T-boat

Question 1

What are the exceptions to the applicability of Subchapter T?

Answer 1

(1) A vessel operating exclusively on inland waters that are not navigable waters of the United States;
(2) An oceanographic research vessel;
(3) A boat forming part of a vessel’s lifesaving equipment and that is not used for carrying passengers except in emergencies or during emergency drills;
(4) A vessel of a foreign country that is a party to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended (SOLAS), to which the United States Government is currently a party, and that has on board a current valid SOLAS Passenger Ship Safety Certificate; or
(5) A vessel of a foreign country, whose government has inspection laws approximating those of the United States and that by its laws accords similar privileges to vessels of the United States, which has on board a current valid certificate of inspection, permitting the carrying of passengers, issued by its government.

46CFR 175.110

Question 2

What is the applicability of subchapter T?

Answer 2

This subchapter applies to each vessel of less than 100 gross tons that carries 150 or less passengers, or has overnight accommodations for 49 or less passengers, and that—

(1) Carries more than six passengers, including at least one for hire;
(2) Is chartered with a crew provided or specified by the owner or the owner’s representative and is carrying more than six passengers;
(3) Is chartered with no crew provided or specified by the owner or the owner’s representative and is carrying more than 12 passengers; or
(4) If a submersible vessel, carries at least one passenger for hire; or
(5) Is a ferry carrying more than six passengers.

46 CFR 175.110

Question 3

When conducting a Simplified Stability Proof Test, if the vessel carries passengers on diving excursions, the total weight of diving gear must be included in the loaded condition and placed in its stowed position. Not less than _____________ should be assumed for each person for whom diving gear is provided.

Answer 3

80 pounds (36.3 kilograms)
46 CFR 178.330

Question 4

A mechanically propelled vessel that carries more than ______ passengers on an international voyage must comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS, as well as this subchapter.

Answer 4

12

46 CFR 175.120

Question 5

Consideration

Answer 5

Consideration means an economic benefit, inducement, right, or profit including pecuniary payment accruing to an individual, person, or entity, but not including a voluntary sharing of the actual expenses of the voyage, by monetary contribution or donation of fuel, food, beverage, or other supplies.

Question 6

Dead Cover

Answer 6

Dead cover means a metal cover to close or protect a port light to avoid glass breakage in case of heavy weather.

Question 7

Exposed Waters

Answer 7

Exposed waters is a term used in connection with stability criteria and means:

(1) Waters, except the Great Lakes, more than 20 nautical miles from a harbor of safe refuge;
(2) Those portions of the Great Lakes more than 20 nautical miles from a harbor of safe refuge from October 1 of one year through April 15 of the next year (winter season); and
(3) Those waters less than 20 nautical miles from a harbor of safe refuge that the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, determines are not partially protected waters or protected waters because they present special hazards due to weather or other circumstances.

Question 8

Harbor of Safe Refuge

Answer 8

Harbor of safe refuge means a port, inlet, or other body of water normally sheltered from heavy seas by land and in which a vessel can navigate and safely moor. The suitability of a location as a harbor of safe refuge shall be determined by the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, and varies for each vessel, dependent on the vessel’s size, maneuverability, and mooring gear.

Question 9

High Seas

Answer 9

High seas means all waters that are neither territorial seas (the waters in a belt 3 nautical miles wide, that is adjacent to the coast and seaward of the territorial sea baseline) nor internal waters of the United States or of any foreign country.

Question 10

International Voyage

Answer 10

International voyage means a voyage between a country to which SOLAS applies and a port outside that country. A country, as used in this definition, includes every territory for the international relations of which a contracting government to the convention is responsible or for which the United Nations is the administering authority. For the U.S., the term “territory” includes the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, all possessions of the United States, and all lands held by the United States under a protectorate or mandate. For the purposes of this subchapter, vessels are not considered as being on an “international voyage” when solely navigating the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River as far east as a straight line drawn from Cap des Rosiers to West Point, Anticosti Island and, on the north

Question 11

Lakes, Bays and Sounds

Answer 11

Lakes, bays, and sounds means a route on any of the following waters:

(1) A lake other than the Great Lakes;
(2) A bay;
(3) A sound; or
(4) Such other similar waters as may be designated by a Coast Guard District Commander.

Question 12

Length Between Perpendiculars BBP

Answer 12

Length between perpendiculars or LBP means the horizontal distance measured between perpendiculars taken at the forwardmost and aftermost points on the waterline corresponding to the deepest operating draft.

Question 13

Limited Coastwise

Answer 13

Limited coastwise means a route that is not more than 20 nautical miles from a harbor of safe refuge.

