 49 passengers, w/collision
bkhd and simplified subdivision in way of
Eng. Rm. & lazarette--100% LF\2\--Sec.
180.15(c)
(iii) w/o subdivision--100% IBA--Sec.
180.204(a)(1)
(iv) within one mile of shore
(A) w/subdivision--50% LF\2\--Sec.
180.204(c)(2)
(B) w/o subdivision--100% LF\2\--Sec.
180.204(c)(1)
(b) warm water\3\
(i) 100% LF\2\--Sec. 180.204(b)
(ii) within one mile of shore--NONE--Sec.
180.204(d)
Great Lakes.............. (a) same as Coastwise (a) & (b)--Sec.
180.206(a)
(b) within one mile of shore--NONE--Sec.
180.206(b)
Lakes, Bays, & Sounds.... (a) cold water\4\
(i) w/subdivision--50% LF\2\--Sec.
180.207(a)(2)
(ii) w/o subdivision--100% LF\2\--Sec.
180.207(a)(1)
(iii) within 1 mile of shore--NONE--Sec.
180.207(c)
(b) warm water--NONE--Sec. 180.207(b)
Rivers................... (a) cold water\5\
(i) w/subdivision--NONE--Sec. 180.208(a)(2)
(ii) w/o subdivision--50% LF\2\--Sec.
180.208(a)(1)
(iii) within one mile of shore--NONE--Sec.
180.208(c)
(b) warm water--NONE--Sec. 180.208(b)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Abbreviations used:
ILR = inflatable liferaft.
IBA = inflatable Buoyant Apparatus.
LF = Life Float.

\1\Cold water means the cognizant OCMI has determined the prevailing
temperature of the water is 15 deg.C (59 deg.F).
\2\Any buoyant apparatus in use on an existing vessel on [insert
effective date of the final rule] may be used to meet the requirements
for LF as long as the buoyant apparatus is in good and serviceable
condition--Sec. 180.15(d).
\3\Warm water means the cognizant OCMI has determined the prevailing
temperature of the water is > 15 deg.C (59 deg.F).
\4\Shallow water exception--Sec. 180.207(d).
\5\Shallow water exception--Sec. 180.208(d).

Sec. 180.202 Survival craft--vessels operating on oceans routes.

(a) Each vessel certificated to operate on an oceans route more
than 50 nautical miles offshore must be provided with inflatable
liferafts of an aggregate capacity which will accommodate at least the
total number of persons permitted on board.
(b) Each vessel constructed of wood and certificated to operate on
an oceans route not more than 50 nautical miles offshore must be
provided with inflatable buoyant apparatus of an aggregate capacity
which will accommodate at least the total number of persons permitted
on board.
(c) Each vessel constructed of a material other than wood and
certificated to operate on an oceans route not more than 50 nautical
miles offshore must be provided with the survival craft required by
Secs. 180.204 (a) or (b), as applicable.

Sec. 180.204 Survival craft--vessels operating on coastwise routes.

(a) Except as allowed by paragraph (c) of this section, each vessel
certificated to operate on a coastwise route in an area and time of
year where the prevailing water temperature, as determined by the
cognizant OCMI, is 15 deg.C (59 deg.F) or less must either:
(1) Be provided with inflatable buoyant apparatus of an aggregate
capacity which will accommodate at least the total number of persons
permitted on board; or
(2) Meet either the standards for collision bulkheads in
Secs. 179.310 or 171.085 of this chapter and the standards for
subdivision in Secs. 179.220 and 179.320 of this subchapter or the
standards for subdivision and damaged stability in Secs. 171.070
through 171.073 and 171.080 of this chapter, as appropriate, and be
provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity which will
accommodate at least the total number of persons permitted on board.
(b) Except as allowed by paragraph (d) of this section, each vessel
certificated to operate on a coastwise route in an area and time of
year where the prevailing water temperature, as determined by the
cognizant OCMI, is above 15 deg.C (59 deg.F) must be provided with life
floats of an aggregate capacity which will accommodate at least the
total number of persons permitted on board.
(c) Each vessel certificated to operate on a coastwise route within
one mile of land in an area and time of year where the prevailing water
temperature, as determined by the cognizant OCMI, is 15 deg.C
(59 deg.F) or less must either:
(1) Be provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity which
will accommodate at least the total number of persons permitted on
board; or
(2) Meet either the standards for collision bulkheads in
Secs. 179.310 or 171.085 of this chapter and the standards for
subdivision in Secs. 179.220 and 179.320 of this subchapter or the
standards for subdivision and damaged stability in Secs. 171.070
through 171.073 and 171.080 of this chapter, as appropriate, and be
provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity which will
accommodate at least 50% of the total number of persons permitted on
board.
(d) Each vessel certificated to operate on a coastwise route within
one mile of land in an area and time of year where the prevailing water
temperature, as determined by the cognizant OCMI, is above 15 deg.C
(59 deg.F) is not required to carry survival craft.

Sec. 180.206 Survival craft--vessels operating on Great Lakes routes.

(a) Except as allowed by paragraph (b) of this section, each vessel
certificated to operate on a Great Lakes route must be provided with
the survival craft required by Secs. 180.204 (a) or (b), as
appropriate.
(b) Each vessel certificated to operate on a Great Lakes route
within one mile of land is not required to carry survival craft.

Sec. 180.207 Survival craft--vessels operating on lakes, bays, and
sounds routes.

(a) Except as allowed by paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section,
each vessel certificated to operate on a lakes, bays and sounds route
in an area and time of year where the prevailing water temperature, as
determined by the cognizant OCMI, is 15 deg.C (59 deg.F) or less must
either:
(1) Be provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity which
will accommodate at least the total number of persons permitted on
board; or
(2) Meet either the standards for collision bulkheads in
Secs. 179.310 or 171.085 of this chapter and the standards for
subdivision in Secs. 179.220 and 179.320 of this subchapter or the
standards for subdivision and damaged stability in Secs. 171.070
through 171.073 and 171.080 of this chapter, as appropriate, and be
provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity which will
accommodate at least 50% of the total number of persons permitted on
board.
(b) A vessel certificated to operate on a lakes, bays and sounds
route in an area and time of year where the prevailing water
temperature, as determined by the cognizant OCMI, is above 15 deg.C
(59 deg.F) is not required to carry survival craft.
(c) A vessel certificated to operate on a lakes, bays and sounds
route within one mile of land is not required to carry survival craft.
(d) For a vessel certificated to operate on a lakes, bays and
sounds route in shallow water where the vessel cannot sink deep enough
to submerge the topmost passenger deck or where survivors can wade
ashore, the cognizant OCMI may waive a requirement for life floats, if
the OCMI determines that it is safe to do so, taking into consideration
the vessel's scope of operation, hazards of the route, and availability
of assistance.

Sec. 180.208 Survival craft--vessels operating on rivers routes.

(a) Except as allowed by paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section,
each vessel certificated to operate on a rivers route in an area and
time of year where the prevailing water temperature, as determined by
the cognizant OCMI, is 15 deg.C (59 deg.F) or less is either:
(1) Be provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity which
will accommodate at least 50% of the total number of persons permitted
on board; or
(2) Meet either the standards for collision bulkheads in
Secs. 179.310 or 171.085 of this chapter and the standards for
subdivision in Secs. 179.220 and 179.320 of this subchapter or the
standards for subdivision and damaged stability in Secs. 171.070
through 171.073 and 171.080 of this chapter, as appropriate, and not be
required to carry survival craft.
(b) A vessel certificated to operate on a rivers route in an area
and time of year where the prevailing water temperature, as determined
by the cognizant OCMI, is above 15 deg.C (59 deg.F) is not required to
carry survival craft.
(c) A vessel certificated to operate on a rivers route within one
mile of land is not required to carry survival craft.
(d) For a vessel certificated to operate on a rivers route in
shallow water where the vessel cannot sink deep enough to submerge the
topmost passenger deck or where survivors can wade ashore, the
cognizant OCMI may waive a requirement for life floats, if the OCMI
determines that it is safe to do so, taking into consideration the
vessel's scope of operation, hazards of the route, and availability of
assistance.

Sec. 180.210 Rescue boats.