Question 14

Oceans

Answer 14

Oceans means a route that is more than 20 nautical miles offshore on any of the following waters:

(1) Any ocean;
(2) The Gulf of Mexico;
(3) The Caribbean Sea;
(4) The Bering Sea;
(5) The Gulf of Alaska; or

Question 15

Partially Protected

Answer 15

Partially protected waters is a term used in connection with stability criteria and means:

(1) Waters not more than 20 nautical miles from the mouth of a harbor of safe refuge, unless determined by the cognizant OCMI to be exposed waters;
(2) Those portions of rivers, estuaries, harbors, lakes, and similar waters that the cognizant OCMI determines not to be protected waters; and
(3) Waters of the Great Lakes from April 16 through September 30 of the same year (summer season).

Question 16

Passenger

Answer 16

Passenger means an individual carried on a vessel, except:

(1) The owner or an individual representative of the owner, or in the case of a vessel under charter, an individual charterer or individual representative of the charterer;
(2) The master; or
(3) A member of the crew engaged in the business of the vessel who has not contributed consideration for carriage and who is paid for on board services.

Question 17

Passenger for Hire

Answer 17

Passenger for hire means a passenger for whom consideration is contributed as a condition of carriage on the vessel, whether directly or indirectly flowing to the owner, charterer, operator, agent, or any other person having an interest in the vessel.

Question 18

Protected Waters

Answer 18

Protected waters is a term used in connection with stability criteria and means sheltered waters presenting no special hazards such as most rivers, harbors, and lakes, and that is not determined to be exposed waters or partially protected waters by the cognizant OCMI.

Question 19

Rivers

Answer 19

Rivers means a route on any of the following waters:

(1) A river;
(2) A canal; or
(3) Such other similar waters as may be designated by a Coast Guard District Commander.

Question 20

What are the three methods to determine the maximum number of passengers on board a vessel?

Answer 20

1) Length of rail criterion
2) Deck area criterion
3) Fixed seating criterion

Question 21

Length of Rail Criterion

Answer 21

Length of rail criterion. One passenger may be permitted for each 760 millimeters (30 inches) of rail space available to the passengers at the periphery of each deck. The following rail space may not be used in determining the maximum number of passengers permitted:

Question 22

Deck Area Criterion

Answer 22

Deck area criterion. One passenger may be permitted for each 0.9 square meters (10 square feet) of deck area available for the passengers’ use. In computing such deck area, the areas occupied by the following must be excluded;

Question 23

Fixed Seating Criterion

Answer 23

Fixed seating criterion. One passenger may be permitted for each 455 millimeter (18 inches) of width of fixed seating provided by § 177.820 of this subchapter. Each sleeping berth in overnight accommodation spaces shall be counted as only one seat.

Question 24

Which seating criterion may not be combined with the other on the same deck?

Answer 24

The length of rail criterion may not be combined with either the deck area criterion or the fixed seating criterion when determining the maximum number of passengers permitted on an individual deck.

Question 25

How long is a COI valid for?

Answer 25

(a) A Certificate of Inspection is valid for 1 year for vessels carrying more than 12 passengers on international voyages.
(b) A Certificate of Inspection is valid for 5 years for all other vessels.
(c) A Certificate of Inspection may be suspended and withdrawn or revoked by the cognizant OCMI at any time for noncompliance with the requirements of this subchapter.

Question 26

What is the “Permit to Proceed to another Port for Repairs,” form and what number is it?

Answer 26

When a vessel is not in compliance with its Certificate of Inspection or fails to comply with a regulation of this subchapter, the cognizant OCMI may permit the vessel to proceed to another port for repair, if in the judgment of the OCMI, the trip can be completed safely, even if the Certificate of Inspection of the vessel has expired or is about to expire.
The form number is CG-948.

Question 27

How often do dry-docks need to be conducted?

Answer 27

SOLAS vessels: 12 months

If your vessel is not operated on international voyages and does not meet the conditions in paragraph (d) of this section, it must undergo a drydock and internal structural examination as follows unless it has been approved to undergo an underwater survey (UWILD) per § 176.615 of this part:

A vessel that is exposed to salt water more than three months in any 12 month period since the last examination must undergo a drydock examination and an internal structural at least once every two years; and

A vessel that is exposed to salt water not more than three months in any 12 month period since the last examination must undergo a drydock examination and an internal structural examination at least once every five years.

Question 28

When is an EPIRB required?

Answer 28

Each vessel that operates on the high seas, or that operates beyond three miles from the coastline of the Great Lakes, must have on board a FCC Type Accepted Category 1, 406 MHz EPIRB, installed to automatically float free and activate.

Question 29

What are the requirements for internal communication and control systems on SPV?

Answer 29

(a) A vessel equipped with pilothouse control must have a fixed means of two-way communications from the operating station to the location where the means of controlling the propulsion machinery, required by § 184.620(a) of this part, is located. Twin screw vessels with pilothouse control for both engines are not required to have a fixed communications system.
(b) A vessel equipped with auxiliary means of steering, required by § 182.620 of this subchapter, must have a fixed means of two-way communications from the operating station to the location where the auxiliary means of steering is controlled.
(c) When the propulsion machinery of a vessel cannot be controlled from the operating station, an efficient communications system must be provided between the operating station and the propulsion machinery space.
(d) When the locations addressed in paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) of this section are sufficiently close together, direct voice communications satisfactory to the cognizant OCMI is acceptable instead of the required fixed means of communications.
(e) The OCMI may accept hand held portable radios as satisfying the communications system requirement of this section.

Question 30

What are the requirements for PA systems on a SPV?

Answer 30

(a) Except as noted in paragraphs (d) and (e) below, each vessel must be equipped with a public address system.
(b) On a vessel of more than 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length, the public address system must be a fixed installation and be audible during normal operating conditions throughout the accommodation spaces and all other spaces normally manned by crew members.
(c) A vessel with more than one passenger deck and a vessel with overnight accommodations must have the public address system operable from the operating station.
(d) On a vessel of not more than 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length, a battery powered bullhorn may serve as the public address system if audible throughout the accommodation spaces of the vessel during normal operating conditions. The bullhorn’s batteries are to be continually maintained at a fully charged level by use of a battery charger or other means acceptable to the cognizant OCMI.
(e) On a vessel of not more than 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length carrying not more than 49 passengers, a public address system is not required if a public announcement made from operating station without amplification can be heard throughout the accommodation spaces of the vessel during normal operating conditions, to the satisfaction of the cognizant OCMI.

Question 31

What are the requirements for engine control systems?

Answer 31

(a) A vessel must have two independent means of controlling each propulsion engine. Control must be provided for the engine speed, direction of shaft rotation, and engine shutdown.
(1) One of the means may be the ability to readily disconnect the remote engine control linkage to permit local operation.
(2) A multiple engine vessel with independent remote propulsion control for each engine need not have a second means of controlling each engine.
(b) In addition to the requirements of paragraph (a), a vessel must have a reliable means for shutting down a propulsion engine, at the main pilothouse control station, which is independent of the engine’s speed control.
(c) A propulsion engine control system, including pilothouse control, must be designed so that a loss of power to the control system does not result in an increase in shaft speed or propeller pitch.

Question 32

What are the requirements for shore power connections on a SPV?

Answer 32

A vessel with an electrical system operating at more than 50 volts, which is provided with a means to connect to shore power, must meet the following:

(a) A shore power connection box or receptacle must be permanently installed at a convenient location;
(b) A cable connecting the shore power connection box or receptacle to the switchboard or main distribution panel must be permanently installed;
(c) A circuit breaker must be provided at the switchboard or main distribution panel for the shore power connection; and
(d) The circuit breaker, required by paragraph (c) of this section, must be interlocked with the vessel’s power sources so that shore power and the vessel’s power sources may not be operated simultaneously.

Question 33

What are the general generator requirements?

Answer 33

(a) Each generator and motor must be:
(1) In a location that is accessible, adequately ventilated, and as dry as practicable; and
(2) Mounted above the bilges to avoid damage by splash and to avoid contact with low lying vapors.
(b) Each generator and motor must be designed for an ambient temperature of 50 °C (122 °F) except that:
(1) If the ambient temperature in the space where a generator or motor will be located will not exceed 40 °C (104 °F) under normal operating conditions, the generator or motor may be designed for an ambient temperature of 40 °C (104 °F); and
(2) A generator or motor designed for 40 °C (104 °F) may be used in 50 °C (122 °F) ambient locations provided the generator or motor is derated to 80 percent of the full load rating, and the rating or setting of the overcurrent devices is reduced accordingly.
(c) A voltmeter and an ammeter, which can be used for measuring voltage and current of a generator that is in operation, must be provided for a generator rated at 50 volts or more. For each alternating current generator, a means for measuring frequency must also be provided.
(d) Each generator must have a nameplate attached to it containing the information required by Article 445 of NFPA 70 (incorporated by reference; see 46 CFR 175.600), and for a generator derated in accordance with paragraph (b)(2) of this section, the derated capacity.
(e) Each motor must have a nameplate attached to it containing the information required by Article 430 of NFPA 70, and for a motor derated in accordance with paragraph (b)(2) of this section, the derated capacity.
(f) Each generator must be protected by an overcurrent device set value not exceeding 115 percent of the generator full load rating.

Question 34

What vessels are required to have Collision Bulkheads?

Answer 34

(a) A vessel of more than 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length must have a collision bulkhead.
(b) A vessel of not more than 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length must have a collision bulkhead if it:
(1) Carries more than 49 passengers;
(2) Operates on exposed waters;
(3) Is of more than 12.2 meters (40 feet) in length and operates on partially protected waters; or
(4) Is constructed of wood on or after March 11, 2001, and operates in cold water.
(c) A double-ended ferry required to have a collision bulkhead must have a collision bulkhead at each end of the vessel.