(a) A vessel of more than 65 feet in length must carry at least one
rescue boat unless the cognizant OCMI determines that:
(1) The vessel is sufficiently maneuverable, arranged, and equipped
to allow the crew to recover a helpless person from the water;
(2) Recovery of a helpless person can be observed from the
operating station; and
(3) The vessel does not regularly engage in operations that
restrict its maneuverability.
(b) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length is not required to
carry a rescue boat unless:
(1) The vessel carries passengers on an open or partially enclosed
deck; and
(2) The cognizant OCMI determines that the vessel is designed,
arranged, or involved in operations so that the vessel itself cannot
serve as an adequate rescue craft.
(c) On a vessel of more than 65 feet in length, a required rescue
boat and its installation must meet the requirements in subchapter H
(Passenger Vessels) of this chapter for a rescue boat on a passenger
vessel having the same route. On a vessel of not more than 65 feet in
length, a required rescue boat must be acceptable to the cognizant
OCMI.

PART 181--FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec.
181.115 Applicability to existing vessels.
181.120 Equipment installed but not required.

Subpart B--Reserved

Subpart C--Fire Main System

181.300 Fire pumps.
181.310 Fire main and hydrants.
181.320 Fire hoses and nozzles.

Subpart D--Fixed Fire Extinguishing and Detecting Systems

181.400 Where required.
181.410 Fixed gas fire extinguishing systems.
181.420 Pre-engineered fixed gas fire extinguishing systems.
181.425 Galley hood fire extinguishing systems.
181.450 Independent modular smoke detecting units.

Subpart E--Portable Fire Extinguishers

181.500 Required number, type, and location.
181.520 Installation and location.

Subpart F--Additional Equipment

181.600 Fire axe.
181.610 Fire bucket.

Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980
Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec. 181.115 Applicability to existing vessels.

(a) Except as otherwise required by paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of
this section, an existing vessel must comply with the fire protection
equipment regulations applicable to the vessel on [date of day before
effective date of regulations] or, as an alternative, the vessel may
comply with the regulations in this part.
(b) An existing vessel with a hull, or a machinery space boundary
bulkhead or deck, composed of wood or fiber reinforced plastic, or
sheathed on the interior in fiber reinforced plastic, must comply with
the requirements of Sec. 181.400 on or before [date 3 years after
effective date of regulations].
(c) New installations of fire protection equipment on an existing
vessel, which are completed to the satisfaction of the cognizant OCMI
on or after] effective date of regulations], must comply with the
regulations of this part. Replacement of existing equipment installed
on the vessel prior to [effective date of regulations need not comply
with the regulations] in this part.

Sec. 181.120 Equipment installed but not required.

Fire extinguishing and detecting equipment installed on a vessel in
excess of the requirements of Secs. 181.400 and 181.500 must be
designed, constructed, installed and maintained in accordance with a
recognized industry standard acceptable to the Commandant.

Subpart B--Reserved

Subpart C--Fire Main System

Sec. 181.300 Fire pumps.

(a) A self priming, power driven fire pump must be installed on
each vessel:
(1) Of not more than 65 feet in length which is a ferry vessel;
(2) Of not more than 65 feet in length which carries more than 49
passengers; or
(3) Of more than 65 feet in length.
(b) On a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying more
than 49 passengers, and on a vessel of more than 65 feet in length, the
minimum capacity of the fire pump must be 50 gallons per minute at a
pressure of not less than 60 pounds per square inch at the pump outlet.
The pump outlet must be fitted with a pressure gauge.
(c) On a ferry vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying
not more than 49 passengers, the minimum capacity of the fire pump must
be 10 gallons per minute. The fire pump must be capable of projecting a
hose stream from the highest hydrant, through the hose and nozzle
required by Sec. 181.320, a distance of 25 feet.
(d) A fire pump may be driven by a propulsion engine. A fire pump
must be permanently connected to the fire main and may be connected to
the bilge system to meet the requirements of Sec. 182.520 of this
subchapter.
(e) A fire pump must be capable of both remote operation from the
operating station and local, manual operation at the pump.

Sec. 181.310 Fire main and hydrants.

(a) A vessel which has a power driven fire pump must have a
sufficient number of fire hydrants to reach any part of the vessel
using a single length of fire hose.
(b) Piping, valves, and fittings in a fire main system must comply
with part 182, subpart G of this subchapter.

Sec. 181.320 Fire hoses and nozzles.

(a) A fire hose with a nozzle must be attached to each fire hydrant
at all times. For fire stations located on open decks or cargo decks,
where no protection is provided, hoses may be temporarily removed
during heavy weather or cargo handling operations, respectively. Hoses
so removed must be stored in nearby accessible locations.
(b) On a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying more
than 49 passengers, and on a vessel of more than 65 feet in length,
each hose must:
(1) Be lined commercial fire hose that conforms to UL 19 or hose
that is listed and labeled by an independent laboratory recognized by
the Commandant as being equivalent in performance;
(2) Be 50 feet in length and 1\1/2\ inches in diameter; and
(3) Have fittings of brass or other suitable corrosion-resistant
material which comply with NFPA 1963.
(c) Each fire hose on a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length
carrying not more than 49 passengers must:
(1) Comply with paragraphs (b)(1) and (b)(3) of this section or be
garden type hose of not less than \5/8\ inch nominal inside diameter;
(2) Be of one piece not less than 25 feet and not more than 50 feet
in length; and
(3) If of the garden type, be of a good commercial grade
constructed of an inner rubber tube, plies of braided fabric
reinforcement, and an outer cover of rubber or equivalent material, and
of sufficient strength to withstand the maximum pressure which can be
produced by the fire pump. All fittings on the hose must be of suitable
corrosion-resistant material.
(d) Each nozzle must be of corrosion-resistant material and be
capable of being changed between a solid stream and a spray pattern. A
nozzle on a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying more
than 49 passengers, and on a vessel of more than 65 feet in length,
must be of an approved type.

Subpart D--Fixed Fire Extinguishing and Detecting Systems

Sec. 181.400 Where required.

(a) The following spaces must be equipped with a Halon or carbon
dioxide fixed gas fire extinguishing system, in compliance with
Sec. 181.410, except as otherwise allowed by paragraph (b) of this
section:
(1) A space containing propulsion machinery;
(2) A space containing an internal combustion engine of more than
50 hp;
(3) A space containing an oil fired boiler;
(4) A space containing machinery powered by gasoline or other fuels
having a flash point of 110 deg.F or lower;
(5) A space containing a fuel tank for gasoline or any other fuel
having a flash point of 110 deg.F or lower;
(6) A space containing combustible cargo or ship's stores
inaccessible during the voyage (in these types of spaces only carbon
dioxide, and not Halon, systems will be allowed);
(7) A paint locker; and
(8) A storeroom containing flammable liquids (including liquors of
80 proof or higher).
(b) Alternative system types and exceptions to the requirements of
paragraph (a) of this section are:
(1) A fixed gas fire extinguishing system, which is capable of
automatic discharge upon heat detection, may only be installed in a
normally unoccupied space with a gross volume of not more than 6000
cubic feet;
(2) A pre-engineered fixed gas fire extinguishing system must be in
compliance with Sec. 181.420 and may only be installed in a normally
unoccupied machinery space, a paint locker, or a storeroom containing
flammable liquids (including liquors of 80 proof or higher), with a
gross volume of not more than 2000 cubic feet;
(3) A B-II portable fire extinguisher installed outside the space
may be substituted for a fixed gas fire extinguishing system in a
storeroom containing flammable liquids (including liquors of 80 proof
or higher) or a paint locker, with a volume of not more that 200 cubic
feet; and
(4) A space which is so open to the atmosphere that a fixed gas
fire extinguishing system would be ineffective, as determined by the
cognizant OCMI, is not required to have a fixed gas fire extinguishing
system.
(c) The following spaces must be equipped with a fire detecting
system of an approved type which is installed in accordance with
Sec. 76.27 of this chapter, except when a fixed gas fire extinguishing
system which is capable of automatic discharge upon heat detection is
installed or when the space is manned:
(1) A space containing propulsion machinery;
(2) A space containing an internal combustion engine of more than
50 hp;
(3) A space containing an oil fired boiler;
(4) A space containing machinery powered by gasoline or any other
fuels having a flash point of 110 deg.F or lower; and
(5) A space containing a fuel tank for gasoline or any other fuel
having a flash point of 110 deg.F or lower.
(d) All grills, broilers, and deep fat fryers must be fitted with a
grease extraction hood in compliance with Sec. 181.425.
(e) Each overnight accommodation space on a vessel with overnight
accommodations for passengers must be fitted with an independent
modular smoke detecting and alarm unit in compliance with Sec. 181.450.
(f) An enclosed vehicle space must be fitted with an automatic
sprinkler system which meets the requirements of Sec. 76.25 of this
chapter; and
(1) A smoke actuated fire detecting system of an approved type
which is installed in accordance with Sec. 76.27 of this chapter; or
(2) A smoke detecting system of an approved type which is installed
in accordance with Sec. 76.33 of this chapter.
(g) A partially enclosed vehicle space must be fitted with a manual
sprinkler system which meets the requirements of Sec. 76.23 of this
chapter.