Question 35

Where is the collision bulkhead required to be located?

Answer 35

Located at least 5 percent but not more than 15 percent of the length between perpendiculars (LBP) aft of the forward perpendicular,

Question 36

What is a sluice valve?

Answer 36

A sluice valve is a gate valve. The terminology is usually applied when the gate valve is used in an open channel, like a dam gate. It can be thought of as a flat plate that can be lowered into or lifted out of the flow channel. Of course, the actual designs are more sophisticated than that.

Question 37

On vessels required to have collision bulkheads, where should they be located?

Answer 37

5% to 15% of the length between Perpendiculars (LBP) act of the forward perpendicular

Question 38

What vessels are required required to have collision bulkheads?

Answer 38

• vessels greater than 65 ft
• vessels 65ft or less if any of the following are met:
  Carries more than 49 passengers
  Operates on exposed waters
  Greater than 40 ft and operates on partially protected waters
  Is a wood vessel and operates in cold water

Question 39

What is a new vessel?

Answer 39

New vessel means a vessel:

(1) The initial construction of which began on or after March 11, 1996;
(2) Which was issued an initial Certificate of Inspection on or after September 11, 1996;
(3) Which underwent a major conversion that was initiated on or after March 11, 1996; or
(4) Which underwent a major conversion that was completed and for which an amended Certificate of Inspection was issued on or after September 11, 1996.

Question 40

How are servo-type power steering systems tested?

Answer 40

Servo-type power systems, such as orbital systems, must be tested and capable of smooth operation by a single person in the manual mode, with hydraulic pumps secured.

Question 41

Which three initial plans are required for a vessel requiring initial inspection?

Answer 41

(a) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section and § 177.210 of this part, the owner of a vessel requesting initial inspection for certification shall, prior to the start of construction unless otherwise allowed by the cognizant Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI), submit for approval to the cognizant OCMI, at least two copies of the following plans:
(1) Outboard profile;
(2) Inboard profile; and
(3) Arrangement of decks.

Question 42

What are the plan submitting requirements for vessels of not more than 65 ft?

Answer 42

For a vessel of not more than 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length, the owner may submit specifications, sketches, photographs, line drawings or written descriptions instead of any of the required drawings, provided the required information is adequately detailed and acceptable to the cognizant OCMI.

Question 43

When referring to hull structure, what is the Satisfactory Service as a design basis?

Answer 43

When scantlings for the hull, deckhouse, and frames of the vessel differ from those specified by the standards listed in § 177.300 of this part, and the owner can demonstrate that the vessel, or another vessel approximating the same size, power, and displacement, has been built to such scantlings and has been in satisfactory service insofar as structural adequacy is concerned for a period of at least 5 years, such scantlings may be approved by the cognizant OCMI instead of the scantlings required by the applicable standards specified in § 177.300 of this part.

Question 44

Does a vessel of not more than 65 ft carrying not more than 12 passengers have to meet the scantling requirements of 46 CFR 177.300/310?

Answer 44

The scantlings for a vessel of not more than 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length carrying not more than 12 passengers that do not meet the standards in § 177.300 or § 177.310 may be approved by the cognizant OCMI if the builder of the vessel establishes to the satisfaction of the OCMI that the design and construction of the vessel is adequate for the intended service.

Question 45

Do machinery and fuel tank spaces need to be separated from accommodation spaces?

Answer 45

Machinery and fuel tank spaces must be separated from accommodation spaces by boundaries that prevent the passage of vapors.

Question 46

Are there any structural fire protection requirements regarding cooking areas?

Answer 46

Vertical or horizontal surfaces within 910 millimeters (3 feet) of cooking appliances must have an ASTM E-84 (incorporated by reference, see 46 CFR 175.600) flame spread rating of not more than 75. Curtains, draperies, or free hanging fabrics must not be fitted within 910 millimeters (3 feet) of cooking or heating appliances.

Question 47

What is the requirement for using composite materials when building a vessel?

Answer 47

When the hull, bulkheads, decks, deckhouse, or superstructure of a vessel is partially or completely constructed of a composite material, including fiber reinforced plastic, the resin used must be fire retardant and meet as accepted by the Commandant as meeting NPFC MIL-R-21607E(SH) (incorporated by reference, see 46 CFR 175.600). Resin systems that have not been accepted as meeting NPFC MIL-R-21607E(SH) may be accepted as fire retardant if they have an ASTM E-84 flame spread rating of not more than 100 when tested in laminate form

Question 48

Can you use general purpose resin instead of fire retardant resin?

Answer 48

(c) Use of general purpose resin. General purpose resins may be used instead of fire retardant resins if the following additional requirements are met:
(1) Cooking and heating appliances. Galleys must be surrounded by B-15 Class fire boundaries. This may not apply to concession stands that are not considered high fire hazards areas (galleys) as long as they do not contain medium to high heat appliances such as deep fat fryers, flat plate griddles, and open ranges with heating surfaces exceeding 121 °C(250 °F). Open flame systems for cooking and heating are not allowed.
(2) Sources of ignition. Electrical equipment and switch boards must be protected from fuel or water sources. Fuel lines and hoses must be located as far as practical from heat sources. Internal combustion engine exhausts, boiler and galley uptakes, and similar sources of ignition must be kept clear of and suitability insulated from any woodwork or other combustible matter. Internal combustion engine dry exhaust systems must be installed in accordance with ABYC P-1 (incorporated by reference, see 46 CFR 175.600).
(3) Fire detection and extinguishing systems. Fire detection and extinguishing systems must be installed in compliance with §§ 181.400 through 181.420 of this chapter. Additionally, all fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) vessels constructed with general purpose resins must be fitted with a smoke activated fire detection system of an approved type, installed in accordance with § 76.27 in subchapter H of this chapter, in all accommodation spaces, all service spaces, and in isolated spaces such as voids and storage lockers that contain an ignition source such as electric equipment or piping for a dry exhaust system.
(4) Machinery space boundaries. Boundaries that separate machinery spaces from accommodation spaces, service spaces, and control spaces must be lined with noncombustible panels or insulation approved in accordance with § 164.009 in subchapter Q of this chapter, or other standard specified by the Commandant.
(5) Furnishings. Furniture and furnishings must comply with § 116.423 in subchapter K of this chapter.
(d) Limitations on the use of general purpose resin —
(1) Overnight accommodations. Vessels with overnight passenger accommodations for more than 12 persons must not be constructed with general purpose resin.
(2) Gasoline fuel systems. Vessels with engines powered by gasoline or other fuels having a flash point of 43.3 °C (110 °F) or lower must not be constructed with general purpose resin, except for vessels powered by outboard engines with portable fuel tanks stored in an open area aft, if, as determined by the cognizant OCMI, the arrangement does not produce an unreasonable hazard.
(3) Cargo. Vessels carrying or intended to carry hazardous combustible or flammable cargo must not be constructed with general purpose resin.

Question 49

What is the minimum clear opening of a door or passageway used as a means of escape?

Answer 49

The minimum clear opening of a door or passageway used as a means of escape must not be less than 810 millimeters (32 inches) in width, however, doors or passageways used solely by crew members must have a clear opening not less than 710 millimeters (28 inches). The sum of the width of all doors and passageways used as means of escape from a space must not be less than 8.4 millimeters (0.333 inches) multiplied by the number of passengers for which the space is designed.

Question 50

Are ladders leading to deck scuttles authorizes?

Answer 50

A ladder leading to a deck scuttle may not be used as a means of escape except:

(1) On a vessel of not more than 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length, a vertical ladder and a deck scuttle may be used as not more than one of the means of escape from passenger accommodation space; or
(2) As not more than one of the means of escape from any crew accommodation space or work space.
(k) Each ladder used as a means of escape must be mounted at least 180 millimeters (7 inches) from the nearest permanent object in back of the ladder. Rungs must be:
(1) At least 405 millimeters (16 inches) in width; and
(2) Not more than 305 millimeters (12 inches) apart, and uniformly spaced for the length of the ladder with at least 114 millimeters (4.5 inches) clearance above each rung.
(m) Footholds, handholds, ladders, and similar means provided to aid escape, must be suitable for use in emergency conditions, of rigid construction, and permanently fixed in position, unless they can be folded, yet brought into immediate service in an emergency.

Question 51

What size must a deck scuttle be if used a s a means of scape?

Answer 51

When a deck scuttle serves as a means of escape, it must not be less than 455 millimeters (18 inches) in diameter and must be fitted with a quick acting release and a holdback device to hold the scuttle in an open position.

Question 52

Can windows or windshields be used as means of escape?

Answer 52

On a vessel of not more than 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length, a window or windshield of sufficient size and proper accessibility may be used as one of the required means of escape from an enclosed space, provided it:

(1) Does not lead directly overboard;
(2) Can be opened or is designed to be kicked or pushed out; and
(3) Is suitably marked.

Question 53

Can a vessel have only one means of escape?

Answer 53

Only one means of escape is required from a space where:

(1) The space has a deck area less than 30 square meters (322 square feet);
(2) There is no stove, heater, or other source of fire in the space;
(3) The means of escape is located as far as possible from a machinery space or fuel tank; and
(4) If an accommodation space, the single means of escape does not include a deck scuttle or a ladder.

Alternative means of escape from spaces may be provided if acceptable to the cognizant OCMI.