Sec. 181.410 Fixed gas fire extinguishing systems.

(a) General.
(1) A fixed gas fire extinguishing system aboard a vessel must be
approved by the Commandant, and be custom engineered to meet the
requirements of this section unless the system meets the requirements
of Sec. 181.420.
(2) System components must be listed and labeled by an independent
laboratory. A component from a different system, even if from the same
manufacturer, must not be used unless included in the approval of the
installed system.
(3) System design and installation must be in accordance with the
Marine Design, Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manual approved
for the system by the Commandant.
(4) A fixed gas fire extinguishing system may protect more than one
space. The quantity of extinguishing agent must be at least sufficient
for the space requiring the greatest quantity as determined by the
requirements of paragraphs (f)(4) and (g)(2) of this section.
(b) Controls.
(1) Controls and valves for operation of a fixed gas fire
extinguishing system must be:
(i) Located outside the space protected by the system; and
(ii) Not located in a space that might be inaccessible in the event
of fire in the space protected by the system.
(2) Except as provided in paragraph (c)(2) of this section, release
of an extinguishing agent into a space must require two distinct
operations.
(3) A system must have local manual controls at the storage
cylinders capable of releasing the extinguishing agent. In addition, a
normally manned space must have remote controls for releasing the
extinguishing agent at the primary exit from the space.
(4) Remote controls must be located in a breakglass enclosure to
preclude accidental discharge.
(5) Valves and controls must be of an approved type and protected
from damage or accidental activation. A pull cable used to activate the
system controls must be enclosed in conduit.
(6) A system protecting more than one space must have a manifold
with a normally closed stop valve for each space protected.
(7) A gas actuated valve or device must be capable of manual
override at the valve or device.
(8) A system, which has more than one storage cylinder for the
extinguishing agent and which relies on pilot cylinders to activate the
primary storage cylinders, must have at least two pilot cylinders.
Local manual controls, in compliance with paragraph (b)(3) of this
section, must be provided to operate the pilot cylinders but are not
required for the primary storage cylinders.
(9) A system protecting a manned space must be fitted with an
approved time delay and alarm arranged to require the alarm to sound
for at least 20 seconds or the time necessary to escape from the space,
whichever is greater, before the agent is released into the space.
Alarms must be conspicuously and centrally located. The alarm must be
powered by the extinguishing agent.
(10) A device must be provided to automatically shut down power
ventilation serving the protected space and engines which draw intake
air from the protected space prior to release of the extinguishing
agent into the space.
(11) Controls and storage cylinders must not be in a locked space
unless the key is in a breakglass type box conspicuously located
adjacent to the space.
(c) Storage space.
(1) Except as provided in paragraph (c)(2) of this section, a
storage cylinder for a fixed gas extinguishing system must be:
(i) Located outside the space protected by the system; and
(ii) Not located in a space that might be inaccessible in the event
of a fire in the space protected by the system.
(2) A normally unoccupied space of less than 6000 cubic feet may
have the storage cylinders located within the space protected. When the
storage cylinders are located in the space:
(i) The system must be capable of automatic operation by a heat
actuator within the space; and
(ii) Have manual controls in compliance with paragraph (b) of this
section except for paragraphs (b)(2) and (b)(3).
(3) A space containing a storage cylinder must be maintained at a
temperature within the range from -20 deg.F (-30 deg.C) to 130 deg.F
(55 deg.C) or at another temperature as listed by the independent
laboratory and stated in the manufacturer's approved manual.
(4) A storage cylinder must be securely fastened, supported, and
protected against damage.
(5) A storage cylinder must be accessible and capable of easy
removal for recharging and inspection. Provisions must be available for
weighing each storage cylinder in place.
(6) Where subject to moisture, a storage cylinder must be installed
to provide a space of at least 2 inches between the deck and the bottom
of the storage cylinder.
(7) A Halon 1301 storage cylinder must be stowed in an upright
position unless otherwise listed by the independent laboratory. A
carbon dioxide cylinder may be inclined not more than 30 deg. from the
vertical, unless fitted with flexible or bent siphon tubes, in which
case they may be inclined not more than 80 deg. from the vertical.
(8) Where a check valve is not fitted on an independent storage
cylinder discharge, a plug or cap must be provided for closing the
outlet resulting from storage cylinder removal.
(9) Each storage cylinder must meet the requirements of Sec. 147.60
of this chapter.
(10) A storage cylinder space must have doors which open outwards
or be fitted with kickout panels installed in each door.
(d) Piping.
(1) A pipe, valve, or fitting of ferrous material must be protected
inside and outside against corrosion unless otherwise approved by the
Commandant. Aluminum or other low melting material must not be used for
a component of a fixed gas fire extinguishing system except as
specifically approved by the Commandant.
(2) A distribution line must extend at least 2 inches beyond the
last orifice and be closed with a cap or plug.
(3) Piping, valves, and fittings must be securely supported, and
where necessary, protected against damage.
(4) Drains and dirt traps must be fitted where necessary to prevent
the accumulation of dirt or moisture and located in accessible
locations.
(5) Piping must be used for no other purpose except that it may be
incorporated with the fire detecting system.
(6) Piping passing through accommodation spaces must not be fitted
with drains or other openings within such spaces.
(7) Installation test requirements for carbon dioxide systems. The
distribution piping of a carbon dioxide fixed gas extinguishing system
must be tested as required by this paragraph, upon completion of the
piping installation, using only carbon dioxide, compressed air, or
nitrogen gas.
(i) Piping between a storage cylinder and a stop valve in the
manifold must be subjected to a pressure of 1,000 psi, except as
permitted in paragraph (d)(7)(iii) of this section. Without additional
gas being introduced to the system, the pressure drop must not exceed
300 psi after two minutes.
(ii) A distribution line to a space protected by the system must be
subjected to a test similar to that described in paragraph (d)(7)(i) of
this section except the pressure used must be 600 psi. For the purpose
of this test, the distribution piping must be capped within the space
protected at the first joint between the nozzles and the storage
cylinders.
(iii) A small independent system protecting a space such as a paint
locker may be tested by blowing out the piping with air at a pressure
of not less than 100 psi instead of the tests prescribed in the
paragraphs (d)(7)(i) and (d)(7)(ii) of this section.
(8) Installation test requirements for Halon 1301 systems. The
distribution piping of a Halon 1301 fixed gas extinguishing system must
be tested, as required by this paragraph (d), upon completion of the
piping installation, using only carbon dioxide, compressed air, or
nitrogen.
(i) When pressurizing the piping, pressure must be increased in
small increments. Each joint must be subjected to a soap bubble leak
test, and all joints must be leak free.
(ii) Piping between the storage cylinders and the manifold stop
valve must be subjected to a leak test conducted at the maximum
allowable working pressure at 130 deg.F (55 deg.C). Without
additional gas being added to the system, there must be no loss of
pressure over a two minute period after thermal equilibrium is reached.
(iii) Distribution piping between the manifold stop valve and the
first nozzle in the system must be capped and pneumatically tested for
a period of 10 minutes at 150 psig. At the end of 10 minutes, the
pressure drop must not exceed 10% of the test pressure.
(e) Pressure relief. When required by the cognizant OCMI, spaces
which are protected by a fixed gas fire extinguishing system and which
are relatively air tight, such as refrigeration spaces, paint lockers,
etc., must be provided with suitable means for relieving excessive
pressure within the space when the agent is released.
(f) Specific requirements for carbon dioxide systems. A custom
engineered fixed gas fire extinguishing system, which uses carbon
dioxide as the extinguishing agent, must meet the requirements of this
paragraph.
(1) Piping, valves, and fittings must have a bursting pressure of
not less than 6,000 psi. Piping, in nominal sizes of not more than \3/
4\ inch, must be at least Schedule 40 (standard weight), and in nominal
sizes of over \3/4\ inch, must be at least Schedule 80 (extra heavy).
(2) A pressure relief valve or equivalent set to relieve at between
2,400 and 2,800 psi must be installed in the distribution manifold to
protect the piping from overpressurization.
(3) Nozzles must be approved by the Commandant.
(4) When installed in a machinery space, paint locker, a space
containing flammable liquid stores, or a space with a fuel tank, a
fixed carbon dioxide system must meet the following requirements.
(i) The quantity of carbon dioxide (in pounds) that the system must
be capable of providing to a space must not be less than the gross
volume of the space divided by the appropriate factor given in Table
181.410(f)(4)(i). If fuel can drain from a space being protected to an
adjacent space or if the spaces are not entirely separate, the volume
of both spaces must be used to determine the quantity of carbon dioxide
to be provided. The carbon dioxide must be arranged to discharge into
both such spaces simultaneously.