Question 54

What is the required height of ceilings for passenger accommodations?

Answer 54

The height of ceilings in a passenger accommodation space, including aisles and passageways, must be at least 1,880 millimeters (74 inches), but may be reduced at the sides of a space to allow the camber, wiring, ventilation ducts, and piping.

Question 55

What are the requirements for berthing in overnight accommodations?

Answer 55

(a) A berth must be provided for each passenger authorized to be carried in overnight accommodation spaces. Each berth must measure at least 1,880 millimeters (74 inches) by 610 millimeters (24 inches) and have at least 610 millimeters (24 inches) of clear space above.
(b) Berths must not be located more than three high and must be constructed of wood, fiber reinforced plastic, or metal. A berth located more than 1520 millimeters (60 inches) above the deck must be fitted with a suitable aid for access.
(c) The construction and arrangement of berths and other furniture must allow free and unobstructed access to each berth. Each berth must be immediately adjacent to an aisle leading to a means of escape from the accommodation space. An aisle alongside a berth must be at least 610 millimeters (24 inches) wide. An aisle joining two or more aisles in an overnight accommodation space must be at least 1,060 millimeters (42 inches) wide.

Question 56

What are the rail height requirements?

Answer 56

(d) The height of top rails required by paragraph (a) of this section must be as follows:
(1) Rails on passenger decks of a ferry or a vessel engaged in excursion trips, including but not limited to sightseeing trips, dinner and party cruises, and overnight cruises, must be at least 1,000 millimeters (39.5 inches) high.
(2) Rails on a vessel subject to the 1966 International Convention on Load Lines must be at least 1,000 millimeters (39.5 inches) high.
(3) All other rails must be at least 910 millimeters (36 inches) high.
(4) While engaged in big game angling, the minimum rail height may be reduced to not less than 760 millimeters (30 inches) in way of a person using specialized angling techniques or equipment, such as when using a pedestal mounted fixed fighting chair on a low freeboard vessel, if it can be shown that a higher rail would interfere with the fishing operation and the lower rail would not significantly reduce safety. A rail complying with the requirements of paragraphs (d)(1), (2), or (3) of this section as applicable must be installed when big game angling is not being conducted.

Question 57

What is the requirement for rail courses?

Answer 57

(1) On passenger decks of a ferry or of a vessel on an excursion trip the following must be installed:
(i) Bulwarks;
(ii) Chain link fencing or wire mesh that has openings of not more than 4 inches in diameter; or
(iii) Bars, slats, rail courses, or an equivalent spaced at intervals of not more than 100 millimeters (4 inches).
(2) On a vessel subject to the 1966 International Convention on Load Lines, rail courses, or an equivalent, must be installed so that there is not an open space higher than 230 millimeters (9 inches) from the deck to the first rail course or equivalent.

Question 58

At what temperature must pipes be suitably insulated where necessary to prevent injuries.

Answer 58

Piping, including valves, pipe fittings and flanges, conveying vapor, gas, or liquid, the temperature of which exceeds 65.5 °C (150 °F), must be suitably insulated where necessary to prevent injuries.

Question 59

When conducting Simplified Stability Proof Test, what is the requirements for tanks to be filled too?

Answer 59

Each fuel and water tank is approximately three-quarters full. Any sewage tank should be either empty or full.

Question 60

What weight is used to account for divers regarding Simplified Stability Proof Test?

Answer 60

If the vessel carries passengers on diving excursions, the total weight of diving gear must be included in the loaded condition and placed in its stowed position. Not less than 80 pounds (36.3 kilograms) should be assumed for each person for whom diving gear is provided.

Question 61

What is the requirement for watertight doors?

Answer 61

(a) Hinged watertight doors are not permitted in bulkheads required by § 179.210 or § 179.212 unless the vessel will not proceed more than 20 nautical miles 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) A hinged watertight bulkhead door must be fitted with a quick action closing devise operable from both sides of the door and indicator lights at the operating station showing whether the door is open or closed.
(c) Sliding watertight doors must meet the requirements of part 170, subpart H in subchapter S of this chapter.
(d) 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.

Question 62

What are the requirements for a vessel operating in warm water on an oceans route?

Answer 62

Each vessel certificated to operate on an oceans route in warm water must either:

(1) Be provided with inflatable buoyant apparatus of an aggregate capacity that will accommodate at least 67% of the total number of persons permitted on board; or
(2) Be provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity that will accommodate at least 100% of the total number of persons permitted on board.

Question 63

What are the requirements for a vessel operating in cold water on an oceans route?

Answer 63

Each vessel certificated to operate on an oceans route in cold water must either:

(1) Be provided with inflatable buoyant apparatus of an aggregate capacity that will accommodate at least 100% of the total number of persons permitted on board; or
(2) Meet either the standards for collision bulkheads in § 179.310 in this chapter or § 171.085 in subchapter S of this chapter, and the standards for subdivision in §§ 179.220 and 179.320 of this chapter, or the standards for subdivision and damaged stability in §§ 171.070 through 171.073 and 171.080 in subchapter S of this chapter, as appropriate, and be provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity that will accommodate at least 100% of the total number of persons permitted on board.

Question 64

What are the requirements for survival craft on a vessel operating on a Coastwise route in warm waters?

Answer 64

Except as allowed by paragraph (d) of this section, each vessel certificated to operate on a coastwise route in warm water must be provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity that will accommodate at least 100% of the total number of persons permitted on board.

(d) Each vessel certificated to operate on a coastwise route within three miles of land must either:
(1) Be provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity that will accommodate at least 100% of the total number of persons permitted on board; or
(2) Meet either the standards for collision bulkheads in § 179.310 of this subchapter or § 171.085 in subchapter S of this chapter, and the standards for subdivision in §§ 179.220 and 179.320 of this chapter, or the standards for subdivision and damaged stability in §§ 171.070 through 171.073 and 171.080 in subchapter S of this chapter, as appropriate, and be provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity that will accommodate at least 50% of the total number of persons permitted on board.
(3) Have on board a FCC Type Accepted Category 1 406 MHz EPIRB, installed to automatically float free and activate, and be provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity that will accommodate at least 50% of the total number of persons permitted on board.

Question 65

What are the requirements for wooden vessels operating on a Coastwise route in cold waters?

Answer 65

Except as allowed by paragraph (c) of this section, each vessel constructed of wood certificated to operate on a coastwise route in cold water must either:

(1) Be provided with inflatable buoyant apparatus of an aggregate capacity that will accommodate at least 67% of the total number of persons permitted on board; or
(2) Meet either the standards for collision bulkheads in § 179.310 of this chapter or § 171.085 in subchapter S of this chapter and the standards for subdivision in §§ 179.220 and 179.320 of this chapter, or the standards for subdivision and damaged stability in §§ 171.070 through 171.073 and 171.080 in subchapter S of this chapter, as appropriate, and be provided with life floats of an aggregate capacity that will accommodate at least 100% of the total number of persons permitted on board.

Question 66

What are the type of endorsements possibly found on the Certificate of Documentation?

Answer 66

Coastwise, fisheries, registry, recreational.

Question 67

What vessels are required to have power driven fire pumps?

Answer 67

(a) A self priming, power driven fire pump must be installed on each vessel:

65 feet and less ferry;

65 feet and less that carries more than 49 passengers; or

Of more 65 feet in length.

(b) On a vessel of not more than 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length carrying more than 49 passengers, and on a vessel of more than 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length, the minimum capacity of the fire pump must be 189 liters (50 gallons) per minute at a pressure of not less than 414 kPa (60 psi) at the pump outlet. The pump outlet must be fitted with a pressure gauge.
(c) On a ferry vessel of not more than 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length carrying not more than 49 passengers, the minimum capacity of the fire pump must be 38 liters (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 § 181.320 of this part, a distance of 7.6 meters (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 § 182.520 of this chapter.
(e) A fire pump must be capable of both remote operation from the operating station and local operations at the pump.

Question 68

For vessels not required to have a power-driven pump,what are they required to have?

Answer 68

A vessel not required to have a power driven fire pump by § 181.300 must have at least three 9.5 liter (21⁄2 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.

Question 69

Which vessels must be provided with individual bilge lines and bilge suction?

Answer 69

(a) A vessel of at least 7.9 meters (26 feet) in length must be provided with individual bilge lines and bilge suctions for each watertight compartment, except that the space forward of the collision bulkhead need not be fitted with a bilge suction line when the arrangement of the vessel is such that ordinary leakage may be removed from this compartment by the use of a hand portable bilge pump or other equipment, and such equipment is provided.

Question 70

If a bilge pipe pierces the collision bulkhead, what are the requirements?

Answer 70

(d) A bilge pipe piercing the collision bulkhead must be fitted with a screw-down valve located on the forward side of the collision bulkhead and operable from the weather deck, or, if it is readily accessible under service conditions, a screw-down valve without a reach rod may be fitted to the bilge line on the after side of the collision bulkhead.

Question 71

What gauges are required for Diesel engines on old T and new T?

Answer 71

Old T: engine cooling water discharge temperature and lubricating oil pressure.

New T: engine cooling water discharge temperature, lubricating oil pressure, and RPM.

Question 72

What are the requirement for bilge pumps?