Table 181.410(f)(4)(i)
[Gross volume of space in cubic feet]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Factor Over Not over
------------------------------------------------------------------------
15.............................................. .......... 500
16.............................................. 500 1,600
18.............................................. 1,600 4,500
20.............................................. 4,500 50,000
22.............................................. 50,000 ..........
------------------------------------------------------------------------

(ii) The minimum size of a branch line to a space must be as noted
in Table 181.410(f)(4)(ii).

Table 181(f)(4)(ii)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum
Minimum quantity Minimum
nominal of nominal
Maximum quantity of carbon dioxide pipe carbon pipe
required (pounds) size dioxide size
(inches) required (inches)
(pounds)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100....................................... \1/2\ 2,500 2.5
225....................................... \3/4\ 4,450 3
300....................................... 1 7,100 3.5
600....................................... 1.25 10,450 4
1,000..................................... 1.5 15,500 4.5
2,450..................................... 2 ........ ........
------------------------------------------------------------------------

(iii) Distribution piping within a space must be proportioned from
the distribution line to give proper supply to the outlets without
throttling.
(iv) The number, type, and location of discharge outlets must
provide uniform distribution of carbon dioxide throughout a space.
(v) The area of each discharge outlet must not exceed 85 percent
nor be less than 35 percent of the nominal cylinder outlet area or the
area of the supply pipe, whichever is smaller. The nominal cylinder
outlet area (in square inches) is determined by multiplying the factor
0.0022 by the total capacity (in pounds) of all carbon dioxide
cylinders in the system, except in no case must the outlet area be of
less than 0.110 square inch.
(vi) The discharge of at least 85 percent of the required amount of
carbon dioxide must be completed within two minutes.
(5) When installed in an enclosed ventilation system for rotating
electrical propulsion equipment a fixed carbon dioxide system must meet
the following requirements.
(i) The quantity of carbon dioxide (in pounds) must be sufficient
for initial and delayed discharges as required by this paragraph. The
initial discharge must be equal to the gross volume of the system
divided by 10 for ventilation systems having a volume of less than
2,000 cubic feet, or divided by 12 for ventilation systems having a
volume of at least 2,000 cubic feet. In addition, there must be
sufficient carbon dioxide available to permit delayed discharges to
maintain at least a 25 percent concentration until the equipment can be
stopped. If the initial discharge achieves this concentration until the
equipment is stopped, a delayed discharge is not required.
(ii) The piping sizes for the initial discharge must be in
accordance with Table 181.410(f)(4)(ii) and the discharge of the
required amount must be completed within two minutes.
(iii) Piping for the delayed discharge must not be less than \1/2\
inch nominal pipe size, may be incorporated with the initial discharge
piping, and need not meet specific requirement for discharge rate.
(6) When installed in a cargo space a fixed carbon dioxide system
must meet the following requirements.
(i) The number of pounds of carbon dioxide required for each space
in cubic feet must be equal to the gross volume of the space in cubic
feet divided by 30;
(ii) System piping must be of at least \3/4\ inch.
(iii) No specific discharge rate is required.
(g) Specific requirements for Halon 1301 systems.
(1) A custom engineered fixed gas fire extinguishing system, which
uses Halon 1301, must comply with the applicable sections of UL
Standard 1058 and the requirements of this paragraph (g).
(2) The Halon 1301 quantity and discharge requirements of UL 1058
apply, with the exception that the Halon 1301 design concentration must
be 6 percent at the lowest ambient temperature expected in the space.
If the lowest temperature is not known, a temperature of 0 deg.F must
be assumed.
(3) Each storage cylinder in a system must have the same pressure
and volume.
(4) Computer programs used in designing systems must have been
approved by an independent laboratory.

Sec. 181.420 Pre-engineered fixed gas fire extinguishing systems.

(a) A pre-engineered fixed gas fire extinguishing system must:
(1) Be approved by the Commandant;
(2) Be capable of manual actuation from outside the space in
addition to automatic actuation by a heat detector; and
(3) Automatically shut down all power ventilation systems and all
engines that draw intake air from within the protected space.
(b) A vessel on which a pre-engineered fixed gas system is
installed must have the following equipment at the operating station:
(1) A light to indicate discharge;
(2) An audible alarm which sounds upon discharge; and
(3) A means to reset devices used to automatically shut down
ventilation systems and engines as required by paragraph (a)(3) of this
section.
(c) Only one pre-engineered fixed gas system is allowed to be
installed in each space protected by such a system.

Sec. 181.425 Galley hood fire extinguishing systems.

(a) A grease extraction hood required by Sec. 181.400 must meet UL
710.
(b) A grease extraction hood must be equipped with a dry or wet
chemical fire extinguishing system meeting the applicable sections of
NFPA 17 or 17A, and must be listed by an independent laboratory
recognized by the Commandant.

Sec. 181.450 Independent modular smoke detecting units.

An independent modular smoke detecting unit must:
(a) Meet UL Standard 217 and be listed as a ``Single Station Smoke
Detector--Also suitable for use in Recreational Vehicles'';
(b) Contain an independent power source; and
(c) Alarm on low power.

Subpart E--Portable Fire Extinguishers

Sec. 181.500 Required number, type, and location.

(a) Each portable fire extinguisher on a vessel must be of an
approved type. The minimum number of portable fire extinguishers
required on a vessel must be acceptable to the cognizant OCMI, but must
be not less than the minimum number required by Table 181.500(a) and
other provisions of this section.

Table.--181.500(a)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minimum number
Space protected required CG Class Medium Minimum size
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating station................. 1 B-I, C-I Halon............. 2.5 lb.
CO2............... 4 lb.
Dry chemical...... 2 lb.
Machinery space................... 1 B-II, C-II located Halon............. 10 lb.
just outside exit
CO2............... 15 lb.
Dry chemical...... 10 lb.
Open vehicle deck................. 1 for each 10 B-II Foam.............. 2.5 gal
vehicles
Halon............. 10 lb.
CO2............... 15 lb.
Dry chemical...... 10 lb.
Accomodation space................ 1 for each 2,500 A-II Foam.............. 2.5 gal.
square feet or
fraction thereof
Dry chemical...... 5 lb.
Galley, pantry, concession stand.. 1 A-II, B-II Foam.............. 2.5 gal.
Dry chemical...... 10 lb.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(b) A vehicle deck without a fixed sprinkler system and exposed to
weather must have one B-II portable fire extinguisher for every five
vehicles, located near an entrance to the space.
(c) The cognizant OCMI may permit the use of a larger portable fire
extinguisher, or a semiportable fire extinguisher, in lieu of those
required by this section.
(d) The frame or support of each B-V fire extinguisher permitted by
paragraph (c) of this section must be welded or otherwise permanently
attached to a bulkhead or deck.

Sec. 181.520 Installation and location.

Portable fire extinguishers must be located so that they are
clearly visible and readily accessible from the space being protected.
The installation and location must be to the satisfaction of the
Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection.

Subpart F--Additional Equipment

Sec. 181.600 Fire axe.

A vessel of more than 65 feet in length must have at least one fire
axe located in or adjacent to the primary operating station.

Sec. 181.610 Fire bucket.

A vessel must have at least three 2\1/2\ gallon buckets, with an
attached lanyard satisfactory to the cognizant OCMI, placed so as to be
easily available during an emergency. The words ``FIRE BUCKET'' must be
stenciled in a contrasting color on each bucket.