Answer 72

Any number of passengers, >65 ft: 2 fixed power pumps (50 GPM)

> 49 passengers and all ferry vessels, 65 ft and less: 1 fixed power pump and 1 portable hand pump (25 GPM, 10 GPM)

49 passengers and less (other than ferry), 26ft to 65ft,1 fixed power pump and 1 portable hand pump (25 GPM, 10 GPM)

Or

1 fixed hand pump and one portable hand pump (10 GPM, 5 GPM)

Vessels < 26 ft:1 portable hand pump (5GPM)

Question 73

Can an submersible electric bilge pump be substituted for a power bilge pump system?

Answer 73

(e) A submersible electric bilge pump may be used as a power bilge pump required by Table 182.520(a) only on a vessel of not more than 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length carrying not more than 49 passengers, other than a ferry, provided that:
(1) The pump is listed by an independent laboratory as meeting the requirements in UL 1113 (incorporated by reference; see 46 CFR 175.600);
(2) The pump is used to dewater not more than one watertight compartment;
(3) The pump is permanently mounted;
(4) The pump is equipped with a strainer that can be readily inspected and cleaned without removal;
(5) The pump discharge line is suitably supported;
(6) The opening in the hull for the pump discharge is placed as high above the waterline as possible;
(7) A positive shutoff valve is installed at the hull penetration; and
(8) The capacity of the electrical system, including wiring, and size and number of batteries, is designed to allow all bilge pumps to be operated simultaneously.

Question 74

What is the requirement for bilge high level alarms?

Answer 74

(a) On a vessel of at least 7.9 meters (26 feet) in length, a visual and audible alarm must be provided at the operating station to indicate a high water level in each of the following normally unmanned spaces:
(1) A space with a through-hull fitting below the deepest load waterline, such as a lazarette;
(2) A machinery space bilge, bilge well, shaft alley bilge, or other spaces subject to flooding from sea water piping within the space; and
(3) A space with a non-watertight closure, such as a space with a non-watertight hatch on the main deck.
(b) Vessels constructed of wood must, in addition to paragraph (a), provide bilge level alarms in all watertight compartments except small buoyancy chambers.
(c) A visual indicator must be provided at the operating station to indicate when any automatic bilge pump is operating.

Question 75

What is a vital system?

Answer 75

(a) Vital systems are those systems that are vital to a vessel’s survivability and safety. For the purpose of this part the following are vital systems:
(1) Fuel system;
(2) Fire main;
(3) Carbon dioxide, Halon 1301, and clean agent systems;
(4) Bilge system;
(5) Steering system;
(6) Propulsion system and its necessary auxiliaries and controls;
(7) Ship’s service and emergency electrical generation system and its necessary auxiliaries; and
(8) A marine engineering system identified by the cognizant OCMI as being crucial to the survival of the vessel or to the protection of the personnel on board.

Question 76

What standards must non-metallic flexible hose meet?

Answer 76

(e) Where flexible nonmetallic hose is permitted for use in piping systems by this section, it must meet SAE J-1942 (incorporated by reference; see 46 CFR 175.600) or be specifically approved by the Commandant. The following restrictions apply:

Question 77

Can flexible non-metallic hose be used in fuel systems?

Answer 77

(3) Flexible nonmetallic hose may be used in lube oil, fuel oil and fluid power systems, subject to the following requirements:
(i) Flexible hose may only be used at a pressure not to exceed the manufacturer’s rating and must have a high resistance to saltwater, petroleum oils, and vibration;
(ii) Flexible hose runs must be visible, easily accessible, protected from mechanical damage, and must not penetrate watertight decks or bulkheads;
(iii) Flexible hose must be fabricated with an inner tube and a cover of synthetic rubber or other suitable material reinforced with wire braid;
(iv) Flexible hose used for alcohol-gasoline blend fuels must meet the permeability requirements specified in 33 CFR part 183, subpart J; and
(v) For the purpose of flexibility only, flexible hose installed in lengths of not more than 760 millimeters (30 inches) and subject to pressures of not more than 35 kPa (5 psig), may meet the following requirements:

(A) Suitable compression type connection fittings may be accepted;

(B) Flexible hose designed for use with hose clamps may be installed with two clamps, at both ends of the hose, which:

( 1 ) Do not rely on the spring tension of the clamp for compressive force; and

( 2 ) Are installed beyond the bead or flare or over the serrations of the mating spud, pipe, or hose fitting; and

(C) USCG Type A1, A2, B1, or B2 flexible hose may be accepted in accordance with 33 CFR part 183, subpart J.

Question 78

What is the requirement for coamings?

Answer 78

(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 150 millimeters (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 75 millimeters (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.

Question 79

Can a hatch exposed to the weather be weathertight?

Answer 79

(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 305 millimeters (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.

Question 80

What is the general requirement for an EPIRB?

Answer 80

Each vessel that operates on the high seas, or that operates beyond three miles from the coastline of the Great Lakes, must have on board a FCC Type Accepted Category 1, 406 MHz EPIRB, installed to automatically float free and activate.