PART 182--MACHINERY INSTALLATION

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec.
182.100 Intent.
182.115 Applicability to existing vessels.
182.130 Alternative standards.

Subpart B--Propulsion Machinery

182.200 General.
182.220 Installations.

Subpart C--Auxiliary Machinery

182.300 General.
182.310 Installations.
182.320 Hot water heaters.
182.330 Pressure vessels.

Subpart D--Specific Machinery Requirements

182.400 Applicability.
182.405 Fuel restrictions.
182.410 General requirements.
182.415 Carburetors.
182.420 Engine cooling.
182.422 Keel and grid cooler installations.
182.425 Engine exhaust cooling.
182.430 Engine exhaust pipe installation.
182.435 Integral fuel tanks.
182.440 Independent fuel tanks.
182.445 Fill and sounding pipes for fuel tanks.
182.450 Vent pipes for fuel tanks.
182.455 Fuel piping.
182.458 Portable fuel systems.
182.460 Ventilation of spaces containing machinery powered by, or
fuel tanks for, gasoline.
182.465 Ventilation of spaces containing diesel machinery.
182.470 Ventilation of spaces containing diesel fuel tanks.
182.480 Flammable vapor detection systems.

Subpart E--Bilge and Ballast Systems

182.500 General.
182.510 Bilge piping system.
182.520 Bilge pumps.
182.530 Bilge level alarms.
182.540 Ballast systems.

Subpart F--Steering Systems

182.600 General.
182.610 Main steering gear.
182.620 Auxiliary means of steering.

Subpart G--Piping Systems

182.700 General.
182.710 Piping for vital systems.
182.715 Piping subject to more than 150 psi in non-vital systems.
182.720 Nonmetallic piping materials.
182.730 Nonferrous metallic piping materials.

Authority: 46 U.S.C. 3306; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980
Comp., p. 277; 49 CFR 1.46.

Subpart A--General Provisions

Sec. 182.100 Intent.

This part contains requirements for the design, construction,
installation, and operation of propulsion and auxiliary machinery,
piping and pressure systems, steering apparatus, and associated safety
systems. Machinery and equipment installed on each vessel must be
suitable for the vessel and its operation and for the purpose intended.
All machinery and equipment must be installed and maintained in such a
manner as to afford adequate protection from causing fire, explosion,
machinery failure, and personnel injury.

Sec. 182.115 Applicability to existing vessels.

(a) Except as otherwise required by paragraphs (b) and (c) of this
section, an existing vessel must comply with the regulations on
machinery, bilge and ballast system equipment, steering apparatus, and
piping systems or components which were applicable to the vessel on
[date of day before effective date of regulations] or, as an
alternative, the vessel may comply with the regulations in this part.
(b) New installations of machinery, bilge and ballast system
equipment, steering equipment, and piping systems or components on an
existing vessel, which are completed to the satisfaction of the
cognizant OCMI on or after [effective date of regulations], must comply
with the regulations of this part. Replacement of existing equipment
installed on the vessel prior to [effective date of regulations] need
not comply with the regulations in this part.
(c) An existing vessel equipped with machinery powered by gasoline
or other fuels having a flash point of 110 deg.F or lower must comply
with the requirements of Sec. 182.410(c) on or before [date 3 years
after effective date of regulations].

Sec. 182.130 Alternative standards.

(a) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying not more
than 12 passengers propelled by gasoline or diesel internal combustion
engines, other than a dynamically supported craft, may comply with the
requirements listed in paragraph (b) of this section instead of
complying with the requirements of this part.
(b) The alternative standards for vessels identified in paragraph
(a) of this section are:
(1) Auxiliary boilers, hot water heaters, and all unfired pressure
vessels must comply with subpart C of this part;
(2) Gasoline engines must comply with Sec. 182.415;
(3) Bilge systems must comply with Sec. 182.500;
(4) Steering systems must comply with subpart F of this part; and
(5) The following American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) Projects
and regulations in 33 CFR subchapter S (Boating Safety), where
applicable:
(i) H-2--``Ventilation of Boats Using Gasoline,'' or 33 CFR part
183, subpart K, ``Ventilation'';
(ii) H-22--``DC Electric Bilge Pumps Operating Under 50 Volts'';
(iii) H-24--``Gasoline Fuel Systems'', or 33 CFR part 183, subpart
J--``Fuel System'';
(iv) H-25--``Portable Fuel Systems for Flammable Liquids'';
(v) H-32--``Ventilation of Boats Using Diesel Fuel'';
(vi) H-33--``Diesel Fuel Systems'';
(vii) P-1--``Installation of Exhaust Systems for Propulsion and
Auxiliary Engines''; and
(viii) P-4--``Marine Inboard Engines''.

Subpart B--Propulsion Machinery

Sec. 182.200 General.

(a) Propulsion machinery must be suitable in type and design for
propulsion requirements of the hull in which it is installed and
capable of operating at constant marine load under such requirements
without exceeding its designed limitations.
(b) All engines must have at least two means for stopping the
engine(s) under any operating conditions. The fuel oil shutoff required
at the engine by Sec. 182.455(b)(4) will satisfy one means of stopping
the engine.

Sec. 182.220 Installations.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, propulsion
machinery installations must comply with the provisions of this part.
(b) The requirements for machinery and boilers for steam and
electrically propelled vessels are contained in applicable regulations
in subchapter F (Marine Engineering) and subchapter J (Electrical
Engineering) of this chapter.
(c) Propulsion machinery of an unusual type for small passenger
vessels must be given separate consideration and must be subject to
such requirements as determined necessary by the Officer in Charge,
Marine Inspection. These unusual types of propulsion machinery include:
(1) Gas turbine machinery installations;
(2) Air screws;
(3) Hydraulic jets; and
(4) Machinery installations using propulsion and lift devices.

Subpart C--Auxiliary Machinery

Sec. 182.300 General.

Auxiliary machinery must be suitable in type and design for the
purpose intended.

Sec. 182.310 Installations.

(a) Auxiliary machinery of the internal combustion piston type must
comply with the provisions of this part.
(b) Auxiliary machinery of the steam or gas turbine type will be
given separate consideration and must meet the applicable requirements
of subchapter F (Marine Engineering) of this chapter as determined
necessary by the cognizant OCMI.
(c) Auxiliary boilers and heating boilers and their associated
piping and fittings will be given separate consideration and must meet
the applicable requirements of subchapter F (Marine Engineering) of
this chapter as determined necessary by the cognizant OCMI, except that
heating boilers must be tested or examined every three years.

Sec. 182.320 Hot water heaters.

(a) A hot water heater must meet the requirements of parts 52 and
63 of this chapter if rated at more than 100 psig (689 kPa) or
250 deg.F (121 deg.C).
(b) A hot water heater must meet the requirements of parts 53 and
63 of this chapter if rated at not more than 100 psig (689 kPa) and
250 deg.F (121 deg.C), except that an electric hot water heater is also
acceptable if it:
(1) Has a capacity of not more than 120 gallons (454 liters);
(2) Has a heat input of not more than 58.6 kilowatts (200,000 Btu
per hour);
(3) Is listed by Underwriters' Laboratories under UL Standard 174
or 1453; and
(4) Is protected by a pressure-temperature relief device.

Sec. 182.330 Pressure vessels.

All unfired pressure vessels must be installed to the satisfaction
of the cognizant OCMI. The design, construction, and original testing
of such unfired pressure vessels must meet the applicable requirements
of subchapter F (Marine Engineering) of this chapter.

Subpart D--Specific Machinery Requirements

Sec. 182.400 Applicability.

(a) This subpart applies to all propulsion and auxiliary machinery
installations of the internal combustion piston type.
(b) Requirements of this subpart that are only applicable to
engines which use gasoline or other fuels having a flashpoint of
110 deg.F or lower are specifically designated in each section.
(c) Requirements of this subpart that are only applicable to
engines which use diesel fuel or other fuels having a flashpoint of
more than 110 deg.F are specifically designated in each section.
(d) Where no specific gasoline, diesel, or other fuel designation
exists, the requirements of this subpart are applicable to all types of
fuels and machinery.

Sec. 182.405 Fuel restrictions.

The use of alternative fuels, other than diesel fuel or gasoline,
as fuel for an internal combustion engine will be reviewed on a case by
case basis by Commandant.

Sec. 182.410 General requirements.

(a) Starting motors, generators, and any spark producing device
must be mounted as high above the bilges as practicable. Electrical
equipment in spaces, compartments, or enclosures that contain machinery
powered by, or fuel tanks for, gasoline or other fuels having a
flashpoint of 110 deg.F or lower must be explosion-proof, intrinsically
safe, or ignition protected for use in a gasoline atmosphere as
required by Sec. 183.530 of this subchapter.
(b) Gauges to indicate engine RPM, cooling water discharge
temperature, and lubricating oil pressure must be provided for all
propulsion engines installed in the vessel. The gauges must be readily
visible at the operating station.
(c) An enclosed space containing machinery powered by gasoline or
other fuels having a flash point of 110 deg.F or lower must be equipped
with a flammable vapor detection device in compliance with
Sec. 182.480.
(d) In systems and applications where flexible hoses are permitted
to be clamped:
(1) Double hose clamping is required where practicable;
(2) The clamps must be of a corrosion resistant metallic material;
(3) The clamps must not depend on spring tension for their holding
power; and
(4) Two clamps must be used on each end of the hose, or one hose
clamp can be used if the pipe ends are expanded or beaded to provide a
positive stop against hose slippage.
(e) An overspeed trip and or shutdown device must be installed on
all diesel engine installations designed to produce 300 or more
horsepower under ideal conditions, as follows:
(1) For main propulsion engines, meet section 34.11.6 of the ABS
``Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.''
(2) For generator prime movers, meet section 35.21.2 of the ABS
``Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels.''

Sec. 182.415 Carburetors.

(a) All carburetors except the downdraft type must be equipped with
integral or externally fitted drip collectors of adequate capacity and
arranged so as to permit ready removal of fuel leakage. Externally
fitted drip collectors, must be covered with flame screens. Drip
collectors, where practicable, should automatically drain back to
engine air intakes.
(b) All gasoline engines installed in a vessel, except outboard
engines, must be equipped with an acceptable means of backfire flame
control. Installation of backfire flame arresters bearing basic
Approval Numbers 162.015 or 162.041 or engine air and fuel induction
systems bearing basic Approval Numbers 162.042 or 162.043 may be
continued in use as long as they are serviceable and in good condition.
New installations or replacements must meet the applicable requirements
of this section.
(c) The following are acceptable means of backfire flame control
for gasoline engines:
(1) A backfire flame arrester complying with SAE J-1928 or UL 1111
and marked accordingly. The flame arrester must be suitably secured to
the air intake with a flametight connection.
(2) An engine air and fuel induction system which provides adequate
protection from propagation of backfire flame to the atmosphere
equivalent to that provided by an acceptable backfire flame arrester. A
gasoline engine utilizing an air and fuel induction system, and
operated without an approved backfire flame arrester, must either
include a reed valve assembly or be installed in accordance with SAE J-
1928.
(3) An arrangement of the carburetor or engine air induction system
that will disperse any flames caused by engine backfire. The flames
must be dispersed to the atmosphere outside the vessel in such a manner
that the flames will not endanger the vessel, persons on board, or
nearby vessels and structures. Flame dispersion may be achieved by
attachments to the carburetor or location of the engine air induction
system. All attachments must be of metallic construction with
flametight connections and firmly secured to withstand vibration,
shock, and engine backfire. Such installations do not require formal
approval and labeling but must comply with this subpart.
(4) An engine air induction system on a vessel with an integrated
engine-vessel design must be approved, marked, and tested under
Sec. 162.043 of this chapter.

Sec. 182.420 Engine cooling.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in paragraphs (b), (c), (d), and
(e) of this section, all engines must be water cooled and meet the
requirements of this paragraph.
(1) The engine head, block, and exhaust manifold must be water-
jacketed and cooled by water from a pump which operates whenever the
engine is operating.
(2) A suitable hull strainer must be installed in the circulating
raw water intake line of an engine cooling water system.
(3) A closed fresh water system may be used to cool the engine.
(b) An engine water cooling system on a vessel of not more than 65
feet in length carrying not more than 12 passengers, may comply with
the requirements of ABYC Project P-4, ``Marine Inboard Engines,''
instead of the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section.
(c) On a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying not
more than 12 passengers, a propulsion gasoline engine may be air cooled
when in compliance with the requirements of ABYC Project P-4, ``Marine
Inboard Engines.''
(d) An auxiliary gasoline engine may be air cooled when:
(1) It has a self-contained fuel system and it is installed on an
open deck; or
(2) On a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying not
more than 12 passengers, it is in compliance with the requirements of
ABYC P-4, ``Marine Inboard Engines.''
(e) A propulsion or auxiliary diesel engine may be air cooled or
employ an air cooled jacket water radiator when:
(1) Installed on an open deck and sufficient ventilation for
machinery cooling is available;
(2) Installed in an enclosed or partially enclosed space for which
ventilation for machinery cooling is provided, which complies with the
requirement of Sec. 119.465(b), and other necessary safeguards are
taken so as not to endanger the vessel; or
(3) Installed on a vessel of not more than 65 feet in length
carrying not more than 12 passengers, in compliance with the
requirements of ABYC Project P-4, ``Marine Inboard Engines.''

Sec. 182.422 Keel and grid cooler installations.

(a) A keel or grid cooler installation used for engine cooling must
be designed to prevent flooding.
(b) A shutoff valve must be located where the cooler piping
penetrates the shell, as near the shell as practicable, except where
the penetration is forward of the collision bulkhead.
(c) The thickness of the inlet and discharge connections, outboard
of the shutoff valves required by paragraph (b) of this section, must
be at least Schedule 80.
(d) Short lengths of approved nonmetallic flexible hose, fixed by
hose clamps, may be used at machinery connections for a keel cooler
installation.

Sec. 182.425 Engine exhaust cooling.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph, all engine
exhaust pipes must be water cooled.
(1) Vertical dry exhaust pipes are permissible if installed in
compliance with Secs. 177.405(b) and 177.970 of this subchapter.
(2) Horizontal dry exhaust pipes are permitted only if:
(i) They do not pass through living or berthing spaces;
(ii) They terminate above the deepest load waterline;
(iii) They are so arranged as to prevent entry of cold water from
rough or boarding seas;
(iv) They are constructed of corrosion resisting material at the
hull penetration; and
(v) They are installed in compliance with Secs. 177.405(b) and
177.970 of this subchapter.
(b) The exhaust pipe cooling water system must comply with the
requirements of this paragraph.
(1) Water for cooling the exhaust pipe must be obtained from the
engine cooling water system or a separate engine driven pump.
(2) Water for cooling the exhaust pipe, other than a vertical
exhaust, must be injected into the exhaust system as near to the engine
manifold as practicable. The water must pass through the entire length
of the exhaust pipe.
(3) The part of the exhaust system between the point of cooling
water injection and the engine manifold must be water-jacketed or
effectively insulated and protected in compliance with Secs. 177.405(b)
and 177.970 of this subchapter.
(4) Vertical exhaust pipes must be water-jacketed or suitably
insulated between the engine manifold and the spark arrester required
by Sec. 182.430(g).
(5) When the exhaust cooling water system is separate from the
engine cooling water system, a suitable warning device, visual or
audible, must be installed at the operating station to indicate any
reduction in normal water flow in the exhaust cooling system.
(6) A suitable hull strainer must be installed in the circulating
raw water intake line for the exhaust cooling system.
(c) Engine exhaust cooling systems built in accordance with the
requirements of ABYC Project P-1, ``Installation of Exhaust Systems for
Propulsion and Auxiliary Machinery,'' will be considered as meeting the
requirements of this section.

Sec. 182.430 Engine exhaust pipe installation.

(a) The design of all exhaust systems must ensure minimum risk of
injury to personnel. Protection must be provided in compliance with
Sec. 177.970 of this subchapter at such locations where persons or
equipment might come in contact with an exhaust pipe.
(b) Exhaust gas must not leak from the piping or any connections.
The piping must be properly supported by noncombustible hangers or
blocks.
(c) The exhaust piping must be so arranged as to prevent backflow
of water from reaching engine exhaust ports under normal conditions.
(d) An exhaust pipe discharge located less than 3 inches above the
deepest load waterline must be fitted with means to prevent the ingress
of water.
(e) Pipes used for wet exhaust lines must be schedule 80 or
corrosion-resistant material and adequately protected from mechanical
damage.
(f) Where flexibility is necessary, a section of flexible metallic
hose may be used. Nonmetallic hose may be used for wet exhaust systems
provided it is especially adapted to resist the action of oil, acid,
and heat, has a wall thickness sufficient to prevent collapsing or
panting, and is double clamped.
(g) Where an exhaust pipe passes through a watertight bulkhead, the
watertight integrity of the bulkhead must be maintained. Noncombustible
packing must be used in bulkhead penetration glands for dry exhaust
systems. A wet exhaust pipe may be welded to a steel bulkhead in way of
a penetration and a fiberglass wet exhaust pipe may be fiberglassed to
a fiberglass reinforced plastic bulkhead if suitable arrangements are
provided to relieve the stresses resulting from the expansion of the
exhaust piping.
(h) A dry exhaust pipe must:
(1) If it passes through a combustible bulkhead or partition, be
kept clear of and suitably insulated or shielded from combustible
material.
(2) Be provided with noncombustible hangers and blocks for support.
(i) An exhaust pipe discharge terminating in a transom must be
located as far outboard as practicable so that exhaust gases cannot re-
enter the vessel.
(j) Arrangements must be made to provide access to allow complete
inspection of the exhaust piping throughout its length.
(k) An exhaust installation subject to pressures in excess of 15
pounds per square inch gauge or having exhaust pipes passing through
living or working spaces must meet the material requirements of part 56
of subchapter F (Marine Engineering) of this chapter.
(l) Engine exhaust installations built in accordance with the
requirements of ABYC Project P-1, ``Installations of Exhaust Systems
for Propulsion and Auxiliary Machinery,'' will be considered as meeting
the requirements of this section.

Sec. 182.435 Integral fuel tanks.

(a) Gasoline fuel tanks must be independent of the hull.
(b) Diesel fuel tanks may not be built integral with the hull of a
vessel unless the hull is made of:
(1) Steel;
(2) Aluminum; or
(3) Fiber reinforced plastic when:
(i) Sandwich construction is not used; or
(ii) Sandwich construction is used with only a core material of
closed cell polyvinyl chloride.
(c) During the initial inspection for certification of a vessel,
integral fuel tanks must withstand a hydrostatic pressure test of 5
pounds per square inch, or the maximum pressure head to which they may
be subjected in service, whichever is greater. A standpipe of 11\1/2\
feet in height attached to the tank may be filled with water to
accomplish the 5 pounds per square inch test.

Sec. 182.440 Independent fuel tanks.

(a) Materials and construction. Independent fuel tanks must be
designed and constructed of materials in compliance with the
requirements of this paragraph.
(1) The material used and the minimum thickness allowed must be as
indicated in table 182.440(a)(1), except that other materials which
provide equivalent safety may be approved for use under paragraph
(a)(3) of this section. Tanks having a capacity of more than 150
gallons must be designed to withstand the maximum head to which they
may be subjected in service, but in no case may the thickness be less
than that specified in table 182.440(a)(1).

Table--182.440(a)(1)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thickness in inches & gage number\1\ vs. tank capacities
for
ASTM specification (latest -----------------------------------------------------------
Material edition) More than 80 and
1 to 80 gallon not more than 150 Over 150\2\ gallon
tanks gallon tanks tanks
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nickel-copper.......... B127, hot rolled sheet or 0.037 (USSG 20)\3\ 0.050 (USSG 18)... 0.107 (USSG 12)
plate.
Copper-nickel\4\....... B122, UNS alloy C71500..... 0.045 (AWG 17).... 0.057 (AWG 15).... 0.128 (AWG 8)
Copper\4\.............. B152, UNS alloy C11000..... 0.057 (AWG 15).... 0.081 (AWG 12).... 0.182 (AWG 5)
Copper-silicon\4\...... B97, alloys A, B, and C.... 0.051 (AWG 16).... 0.064 (AWG 14).... 0.144 (AWG 7)
Steel or iron\5\,\6\... ........................... 0.0747 (MSG 14)... 0.1046 (MSG 12)... 0.1793 (MSG 7)
Aluminum\7\............ B209, alloy 5052, 5083, 0.250 (USSG 3).... 0.250 (USSG 3).... 0.250 (USSG 3)
5086.
Fiber reinforced ........................... As required\8\.... As required\8\.... As required\8\
plastic.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\The gage numbers used in this table may be found in many standard engineering reference books. The letters
``USSG'' stand for ``U.S. Standard Gage,'' which was established by the Act of March 3, 1892 (15 U.S.C. 206),
for sheet and plate iron and steel. The letters ``AWG'' stand for ``American Wire Gage'' (or Brown and Sharpe
Gage) for noferrous sheet thicknesses. The letters ``MSG'' stand for ``Manufacturers' Standard Gage'' for
sheet steel thickness.
\2\Tanks over 400 gallons shall be designed with a factor of safety of four on the ultimate strength of the
material used with a design head of not less than 4 feet of liquid above the top of the tank.
\3\Nickel-copper not less than 0.031 inch (USSG 22) may be used for tanks up to 30-gallon capacity.
\4\Acceptable only for gasoline service.
\5\Gasoline fuel tanks constructed of iron or steel, which are less than \3/16\ inch thick, shall be galvanized
inside and outside by the hot dip process. Tanks intended for use with diesel oil shall not be internally
galvanized.
\6\Stainless steel tanks are not included in this category.
\7\Anodic to most common metals. Avoid dissimilar metal contact with tank body.
\8\The requirements of Sec. 182.440(a)(2) apply.

(2) Fiber reinforced plastic may be used for diesel fuel tanks
under the following provisions:
(i) The materials must be fire retardant. Flammability of the
material must be determined by the standard test methods ASTM D635 and
ASTM D2863. The results of the tests must show that the average extent
of burning is less than 0.394 inches (10mm), the average time of
burning is less than 50 seconds, and the limiting oxygen index is
greater than 21.
(ii) Tanks must meet UL Standard 1102. Testing may be accomplished
by an independent laboratory or by the fabricator to the satisfaction
of the OCMI.
(iii) Tanks must be designed to withstand the maximum head to which
they may be subjected to in service.
(iv) Installation of nozzles, flanges or other fittings for pipe
connections to the tanks must be acceptable to the cognizant OCMI.
(v) Baffle plates, if installed, must be of the same material and
not less than the minimum thickness of the tank walls. Limber holes at
the bottom and air holes at the top of all baffles must be provided.
Baffle plates must be installed at the time the tests required by UL
Standard 1102 are conducted.
(3) Materials other than those listed in Table 182.440(a)(1) must
be approved by the Commandant. An independent tank using material
approved by the Commandant under this paragraph must meet the testing
requirements of UL Standard 1102. Testing may be accomplished by an
independent laboratory or by the fabricator to the satisfaction of the
OCMI.
(4) Tanks with flanged-up top edges which may trap and hold
moisture are prohibited.
(5) Openings for fill pipes, vent pipes, and machinery fuel supply
pipes, and openings for fuel level gauges, where used, must be on the
topmost surfaces of tanks. Tanks may not have any openings in bottoms,
sides, or ends, except for:
(i) An opening fitted with a threaded plug or cap installed for
tank cleaning purposes; and
(ii) In a diesel fuel tank, openings for supply piping and tubular
gauge glasses.
(6) All tank joints must be welded or brazed. Lap joints may not be
used.
(7) Nozzles, flanges, or other fittings for pipe connections to a
metal tank must be welded or brazed to the tank. Tank openings in way
of pipe connections must be properly reinforced where necessary. Where
fuel level gauges are used on a metal tank, the flanges to which gauge
fittings are attached must be welded or brazed to the tank. No tubular
gauge glasses may be fitted to gasoline fuel tanks. Tubular gauge
glasses, if fitted to diesel fuel tanks, must be of heat resistant
materials, adequately protected from mechanical damage, and provided at
the tank connections with devices which will automatically close in the
event of rupture of the gauge or gauge lines.
(8) A metal tank exceeding 30 inches in any horizontal dimension
must:
(i) Be fitted with vertical baffle plates, which meet paragraph
(a)(9) of this section, at intervals not exceeding 30 inches to provide
strength and to control the excessive surge of fuel; or
(ii) The owner shall submit calculations to the cognizant OCMI
demonstrating the structural adequacy of the tank in a fully loaded
static condition and in a worst case dynamic (sloshing) condition.
(9) Baffle plates, where required in metal tanks, must be of the
same material and not less than the minimum thickness required in the
tank walls and must be connected to the tank walls by welding or
brazing. Limber holes at the bottom and air holes at the top of all
baffles must be provided.
(10) Iron or steel diesel fuel tanks must not be galvanized on the
interior. Galvanizing, paint, or other suitable coating must be used to
protect the outside of iron and steel diesel fuel tanks and the inside
and outside of iron and steel gasoline fuel tanks.
(b) Location and installation. Independent fuel tanks must be
located and installed in compliance with the requirements of this
paragraph.
(1) Fuel tanks must be located in, or as close as practicable to,
machinery spaces.
(2) Fuel tanks and fittings must be so installed as to permit
examination, testing, or removal for cleaning with minimum disturbance
to the hull structure.
(3) Fuel tanks must be adequately supported and braced to prevent
movement. The supports and braces must be insulated from contact with
the tank surfaces with a nonabrasive and nonabsorbent material.
(4) All fuel tanks must be electrically bonded to a common ground.
(c) Tests. Independent fuel tanks must be tested in compliance with
the requirements of this part prior to being used to carry fuel.
(1) Prior to installation, tanks vented to the atmosphere must be
hydrostatically tested to, and must withstand, a pressure of 5 pounds
per square inch or 1\1/2\ times the maximum pressure head to which they
may be subjected in service, whichever is greater. A standpipe of 11\1/
2\ feet in height attached to the tank may be filled with water to
accomplish the 5 pounds per square inch test. Permanent deformation of
the tank will not be cause for rejection unless accompanied by leakage.
(2) After installation of the fuel tank on a vessel, the complete
installation must be tested in the presence of a marine inspector to a
head not less than that to which the tank may be subjected in service.
Fuel may be used as the testing medium.
(3) All tanks not vented to the atmosphere must be constructed and
tested in accordance with Sec. 182.330.
(d) Alternative procedures. A vessel of not more than 65 feet in
length carrying not more than 12 passengers, with independent gasoline
fuel tanks built in accordance with ABYC Project H-24 or 33 CFR part
183, subpart J, or with independent diesel fuel tanks built in
accordance with ABYC Project H-33, will be considered as meeting the
requirements of this section. However, tanks must not be fabricated
from any material not listed in table 182.440(a)(1) without approval by
the Commandant under paragraph (a)(3) of this section.

Sec. 182.445 Fill and sounding pipes for fuel tanks.

(a) Fill pipes for fuel tanks must be not less than 1\1/2\ inches
nominal pipe size.
(b) There must be a means of accurately determining the amount of
fuel in each fuel tank either by sounding, through a separate sounding
pipe or a fill pipe, or by an installed marine type fuel gauge.
(c) Where sounding pipes are used, their openings must be at least
as high as the opening of the fill pipe and they must be kept closed at
all times except during sounding.
(d) Fill pipes and sounding pipes must be so arranged that overflow
of liquid or vapor cannot escape to the inside of the vessel.
(e) Fill pipes and sounding pipes must run as directly as possible,
preferably in a straight line, from the deck connection to the top of
the tank. Such pipes must terminate on the weather deck and must be
fitted with shutoff valves, watertight deck plates, or screw caps,
suitably marked for identification. Gasoline fill pipes and sounding
pipes must extend to within one half of their diameter from the bottom
of the tank. Diesel fill pipes and sounding pipes may terminate at the
top of the tank.
(f) A vessel of not more than 65 feet carrying not more than 12
passengers, with a gasoline fuel system built in accordance with ABYC
Project H-24 or 33 CFR part 183, subpart J, or with a diesel fuel
system built in accordance with ABYC Project H-33 will be considered as
meeting the requirements of this section.
(g) Where a flexible fill pipe section is necessary, suitable
flexible tubing or hose having high resistance to salt water, petroleum
oils, heat and vibration, may be used. Such hose must overlap metallic
pipe ends at least 1\1/2\ times the pipe diameter and must be secured
at each end by clamps. The flexible section must be accessible and as
near the upper end of the fill pipe as practicable. When the flexible
section is a nonconductor of electricity, the metallic sections of the
fill pipe separated thereby must be joined by a conductor for
protection against generation of a static charge when filling with
fuel.

Sec. 182.450 Vent pipes for fuel tanks.

(a) Each unpressurized fuel tank must be fitted with a vent pipe
connected to the highest point of the tank.
(b) The net cross sectional area of the vent pipe for a gasoline
fuel tank must not be less than that of \3/4\ inch O.D. tubing (0.035
inch wall thickness, 20 gauge), except that, where the tank is filled
under pressure, the net cross sectional area of the vent pipe must be
not less than that of the fill pipe.
(c) The minimum net cross sectional area of the vent pipe for
diesel fuel tanks must be as follows:
(1) Not less than the cross sectional area of \5/8\ inch O.D.
tubing (0.035-inch wall thickness, 20 gauge), if the fill pipe
terminates at the top of the tank;
(2) Not less than the cross sectional area of \3/4\ inch O.D.
tubing (0.035-inch wall thickness, 20 gauge), if the fill pipe extends
into the tank; and
(3) Not less than the cross sectional area of the fill pipe if the
tank is filled under pressure.
(d) The discharge ends of fuel tank vent pipes must terminate on
the hull exterior as high above the waterline as practicable and remote
from any hull openings, or they must terminate in U-bends as high above
the weather deck as practicable and as far as practicable from openings
into any enclosed spaces. Vent pipes terminating on the hull exterior
must be installed or equipped to prevent the accidental contamination
of the fuel by water under normal operating conditions.
(e) The discharge ends of fuel tank vent pipes must be fitted with
removable flame screens or flame arresters. The flame screens must
consist of a single screen of corrosion resistant wire of at least
30 x 30 mesh. The flame screens or flame arresters must be of such size
and design as to prevent reduction in the net cross sectional area of
the vent pipe and permit cleaning or renewal of the flame screens or
arrester elements.
(f) A vessel of not more than 65 feet in length carrying not more
than 12 passengers, with fuel gasoline tank vents built in accordance
with ABYC Project H-24, or 33 CFR part 183, subpart J, or with diesel
fuel tank vents built in accordance with ABYC Project H-33, will be
considered as meeting the requirements of this section.
(g) Where a flexible vent pipe section is necessary, suitable
flexible tubing or hose having high resistance to salt water, petroleum
oils, heat and vibration, may be used. Such hose must overlap metallic
pipe ends at least 1\1/2\ times the pipe diameter and must be secured
at each end by clamps. The flexible section must be accessible and as
near the upper end of the vent pipe as practicable.

Sec. 182.455 Fuel piping.

(a) Materials and workmanship. The materials and construction of
fuel lines, including pipe, tube, and hose, must comply with the
requirements of this paragraph.
(1) Fuel lines must be annealed tubing of copper, nickel-copper, or
copper-nickel having a minimum wall thickness of 0.035 inch except
that:
(i) Diesel fuel piping of other materials, such as seamless steel
pipe or tubing, which provide equivalent safety may be used;
(ii) Diesel fuel piping of aluminum is acceptable on aluminum hull
vessels provided it is installed outside the machinery space and is a
minimum of Schedule 80 wall thickness; and
(iii) When used, flexible hose must meet the requirements of
Sec. 182.720(e).
(2) Tubing connections and fittings must be of nonferrous drawn or
forged metal of the flared type except that flareless fittings of the
non-bite type may be used when the tubing system is of nickel-copper or
copper-nickel. When making tube connections, the tubing must be cut
square and flared by suitable tools. Tube ends must be annealed before
flaring.
(3) Cocks are prohibited except for the solid bottom type with
tapered plugs and union bonnets.
(4) Valves for gasoline fuel lines must be of a suitable nonferrous
type.
(b) Installation. The installation of fuel lines, including pipe,
tube, and hose, must comply with the requirements of this paragraph.
(1) Gasoline fuel lines must be connected at the top of the fuel
tank and run at or above the level of the tank top to a point as close
to the engine connection as practicable, except that lines below the
level of the tank top are permitted if equipped with anti-siphon
protection.
(2) Diesel fuel lines may be connected to the fuel tank at or near
the bottom of the tank.
(3) Fuel lines must be accessible, protected from mechanical
injury, and effectively secured against excessive movement and
vibration by the use of soft nonferrous metal straps which have no
sharp edges and are insulated to protect against corrosion. Where
passing through bulkheads, fuel lines must be protected

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Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/fr%3A94-19. Public record. Not legal advice.